Feature photo credit: Nick Kozub
Many of you will know Jacob Deraps as the YouTube guy that plays Van Halen guitar parts like nobody else can. His YouTube channel has attracted more than 40k subscribers, and it helped to bring the Deraps band to life. When fellow YouTuber, Van Halen fan, and drummer Josh Gallagher contacted Jacob about getting a band together, Deraps the band was formed. Following the release of their self-titled debut record, Burrn! Magazine readers in Japan voted Deraps “Best New Band Of 2022.” They have also had their song “My Side Of Town” listed on Classic Rock Magazine‘s Ultimate Playlist, and have found themselves opening shows for acts like Blue Oyster Cult, Foreigner, Heart‘s Ann Wilson, and many more.
In this interview, Jacob tells us about the formation of the band, their writing process, the Van Halen influence, jamming with Dweezil Zappa, and what touring looks like for the band. Jacob also gives us the details about the new album, Viva Rock N’ Roll, which will see its release May 23, 2025 on Metalville Records.
“Last Fall” video:
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Hello everyone! My name is Scott Itter, but some know me as Dr. Music. I am a music journalist and photographer out of the Chicagoland area, and I have been in practice for over 20 years. I grew up in the 70’s with two big brothers that showed me all kinds of rock and roll. As I grew older I ventured out into different genres like jazz, funk, folk, and whatever else I could wrap my ears around. As I read every liner note and every Circus and Hit Parader like they were the Old and New Testament, I came to realize that I just love sound and appreciate all the people that create it.
I later became a stay-at-home dad and started honing my writing and photography skills to keep my mind from turning into mashed peas. My kids are now adults, my mind is only slightly mushy, and I am thrilled to have the honor of presenting my work to you!
