Derek O'Brien (drummer)

Derek Shawn O'Brien (born January 11, 1963, Fullerton, California) is a drummer and (producer / engineer) who has been involved with many bands and projects throughout his career.

He was the first consistent drummer for Social Distortion (1981–1984). His only recording with the band was their 1983 debut album Mommy's Little Monster. He left Social Distortion in middle of their 1983 New Year's Eve show, along with bassist Brent Liles. Liles and O'Brien would again be bandmates from 1989 to the early 1990s with Agent Orange. From 2001 to 2008 he played drums & sang vocal harmonies with The Adolescents and also producing their first album in 10 years "O. C. CONFIDENTIAL" - giving them their biggest career peak. O'Brien was also involved in D.I. (which also featured many former members of Social Distortion and The Adolescents) and played on their 1983 EP Team Goon (which used to be known as simply D.I.).

Some other bands/projects in which O'Brien has been involved include Punk Rock Karaoke, Extra Fancy, The Foes, and The Generators. O'Brien attended UCLA for a degree in recording engineering. He was seen onscreen in the films Another State of Mind (1984) and Suburbia (also 1984; in which he is seen playing drums for D.I.) Additionally, he served as the drummer in the pit band for the Nuhn Family Variety 45 Minutes from 1992-2004.

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