Derek has released his brand new single ‘Batten Down The Hatches’, joining forces with rising Irish country talent Effie Neill.

Together, the pair deliver a catchy duet that fans can jive along to. Co-written with Eoin Glackin, Derek’s lyrics sum up life’s challenges, facing whatever comes your way, together.

“Batten Down The Hatches is a song about love, loyalty and weathering the storms, no matter how tough things get in life. I’m delighted Effie joined me on this song, she brought something really special to it and I’m glad it’s finally out now for everyone to hear what we’ve been working on.”

The release of ‘Batten Down The Hatches’ comes ahead of Derek’s biggest ever Irish concert tour, kicking off in January 2026 and featuring 26 dates across Ireland’s top venues. Fans will be thrilled to hear that Effie Neill will join Derek as special guest on selected tour dates, “who knows”, said Derek, “we might get to perform the song on tour live together”.

In addition to the tour, Effie will also appear alongside Derek as part of his hugely popular Beat in the Heat trip to Spain in May. A week long country music holiday that brings fans together for sunshine, daily entertainment and live performances from a host of names in the Irish country scene.

‘Batten Down The Hatches’ is out now on all streaming platforms HERE

CLICK HERE for all tour info