Derek A.E. Fuhrmann, the musician and songwriter whose music has appeared in huge Hollywood films such as The Amazing Spider Man 2 and Fantastic Four, has died after a battle with cancer his publcicist confirmed. He died on June 27 in Nashville but the news is only just being made public now.
His older sister Nanact Pereria paid tribute on Facebook writing: "Derek always loved music!!! Our dad helped him turn a section of the basement into a recording studio sometime during his college years. I was 14yrs old when Derek was born. It was mid-day during school when the principal's office called me into the office and handed me the phone. My dad said with such excitement 'you have another little brother!' And with that news, I ran out into the hallway and shouted 'I HAVE A BABY BROTHER!!!'
I will miss his beautiful smile and that adorable chuckle. The way Derek told a story... nobody could tell a story with such animation! I love you so much Derek!!!! We all miss you so much. Continue making music up there with all the other angels, and always watch over your little boys and Mackenzie."
His band Omnisoul, who reformed in 2024 having initally disbanded in 2008, also wrote a heartfelt post. During their initial time together a few of their songs were used in television and film projects including Waiting (Save Your Life) which appeared on the 2005 Fantastic Four soundtrack and on the TV series Joan of Arcadia.
"What can you say about someone who stood beside you through some of the most defining years of your life? We shared the highs and lows. We spent countless hours loading and unloading gear, moving from one venue to the next. We chased a dream that felt just within reach.
"Derek was many things to us. We remember him as gentle, patient, caring, loving, and someone who always stood up for what was right. He was a gifted musician and a prolific songwriter who poured his heart into everything he created. We hold on to the memories, the lessons, and the wild ride we were lucky enough to take together...
"There was no better way to spend our twenties than chasing that dream with Derek by our side...Our hearts go out to his family and children, who loved him deeply and were loved just as fiercely in return...You will be so, so missed."
Fans also paid tribute to the star. "I'm so sorry to hear about Derek's passing His voice and Omnisoul were also a huge part of my defining years. My condolences to the band and his family," one wrote. "This is just devastating news. May Derek RIP," another added.
A third chimed in: "Very saddened by this terrible news. Please know my heart is with all of you who knew and loved Derek. A wonderful, talented person has been taken too soon. May his memory be a blessing." Meanwhile a fourth shared: "My sincerest condolences to his family and friends. Heartbreaking news."
When Omnisould disbanded Derek enjoyed a solo career as a singer, songwriter and producer. He co-wrote Phillip Phillips' 2012 song Gone, Gone, Gone, which went double-platinum and appeared on The Amazing Spider-Man 2 soundtrack. It also featured in Grudge Match, which starred Robert De Niro and Sylvester Stallone. For his work on the track he received the ASCAP Pop Award at the 31st awards ceremony.
He is survived by his wife, Mackenzie; his sons, Finn and Boone; his parents, Fred and Deborah; his sisters, Donna, Karin, Gail and Nancy; and his brothers, Andrew and Rob.
