Born, Rodrick Duran Blackman, Rodrick transitioned to suburb life in Shenandoah Valley when he was six years old. Singing on Sundays and playing Motown on Mondays were regular weekly routines along with learning to play the piano and guitar. Performing and creating music came naturally at a young age, and he wrote his first song at thirteen.  Rodrick’s desire to continue his musical journey led him to enroll at the University of Montana where he earned a degree in biology and music with extensive instruction in vocal performance, ear training, music theory, and history. Rodrick expresses through words and phrases those uncanny details in life that resonate with the soul. His songs incorporate the melody and innocence of golden oldies, the soul of Motown, the passion from Sunday morning church, the groove of rock, and details akin to some of the greatest stories ever written.  Rodrick now resides in Memphis and continues to collaborate with gifted musicians and train his vocal originality. In 2021, Rodrick Duran and The Big Sky Band were selected to play the 901 Notes Annual Concert Series at the Bartlett Performing Arts Center. In 2022, they rocked the crowd from the Main Stage at the Cooper Young Festival and that same year he took second place at Shara's Songwriters' Showcase Anniversary show at Lafayette's Music Room in Memphis. Rodrick has also had the opportunity to open for Southern rock band, Black Oak Arkansas. Everyone Rodrick has played with and learned from has brought so much diversity and authenticity to his music. He believes collaboration is key to creativity and there is nothing that compares to getting together in person with other artists and bringing songs to life. Rodrick welcomes the opportunity to sell his lyrics to prospective buyers, publishers, and artists looking for new song material.