20 Years Of MAYDAY PARADE: DEREK SANDERS Reflects On Milestones, Music, And Memorable Moments

Interview by Angela Croudace
Celebrating two decades of making music, Mayday Parade frontman
Derek Sanders recently opened up about the band’s journey, the
impact of their classic album A Lesson in Romantics, and the
excitement surrounding their 20th-anniversary celebrations.
“It’s wild,” Sanders says of the milestone. Reflecting on how the
band, formed in Tallahassee, Florida, had no idea where their
musical path would take them, he describes the rollercoaster ride
of watching the band's growth from young dreamers to global
musicians. “It feels like it’s both gone really fast, but also does
kind of feel like 20 years,” he admits. Despite the speed of it
all, Sanders is deeply grateful for the experiences that have come
with Mayday Parade’s success.
The band’s debut album has become a staple of pop-punk, still
resonating with fans worldwide. Sanders speaks proudly of the
record, remembering the raw energy they poured into it and the
overwhelming joy of still playing tracks from it today. “I’m so
proud of what it’s become,” he says. “The fact that we can still
play songs from that record and get the reactions we do is
insane.”
Having toured with bands like All Time Low and Simple Plan, Mayday
Parade has built a rich history of unforgettable experiences. One
of Sanders' earliest and most meaningful memories comes from a show
in their hometown, where they opened for Further Seems Forever. “I
got to sing with them on stage,” Sanders recalls, describing the
experience as a full-circle moment in their career.
When asked about his current musical inspirations, Sanders points
to artists like Dashboard Confessional and Ben Folds. Though these
influences have remained staples throughout his life, his recent
obsession with Dashboard Confessional has reignited a deep
appreciation for Chris Carrabba’s songwriting and vocal
prowess.
In celebration of their 20 years, Mayday Parade are releasing a
three-part album project, with the first instalment out soon.
Sanders teases that the album balances their classic sound with
fresh, new elements. “It feels like a good step forward for our
band,” he says, hinting at exciting new musical directions.
As for their upcoming tour, including their return to Australia,
Sanders shares the excitement of playing bigger shows with a full
production. “These will be the biggest shows we’ve had in
Australia,” he says, reminiscing about their past tours with All
Time Low and the fun times spent at Melbourne’s Heartbreaker
bar.
Looking back at the past 20 years, Sanders reflects on the
importance of staying creatively in control. The band’s journey has
been full of lessons, including navigating major label pressures,
but he’s proud of how they’ve found their footing. And with a
legacy spanning two decades, Mayday Parade is still just as
dedicated to their music and fans as ever.

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