Drew Dirksen was born on September 30, 1996, in the quiet town of Monroe, Ohio, under the sign of Libra. Growing up in the Midwest, he honed his love for music early, strumming guitars and belting out tunes that would eventually launch him into the spotlight. At Monroe High School, Drew wasn’t just another face in the crowd—he was already dreaming big, posting his first covers online and building a quiet following.
From Garage Bands to Global Stages
Drew’s big break came as the vocalist and guitarist for the four-piece band The Tide, which snagged a deal with The Vamps’ EMI Universal label. The group quickly gained traction with covers of hits from 5 Seconds of Summer and One Direction, blending pop-rock energy that resonated with fans. But Drew’s path zigzagged thrillingly. He jumped to O.D.L. for a buzzing UK tour in March 2018, then in 2019 co-founded RØYLS alongside Liam Ross and Sean Killeen. Their debut single, “Savages,” dropped that April, marking a fresh chapter in his evolving sound.
He shares the stage with longtime collaborator Levi Jones in The Tide, their chemistry a staple of live shows that feel more like hangouts with friends than polished performances.
Life Off the Mic
Away from the amps, Drew’s world orbits family and heartfelt connections. His sister, social media whiz Kacey Dirksen, keeps things lively back in Monroe. Romance hit a high note in June 2020 when he popped the question to Brittany Hertz—girlfriend status confirmed. They got engaged in August 2024 and tied the knot in July 2025, proving love can keep pace with a touring schedule.
At 29, Drew Dirksen embodies the scrappy artist who turned small-town strums into a symphony of hits, all while staying true to the guy from Ohio who just loves a good riff.