Derrick D. Thomas-McKinney

Derrick D. Thomas-McKinney is a visionary marketing executive, entrepreneur, and entertainment strategist with over 20 years of experience in branding, social media engagement, and event production. As the CEO and Founder of L.O.U.D. Muzik, he has built a powerhouse brand that develops artists, produces large-scale events, and executes high-impact marketing campaigns that drive engagement and business growth.

A master of audience engagement, Derrick has successfully promoted, hosted, and organized major concerts, festivals, conferences, and corporate activations. His ability to seamlessly blend entertainment with business strategy has made him a sought-after expert in the industry. He has worked with Fortune 500 companies, indie labels, and corporate clients, helping them build authentic connections with diverse audiences.

Derrick’s expertise extends to social media marketing and branding, where he develops cutting-edge campaigns that amplify brand visibility and audience engagement. Specializing in organic content, influencer partnerships, and paid media strategies, he helps artists, entrepreneurs, and businesses stand out in competitive digital spaces.

National Impact in Music & Event Curation

As a Music Curator for Verizon Wireless 5G activations, Derrick has played a key role in shaping entertainment experiences in major sports arenas and stadiums across the country. His work blends live music with cutting-edge technology, creating immersive events that elevate fan engagement and redefine live entertainment.

In addition to his work with Verizon, Derrick served as the Music Curator for the African American Police Officers Gala and the Houston Black Police Officers Gala, delivering curated entertainment experiences that honored the cultural significance of these events. He was also a featured panelist at The Heist House during AfroTech Houston, where he shared insights on brand storytelling, digital marketing, and the intersection of culture and commerce.

L.O.U.D. Muzik: A Platform for Success

Under Derrick’s leadership, L.O.U.D. Muzik has propelled independent artists to new heights. The label’s artists have achieved millions of streams across all major DSPs, secured major media placements, and headlined sold-out shows. L.O.U.D. Muzik recording artists such as Skyrah Bliss and Khody Blake have built strong fanbases, landed high-profile performance opportunities, and expanded their brand presence nationally.

Derrick’s ability to identify talent, develop brand narratives, and create impactful marketing strategies has transformed L.O.U.D. Muzik into a launchpad for rising stars in the music industry. His work bridges the gap between artist development and mainstream success, proving that independent labels can compete and thrive in today’s ever-evolving music landscape.

Innovation, Strategy, and Cultural Impact

Derrick’s influence spans digital marketing, event production, and brand development, making him a go-to expert for those looking to make an impact. Whether he’s launching a brand, producing a major event, or executing a viral marketing campaign, he brings innovation, strategy, and cultural insight to every project.

His passion for merging entertainment with business strategy has solidified his reputation as a leader in music, marketing, and branding, shaping the future of the industry one groundbreaking campaign at a time.