We had the good fortune of connecting with Derrick D. Thomas-mckinney and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Derrick D., have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Honestly, I don’t really believe in the idea of work-life balance—at least not in the traditional sense. I think if you want to be truly successful, you have to be obsessed with your goals. Balance isn’t something you achieve at the start; it’s something you earn when you’ve reached a level of success that you determine.

The way I see it, the sacrifices we make—whether it’s time, sleep, or even leisure—are investments into the well-being of our families, our teams, our friends, and our community. Those sacrifices come at the ultimate price of balance, but they’re necessary to build something meaningful.

The freedom that comes with achieving your goals is what allows you to show up for the people who matter most. That’s why I’m all in—I stay focused, I stay committed, and I don’t stop until the vision becomes reality.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
L.O.U.D. Muzik isn’t just a business; it’s a movement rooted in passion, purpose, and perseverance. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to the dreams of our artists and the belief that every story deserves to be heard. We’re not just building careers; we’re building legacies, one record, one event, and one connection at a time.

But let me be clear—it hasn’t been easy, and it still isn’t. The music industry is constantly evolving, and most of the time, the signs scream at you to jump ship. But as the captain, I’ve learned to stay the course, even when the waters are rough. It’s not just my belief in myself that drives me; it’s my belief in my team and the fear of letting down the people I love. My family has sacrificed so much to support this journey, and that responsibility keeps me moving forward.

Overcoming challenges has meant being relentless, adaptable, and willing to take risks even when failure feels like the more likely outcome. I’ve learned that success isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about pushing through it, learning from it, and using it as fuel to keep going.

What I want the world to know about L.O.U.D. Muzik is this: we are more than just an indie label. We’re a brand built on determination, creativity, and the courage to defy the odds. Our story is one of resilience, and our mission is to inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit, I’d make sure they experienced the best of what Houston has to offer. Here’s how the week would look:

Day 1: We’d start things off at Rockhouse Southern Kitchen for some amazing food, drinks, and live music—it’s the perfect introduction to Houston’s vibe. Later that night, we’d chill at Bar 5015 for a relaxed evening with great music and a laidback crowd.

Day 2: Nothing says Houston like a night at the Toyota Center watching a Houston Rockets basketball game. The excitement of the game and the energy of the fans make it a must-do experience for any sports lover.

Day 3: We’d dive into some Houston flavor at StickTalk Cajun Hibachi. The unique blend of Cajun and Hibachi is a culinary experience you won’t find anywhere else. Afterward, we’d hang out on the patio at Prospect Park, soaking in good vibes and great company.

Day 4: For a mix of fresh air and local charm, we’d visit Herman Park for a relaxing stroll or take a trip to the Farmers Market on Airline to explore fresh produce, unique vendors, and delicious eats.

Day 5: Shopping at The Galleria is always a highlight—perfect for some retail therapy and people-watching. We’d end the evening with dinner at The Warwick, where the atmosphere is classy, and the food and drinks are top-notch.

Day 6: The week would end at Chapman & Kirby, because as they say, “Never leave Houston on a Sunday.” It’s the ultimate Sunday Funday spot where the energy is electric and the vibes are unbeatable.

Houston is all about unforgettable experiences, from the food to the nightlife to the community. No matter where you go, there’s always something exciting happening in this city!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate this to my mother and father, who shaped me into the person I am today; to my wife and kids, who inspire me daily to be better and push harder; to my grandmothers, who have always been my biggest cheerleaders and a constant source of love and wisdom; to my aunts, uncles, and cousins, who’ve stood by me and supported my vision no matter what; and to my L.O.U.D. Muzik family for believing in me and trusting me with their dreams. This journey isn’t just mine—it’s all of ours.

Website: https://www.ThomasMcKinneyGroup.com

Instagram: @DerrickMc

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-thomas-mckinney-308b0917/

Twitter: @DerrickMc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/derrick.mckinney

Image Credits
Bennie Dub Productions

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