Meet Desiree McKinney

We had the good fortune of connecting with Desiree McKinney and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Desiree, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
A lot of musicians are unhappy. A lot of artists, designers and models are unhappy too. That’s where the socially awkward thing comes from. Unless they’ve found a way to maintain happiness through the process or at the “top” whatever that is to them.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have 2 albums and 8 music videos on my website www.desireemckinney.com. I also have merch, vegan lipstick and lip gloss, waistbeads, jewelry, parties, show info and my music. I got to this place from rejection. Rejection has fueled a lot of my focus. Being frustrated with the industry, and with people in general, I found working for myself was the best route for me. I treat my guests like humans and try to make an effort to remember every single supporter. But, remember, I am human too. I got where I am by working hard, then working too hard, then trying to work smart. I’ve learned if you aren’t any good to yourself, you won’t be good for anyone else. It was not easy I’ve been through the struggle before and I have been on top and I can relate to both sides of our magnificent minds whether they are classy or flashy. The importance of my brand is for the black sheep, the outsider, or the person who thinks outside the box. Follow Deez brand is for leaders only. My brand has an exclusivity and the integrity of accepting everyone. We are judgement free but we ain’t to be pushed around either. We put on shows, give indie’s a platform and we offer fire merch inspired by Snoop Dogg, Curren$y, Outkast and all the other artists who understand what “Follow Deez” means.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If it was a long trip: I would turn my phone off to enjoy myself. Then I would definitely visit : The Library coffee and winehouse in Houston, Get Jeannie’s Cakes from the Galleria, fly to LA visit Venice Beach eat at a vegan soul food restaurant, then at night turn up at the W rooftop where they play live music then go to the Red dragon through their private entrance. Third stop: New York for fashion week. Then, Egypt to swim in the Red Sea. Followed by, a houseparty with family and friends.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Jeannie’s Cakes, I started helping small businesses by offering marketing help for their social media as well as recording my music. I believe Jeannie’s Cakes deserves a shout out because their cake is amazing, and it is made after their Grandmother “Jeannie” created the recipe. My grandmother Jean, was and still is a big influence in my life. She was the first artist I knew of and was I very close with her.

Website: www.desireemckinney.com
Instagram: @desireemckinneyofficial
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckinney-desiree-b8740148/
Facebook: facebook.com/desireemckinneyofficial
Youtube: www.youtube.com/msdvmc

Image Credits
Lipstick By: @followdeezbrand www.desireemckinney.com Hair By: @marroseraffine www.marroseraffine.com Photo By @achill_media