Karen Douglas, also known as “KD”, has over 10 years of experience in the music industry having worked with some of the best in the game. KD is not only a jack of all trades but she has also mastered every position she’s ever held, blowing Shakespeare’s “master of none” theory out of the water. She is most known for her role as the day-to-day manager of artist and radio/tv personality, Trina aka Diamond Princess. During KD’s appearances on Love & Hip Hop Miami, she is often referred to as one of the biggest managers in hip-hop.
Karen KD Douglas is a woman with excellent views deserving of all her flowers now. She stands firm in her belief that. In the end, we will always be rewarded greater for being a blessing to others! So In cases where she’s experienced unappreciative people, she’s kept it professional. This is a woman with substance and one that should be more recognized as a role model for our up-and-coming generation.
KD also serves as one of the road managers and A&R to Grammy award-winning singer, Mya. Over the years, she has pitched and successfully booked several acts for events and venues all over, including Kelly Rowland, Vivica Fox, Dave East, and more. Although she is a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, her impact expands beyond representing some of hip-hop’s most iconic talent. She is also passionate about women-focused topics within the music industry including the fact that not enough women in music management are recognized for their accomplishments. Overall, KD is known throughout the industry for being a hard-working, respected socialite whose goal is to elevate and uplift others.
To know more about Karen “KD” Douglas, visit her website http://www.kdmusicmm.com
Read more on our chat with KD Douglas below.
FEMI Magazine (Keziah Preston): What’s most important to you when it comes to Highlighting women in the music industry?
KD: Most important to me is focusing on the true talents, creativity, and leadership of women. Those are the things that are most important. Gender to me doesn’t play a role when it comes to these things therefore women should be granted equal opportunities. I am seeing a lot more promotion of diversity now and seeing others that look like myself being highlighted so that is a great feeling.
FEMI Magazine: When you hear the term, “Artist Development” what does that mean to you and what do you look for in that artist?
KD: When I think of artist development I think of how one is overall with the presentation of their. How well they perform, including stage presence, delivery, mic control, etc. The ability to handle different situations that may arise while being in the industry. I look at how well they interview, and their basic understanding of the music business. Of course, work ethic and passion but then those are things that are just in you.
FEMI Magazine: What was it like working with Ty Johnston on your film A Taste Of Betrayal, will you be creating any more films together?
KD: Working with Ty is amazing! This is her directorial debut so to be able to be a part of it is special. She’s been doing her thing in film for a while. It’s always great when you can work with your people, especially those you respect and admire. She is dedicated, passionate, and handles her business. We have known each other for close to 20 years. Both being creatives I just feel we understand each other so I know we will get to work together on several more projects!
FEMI Magazine: What is A “Successful Artist Tour” to you and how do you define success?
KD: A successful tour to me is one that has fans leave with memories of a lifetime. Fans want an experience so having a great concept is ideal, including merch. Covering target regions, being promoted well of course so that a good profit is made from the ticket sales.
FEMI Magazine: What was the worst and best moment you’ve experienced when it comes to managing Icons?
KD: I’ve had a lot of great moments but I would say Trina doing the Verzus with Eve. They were the first two women to participate in Verzuz so just being a part of it was a win. Witnessing her discography being celebrated by millions of viewers in front of the world was definitely a great moment. I can’t think of a specific worst moment, but I can say it’s a little heartbreaking when you’ve put in all of the groundwork into making something happen and it just doesn’t come together for whatever reason, therefore you aren’t compensated. Then there are times for example when you’ve probably closed a deal and then you get excluded somehow. That’s the worst. But you have to be vocal and stand up for yourself in these cases.
FEMI Magazine: How do you stay true to yourself in the music industry while breaking barriers?
KD: I stay true to myself by keeping my circle small and surrounding myself with solid individuals. Also just remaining humble and always being grateful for every opportunity that comes my way. I always say I am not “of the industry” even though I work in it.
FEMI Magazine: If you could change anything in the music industry what would it be?
KD: If I could change anything I would make it mandatory for artists to complete some type of boot camp-like course once they are signed. Also, the individuals that work with artists. I think that if more artists were better informed on certain things as it relates to the business of music that would be great. Of course, there are other things as well but that’s just one thing. Also not making it so difficult for the artist to own their masters and being able to generate monies for the length of their career and even after.
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