Desiree Yearby is an Oklahoma City music talent representative, concert promoter and industry advocate who works to facilitate opportunities and events for artists and communities.
How did you get started?
I got started by doing “two years of yes”, where I helped out where I could in the arts community for two years straight. I call it the “Years of Yes” because I told myself I would say yes to any reasonable job and do it to the best of ability. The Years of Yes turned into me helping book for Plaza Fest, booking tours for artists, dabbling in public relations, speaking at festivals and conventions out-of-state and create marketing campaigns.
Did you always want a career in the music industry?
This was not my dream, I wanted to be a fashion buyer. I went to a concert that changed my life while in college and it started from there.
Most Recent Successes / Placements / Accomplishments / Projects? Career highlight?
One thing I am proud of is the ability to create something for myself. There are not many women in the area doing the things I’m doing so I hope I can spark something in them to create something to call theirs. I am currently working on a YouTube show highlighting the real stories of people making hip-hop and R&B music in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, it’s a new endeavor for me.
What is your favorite Oklahoma music venue, music store, or recording studio?
I like Tower Theatre for its history and professionalism. So many great venues have been lost due the growth of Oklahoma City and COVID-19 I think my favorite venue is 2008’s Sauced Pizza.
Networking and connecting with others who share your dream or vision is a vital aspect of the music industry. Can you share which Oklahoma organizations (if any) have contributed to your success and are there Oklahoma organization you would recommend other connect with?
I would say people more than an organizations have contributed to my success. All of the people in the music scene in Oklahoma City and Tulsa that write, shoot, help, nurture and work hard to developed music artists and events are the reason for me being here.
How can we follow you?
Follow me anywhere at @dezzgotsteeze!
Advice for someone interested in working in the music industry. What are some of the benefits of having a music career in Oklahoma?
The benefits of helping in the music community here is the opportunity to build real relationships with those you might not ever get to know in a bigger city.