We’re looking forward to introducing you to Dominique Kidd . Check out our conversation below.
Dominique , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
When I’m working on something creative or hands-on—like developing a project, planning an event, or helping others reach their goals—I completely lose track of time. I enjoy getting into the details, problem-solving, and seeing ideas come to life. It’s in those moments that I’m most focused and fulfilled.
I usually find myself again when I step back, reflect on what I’ve accomplished, and see how my work impacts others. That sense of purpose and progress helps me recharge and stay motivated.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Dominique “OG Dino” Kidd, founder of Crane Cartel Management (C.C. Music Group). I’m a music executive, A&R, and brand strategist focused on discovering raw talent and helping artists reach their full potential. Based between Chicago and Houston, I’ve built my brand around authenticity, consistency, and creative development.
Crane Cartel Management is more than a label — it’s a movement that connects music, culture, and opportunity. We work closely with emerging artists to shape their sound, develop their image, and navigate the business side of the industry with confidence. What makes my journey unique is my ability to bridge street culture with professional structure, giving artists a foundation that’s both real and sustainable.
Right now, I’m focused on expanding C.C. Music Group’s roster, building festival partnerships, and creating platforms that empower independent artists to thrive globally.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
In the music business, bonds between people often break when communication and trust start to fade. Ego, miscommunication, or unmet expectations can easily create tension between artists, managers, and teams. I’ve seen how a lack of transparency or respect can turn powerful collaborations into missed opportunities.
What restores those bonds is loyalty, accountability, and a genuine passion for the craft. When people put the music and the mission first, ego takes a back seat. I believe in rebuilding relationships through honesty and action—showing up, keeping promises, and remembering why we started in the first place. At Crane Cartel Management, that’s our foundation: real relationships built on respect, vision, and growth.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There was a point early in my journey when I almost gave up. Building a brand from the ground up in the music industry isn’t easy—especially when you’re balancing life, finances, and the pressure to make something real happen. There were times when opportunities fell through, people doubted my vision, and it felt like all the effort wasn’t paying off.
But every time I thought about stopping, I remembered why I started—to give talented people a real platform and to prove that consistency outlasts circumstances. That mindset pushed me to keep going, even on the hardest days. Now, seeing artists grow under Crane Cartel Management reminds me that the struggle was part of the foundation. I didn’t give up because I realized I wasn’t just building a brand—I was building a legacy.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What do you believe is true but cannot prove?
I believe that energy and intention always come back around, even if you can’t measure it or prove it. In the music industry and in life, what you put out—your work ethic, your respect for people, your consistency—finds its way back to you. I’ve seen moments where staying solid and moving with good intentions opened doors I didn’t expect.
You can’t prove it scientifically, but I truly believe the universe rewards effort, patience, and authenticity. That belief keeps me grounded and reminds me to keep building Crane Cartel Management with purpose, knowing that real energy always returns real results.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I knew I had 10 years left, I would stop second-guessing myself and worrying about timing. I’d focus fully on building the legacy I want to leave behind—helping artists win, inspiring others to chase their purpose, and creating opportunities that outlive me.
I’d pour everything into the music, the business, and the people around me who believe in the vision. I’d stop holding back ideas out of fear or doubt and move with full intention every day. Life’s short, and if I only had 10 years, I’d make sure every move I made counted toward something meaningful—something that represents Crane Cartel Management and the culture we’re building for the next generation.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ogdino52?igsh=eDM1dmprMHc5ZDh4&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominique-kidd-196a58363?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FoFkvfR6h/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
My Family for keeping me together
My team. Ctc Duwop, Dell, Bre for being a good assistant.
My Daughter, A’mari & A’loni
And the rest of the ones behind me
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
