Step inside the journey of Vincent “Tuff” Morgan, the rapper who transformed his passion for music into a powerful career as Senior Director of A&R at peermusic. From his early days navigating the grind of the industry to becoming one of the most respected music executives, Tuff’s story is proof that there’s more than one path to success in music. In this episode, we explore how Tuff flipped the script, the challenges he faced, and the bold moves that helped him rise to music exec royalty. If you’re an aspiring artist, producer, or anyone chasing their dream in entertainment, this is a story you won’t want to miss. #rap #producer #music #podcast #interview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Man Behind the Music, the hosts sit down with two industry powerhouses, Darrale Jones and Brandra Ringo, for an unfiltered conversation about breaking artists and making hits. With decades of experience shaping the careers of some of music’s biggest names, Darrale and Brandra open up about what it really takes to spot talent, develop artists, and build lasting success in today’s industry. From the art of A&R to navigating the evolving music business, this episode is packed with behind-the-scenes insights, inspiring stories, and game-changing advice for anyone chasing their dreams in music. Tune in for a rare glimpse into the minds of two moguls who know what it takes to make timeless records and elevate artists to the top. Thank you to our sponsors: Huel: Today, get Huel for 15% OFF with this exclusive offer for New Customers only with code: TANK at https://huel.com/tank (Minimum $75 purchase). #music #podcast #musicproducer #tv #interview Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Man Behind the Music, the hosts sit down with Jennifer Drake, Executive Vice President at Universal Music Group and one of the most influential figures working behind the curtain of today’s biggest hits. From discovering and developing artists to shaping the creative strategies that drive chart-topping records, Jennifer shares her insight on what it takes to build sustainable success in the ever-changing music industry. She opens up about her journey into the business, the role of mentorship and vision in cultivating talent, and how she continues to push the culture forward while balancing the art with the business. Whether you’re an artist, producer, or fan of the music world, this episode pulls back the curtain on how Jennifer Drake’s fingerprints can be found on some of the defining sounds of this generation. #music #podcast #tv #film #producer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this electrifying episode of The Man Behind the Music, Woody McClain and Davion Farris step into the studio and deliver a moment of pure creative brilliance. From the very first spark of inspiration to the final polished performance, you’ll witness the artistry, chemistry, and raw talent that make this collaboration unforgettable. It’s not just music, it’s an experience you can feel. Woody opens up about how he got his start in acting, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and his exciting new ventures in music. Davion shares the incredible story of landing a record deal through a single TV placement, proving the power of opportunity meeting preparation. #tv #film #music #artist #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Man Behind the Music, we sit down with Tina Davis, the powerhouse executive who helped launch Chris Brown into superstardom and has been shaping the sound of the industry ever since. From her game-changing A&R work at Def Jam to her artist-first approach to management, Tina has always had an eye for what’s next. Now, as President of EMPIRE Records, she’s building the blueprint for the future of music on her own terms. We dive into the untold stories behind her rise, the strategic moves that built a cultural force, and why Tina’s name keeps coming up when real power players talk longevity. If you care about artist development, ownership, or legacy, this is a conversation you can’t miss. #music #tv #film #producer #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s episode of The Man Behind the Music, we sit down with Harvey Mason Jr., the CEO of the Recording Academy talk about the GRAMMYs. From how nominations are chosen to the industry's shift toward independent artists, Harvey opens up about the evolving landscape of music, fairness, and the future of the world’s biggest music awards. We also dive into Harvey’s journey from platinum producer to one of the most powerful executives in entertainment. He shares thoughts on GRAMMY controversies, the impact of artists like Beyoncé and Bad Bunny, and how the Academy is working to stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry. If you’ve ever questioned how the GRAMMYs work—or dreamed of winning one—this episode is a must-watch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Man Behind the Music, we sit down with the brilliant Heather Zuhlke—writer, executive producer, and showrunner behind hit shows like BMF, Power Book IV: Force, The Purge, and Southland. In this powerful episode, Heather opens up about her creative journey from writing in coffee shops to running major television sets. She shares how personal experiences shaped her voice, how she balances character-driven storytelling with high-stakes drama, and what it really takes to lead a writers’ room in today’s industry. Whether you're an aspiring screenwriter, a music creator hoping to break into sync licensing, or just a fan of gripping TV, this conversation is full of insight, inspiration, and raw honesty. Heather doesn’t hold back—and neither do your hosts. Tap in as the crew goes deep into the art, the grind, and the soul behind the screen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special bonus episode of The Man Behind the Music, we take a deep dive into the lives and journeys of the three legendary producers who host the show: Denaun "Mr. Porter" Porter, Rockwilder, and Big Tank. You’ve heard their beats on platinum records and iconic film/TV scores — now hear their personal stories, creative battles, and the pivotal moments that shaped their careers behind the scenes. From early studio sessions and career-defining hits to wild industry tales and lessons learned the hard way, this episode gives fans a rare and intimate look at the heart, hustle, and humor that power these musical heavyweights. Whether you’re a music lover, an aspiring producer, or just curious about the minds behind the hits — this one’s for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The debut episode of The Man Behind the Music kicks off with a bang as battle rap legend DNA and actress/singer/songwriter Hailey Kilgore step into the spotlight. Watch DNA craft the official podcast theme song from scratch, then sit down with the hosts to unpack his evolution from battle stages to placing music in hit TV and film. Next, Tony-nominated powerhouse Hailey Kilgore joins the conversation to share her journey from Broadway to Raising Kanan. She reflects on the hustle and perseverance behind her rise—and even hits the booth to record a brand new song live. To top it all off, 1500 or Nothin’ co-founder and music icon Larrance Dopson drops in to discuss the scene in Raising Kanan where Hailey shines, breaking down how music and emotion collide on screen. This is the raw, real, and revealing conversation that sets the tone for everything to come. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Man Behind The Music, where we go beyond the beats and into the real stories behind music production, composition, and sound for film and television. I’m your host, Derryck “Big Tank” Thornton—a producer, music supervisor, and composer whose decades-long career includes collaborations with icons like Rihanna, Ne-Yo, Missy Elliott, and Christina Aguilera. I’ve also helped shape the musical tone of hit series like BMF, Power, The Chi, and The Boondocks, with extensive experience in both the executive and creative sides of the industry. Joining me are two powerhouse co-hosts: Grammy-winning producer Denaun “Mr. Porter” Porter and legendary hitmaker Rockwilder. Denaun’s journey from his early days with D12 as Kon Artis to becoming a visionary producer has been marked by evolution and excellence. With credits spanning Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Sting, and Rapsody, and nearly 40 million records sold, his sound has defined eras and crossed genres. His film and television scoring work includes Fast 5, Waist Deep, Godfather of Harlem, and the Straight Outta Compton trailer, all while continuing to break new ground through his label, Planit Dope. Rockwilder, the architect of hip-hop staples like Method Man and Redman’s “Da Rockwilder” and Jay-Z’s “Do It Again,” brings a legacy that bridges classic and crossover. His signature sound has powered tracks for everyone from Busta Rhymes and LL Cool J to Janet Jackson, Pink, and Christina Aguilera. From underground anthems to Grammy-winning smashes like “Lady Marmalade,” his production credits define a generation. Together, we’ll unpack the craft, culture, and business of music—and give aspiring producers and artists the chance to submit work through our Patreon for potential placement in major TV and film projects. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices