Derek Vincent Smith, better known by his stage name Pretty Lights, was born on November 25, 1981, in Sheridan, Wyoming. He spent his childhood in Colorado, where he developed a passion for music at a young age. Smith began recording and writing hip hop music while still in high school, honing his skills and laying the groundwork for his future career in the music industry.
After graduating from high school, Smith enrolled at the University of Chicago. However, he quickly realized that college was not the path for him, as he saw it as a distraction from his true passion: music. Dropping out after his freshman year, Smith made the bold decision to pursue a career in music full-time, dedicating himself to honing his craft and building a name for himself in the electronic music scene.
Smith's hard work and dedication paid off when he founded Pretty Lights Music, a record label that allowed users to download music for free. This innovative approach to distribution helped him garner a loyal fan base and gain recognition within the industry. He also collaborated with other artists, such as The Disco Biscuits, and performed at major music festivals like the Electric Daisy Carnival and Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.
Despite his success in the music world, Smith has faced challenges in his personal life. His relationship with Krystle Blackburn, who helped him run Pretty Lights Music, ended in 2015. Despite this setback, Smith has continued to focus on his music and his label, bringing new artists and fresh sounds to his growing fan base.
Throughout his career, Pretty Lights has pushed boundaries and redefined electronic music, blending genres and creating a unique sound that has captivated audiences around the world. His innovative approach to distribution and his commitment to artistic integrity have set him apart in the industry, earning him critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination.
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