Derek Vincent Smith, widely known as Pretty Lights, is a Grammy-nominated electronic music artist who has made a significant impact on the industry. As the founder and owner of the record label Pretty Lights Music, he’s built not just a sound but a whole movement around his artistry. Over the years, Pretty Lights has collaborated with notable acts like The Disco Biscuits, showcasing his versatility and deep roots in the live electronic scene. One of the major highlights of his career was being featured at the 2012 Electric Daisy Carnival in Las Vegas—a moment that solidified his presence on the national stage.
Before all the fame and festival lights, Pretty Lights was just Derek, honing his craft in high school by recording and writing hip hop tracks. Music always came first for him, so much so that when he enrolled at the University of Chicago, he quickly realized college wasn’t the right path. He left during his freshman year, choosing to focus entirely on his passion rather than let academics distract him from his musical journey.
Growing up in Colorado, Derek developed a unique sonic style that would later define the Pretty Lights project. Throughout the growth of his label, Pretty Lights Music, he received key support from his then-girlfriend, Krystle Blackburn, who played an instrumental role in its operations. Their personal and professional partnership lasted for several years before they eventually parted ways in 2015. Even after the breakup, the legacy of their collaboration lives on through the continued success of Pretty Lights Music and the enduring influence of Pretty Lights himself.
His Pretty Lights Music label made it possible for fans to download Pretty Lights music and tracks from other artists completely free of charge. Through his initiative, he really emphasized accessibility, letting people enjoy high-quality music without any cost. The Pretty Lights Music label, founded by him, became well-known not just for its unique sound but also for this generous approach. By offering free downloads, his vision encouraged a deeper connection between artists and listeners. His belief in sharing music freely helped shape the identity of the Pretty Lights Music label and inspired many others in the industry.