DMMC Names Mickey Davis Executive Director

The Des Moines Music Coalition (DMMC) is excited to announce Mickey Davis as its new Executive Director. Davis will assume the role Nov. 1.

Davis has deep ties to central Iowa and its music and arts scene, in his work both as an acclaimed musician (MAIDS) and through his extensive work in the local and regional community. Most recently, Davis worked as the Music Business Manager for a non-profit called The Music District in Fort Collins, CO, where he led the development of music business programs and curriculum, connected local musicians to members of the music industry, and created experiential learning opportunities for artists. Previous roles also include Program Director for the Des Moines Social Club and Program Manager for the Association of American Voices in St. Louis, MO.

“As a long-time supporter, I’ve seen the great work the DMMC has done in central Iowa,” said Davis. “Des Moines has the potential to emerge as a great Music City – a place where musicians and music workers can build sustainable careers, and fans can catch local, national and international talent year-round. I look forward to continuing the work of fostering a vibrant, diverse, and resilient music ecosystem in our city, particularly as the music industry recovers from the crippling effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“Mickey brings a wealth of talent to our team,” said Kuuku Saah, DMMC Board President. “With his history in our community, industry connections, and passion for music and the arts, he intimately understands our mission and is ready to help make Des Moines the nation’s next Music City.”

The Executive Director is one of two current positions with the DMMC which oversees the Program Coordinator (Jordan Mayland). Both positions vitally contribute to the success of the organization’s major festivals (80/35 Music Festival, Gross Domestic Product [GDP], and Riverview Music Festival), education programs, and other initiatives supporting the DMMC’s mission. The Executive Director reports to the DMMC’s volunteer board.

Over the next few months, Davis will be working with the DMMC board, staff, volunteers, and donors to chart the organization’s short- and long-term goals while strengthening its programming and furthering the larger mission of making Des Moines a leading Music City.

Interview Requests

Contact Diana Weishaar to arrange any interviews with the DMMC team. 

About DMMC

The Des Moines Music Coalition (DMMC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and collaborative movement committed to building a stronger and more diverse live music community in Greater Des Moines. Through our mission to support and cultivate Iowa’s music economy, our vision is to establish and maintain Des Moines as a nationally recognized music city. Learn more at https://www.desmoinesmc.com.

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