DAMON KETCHENS
President of Platinum 1 Entertainment L.L.C
Damon Ketchens, a native of New Orleans, began his journey into the entertainment industry in 1992 by serving as road manager for national recording artist, Gregory D and Manny Fresh. Ketchens propelled his career from road manager to entrepreneur by beginning New Styles Management in 1994. Ketchens’ passion for developing talent became clear when he launched the careers of Mac (formerly of No Limit) & Storm, a well respected underground rap duo in the New Orleans area.
It was near this time that Ketchens and several friends created a party promotion group known as Phat Reign Man. For over a year, Phat Reign Man was the leading party promoters in New Orleans. During its run, Phat Reign Man created events at the luxurious City Lights (presently known as Generations Hall) with special guests such as Redman, Keith Murray, Method Man and Scarface. This experience brought special attention to Ketchens career and caught the eye of the up and coming record company, Ionique Records.
In 1996, Ketchens was named Vice President of the Ionique label. He quickly signed Mac & Storm and teenage sensation, Destinee. He was also in control of studio operations and was responsible for booking Cash Money Records, Carl Martin (producer of R&B group Shai), and Precise (Mystikal’s first producer).
After a two year stint with Ionique, Ketchens left the label due to creative differences. It was then; he would embark on his best move to date and start Platinum 1 Entertainment. A lifelong dream of his, Ketchens had his vision of taking entertainment to another level.
Launched in 2001, Platinum 1 Entertainment would be a leading brand of event planning, promotions and brand management in the urban market place. With producing signature events such as:
The Willie E. Gary and Evander Holyfield Celebrity Gala at Harrah’s Casino – Essence Fest 2001
Taste of New Orleans Super Bowl Gala hosted by Marshall Faulk at Generations Hall – Jan. 2002
Hornets’ Welcome to New Orleans Party hosted by Baron Davis at Generations Hall – Essence Fest 2002
Laffapalloza Festival hosted by Jamie Foxx at Level 3, Fox Theater and Velvet Room – October 2002
Jamie Foxx Celebrity Gala at Club 360 – Essence Fest 2003
Mayor’s Welcome Party hosted by Mayor Ray Nagin at Generations Hall – Essence Fest 2004 – 2007
Crown Royal Bad Boys of Comedy Tour at Generations Hall and Rice Loft Hotel in Houston, Texas – November 2004
Vibe Magazine presents “V Style” hosted by Ludacris and Biz Markie at W New Orleans Hotel – Essence Fest 2007
