AMPD Music Community
ABOUT AMPD

WHY WE'RE LEADING
THIS PROJECT

We are leading AMPD because we believe Austin's original music community deserves a stronger platform and a more intentional support system. Too much great talent gets lost in the noise. Too many music lovers are left choosing between crowded venues and disconnected nightlife that misses the point.

AMPD is our answer to that. We are bringing together creative leadership, music credibility, and operational experience to build something that supports artists in meaningful ways—while creating stronger connections between people who care deeply about music and culture.

This is about more than promotion. It's about creating belonging, building relationships, and helping shape a better future for original music in Austin.

MEET THE FOUNDERS

Creative leadership, music credibility, and operational experience — the people building AMPD from the inside out.

Blake Thomas
Blake Thomas
Founder, CEO & Creative Director

Brand strategist, songwriter, and creative leader shaping AMPD’s vision and member experience.

Read full bio

Blake Thomas is the founder and creative force behind AMPD. A songwriter, guitar player, brand strategist, and creative director, Blake brings decades of experience in building brands, shaping emotional experiences, and creating communities around meaningful ideas.

His vision for AMPD comes from a deep love for music, connection, and discovery. Blake leads the brand direction, growth strategy, partnerships, and overall member experience—keeping everything AMPD creates aligned with who it is, who it is for, and what it is all about.

Brian Lee
Brian Lee
Co-Founder & Chief Music Officer

Accomplished artist and producer guiding curation, programming, and artist relationships.

Read full bio

Brian Lee leads the music side of AMPD. As an accomplished vocalist, guitar player, producer, composer, arranger, and respected figure in the Austin music scene, Brian brings the artist credibility and musical instincts needed to shape the soul of the brand.

He helps guide artist curation, music programming, and industry relationships while ensuring the talent associated with AMPD reflects the originality, quality, and authenticity the community stands for—connecting artists, audiences, and opportunities in ways that feel trusted and culturally relevant.

Darrell Dragoo
Darrell Dragoo
Co-Founder, Production & Operations

Production and sound specialist ensuring every experience feels intimate and seamless.

Read full bio

Darrell Dragoo leads the production and operational side of AMPD. With a background that blends musician credibility, production expertise, studio ownership, and entrepreneurial leadership, Darrell helps bring the AMPD vision to life in practical, high-quality ways.

He oversees event production standards, operations, venue logistics, artist onboarding, and executional flow so every AMPD experience delivers on its promise—bridging the creative and operational sides so it feels seamless for members and artists alike.

WE'RE BUILDING THIS
FROM THE INSIDE OUT

AMPD is being built by people who believe live music still has the power to move people, shape culture, and bring the right community together. We're not here to recreate the usual scene. We're here to create something more meaningful.

For the artists. For the members. For Austin.

GET ON THE INSIDE →