A new chapter in dance music is unfolding with the launch of Rhizome Music, co-founded by industry stalwarts Calhoun McDougall and Louis DeMarco. This innovative company is poised to redefine artist management, event production, and promotion with a mission that resonates: “planting seeds to grow the culture.” Though based in Asheville, NC, Rhizome’s roots run deep in Colorado, where Calhoun has been a key figure in developing the region’s electronic music landscape.

Calhoun, known for his strategic roles at Mammoth Music Group and The Gradient Perspective, brings years of artist management expertise and event production finesse. His work has spanned the booking desks of William Morris Endeavor to co-producing festivals like Sacred Acre in Alaska, blending a passion for music with a relentless pursuit of memorable live experiences. Reflecting on this new venture, he states, “This new endeavor offers the professional freedom to pursue my goals and those of others in a way that aligns with my values, alongside the people I trust.”

Joining him is Louis DeMarco, whose extensive background as a production and stage manager for festivals such as 515 Alive, Hinterland, and Kosmic Kingdom has earned him respect across the scene. His work as a tour and merch representative for acts like Tyler the Creator and The Kid Laroi further solidifies his multifaceted industry know-how. Louis brings his dedication to creating seamless, impactful live experiences. “Our focus is on elevating artists and creating unforgettable experiences,” he shares, embodying the ethos that drives Rhizome.

Rhizome Music’s roster boasts an impressive lineup of genre-bending artists, including Manic Focus, known for his groovy electro-soul fusion; Phyphr, whose live guitar and funky bass music energize crowds; and PINEO & LOEB, celebrated for their pop-centric dance music. For those craving minimal house and tribal-infused sounds, Frameworks delivers, while 5AM Trio brings a jazz-funk twist to bass music. Each artist adds their own unique flavor, exemplifying Rhizome’s commitment to variety and innovation.

This launch arrives at a pivotal moment for the dance music industry, answering the need for a holistic approach to artist development and event production. Rhizome’s blend of artist-first management and high-quality event curation is set to create a platform where creativity thrives and fans are treated to authentic, groundbreaking experiences.

Keep an eye on Rhizome Music as it nurtures its artists and stages transformative events, making waves not just in Colorado but across the dance music world. We had a chance to speak with Calhoun and Louis to speak about Rhizome Music’s inspirations, challenges faced, and future aspirations. Check out our conversation below!

[Rooster]: What inspired you to come together and create Rhizome Music, and how did your experiences in the industry shape this decision?

[Calhoun & Louis]: We started Rhizome Music because we wanted to do things differently. After years working in various parts of the industry, from running tours to artist management, we saw a lot of gaps that we felt could be improved. We wanted to create a space where artists could grow without feeling boxed in, and where they’d have the freedom to experiment without pressure. Rhizome is our way of taking all the things we’ve learned and giving back to the community that’s given us so much. With Lou spending over 10 years on the production and touring side of things and Calhoun having a background in management, running a label, and being initially trained by William Morris Endeavor, we realized our long time friendship was also an all encompassing approach to the needs of any growing artist.

Rhizome Music’s mission is “planting seeds to grow the culture.” How do you envision this mission influencing your work and the broader music community?

For us, it’s all about building something lasting and meaningful. “Planting seeds” means supporting artists and events who have something real to offer and giving them a platform to thrive on the highest levels. We want to contribute to the culture in a way that goes beyond just throwing shows and making money. It’s about inspiring others, celebrating diverse voices, and helping the community grow in an unique and authentic way.

What sets Rhizome Music apart from traditional artist management and event production companies?

At Rhizome, we’re not just here to hit numbers or follow a formula. We’re all about collaboration and building genuine relationships with our artists. We have friends we genuinely love and care about instead of just compartmentalizing them as clients. We’re in their weddings, who they call on a  rough day, and some of their biggest support networks professionally and socially. Our approach is really artist-centered; we’re partners in the journey, not just “managers” with an agenda. We focus on creating experiences and connections that resonate, and we’re constantly thinking about how we can make a positive impact on the scene as a whole.

Your roster is diverse, spanning various subgenres of electronic music. What was your strategy for curating such a varied lineup of artists?

We’re all about finding artists who are authentic and have something unique to say with a unique approach. The lineup naturally became diverse because we’re drawn to different styles and sounds that represent the full spectrum of electronic music. We want to build a roster that not only showcases a variety of voices but also inspires creative collaborations across genres. We wanted music as diverse as the people creating it and those listening to it, constantly exposing our clients via the spirit of collaboration to fresh ears. 

What challenges have you faced so far in launching Rhizome Music, and how did you overcome them?

Starting something new is always a challenge! One of our biggest hurdles was defining our space in an industry that can be pretty competitive. We’ve overcome this by sticking to our mission—building connections, supporting our artists, and prioritizing culture over trends. By focusing on what we believe in, we’ve managed to make Rhizome feel like something unique and valuable. Translating our new company to our partners over the years is an exciting yet unique challenge we have been and will continue to tackle screaming our client’s praises from the rooftops!

With both of you having extensive backgrounds in management and production, how do you see your roles complementing each other in running Rhizome Music?

We’re lucky to have skills that balance each other out. One of us might be handling the nitty-gritty of event logistics while the other is more focused on artist relationships or marketing. It allows us to cover all the angles, so every project gets the attention it needs. We work together really well because we each bring something different to the table, and that makes a big difference in how we operate. It’s really amazing as we get to those closing weeks of shows, Cal can be talking about how we get fans in the room while Lou is working with the client to make sure they create long lasting fans from the experience!

What upcoming events or projects should fans be excited for under Rhizome Music?

We’ve got a ton of exciting things in the works! From exclusive artist showcases to some unique, multi-sensory live experiences, there’s a lot for fans to look forward to. 5AM Trio heading to Red Rocks in March supporting Boogie T, Phyphr co-headlining Cervantes’ ballroom, Manic Focus playing direct to Ravenscoon at Mission in March, the fourth year of our partner festival Sacred Acre in Alaska and a number of upcoming tour rollouts! We’re also exploring new collaborations that’ll bring different art forms together in ways you haven’t seen before. Keep an eye out for announcements—we’re just getting started!

Looking ahead, where do you hope to see Rhizome Music in the next few years?

We’d love to see Rhizome grow into a platform known for quality, creativity, and community. Ideally, we’ll have expanded our roster and taken our events to new places while still staying true to our roots. We’re building this for the long haul, and we want Rhizome to be a place where artists feel at home and fans know they’re in for something real. We hope to build a space that is meant to bring joy to our clients, supporters and us as fans of the music!

What is the most rewarding part of your work in the music industry, and how does Rhizome Music fulfill that passion?

The best part is definitely watching artists evolve and reach new heights. Rhizome gives us the chance to be part of that growth—to see artists we believe in flourish and make a real impact. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that we’re helping to build a positive, supportive space in the industry. That’s why we do what we do.

If you could offer one piece of advice to upcoming artists looking to join a management roster, what would it be?

Be yourself, and don’t compromise on your vision. Look for a team that believes in what you’re doing and wants to support that, not change it. You want a partnership where there’s mutual respect and understanding. So trust your instincts and find people who are in it for the right reasons. Read “All You Need To Know About the Music Industry” as it clearly outlines roles. You’re the CEO, you need to know who does what and how to communicate your goals to them. And when it’s hard, remember, it’s supposed to be. Having success in this industry is a gift that is earned!