Deborah Kidd is a distinguished executive, attorney, and educator with an extensive career spanning the entertainment, music business, media production, and legal industries. As the Chief Executive Officer of PopDaze Entertainment, LLC, she leads an innovative company dedicated to preserving and celebrating the music and pop culture of the 1960s through the 2000s. With a strategic vision for business development, digital engagement, and brand expansion, she has successfully diversified revenue streams, enhanced PopDaze’s online presence, and is developing immersive experiences that connect generations through music and nostalgia. Her leadership has ensured the company’s growth while maintaining its mission of cultural preservation and global community engagement.
In addition to her executive leadership, Deborah is an Associate Professor at Berklee College of Music’s Department of Music Business, where she teaches courses on legal aspects of the music industry, copyrights, and contract negotiations. She is dedicated to mentoring students, equipping them with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary for success in the evolving entertainment landscape. She also serves as a Faculty Member at Casper College, where she has designed and delivered courses in business law, employment law, entertainment law, and media-related legal studies for over a decade.
Her legal expertise is both broad and deep, with a specialization in entertainment and media law. As an attorney at Richard Wayne and Associates, P.C., she provided legal counsel to artists and entertainment companies, handling intellectual property matters, contract negotiations, and litigation. She founded Kidd Legal, LLC, where she represents clients in music, television, film, and digital media, advising on business strategies and compliance. Deborah’s extensive legal background includes roles at The Vear Law Firm, Engage PEO, and multiple military legal positions with the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army, where she managed employment law, civil litigation, and compliance at national and international levels.
Her work as a media producer further showcases her diverse skill set. As the founder of Rugged Rose Media, she has produced corporate video content, commercials, and documentaries on social and political issues. During her tenure as a livestream concert producer with Virago TV, she played a pivotal role in creating virtual performance opportunities for artists, particularly during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her expertise in artist management has allowed her to work with industry professionals to shape careers, secure opportunities, and build long-term success.
Deborah’s educational background is as impressive as her professional career. She holds a Master of Arts in Music Business from Berklee College of Music, an LL.M. in Entertainment and Media Law from Southwestern Law School, a Juris Doctor from Cumberland School of Law, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Her academic achievements, combined with her hands-on experience in law, media, and entertainment, have made her a highly sought-after leader, educator, and mentor.
As a committed industry advocate, she has held leadership roles in organizations such as the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences and the Georgia Bar Association’s Entertainment Law Section. She previously served on the board of the Veterans Empowerment Organization, demonstrating her dedication to social causes. Through her work across multiple disciplines, Deborah Kidd continues to drive innovation, shape industry standards, and empower professionals and students in the fields of entertainment, media, and law.
Character
Deborah Kidd is a dedicated and visionary leader who upholds integrity, professionalism, and a strong commitment to mentorship and industry excellence. Her ability to balance ethical business practices with creative innovation demonstrates her unwavering dedication to preserving cultural heritage while fostering new opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Knowledge
With advanced degrees in music business, entertainment law, and finance, Deborah possesses a deep and comprehensive understanding of the legal, financial, and strategic aspects of the entertainment industry. Her extensive experience as an executive, attorney, educator, and media producer allows her to navigate complex industry challenges with expertise and precision.
Strategic
Deborah excels in developing and executing forward-thinking strategies that drive business growth, enhance digital engagement, and create sustainable revenue streams. Her ability to integrate legal, financial, and creative solutions has positioned her as a leader in entertainment, ensuring long-term success for both artists and organizations.
Communication
As an educator, executive, and legal expert, Deborah effectively conveys complex industry concepts with clarity and impact, whether teaching students, negotiating contracts, or leading business initiatives. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences, from industry professionals to aspiring artists, highlights her exceptional communication skills and leadership presence.