Shore Fire Media Inc.

09/23/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/23/2026 10:42

Derrick Milano Signs With Vitalize Records for Highly Anticipated Solo Project Following Six-Song Contribution to BTS’ ARIRANG

Photo: Courtesy of Derrick Milano

Wed, Sept 23rd: Producer Derrick Milano is entering a new era. Following his recent success as a Grammy Award-winning songwriter, producer, and creative force behind some of today's biggest records, Milano has officially signed with Vitalize Records , the indie label founded by Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree Steff Agathis .

Fresh off his contributions to BTS' globally successful album ARIRANG, Milano is shifting the spotlight toward his own artistry. He contributed creatively to six songs on the project: "Hooligan," "Aliens," "2.0," "SWIM," "Merry Go Round," and "NORMAL." His work across songwriting, melodies, vocal arrangements, and background vocals further demonstrates his versatility and ability to help create impactful records across genres, languages, and cultures.

The partnership with Vitalize Records marks a new chapter in Milano's career, combining his proven songwriting expertise with his vision as a recording artist. The upcoming releases will showcase Derrick's versatility, creativity, and ability to connect with audiences beyond the records he has helped create for some of the world's biggest artists.

"Becoming a part of Vitalize Records is an incredible privilege, and partnering with Stephanie Agathis is something I'm genuinely excited about," Derrick Milano said. "She's built a reputation through experience not only in management and running labels, but in truly understanding artists. She believes in artist development, creativity, and building careers that last-not just chasing numbers. To everyone who's supported me over the years, this is a new chapter. Being known as a songwriter has opened so many doors, but it's also come with the challenge of people seeing me only through the records I've made for others. That journey has taught me what it takes to create hit records, build timeless music, and understand artists from the inside out. Now I have the opportunity to fully invest in my own artistry. I'm taking everything I've learned from writing for some of the biggest artists in the world and applying it to myself. I'm excited for people to experience Derrick Milano not just as the songwriter behind the hits, but as the artist I've always known I could become. This is only the beginning."

Troy "Billionaire Gunn" Guinyard, Derrick Milano's manager, added: "This was never about signing a deal. It was about finding people who believe in the vision as much as we do. When vision and purpose align, the possibilities become limitless."

"I'm extremely excited to be working with Derrick Milano and Troy 'Billionaire Gunn' Guinyard on this next chapter," Vitalize Records CEO Stephanie Agathis said. "Derrick is an incredible talent with a rare ability to create records that resonate globally, and Troy's strategic management and creative leadership have been instrumental in bringing this partnership together. We're excited to bring these records to life and introduce the world to Derrick Milano as an artist."

With a track record that includes working behind the scenes on major global releases, Milano's transition into his own solo career represents the next evolution of one of music's most respected creative minds. Through Vitalize Records, he is set to deliver a new body of work that blends his signature songwriting ability with his own voice and artistic identity.

The signing further highlights Vitalize Records' growing presence as an artist-focused label dedicated to developing unique voices and supporting creators at every stage of their careers. With Derrick Milano joining the roster, Vitalize continues to expand its commitment to working with artists who bring both creative excellence and global impact.

Derrick is set to release a new single in October. More details to follow.

ABOUT VITALIZE RECORDS

Vitalize Records is an independent record label founded by Stephanie "Steff" Agathis, with distribution via Vydia. Built around an artist-first approach, the label provides A&R, creative direction and marketing strategy while working closely with its artists to develop their sound, identity and long-term careers. Vitalize Records combines the resources and strategic thinking of a larger label with the individualized, hands-on approach of a boutique.

VITALIZE RECORDS ON THE WEB

Press Kit

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Shore Fire Media Inc. published this content on September 23, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on September 23, 2026 at 16:42 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]