Donius Woods, also known as Woodrow, was born on February 11, 1985, in the Mississippi Delta near Memphis, TN—a region known as the “Birthplace of America’s Music” and recently highlighted in the blockbuster film Sinners by Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan. Growing up amid instability and financial hardship, music became Woods’ escape. As a child, he would drown out the chaos with headphones and entertain family with raps and dances during gatherings.
Raised by teenage parents, Woods was exposed to both classic soul and the golden age of hip-hop, shaping his appreciation for the evolution of music. Influenced by artists with similar upbringings, he began recording in middle school, promoting his group with handmade flyers and custom gear—methods he still uses in artist marketing today.
Inspired by business-minded moguls like Master P, Birdman, and J. Prince, Woods chose to retain control over his music career. That plan paused when he joined the Army after becoming a teen father, but the experience developed into resilience and leadership skills that later fueled his transition from artist to executive.
As a promoter, Woods booked national tours and partnered with Atlanta’s Onyx Gentleman’s Club, working with artists such as MoneyMan, Kap G, Derez DeShon, and others. His impact caught the attention of Elliot Stroud of Grand Hustle, where Woods served as an A&R executive. There, he worked with major names like Moneybagg Yo, Boosie, Yo Gotti, Kodak Black, and B. Simone—curating sounds, placing records, and reviving careers for artists like Young Dro and Jhonni Blaze. He executive produced Big Boogie’s breakout hit Mental Healing (138M+ views) and the Definition of Big Dude project, which charted at #17 on Billboard.
Following the passing of Bankroll Fresh, Woods worked closely with the artist’s family to preserve his legacy. He continues to champion emerging talent through Hollipalooza, one of the longest-running indie showcases, hosted alongside DJ Holiday and Keith Fergus. Over the past decade, the platform has spotlighted early performances from Young Dolph, Lil Durk, Megan Thee Stallion, Bobby Shmurda, and others.
Woods’ PR agency, The Umbrella Firm, has secured client placements on major outlets like The Breakfast Club and recently inked a label deal for his company Goat Mode Productions with The Orchard and Beatroot Music. He is also an IMDb-credited actor, appearing in Boosie’s My Struggle and The Dark Moon Rising.
Today, Woods is deeply involved in youth advocacy through The Rosie Mae Foundation, named in honor of his late grandmother, and as a facilitator for Credible Messengers/OAA. He collaborates with the State Attorney’s Office, Department of Juvenile Justice, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, supported by Quavo’s Rocket Foundation. His outreach has led to meetings with the NFL, Vice President Kamala Harris, Mayor Andre Dickens, and others.
From overcoming stereotypes to breaking generational cycles, Woods continues to thrive—living out his purpose through music, mentorship, and leadership.
© 2025, Logan. All rights reserved.
