Derrick Milano is an American songwriter, rapper, and Grammy Award-winning artist known for his work with some of the biggest names in the music industry. His journey from underground rap to elite songwriting has made him a rising figure in hip-hop and pop culture.
Quick Bio
Full Name | Derrick Carrington Gray (Derrick Milano) |
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Stage Name | Derrick Milano |
Date of Birth | December 24, 1993 |
Age | 31 years old (as of 2025) |
Place of Birth | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA |
Profession | Songwriter, Rapper, Producer |
Active Years | 2013–present |
Notable Works | “Savage Remix,” “Hot Girl Summer,” etc. |
Awards | Grammy Award for Best Rap Song (2021) |
Genres | Hip-Hop, Rap, Pop |
Relationship Status | Private (rumored relationships) |
Social Media | Active on Instagram and X (Twitter) |
Early Life and Background

Born as Derrick Carrington Gray in the vibrant city of Philadelphia, Derrick Milano spent much of his early childhood immersed in a culturally rich and musically charged environment. Raised in a supportive household, his love for rhythm, poetry, and beats developed at a young age. His family, though not directly connected to the entertainment industry, encouraged his creative interests and often exposed him to classic R&B and early 2000s hip-hop. His early exposure to artists like Missy Elliott, Jay-Z, and Lil Wayne helped shape his musical curiosity. Later relocating to Delaware and then Orlando, Milano’s diverse upbringing across different cities helped him absorb a range of musical influences, which would later be reflected in his sound.
Date of Birth and Age
Derrick Milano was born on December 24, 1993. As of 2025, he is currently 31 years old. His youthful charisma, vibrant energy, and contemporary sound make him a fresh yet seasoned voice in the music scene. Despite being in his early thirties, Milano’s contributions to modern music, particularly behind the scenes, make him stand out as both a young innovator and a mature creator. His age plays a significant role in his ability to bridge generational gaps in music, collaborating with both up-and-coming artists and established legends.
Education and Musical Interests
Milano attended high school in Delaware, where he began writing lyrics and experimenting with beats. His fascination with music soon became a serious pursuit. He later enrolled at Valencia College in Orlando and eventually transferred to Full Sail University, a well-known institution for entertainment arts and media. During his college years, he sharpened his craft, learned the technical side of music production, and began taking performance more seriously. His academic background in recording arts gave him the tools he needed to operate both as an artist and as a behind-the-scenes creator. His educational journey shows how he built a foundation that allowed him to flourish creatively.
Entry into the Music Industry
Derrick Milano’s entry into the music world was anything but easy. He began his career as an underground rapper, posting freestyles and mixtapes online. His local buzz grew as he performed at college events and regional showcases. One of his early breaks came through social media, where he connected with producers and artists who appreciated his writing talent. While his early work received modest attention, he was persistent in networking and refining his skills. Eventually, his lyrical abilities caught the attention of major industry figures. His career began to transition from performing to penning hits for others — a pivotal shift that would soon define his identity.
Songwriting Career Highlights
The turning point in Derrick Milano’s career came when he began writing songs for top-tier artists. He co-wrote the chart-topping track “Savage Remix” by Megan Thee Stallion featuring Beyoncé, which earned him a Grammy Award for Best Rap Song in 2021. This monumental win cemented his reputation as a skilled lyricist capable of delivering commercially successful and culturally significant content. In addition to Megan Thee Stallion, Milano has worked with artists like Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, Justin Bieber, and Doja Cat. His songwriting credits span multiple genres, showcasing his adaptability and insight into different musical styles. Today, he is one of the most sought-after songwriters in the industry.
Rap Career and Discography
Though much of his acclaim comes from writing for others, Derrick Milano has never abandoned his own musical voice. As a rapper, he’s released several singles that showcase his charismatic delivery and introspective lyricism. Tracks like “Die4it,” “Control,” and “Basic” reflect his signature blend of melody and raw expression. He continues to drop music independently, using his rap catalog as a platform for creative exploration. His mixtapes and EPs, while not as commercially prominent as his writing credits, reflect his artistic depth and commitment to telling his own stories through music.
Musical Style and Influences
Derrick Milano’s style is a unique fusion of trap, hip-hop, R&B, and pop elements. His lyrics often blend themes of confidence, success, vulnerability, and cultural commentary. He’s praised for his ear for melody and ability to construct catchy yet meaningful verses. Influenced by artists such as Kanye West, Lil Wayne, and Pharrell Williams, Milano brings both lyrical complexity and mainstream appeal to his work. Whether writing for others or rapping himself, he balances rhythm and message with finesse. His deep understanding of vocal dynamics and beat composition allows him to tailor songs to fit an artist’s personal style while retaining his creative fingerprint.
Awards and Achievements
One of Derrick Milano’s most notable accomplishments is winning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Song for “Savage Remix” in 2021. This accolade catapulted him into the spotlight and opened the door for high-level collaborations. Besides the Grammy, Milano has received praise from leading artists and music critics for his contributions to contemporary hip-hop. His songs have been streamed millions of times worldwide, and his credits on major albums have made him a behind-the-scenes star. In addition to industry awards, he is respected as a thought leader among rising songwriters.
Age and Physical Appearance

At 31 years old, Derrick Milano carries a confident yet approachable presence. He typically sports a clean, urban look — a mix of streetwear fashion and refined minimalism. Known for his expressive eyes, trimmed beard, and distinct tattoos, Milano’s style reflects his identity: bold but thoughtful, trendy yet authentic. He frequently shares his fashion sense on social media, blending comfort with creativity. His overall image complements his musical persona, adding a layer of relatability that resonates with fans from diverse backgrounds.
Personal Life and Relationships

While Derrick Milano is a public figure in the music world, he tends to keep his personal life relatively private. He has been linked to a few relationships, though no confirmed partnerships have been made publicly official. Rumors of past romantic connections occasionally circulate in entertainment media, but Milano has focused primarily on his professional journey. He has, however, spoken about the importance of love, loyalty, and emotional depth in his interviews and music. His lyrics often touch on themes of heartbreak and personal growth, suggesting that relationships play an important role in his creative process.
Public Image and Social Media Presence
Derrick Milano maintains a vibrant presence on social media platforms, especially Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). He frequently shares behind-the-scenes studio moments, inspirational quotes, style updates, and announcements about upcoming releases. His interactions with fans are often genuine and personal, earning him a reputation for authenticity and humility. The media largely views him as a fresh, creative force in music — someone who balances stardom with integrity. His public image reflects a multidimensional artist who has succeeded without compromising his values.
Current Projects and Future Plans
As of 2025, Derrick Milano is actively involved in several upcoming projects, both as a songwriter and performing artist. He has teased new collaborations with major artists and hinted at working on a full-length solo project. There is growing anticipation for more of his original music, and fans are eager to see how he continues to evolve as both a writer and performer. Additionally, Milano has expressed interest in mentoring young artists and expanding his influence into producing and artist development. With his talent, work ethic, and vision, the future looks bright for Derrick Milano.
Conclusion
Derrick Milano’s journey from underground freestyler to Grammy-winning songwriter is nothing short of inspiring. He has contributed meaningfully to the music industry, crafting hits that resonate across audiences while also carving out space for his own voice as a rapper. His unique blend of lyrical skill, cultural awareness, and versatility makes him a standout figure in modern music. As he continues to rise, there’s no doubt that Milano will leave a lasting legacy — not just for the songs he writes, but for the authenticity and artistry he brings to every note.
FAQs
Who is Derrick Milano?
Derrick Milano is a Grammy-winning American songwriter, rapper, and producer known for writing hit songs like “Savage Remix” by Megan Thee Stallion and Beyoncé.
What songs has Derrick Milano written?
He has co-written several major hits, including “Savage Remix,” “Hot Girl Summer,” and tracks for artists like Cardi B, Nicki Minaj, and Justin Bieber.
Is Derrick Milano a rapper too?
Yes, in addition to songwriting, Derrick Milano is also a rapper and has released solo tracks such as “Die4it” and “Control.”
What is Derrick Milano’s age?
Derrick Milano was born on December 24, 1993, making him 31 years old as of 2025.
Has Derrick Milano won any awards?
Yes, he won a Grammy Award in 2021 for Best Rap Song for his work on “Savage Remix.”
Where is Derrick Milano from?
He was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and later lived in Delaware and Orlando, Florida.
Is Derrick Milano active on social media?
Yes, he is active on platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), where he shares music updates and interacts with fans.
What genre of music does Derrick Milano make?
He blends hip-hop, rap, R&B, and pop influences in both his songwriting and solo music.
Is Derrick Milano in a relationship?
Derrick Milano keeps his personal life private. While there have been rumors, no official relationship has been confirmed publicly.
What are Derrick Milano’s future plans?
He is currently working on new music and collaborations, with hints at a solo project and interest in producing and mentoring upcoming artists.
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