In the early 2010s, Liquid Spins, Inc. emerged as a trailblazer in the digital music distribution industry. With a database of over 20 million songs at its peak in 2012, the company revolutionized how music was accessed and shared. At the forefront of this groundbreaking innovation was Herman DeBoard, whose strategic leadership and visionary approach were instrumental in Liquid Spins’ success and eventual acquisition.
Herman played a pivotal role in securing distribution deals for the catalogs of major music industry powerhouses, including Sony Music Group, Warner Music Group, Universal Music Group, and Capitol Records. These partnerships granted Liquid Spins access to music from globally renowned artists such as Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Eminem, and The Beatles. By negotiating agreements with these major labels and their subsidiaries, Herman positioned Liquid Spins as a leader in the competitive digital music market.
Central to Liquid Spins’ innovation was its patented technology, Liquid Clix—a temporary tattoo embedded with a proprietary QR code-like system that allowed users to distribute music directly from their bodies to mobile devices. This futuristic concept provided an entirely new way for artists to engage with fans and for consumers to share music in a tangible and interactive format. Herman spearheaded the development and commercialization of this patent, making Liquid Clix a unique selling point that distinguished Liquid Spins from competitors in the industry.
Beyond its technological innovation, Liquid Spins achieved wide-reaching retail distribution through strategic deals with major outlets such as Target, Best Buy, and Lids. These partnerships enabled the company to integrate its music distribution technology seamlessly into consumers’ everyday lives, further enhancing its appeal and reach.
Herman’s leadership not only advanced Liquid Spins’ technological edge but also solidified its operational foundation, making it an attractive acquisition target. His ability to combine cutting-edge innovation with strategic partnerships and operational excellence played a crucial role in the company’s success and subsequent acquisition.
Key Results:
- Built a database of over 20 million songs by 2012, featuring music from global icons.
- Negotiated landmark distribution deals with Sony Music Group, Warner Music Group, Universal Music Group, and Capitol Records.
- Developed and patented Liquid Clix technology, a revolutionary form of music distribution via wearable temporary tattoos.
- Secured retail distribution deals with major outlets like Target, Best Buy, and Lids.
- Instrumental in positioning Liquid Spins for acquisition, delivering significant value to its stakeholders.
Liquid Spins stands as a testament to Herman DeBoard’s ability to drive innovation, forge strategic alliances, and achieve business success in competitive markets. His contributions helped redefine digital music distribution and leave a lasting impact on the industry.

Project Details
- Category: BusinessConsultingDigital MarketingIT TechnologyMarketingStrategy
- Client: Liquid Spins
- Location: US
- Year Completed: 2012
- Project Value: 65M
- Lead: Dr. Herman DeBoard
- Geography: US Territories