Lanier McKinney: A Multi-Talented Force in the Entertainment Industry
A Career Defined by Iconic Collaborations
Lanier’s professional journey began in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2010, where he quickly gained recognition as a freelance artist. It wasn’t long before his remarkable talent captured the attention of global superstars, and Lanier’s career truly skyrocketed. His most notable role came when he joined the team of Mariah Carey as a lead dancer and later as a choreographer. Lanier contributed to her Asia Tour (2018) for the release of her new single "The Distance" and the Caution World Tour (2019). His innovative choreography and captivating performances helped elevate the artist’s live shows, turning each performance into a memorable experience for audiences around the world. A particularly iconic moment in his collaboration with Mariah came when Lanier embodied a solo Disco Roller Skater, a standout role that became synonymous with her performances.
But Lanier’s reach extends far beyond Mariah Carey. He has performed alongside a stunning array of music icons, including Beyoncé, Usher, Doja Cat, Metro Boomin, Rita Ora, and Katy Perry. His collaboration with Beyoncé on the visual album "Black is King" and his appearances at Coachella with Doja Cat and Metro Boomin showcase Lanier’s ability to seamlessly adapt to various music genres and perform on the world’s most prestigious stages. Whether on a global tour, at a high-profile music festival, or in a groundbreaking visual project, Lanier has demonstrated his versatility and dedication to pushing artistic boundaries.
Expanding Global Horizons: K-pop & International Performances
Lanier’s versatility has taken him beyond Western music, most recently into the world of K-pop. In a groundbreaking move, Lanier performed with a K-pop artist team on KBS and MBC networks, two of South Korea’s largest broadcasting platforms. This collaboration showcased Lanier’s ability to blend into the unique world of K-pop, demonstrating his global appeal and solidifying his position as a multi-genre artist. His performance on these prestigious networks highlights Lanier’s ability to stay at the forefront of international trends and connect with audiences worldwide.
Film, TV, and Modeling: Expanding the Creative Horizon
In addition to his work in music, Lanier has seamlessly crossed over into film and television, leaving his mark in several major productions. He appeared alongside Queen Latifah in the award-winning "Bessie" and in the blockbuster Hunger Games franchise (Catching Fire and Mockingjay Parts 1 & 2**). His television credits include appearances on Netflix’s “Good Trouble” (Season 5), "Marlon," "Drunk History," and "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend."
Lanier’s modeling career is equally impressive. With a striking presence and unique charisma, he has modeled for some of the fashion world’s most iconic brands, including Ralph Lauren Polo Red, New Balance, Macy’s, and Nappy Styles as a hair model. His combination of athleticism, style, and captivating energy has made him a sought-after figure in both the fashion and entertainment industries.
LM3: Empowering Future Talent
Lanier’s experience in the entertainment industry has now led him to a new chapter as the founder of Lanier McKinney Ent., a company dedicated to mentoring and developing the next generation of artists, dancers, choreographers, and performers. With his deep understanding of the entertainment world, Lanier offers invaluable training, guidance, and industry insights to emerging talent, helping them carve out successful careers.
A Legacy in the Making
As Lanier McKinney continues to build his legacy in the worlds of dance, choreography, acting, and modeling, his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for the craft remain at the heart of everything he does. From working with top-tier talent to breaking new ground in K-pop and global performance, Lanier’s career exemplifies the dedication and drive required to leave an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.