Alumni spotlight: Harry McLoud — From Central State University to funk music icon

Harry H. McLoud, a proud Central State University alum and Dayton, Ohio, native, has made his mark in the music industry through an impressive career spanning over five decades. Since earning his Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Administration in 1972, McLoud has combined his business acumen with his passion for music, creating a legacy that blends artistry, entrepreneurship, and cultural influence. 

Exposed to music at an early age, McLoud attended high school from 1964-68 during a time that spring talent shows were major events in Dayton, especially at three predominantly Black schools, Roosevelt High School, Paul Laurence Dunbar High School, and Nettie Lee Roth High School. “It just so happened that Dayton spawned a lot of musicians in my area, and a lot of them are still performing professionally to this day,” McLoud said. 

Finding his groove at Central State University 

McLoud’s journey into the music industry was heavily influenced by his time at Central State. Before choosing Central State in 1969, McLoud spent three months at Morehouse College, leaving early due to family illness. He returned to Dayton, enrolling at CSU and immediately becoming immersed in the campus music scene.  

During his years at Central State, McLoud juggled his business studies with regular performances, playing at student events, local venues, and even traveling for gigs. “We were just young guys doing what we loved — bringing the funk to every stage we could find,” he said. 

His experience at Central State shaped his musical foundation and prepared him for the business side of the industry. “My business degree gave me the knowledge and confidence to navigate contracts, promotions, and merchandise sales later in my career,” McLoud explained. “It wasn’t just about performing — it was about building something sustainable.” 

A lifelong journey in music 

McLoud’s love for music began at the age of 13, inspired by The Beatles. After Central State, he launched into the professional music world, performing and touring with some of funk music’s most legendary acts. He worked as a rhythm guitarist and vocalist with groups like Faze-O and Shadow, served as a road manager for Dayton, a post-disco funk band, was a guitar tech for the Commodors’ 65-city tour, and even toured internationally with actor and vocalist Dorian Harewood, who opened for the Four Tops during their European tour.  

His most notable connection was with The Ohio Players, where he worked as the wardrobe and dressing coordinator in the 1970s and the public relations representative and merchandise director in the 1990s and 2000s. This role brought him into close contact with major artists and celebrities, giving him firsthand experience in music promotion and management. “Bands in Dayton were aspiring to be the next Ohio Players,” McLoud said. 

Funk music ambassador and entrepreneur

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Today, McLoud channels his lifelong dedication to funk into his entrepreneurial venture: a Black-owned Funk Music T-shirt and hoodie business. Since its launch in June 2021, the company has gained recognition from funk royalty. Music icons such as Larry Blackmon (founder of Cameo), Robert "Kool" Bell (founder of Kool & The Gang), and James Alexander (founder of The Bar-Kays) have proudly sported his apparel. 

Even comedy icon Dave Chappelle, a longtime Ohio Players fan, was photographed with McLoud, receiving a band T-shirt from him during a concert in Yellow Springs, Ohio. “That was a full-circle moment for me,” McLoud shares. “Seeing a legend like Dave Chappelle embrace my product was a reminder of how funk music connects generations. 

“"Funk will never die, it just evolves.” 

Keeping funk alive: 'Funk Don't Expire'

As a Central State University graduate, McLoud continues to represent the Marauder spirit through his creativity and entrepreneurship. His grandson, freshman Addae Everett, currently attends Central State. “I’ll always be proud to say I’m a CSU alum,” he says.  

He encourages fellow alumni and funk music lovers to explore his apparel line and join him in celebrating the enduring influence of funk music. Learn more about Harry McLoud’s business and music and support his funk music T-shirt line at funkdontexpire.com.  

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