Driving Smart LEDs (integrated IC) at 24V
&quot;R/G/B port pressure - VDS,MAX&quot; and it states 24V. {actually 26V}
Does that mean I might be able to attach VCC to a 24V rail?

NO, That is the maximum Vds of the internal FET with open circuit programmed to draw  no current or very little , otherwise meltdown.
You must use 4.5 to 5.5V.
Addition info
36mA max per chip x 5V = 180 mW needs ventilation on both sides or a 3 cm^2 copper substrate, so you may as well get the RGB string and cut into sections and use 48V power to distribute to 5.5v dropping to 4.5V at the end using the LM2956HV PCB’s from Banggood or the 24V to 5V 3A regulators $15cdn/10pc each driving 3A/36mA= Say &lt;80 chips.