THE WRITER’S BLOCK

FROM PAPER BOY TO PRESIDENT, AND NOW CEO~ BENNY POUGH IS A SURE BET TO COUNT ON!

Benny Pough shares his 30-year journey and how life’s unexpected challenge inspired him with a new directive

Benny Pough’s lineage of success stems back to the days of Motown. Pough’s innovative and business savviness has allowed him to leave his blueprint and his instrumental creativity on some the greatest record labels in the music industry. He has worked with the best of the best when it comes to musical geniuses. The legacy of his prolific career, crosses barriers that many aspire to achieve. While on tour in Atlanta to promote his new book- “On Impact: Life, Leadership & Betting On Yourself,” Pough sat down with ATL Plus Magazine and shared his testament of success and his near fatal face to face encounter with death.

A Stellar Performance

Pough can be credited as one of the few interns that was given the opportunity to gain a foundation in the music industry- allotting him the opportunity to begin his training at the legendary haven of musical greats- Motown Records, who in return, never originally had any aspirations to be in the music industry.

While performing at the Stellar on 96th and Broadway in New York, as a standup comedian in college, Pough was recognized by the Regional Director of Promotions. After the show, Pough was asked to be her intern. Clueless as to what an intern was, Pough accepted the offer and from there, HIStory began. It was then, that Pough fell in love with music, and was introduced to the business, and radio promotions. Recalling, Pough recanted on how quickly it was to create a star from 0-12 weeks; all because of the power of radio. Motown became the segue to Pough being given the favorable opportunity to work with the infamous Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis on Perspective Records, as National Director of Promotions.

Benny Pough’s Blueprint: A Master of Promotions, Marketing and Recognizing Talent

Pough’s climb up the corporate ladder skyrocketed. After leaving Perspective Records, Pough moved to Washington, D.C. to work with Arista Records. Inspired, Pough was able to see the results of “pitch and sell” after the local radio station where he worked, was the only one that played Monica’s hit song, “Just one of those days.” This was very important to Pough as he was able to see the “culmination of great artistry, with an amazing team lead to a solid record, which ultimately developed into a very sustainable career.” Pough continued to soar. He went on to work with MCA Records, promoting iconic albums with Mary J. Blige, Macy Gray, “On How Life Is,” The Roots, Erykah Badu’s, “You Got Me,” Chante Moore, “Chante’s Got a Man,” and giving Common his first number one hit. His work also included reunion tours like Guy and New Edition- just to name a few. In 2003, Pough went on to work on Def Jam Records with Hip Hop and R &B Moguls such as award winning and acclaimed artists like, Rhianna, Neo, Rick Ross, Jeremih, Justin Bieber and Mariah Carey on her “Emancipation of Mimi” album. Continuing to excel, Pough went on to do “Epic” work. While at Epic Records, he continued to lay his blueprint working with the careers of Grammy winner Future, Travis Scott, and Atlanta’s very own, Rapper Cash Out. During his interim at Epic, Pough received his second largest promotion of his career:

Pough’s final stint in the music industry before launching his own brand, ended at one of the most respected and revered record companies- Roc Nation Records, as President. If that ain’t some APESHIT! As President, Pough’s position awarded him the opportunity to release a record breaking 18 albums; and in 2018, including the first #1 Urban Radio single, APESHIT, from The Carters. It was also during this quintessential time period in his life, and the peak of his career that he had a one-on-one encounter with death that impacted his total mindset.

On Impact: (Intuition, Mastery, Pivot, Authenticity, Connect and Teamwork)

While riding as a passenger in a car, traveling at the high rate of speed of 90mph, the car hit a tree that nearly robbed Pough of his life. The severity of the accident left him with a lacerated liver, a concussion, a fracture in his vertebrae, loosing half of his blood supply accompanied by peremptory physical scars and damages to his intestines and other organs. During this traumatic and near death event, Pough had an encounter with God that inspired him to write his book, which is also a number one best seller on Amazon, “On Impact: Life, Leadership & Betting On Yourself.” “The time was right to step out and bet on myself.”

Betting on himself is exactly what he did. With 30 years of knowledge, marketing, and production under his belt, and working with seven different labels, Pough expanded his entrepreneurial talents and launched D. Verse Media as CEO. His book “On Impact” is the first book under Benny Pough, LLC–a division of D. Verse Media. Pough is currently on tour promoting his book. Readers can expect to find a collection of reflective stories introducing Pough at the age of eleven, navigating the reader through the stages of his life that reveals his vulnerability through the lens of transparency. The book also provides the readers with a “hit list” after each chapter as a take- away that can be applied to their individual life. Pough showcased a “live version” of the book while on tour “It’s Your Time,” conference in Charlotte, NC., earlier this year. The conference granted entrepreneurs two full days of auditions, networking and workshops with financiers to assist them with navigating their way by giving them the opportunity to talk with “real folk.” The tour ended with granting one fortunate individual $10K to “bet on themselves” allowing them the discretion to “curate themselves and become a successful artist.”

As words of wisdom, Pough advised for anyone who aspires to become an entrepreneur in any industry, “you must first become a student of the game; that you must actually do the work of resource, set yourself up with a team who is going to go with you on the journey, and most importantly, do the work. Take the time, be committed and never give up- BET ON YOURSELF.” By doing so, undoubtedly, you are sure to win!

You can follow Benny Pough on Instagram @BennyPough or https://BennyPough.com

Looks can be deceiving and definitely when it comes to Dj 2nd Nature. Given the birth name Brett Belcastro, DJ 2nd Nature acquired his musical talents naturally. Inspired and mentored by his father, who was also a DJ, the love of music,creativity and innovation became a natural passion. As a graduate of SCAD University, Savannah, GA, majoring in film and video, with a minor in sound. After college, he relocated to Atlanta and started working with Turner Broadcasting. Brett Belcalstro combined his passion with academia, and made a name for himself that has catapulted second to none in the music industry.

DJ 2nd Nature didn’t start out with the intention of actually becoming a DJ. He actually used music as an outlet and a way of escape. As a result, “it turned out to be a blessing because now I’m able to give back to others.” And giving back is exactly what he does. If you’ve ever heard the beats and mixes of DJ 2nd Natureyou’d know exactly where I’m coming from.

On the ones and twos

DJ 2nd Nature has transformed what it means to have an unforgettable multimedia experience. For the most part, the art of DJ-ing is often undermined as having the ability to create a multimedia experience. But in actuality, that’s exactly what it is. By blending together beats and melodies in between tracks- the DJ has the ability to create an unforgettable atmosphere right from their fingertips. And let’s set the record straight- this white guy can jam!

DJ 2nd Nature has a proven track record of collaborating with some of the greatest artists and biggest brands within the industry. His repertoire includes those that influenced him such as Outkast,doing remixes for Stankonia and Bubba Sparks. While working with Outkast, a friendship evolved with Big Boi and Andre 3000. As a child, 2nd Nature always idolized DJ Magic Mike out of Orlando. He remembers sitting in his dad’s living room on his turntables trying to mimic all of his cuts and scratches. As fate would have it, 2nd Nature was able to meet and have the opportunity to be trained by his mentor and in return, 2nd Nature was able to teach him video editing. In addition, 2nd Nature became inspired by the legendary DNice during the pandemic who was doing virtual/ video DJing. As a result, he began to hone in on his skills and learn video mixing and mash ups. This provided him the opportunity to work for Pepsico producing video mashups for global awards meetings. It was during this critical time in society that he recalls “becoming really

2nd to None: DJ 2nd Nature

he had to do to make ends meet.”

2nd Nature has also worked with other corporate companies such as Wells Fargo, Google, Microsoft,and Delta Airlines creating inspirational videos. He was granted the opportunity to do the Farewell Virtual Tour for the 747 Jet creating video mashups. When it comes to celebrities, he’s worked with Lady Gaga, a commercial with Cam Newton with Arab Music and Under Armour doing remixes. He’s also worked with his good friend DJ Cut Master Swift on the Stank Radio doing interviews.

“Back in the Day When I was Young, I’m not a Kid Anymore…” Starting out in the game back in 1991, this Detroit Michigan native grew up in suburbs bumping 15’s in his minivan listening to Hip Hop legends and groups such as Mobb Deep, A Tribe Called Quest and Naughty Nature. Coming up in this era gave him his “musical”roots and ability to take old remixes and add “energy and life” to them. Mixing the old with the new. When asked who is his favorite group is or what his favorite type of music is, he replied “A Tribe Called Quest and Outkast.”

His advice for the GenZ’s is the same advice that his father gave him: “ practice, practice, practice. Even when it’s tough- have faith, it’s going to work out. Don’t allow the opinions of others to dictate who you are. Never seek validation. Make sure you have a passion for music.” 2nd Nature goes on to add the importance of remaining humble and never becoming egotistic. It’s also important to provide and serve for the people. Although he is self taught, he does encourage today’s youth to go to school for the simple fact of surrounding themselves with like minded people, learning teamwork and collaboration.

If you’re looking for “that” DJ to bring it- and get the crowd to where they want to be- look no further. DJ 2nd Nature is your goto DJ. He delivers an experience by creating an atmosphere that your guests won’t forget. Whether you’re hosting a party, trade show or conference, his musical ingenuity is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. So why settle for a boring event when you can bring some excitement to the party? “Go DJ- that’s my DJ.” You can follow Brett Belcastro aka DJ 2nd Nature on Instagram @ dj2ndnature and other social media platforms.

Lyndon Winchester is the owner of HOP Models and Talent Agency, a renowned agency with locations in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and Seattle. Despite its physical locations, the agency represents talent from around the world. Lyndon himself is an accomplished actor and fashion model who began his career in the entertainment industry at a young age. With HOP Models, Lyndon has created a platform for aspiring actors and models to pursue their dreams.

One of Lyndon's primary goals with HOP Models is to establish a more diverse footprint in the entertainment industry. The agency aims to be ahead of the curve in terms of ideas and innovation, striving to create a space where unique talents can thrive. HOP Models specializes in booking models and talent for a wide range of opportunities, including runway shows, print campaigns, editorials, TV shows, films, commercials, voiceovers, and various other media platforms.

Having recently celebrated its 26th year, HOP Models and Talent Agency is continuously expanding. The agency has plans to venture into additional markets in the near future, with upcoming locations in Philadelphia and Arizona. This expansion reflects Lyndon's ambition and commitment to growing the agency's reach and influence.

Beyond his demanding role as the owner of HOP Models, Lyndon Winchester also dedicates a significant amount of his spare time to mentoring and coaching high school and middle school football teams, as well as high school track and field athletes. This involvement showcases Lyndon's passion for supporting young talent in various disciplines.

In recognition of his achievements and leadership, Lyndon was elected to the Buckhead Business Association Board of Directors as the Co VP of Programming. This position highlights his commitment to community involvement and further establishes his reputation as a dynamic and influential figure within the business world.

To learn more about HOP Models and Talent Agency, you can visit their website at www. hopmodels.com. They are also active on social media platforms, including Instagram (@ hopmodels), Twitter (@hopmodels), and Facebook (@hopmodelsandt).