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Ford Ent Magazine targets urban readers who love reading articles with wide ranges of topics they can relate to. From nutrition, music business insight, fashion, relationships, sexual education to make up tips. These readers, whether they model, teach, rap, sing, design, or spend their days protecting our streets, Ford Ent Magazine ensures a variety of topics each month to reach them all.
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Editorial Artist Owned Labels ……………………………..6 Top 5 Hip Hop Entrepreneurs………………..10
Model Tonice J Taylor…………………12
Artist Theory…………………………..14 Wesley Wonder………………16
Cover Stories Kevin Shine…………….18 Jullian Boothe……………...24 Janie Jennings……………..26 Aaron Davis………………...28 Understanding a Split Sheet…...32 This month’s Contributors: Judy “Ladi n Blue” Murcia Dominique Rolle 4
Note from the Publisher: So Ford Ent Magazine enters its second year….wow, didn't think I’d see the day. Ok, I’m lying, I worked hard for that day to come, and the ones following. I’m in this to win this! Actually, I’m going to replace that I with WE. Because I would be nothing without my team..NATHAN! (Madea voice). My goal and resolution for 2012 is to bring you , the reader, more of ..well us. We promise to continue to bring you the hottest in music, modeling, fashion and of course giving away the game piece by piece with our #Game101 articles. This month’ s issue focuses on the behind the scene of the “Music Business”. So many artists focus on the Music and less so on the Business. That’s fine and dandy when you do music as a hobby. But for those who live this. Like we live this. #WeGotYou. Special special shout out and thanks to my writers this month, Judy “Lady in Blue” Murcia, Doris Torres, and Dominique Rolle. You guys are absolute awesomeness. Special projects coming up for Ladychelle Enterprises llc, a published book of love poems by Ladi n Blue, a brand new magazine, Chev Magazine, dedicated to the models, fashion, and lifestyle and an artist showcase involving Jullian Booth, Vp at Slip n Slide Records (details coming sooooonn). And don't forget, if you haven't yet done so, to download your copy of The Ford Ent 2011 Wrap up: One Speed Go mixtape. Follow us on twitter to keep up with the latest!! @FordEntMagazine Shout out to my team, shout out to the readers, shout out to the friends, LadyCrys I see you!! Wiccckkksss, you my dawg!,shout out to the family, shout out to the doubters aka Motivators. Shout out to the husband and of course the Ford4. Muah! Love you all :)
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Editorial:
Artist owned Labels Often times young inspiring artist, including myself, look to the music industry for guidance on making decisions in our music career. Whether it be what features you'd like to have when you get on, or simply how to have a good stage performance, we all swagger-jack or bite someone's style in one way or the other. But, there is one decision you may want to strongly consider before following behind Wayne and Jay-Z. That is starting and maintaining your own record label. First off, running a record label is a business. Its a business where you recruit the best talent so ultimately you can make money off the recruited talent. With that being said, If your an artist and want to start a label, its not in your best interest to do so if you don't have a business mentality. Business decisions have to be made in the best interest of the all the artist and the label and the CEO or the owner of the label has to make those decisions In a non-biased way. There are two types of decisions that are made that can make or break your label. The first, is of course the before mentioned "business decision", a decision that is not focused on one person but helps all parties involved. Then regretfully, there's the "emotional decision". Before I explain why you shouldn't make these decisions, let me explain what is a "emotional decision". An emotional is a decision that you make based on a personal vendetta towards the topic at hand. Would it be right for you to stifle your artist creative ideas because, it may be something you personally don't like? No, that's why if your an artist, decisions have to be made from a mutual standpoint. Just because you don't like a song or idea doesn't mean it’s not a hit. Don't let me lose you, we're looking at this from YOUR eyes and YOUR the owner of that label. For example, if LMFAO was signed to your label and they presented you with the "party rock" song would you have embraced it? Or would you have said "I don't like it...its
By Dominique Rolle
not my style come up with something else"? Nevertheless, the song was #1 on billboard and was also nominated for a Grammy. Also, record labels owned by artist only succeed if one of two things have happened: A. the artist/ owner of the label doesn't mind sitting back out of the spotlight or B. The artist/owner of the label has been there done that and has been doing it for years. If your that artist that loves attention then even though you may sign someone naturally your going to neglect your signed artist because your not satisfied with your success. Think im lying? Look at Plies, how many of his artist have failed? All of them! True enough, there has only been one, but Wayne his first artist on and he is doing fine. Am I implying that plies is not satisfied with his success? Its a little off topic, but yes. If he was satisfied with his success then he would look at all the talent right here in his own city. That of course is my opinion though. For many artist that run record labels its hard to make the right the decisions because the signed artist on the label or usually close friends or even relatives. Little cousin Johnny Appleseed aka "cutthroat johnny" doesn't realize why he cant go on tour with everybody else thus feeling left out and ultimately hating starts to happen and that's how you get tore down from inside the organization. This is a factor that you will have to deal with if you happen to get your label off the ground. This is when you have to explain to everyone that, everyone is not cut out to handle everything its nothing personal just business. All in all, I'm not saying an artist can have a successful record label. I'm saying, if you don't make the right decisions and properly support the artist who you supposedly signed, then you and your artist are on a downward spiral into a dark abyss of failure. 6
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Special Shout Outs: Tastemakers Ks Team Bigga Rankin BSnS Radio Network Team Wicked Team Wesley Wonder Team Wicks Team Grindmode Royal Thread First Lady Niki You, our reader.
Hands Up Music 8
9
Top 5 Entrepreneurs of Hip Hop 5) Beyonce: She isn't hiphop but she's definitely an independent business woman and gets respect. Starting her career as lead singer for the group Destiny's Child and putting out 5 albums with the group, she then become a solo artist and released four solo albums. She has also written her own songs, became an actress and a fashion designer for her own fashion line House Of Dereon, (which includes clothes, footwear, handbags as well as jewelry, eyewear and lingerie) also releasing her own line of fragrances. Beyonce does her part in helping charities like Clinton Bush Haiti Fund, Food Bank For New York City, Kids Wish Network, Stand Up To Cancer plus many more. She has put in work in all she has done and keeps working her butt off, she has shown that you can make it as long as you work hard and follow your dreams.
4) 50 Cent: Being a drug dealer at the age of 12 and almost loosing his life to leaving that lifestyle behind and pursue his rap career was one his most smartest decisions. Get Rich Or Tryin opened doors for 50 Cent and he took that opportunity of becoming more than just a rapper, he became a business man. He created his own record label G-Unit but didn't stop 10
there, he also distributed his own sneakers, clothing line G-Unit Clothing Company, video games, a vitamin water and body spray. This man continued to work hard and proves that no matter where you come from, you can make it. 50 Cent went on to even create a condom line called Magic Stick Condoms and parts of the proceeds go to HIV awareness. He started on the path of acting in his movie Get Rich Or Die Tryin, which lead to other rolls in more movies, he published his autobiography then later released G-Unit Books and co- wrote a novel. Having a production company to starting in his own reality television show, showing that he has come along way 50 Cent doesn't forget about others. He teamed up with Pure Growth Partners to distribute his new energy drink called Street King, giving a portion of the proceeds to feed underprivileged children. Giving back and still going hard this man is truly a man of business.
3) Diddy: This man has more than just Bad Boy Records and he's been wearing the business man title for a long time. He opened his own restaurant called Justin's, he has his own clothing line called Sean John, a cologne line, he has done some acting and also helped develop the Ciroc liquor brand. He also made his own television reality show on MTV, he raised $2,000,000 for New York's educational system after running in the New York City Marathon. He was named one of 100 Most Influential People of 2005 by TIME magazine. From rapping to actor to producer, Diddy continues to put his name out there by working hard for his.
2) Jay Jay-- Z:
1) Russell Simmons:
Jigga, Hov, Jay or whatever you want to call him, this Brooklyn native has made a big name for himself. He has been one of Hip-Hop's most hard working artist in the industry, Jay-Z has proven that it's not where you come from, it's how hard you're willing to put in to your work to accomplish your goals. With 11 solo albums and 4 collaboration albums under his belt, he has definitely made a mark in music period. He stepped into his business shoes, took over and continues to work hard if not harder. From Co-Founder of the clothing brand Rocawear to having sneakers, outerwear and accessories not just for men but women and children as well. Jay-Z is also co-owner of the 40/40 club and part owner of the New Jersey Nets, founder of Roc Nation, and invested in the beauty line Carol's Daughter. Jay-Z also gives back, he has supported The Boys and Girls Club Of America, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Red Cross, Music For Relief and many more. Jay-Z continues to push forward without breaking a sweat, a hard worker indeed.
By his early 20's Russell Simmons was already promoting New York artists, he then became partners with Rick Ruben and created the record label Def Jam Records which opened doors for so many artists. Russell didn't settle for just music he took over many other businesses with his Rush Communication, Inc. From his mens clothing line Phat Farms (later expending to Phat Farm Kids and also Baby Phat with ex wife Kimora Lee) to sneakers, television shows, movies, to even designing a wireless phone for Motorola. He made the Rush Card, a visa debt card for the people who don't have a credit card or bank account, an advertising agency, he launched Def Poetry Jam and an energy drink, wrote his autobiography. He has also gotten involved with the community, helping in as many ways as he can. He's board chair for the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network which helps the youth in America become aware in politics and a voter registration event. He also has Rush Philanthropic Organization and the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding. He supports PETA and has donated to The Humane Society, US Doctors for Africa, Champions for Children, Get Schooled Foundation as well as many others. Russell Simmons was named a Goodwill Ambassador to fight war, poverty and HIV/AIDS. He has earned his entrepreneur crown!!!!
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Model:
Tonice J Taylor 12
How did u get started in modeling? I first started in modeling in 2008 when I signed up with Model Mayhem’s online site which opened up a lot of doors for me. A day after I signed up, there was a casting call listed on the site for Hype Hair Magazine. I took a leap of faith and attended the casting call which eventually resulted in me winning Hype Hair’s 2009 Natural Beauty Contest and becoming the lead model in Alicia Key’s “Teenage Love Affair” music video. When did you know you wanted to make modeling a career? I’ve always known that I wanted to make modeling a career from the moment I could walk. When I was younger my great-grandmother used to dress me up and take pictures and I loved being in front of the camera then as much as I do now. It wasn’t until I turned 19 that I decided to take it seriously and make my dreams a reality. Who have you modeled for? In the past few years I’ve modeled for Ann Taylor, Betsey Johnson, Hype Hair Magazine and Jimmy Jazz. So many people have their own thoughts on what they think a "model" is. What do you define it as? There are some people who have misconstrued what modeling is all about. But overall, I believe a model is a role model and a performer. Certain models like Tyra Banks have really paved the way for many girls and I aspire to be just as good as them one day if not better. Are there any other fields your currently working on?
What are career aspirations for 2012?
I’m currently working on a music project but my heart is set on philanthropy. I want to speak to young girls who are in school and various organizations. I want to motivate and encourage them to follow their hearts and chase their dreams.
A few of my career aspirations for 2012 include becoming a spokeswoman for a high fashion brand and walking fashion runways overseas during fashion month. And as a competitor in the 2012 Miss New York USA pageant, I want to win and ultimately compete to be Miss USA
Twitter: www.twitter.com/ToniceJTaylor Facebook: www.facebook.com/ToniceJoyceTaylorFans What would be your dream modeling job? One of my dream jobs includes becoming a spokes model for well renowned fashion brands Louis Vuitton and Diane von Furstenberg. 13
By: Jessica Jamz
They say sometimes you have to do one thing to fuel another. For Pittsburgh based Crazy Baby Records' Ceo and artist Theory, he's doing just that. Like most indie artist Theory is focused on his craft but he's also focused on his other business too, which steadily prove he has the drive to put in the overtime needed to succeed. Ford Magazine recently sat down with the talented business man to get a better grasp on his business and how he makes everything work.
14
What first gave you the entrepreneurial kick? When I was young I came up with nothing, Coming out of the projects I was determined to own my own business and make my own success so that I would never have to worry about being back there again and so that I can provide more opportunities for my kids and my family than what I had.
How many artist do you currently have? I currently have two artists signed in addition to myself. Maine PA, originally from Birmingham, AL is the first one up drop on the label. His mixtape P-Time drops in February, but his single Off-Da-Hook Off-Da-Chain, can be heard on the Treat Me Like A Don mixtape just released on Crazy Baby Records. The second artist, Doffarado, from Duquesne, PA is the second artist and his single Grew Up On, can also be heard on the Treat Me Like A Don, mixtape. His mixtape Convicted for Bein Dope drops in March. My mixtape My Stock is on the Rise, drops in April, but I also have a single on the Treat Me Like A Don mixtape, called Rollin on Dem Donks.
Where are you based? Pittsburgh, PA
What business do your currently have? Real estate and car hauling company. What's a typical day like for you? Sometimes I ask myself the same question, but to be honest my days aren’t typical. I start moving around early, and I don’t stop going and doing things until my head hits the pillow at night. There’s never enough time in the day for everything I have to accomplish, but I make it work.
What would be an accomplishment for each one of your business that would make you realize you really made it? Since each business is so different, I would have to say that just having them all running to where they are making a profit for me with less effort would be a true sign that I have accomplished my professional goals. As for the label, when I have more artists, and a promotion and distribution deal that would be a sign of success for the label.
Has there ever been a time where you had to choose one business over the other? Yes. I had to choose the real estate business over the car hauling business because the cost of fuel was making it difficult the trucks on the road. I also figured that working on my houses and getting them ready to rent will also help to put a few people back to work. How do you balance your time? I haven’t figured that one out yet, but somehow things work out. My New Year’s Resolution is to do better with time management, but it is still early in the year.
What are your goals business wise for 2012? To become more organized and to manage my time better, and to invest my money wisely so it can work for me for a change.
With music being your passion what kind of feeling do you get knowing you own your own label? Owing my own label has its ups and downs, but it's a great feeling. I know there are a lot of things and people that are relying on the success of the label, and that is extra pressure, but I take the good with the bad because at the end of the day this is what I love. 15
ShoBoi
r e d n o W y e l s e W ShoZoe Seldom do we get a chance to measure an artist's growth in this industry. But fans have been able to do just that with Sho Zoe. From the youthful sounds of Sho Boi, to the grown man status of Sho Zoe....and now the artist is embarking on a whole new image, complete with a new sound and a name to boot....Wesley Wonder. This new voyage in this music veteran's career will prove to be his most challenging yet as he steps away from behind the mic and into the engineering room as a producer. With a smoother and soulful sound, Wesley Wonder is ready to make his mark in the music production world. With his own publishing label, Hollar Dollar, this rapper/Singer seem to have been preparing for this role
as
an
entrepreneur/
producer all his life. From learning to play the piano in his teenage years, to spending the past several years dominating the Florida music scene with hits like "Zoe Lady", "One in a Million" and most recently "Grinding". As Wesley Wonder settles into his new titles....stay tuned because progress has never sounded so good .
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17
Kevin Shine, C.E.O. & Founder of The F.I.R.M. 18
Q: You have over 15 years of experience in the music
noted as the top showcase in Chicago. It provided
industry, within the time you started up to now,
new artists with a platform and music to be played
what are some things that have changed in getting
and preformed in the same respect as mainstream
involved in the industry?
artists and commercially played music. National
The actual record company started off with 8 majors
artists and executives would come thru our venue
now down to 3.Technology has changed distribution
and normally would notice the local independent
networks as well as social networking has changed
music culture was very relevance. Four years ago,
the industry as well...We are now more focused on
after moving to Atlanta, GA, while managing a
building brands instead of artists...Corporate business
writing team I was inspired to re-launch and re-
is more important than music within itself. Indepen-
peat the filtering programs once I was given the
dents are in a better position to capitalize on
position as an A&R consultant to the Senior Vice
mainstream America.
President of A&R at Jive Records, Wayne Williams‌ He wanted me to bring new untapped
Q: As far as hip-hop, what do you think has changed
songwriters, producers, and artists to the table
in the music business?
and provide them the vehicle to be noticed so that
The economy has changed the music business. At one
we could properly select those who have the most
point of time, when we had r&b as our main urban
potential. This led to new writers and producers to
music, we had the best hip hop of our generation.
be placed on the R Kelly Grammy nominated Un-
Now that pop culture has intervened and taken over,
titled cd, placement with the Backstreet Boys and
we no longer focus on popular music. We just focus
the signing of the hot new young sensation, Jacob
on pop corn music, the microwave oven quick single.
Latimore.
The economy right now is suffering so everything is either pop, hot, or hood hop. Great music artist have
Q:You worked as part of the management team
taken a hit due to mainstream America's downfall and
during the early career of Kanye West, what do
it is definitely affecting subject matter and prestige of
you his music career now?
the culture.
At 15 years old, Kanye was no different than he stands today, extremely confident and hardwork-
Q: You were a professor at Columbia College, there
ing at being the best at his craft. Sometimes, you
you served as Faculty Advisor for Columbia’s Urban
can wheel things to go into any direction if only
Music Association Student Organization. When did
you honestly believe you are who you say you are.
you feel it was time to get involved with the music
There were those that may have their opinions
industry as an A&R Consultant ?
and criticism about him as an artist but we have
Once I accepted the title as Vice President of Artist's
all watched how he has grown to become one of
Relations for the Soul Selector DJ Organization in Chi-
the greatest who have ever did it. I am very proud
cago (115 dj's) I was appointed by DJ World the Presi-
to have had a relationship and tie to someone
dent, it became my responsibility to bring great artist
such as him and I'm always a cheering fan of great
to the forefront. This made me come up with creative
work and great people.
filtering programs such as writing session, live radio, to facilitate the Crocodile Lounge Tuesday night which 19
Q: How did you come up with the idea of the
As time has progress, the record companies has
F.I.R.M?
shifted that responsibility back to the independ-
The vision of the company was always on my mind
ent artist and record labels...So as to give them
but the opportunity was never available until I
the option to pick the most better prepared
moved to Atlanta. While, I was working as an A&R
packaged product with the best buzz and team
Consultant for Wayne, I was nurturing and develop-
which allows their money to be invested in what
ing the name and the brand with several events
would be considered a sure thing. As mentioned
throughout the city. I came up with the name by
before, this is the reason why the Firm plays
mistake. I was actually trying to come up w/ a cool
such a major role in development. We look to
name and after scrutinizing the acronym, I settle
aid those companies to reach their consumers to
with the name FOUNDATION for INNOVATIVE ways
create the best products.
for you to get the RESOURCES to MANAGE your life & career aka The F.I.R.M. The initial idea for the
Q: Do you feel that this is a way of helping
company is to be a consultation. It came from my
raise the quality of music?
time spent as an A&R. I had the opportunity to
Yes, I believe in developing the artist to be more
witness many independent companies and artists
about who they are then who they are trying to
wasting their monies to get the attention of execu-
be rather than an appeal to the pop culture. I
tive at
labels by doing unnecessary tactics by
still believe artists should make music for their
presenting bad presentation of their products and
core audiences and should market to that spe-
their brand and mismanagement of the company
cific audience and lifestyle. Each artist has their
and of the team. This inspired me to act as an activist
own voice but lack the polish and experience
in the role I felt necessary. Now as the Firm contin-
and musicianship to help guide and develop
ues to grow, music is only one aspect the we pro-
them in crafting a good product. Producers are
vide. We have moved into different
areas and
no longer accepting the responsibility of manag-
tapping into film and technology. We also have
ing all the other parts of the songs other than
launched an organization called the Tastermakersks
the tracks/beat. This is also effecting the
Network. This is a national collective of individuals,
process. The goal of making a great record has
influences, and executives in the industries from all
fallen solely on the shoulders of the artist w/o
over the country working together to help build busi-
the aid of a team. The artist is being asked to do
nesses, provide resources, and introduce new prod-
all of the creative parts individually. There are
ucts into the marketplace.
not enough true professionals aiding in the process to assist the artist to be at the best of their
Q: Artists, producers and songwriters who are inter-
craft. Everyone wants to be the star themselves.
ested in strategic A&R/ Label consulting can find it
So thank God for the chosen few that is still stu-
in the F.I.R.M, is it for main industry or can upcom-
dents of the game and their music. If I can do
ing artist get a chance to experience it as well?
whatever it is needed to help, I will personally
The role of a record label is to acquire the best talent
do whatever I can to help in this area.
and music. Sometimes the company will take on the role of assisting in developing the product. 20
Q: What advise can you offer a person trying to fol-
recognized by a broader base of music in artist
low in your footsteps or just get in the music indus-
who are being blocked by politics and corporate
try?
business over great music. We are currently not
Don't fall in love with the title of a position. Don't fall
teaching our artists of today to make the best
in love with the Brand of a Company. Don't assume
songs. We are teaching them to only make a hit
the title before you have done the work. Some
song (being sarcastic) which is dumb.
people are motivated by different things. Whatever your motivation is, always remember longevity is
Q: How do you feel about upcoming producers
based on being good at what you do so at the end
and artists, even main stream seeing money
result you can become the money instead of chasing
signs, concentrating on putting out a product
the money. I have always sought to build a company
not at its best quality but for the money it will
never having a constant chemistry of players on my
bring in?
team which kept me from my goal. But I have always individually excelled independently strong at whatever it is that I've done. The titles and accolades come as a result of the work. If your focus is right, you will attain everything you
“That is why we have so many one hit wonders. We are no longer cultivating and developing full projects. We only seek to create individual songs.�
hope for and more.
I blame the placement game for which is part of the same corporate system that I think is dumb for making cd's/ albums more about singles than a body of collective works that revolves around the artists. Producers and songwriters no long focus on great music. They only focus on making the biggest record even if it's not their core audience or style. They only seek to
Q: Do you feel things have changed for the better or
sell out their career for a hit record. People can
worse, or do you think its a bit of both where music
careless about the substance of a record. They
is at now?
only buy brands now..The goal is to get place-
Definitely feel the music in the past was better craft-
ment and get a publishing even at the expense
ed and developed. Although, I still feel that there is
at destroying the artist longevity. That is why
still good music out here...the level of the music has
we have so many one hit wonders. We are no
definitely fell off and in the system we presently
longer cultivating and developing full projects.
have, we have allowed our culture to be dictated by a
We only seek to create individual songs. This is
few artists and companies, who although are great in
not good for music as a whole. It only serves as
their own right, have eliminated the opportunities for
an immediate pacifier for the present system.
a broader, more diverse environment of music, to be 21
Q: You have gained accomplishments on projects by
Q: What has been your most exciting project/
putting in hardwork, what are some things you've
event so far in your career and why?
learned throughout everything?
Lecturing NYU on contracts, negotiations, and
I see every project as individuals. Although labels are
publishing and working on R Kelly Untitled album.
cloning our artists in making them sound and look the
Both projects provided me with a unique experi-
same, I believe in cooking the burgers individually not
ence that changed my life.
the Mc Donald's mass market machine as it pertains to music.
Q: What's up next for you in 2012? Music, Film, Television, and Technology....Stay
Q: Why do you feel music education is important? and
tuned @www.thefirmweb.com
how does it show development in artist or labels as well as the projects they put out? Everything is based on mentality so the mind has to be developed to understand the process that it is going thru. All you can do is provide the resources, options, and relationships as a blueprint to the strategy and hope that it's properly executed by the individuals involved. But the truth is: nothing is for certain, if the mind isn't in the right place to receive the information, it's possible that individuals may chose ego, pride, or control as a mechanism to define intelligence but as you know these are only the seeds for failure. Q: You recently started the "Tastemakers" network. Can you tell us about this movement? As paraphrase from above, the Tastemakers network is design to provide a resource to individual businesses as it pertains to entertainment providing them w/ the resources and introduction of new products while educating others on how to build their network nationally. It consists of many people of different influences and entertainment combining our knowledge to create a network called #tastemakersks. Contact person: Yoshiko Greene, Twitter: @yoshikoent 22
23
Vice President of Slip n Slide Records 24
You've been with Slip 'N Slide for a long time, how did you get started? At the time I was VP at Luke Records, and I decided that SNS was doing be things and I wanted to be a part of that. I emailed Ted Lucas and told him I was interested in joining his team and he agreed.
artists coming up? Make sure the music is the best it can possible be!
How do you hold on to that passion in doing what you do? Its something that born in you. Don't get me wrong, some days I want to quit. But then I get back on track. I have a lot of drive and motivation. I have BIG plans for 2012!
Who is your favorite artist up to date that you've work with? And Why? All my artist I work with Plies, Ross, Trick Daddy, Trina, Qwote, Pitbull, any SnS artist!
Slip 'N Slide has been out for a long time, from the start up to now, what would you change or add? Add more artists.
What is your favorite memory so far from working with Slip n Slide and why? Watching the lives change when an artist makes it.
Is there any difference in working with artists now than it was when you first started? Artist have to work way harder now then back then. With the internet anybody can be a artist so you have way more competition.
What is your mindset, when you wake up each day? What drives/Motivates you? I love music and I love money and I love breaking new acts. All of those drive me.
What would you say is the difference between music now and music then? Music is music, maybe the only thing I can say is you had more talent back in the day. Now you have autotune so everybody can sound good.
What's next for you Mr Boothe in 2012?? I'm launching my Entertainment label. I have Qwote album this year. The Team Pitbull album and my first movie that I will be producing late this year.
You've participated in several judging panels, what are you looking for when judging an artists' music? Overall superstars...one that can hopefully can sing, rap, look good, model, dance, and act.
Where can we get more info on you and your work? You can google all my social sites...facebook, twitter...they all are Jullian Boothe...I'm on them all the time.
Coming from a huge label such a Slip n Slide, what advice would you give artists aiming for a label deal? Work very hard, put a great team together. It takes a lot of people to make one artist. Make great music. And put work everyday! With Hip Hip--Hop going Pop Pop--ish do you think it will get back to what it used to be? Yes, I think its just a stage. Hip Hop won't ever die. Working with so many artist, what are some things you would share with the new 25
(The)
Industry Works! 26
Ms. Jennings has spent the last twenty one years committed to development of the independent record label and artist. Focusing on the administrative and logistical structure of a release, she has had the pleasure of working with hundreds of independent record labels across the country and spanning many genres of music. Ms. Jennings began her career in 1989 with the Musicland Group in San Diego, California as a customer service representative while attending college. She later entered management with Suncoast Motion Picture Company- a division of Musicland group in Aiea, Hawaii. While managing the first Hawaii based store, she increased the sales of that location to over one thousand dollars a square foot. (1.2 million Gross annually) This was an accomplishment never done within the Musicland Group. After leaving Hawaii, Ms. Jennings moved to New Orleans, Louisiana (1995) where she was placed into stores that dealt primarily with urban product. As a “clean up” manager she was utilized to reestablish staff, product and day to day operations of a location. On average she was able to raise stores sales by twenty percent (20%) annually. It was in New Orleans, while managing a Musicland store, she found that local labels such as Cash Money Records, Big Boy Records and No Limit were selling three to one (3 to 1) over major releases. Despite this fact, these local labels did not a sufficient understanding of sales and distribution. As a result, Ms. Jennings discovered the need to educate and facilitate programs for urban independent record labels. She would then assist the labels in examining their statistics. Inevitably those experiences created opportunities and she found ways to incorporate her business and entrepreneurial background into the music business and retail environments. In 1997 Ms. Jennings moved into music distribution 27
with Big Easy Distributing, serving both as a sales representative and as urban product manager. She along with the team at Big Easy earned the NARM – National Association of Record Merchandisers, small distributor of the year award both in 1998 and 1999. In 1999 she moved to Houston, Texas to work with Southwest Wholesale in the distribution division as the Urban Product Manager. In 2000 she began a new enterprise, JABI – Just Another Bright Idea that utilized her background, knowledge and experience in the industry. In 2004 she changed the name to Industry Works. Ms. Jennings primary objective for her integrity driven company is to provide complete label, publishing, management, distribution and consulting services to the independent urban entrepreneur. IW has now expanded to include a nationally syndicated column as well as work with some of the most promising new labels entering the market. To further expand her enterprise, Ms Jennings incorporated her management background to create artist management and event planning divisions of IW. Currently her roster includes 17th Floor. (America’s BEST HipRock &RnB Cover Band) and Mz. Smurff. Ms. Jennings was also the Co- Coordinator of the Core DJs Retreats from 2008 to 2010. In 2010 she moved into her own events with DJ Finesse and the Downsouthdjs.com to begin the Music Day Quarterlies in Jackson, MS. After a 10 year relationship with one of the Midwest most successful Artists, 2011 has afforded Ms. Jennings a new and exciting opportunity to work again with Twista. She will be the primary consultant/general manager of GMG Ent. (Bio from www.ndustryWorks.org)
Aaron Davis The Man Behind The Scenes Tell us about your work and what it is that
music
“The Game needs me because
you do?
at the
I’m the one that keeps
I am the president and founder of
Davis Management Media Corporation. We focus
time
on bringing exposure and building business
but
brands in all areas of the entertainment industry.
not
We make sure our clients are generating profits
music
from the talents or service they provide to an
business. So I read a lot of books, and reached
audience. We are always growing in areas of
out to as many people as possible to learn the in
marketing, promotion and sales to keep their
and outs of the music biz, then it just came natu-
business or brand growing in a positive direction.
ral to me. I started helping people with their
We believe that if your brand is strong enough,
particular craft whether it was producers, sing-
the sky is the limit on the impact that you can
ers, actors, even models. That was just the tal-
have on in arena in the vast entertainment
ent portion of it, my business background came
industry.
from many long talks with my grandfather
changing it!�
George Witherspoon on the fundamentals of
How did you get started in this line of work?
business and branding .I also studied business in
It all started with my love for music at the age of
school and mixed with some experience of my
16. I was working on some music at the time and
own, I created my own company. It was the best
really just learning the ropes about who does
decision of my life!
what in the industry, I was focused solely on 28
What keeps you passionate about this type of
How important is an artists' relationship with the
work? The entertainment industry is always
media? The relationship with media is very
evolving at a rapid pace. The demand for quick
important, I will keep it simple; TELL THE TRUTH and
success is always high and clients want to see
you will not have anything to worry about. The media
profits ASAP. So what keeps me passionate about
will only speak of what you tell the verbally and what
this is the challenge. I’m always thinking and
your action depict. So be media savvy and friendly
perfecting my craft. I always ask myself...Can I
and always remember someone is always watching…
build a stronger brand? Or what could I have
laughs
done different to reach that particular audience? Or what can we do different to make sure this
You also take part in the fashion side of
brand will have “staying power” in the next five
things....tell us about that. I am Co owner of a
years? In order to be passionate you have to
clothing brand called Royal Thread based out of Bos-
have the discipline to learn things that you are
ton, Mass. We make custom designed suits that are
uncomfortable learning then perfecting it! As well
tailor fitted for men. We just released the sport wear
as the inner drive to keep pursuing the challenger
brand called Rowing as well, which focuses on
with an undying fire for inner self fulfillment!
crewnecks sweater, hoodies, cardigans, varsity jackets and many more. We cater the young men and
How would you describe the state of Hip Hop
women that like to be well dressed on a casual side.
currently? Hip Hop right now is in a state of criti-
Royal thread is your high end brand for the everyday
cal mass> Meaning it’s global and the access is
business. The demand for the women collection is
immediate. So therefore I feel like Hip Hop has
VERY high and I am not at liberty to discuss right now,
lost its soul and uniqueness. It just a blend of eve-
but it’s going to be AMAZING!! Ladies get ready!!!
ryone doing the same thing over and over again. I think Hip hop has become more of a cash cow
What makes Royal Thread unique in this industry?
instead of a quality music bearing machine it
Every man needs a suit point blank period. NO
once was. We get some great flashes of music
EXCUSES so we cover the demand by making your
here and there but nothing of substance.
suit tailor made for you with our custom designs and fabric for every occasion. Fashion is very much apart
Being behind the scenes, what advice would
of the entertainment industry and you have to dress
you
the part in order to the attention and be considered
give
an
independent
artist?
Independent artist need to focus on making
serious in some situations.
GREAT music but also spending enough time and energy building a greater TEAM.
With that
What goals have you set for 2012?
mindset in place you will be relevant NOW and
My goals are to continue to work harder and to
secure longevity In a industry that the 15 min of
inspire others to be positive and reach for the stars.
fame is now only .0 min. Build a great
My clients will see growth in profits and structure and
team to build your brand and your fans will
stability in their brand.
follow you through the years!!!! 29
30
31
Written by: Mark Smilow For : Coast2CoastMixtapes.com/NewIndustrytips
32
So after this four part series about publishing, I
composers/producers
and
100%
for
the
figured that maybe I needed to actually to back track
publishers. Lets assume in this case that neither
with all the technical stuff and go back to basics and
writers (lyrics and music) have a publishing deal
look at filling out a basic publishing split sheet. I can
and have created there own publishing company.
not explain the importance of filling out publishing split sheets. I am going to break this down to the
Example#1:
most basics levels so please forgive me if you feel like
Tom Williams wrote the lyrics and has his own
I am treating you like idiots, but again I can not
publishing company (Williams Publishing Group)
express how important this actually is in making
Steve Jones wrote the music and has his own
money in the publishing business.
publishing company (Jones Music Group)
What happens is that everyone gets in a studio and
This is what the splits would look like:
creates a hit record and it is not released for several
Song Title: TBD
months after it was recorded. The label will not start
Writers:
sending publishing statements for an estimated
Tom Williams -50%
9months after the commercial release of the song so
Steve Jones -50%
it could be as many as 18 months since the songs was
Publishers:
recorded.
Williams Publishing Group -50%
At this point everyone involved will not
really remember who did what that night in the
Jones Music Group -50%
studio cause everybody was throwing out ideas and
Total of 200%
maybe even drinking or smoking. So it is hard to go back and complete songs sheets, hence the reason I
Example #2
say complete them during the recording session so
Tom Williams wrote the lyrics and has his own
everyone agrees.
publishing company (Williams Publishing Group)
A song is broken down into a 100%.
This one
Steve Jones wrote the music with his partner
hundred percent represents the percentage that is
Mike Jones, but they have joint ownership in the
going to be split between all writers of lyrics and
publishing company (Jones Music Group) This is
often melodies and a composer/producer or group of
what the splits would look like:
composers who created the music whether it is origi-
Song Title: TBD
nal or sampled.
Writers:
Then the publishers share is also equal to 100%
Tom Williams – 50%
which is broken down between all the writers and
Steve Jones – 25%
composer/producers publishing companies.
Mike Jones – 25%
So let’s look at the first basic split of 200% which
Publishers:
would be one writer and one composer with no
Williams Publishing Group – 50%
samples. You would divide the song evenly down the
Jones Music Group – 50%
middle 50/50 %.
Total of 200%
Now the percentage would be
further broken down between writers and publishers but still equaling 100% for the writers and 33
Example #3 Tom Williams wrote the lyrics for the verses of the song and has his own publishing company (Williams Publishing Group) but the hook was written by David Frost who has his own publishing company (Frost Bite Music) Steve Jones wrote the music with his partner Mike Jones, but they have joint ownership in the publishing company (Jones Music Group) This is what the splits would look like: Song Title: TBD Writers: Tom Williams – 37.5% David Frost – 12.5% Steve Jones – 25% Mike Jones – 25% Publishers: Williams Publishing Group – 37.5% Frost Bite Music – 12.5% Jones Music Group – 50% Total of 200% Now this scenario could always have minor changes because Tom Williams and David Frost need to agree on the percentages that they both feel represented there equal share of what the other person wrote on the song. Some people break the songs percentage down by how many bars you wrote; others split percentages equally no matter what. Some writers feel that he hook is the main part of the song and want a larger percentage. This can also be true with the composer/producers because depending on who did what instrumentation on the song. Maybe one of the composers only did a horn section and would mean a lesser percent if any at all cause they could be a work for hire. So again this is something that needs to be determined while everyone involved in the song creation is present cause as I mentioned above it gets really difficult to remember 18 months later. Example #4 Rap group New Age Mafia writes a song there are three rappers (Harry Allen, Marcus Little & Paul Davis), in the group and all write there own verse and the composer/producer (Mike Jones) does the hook. The members of New Age Mafia all have publishing deals with different major publishers (Harry Allen – Universal Music Publishing, Marcus Little – Sony/ATV & Paul Davis – Bug Music). The composer/producer doesn’t use a sample and owns his owns publishing 34
Jones Music Group. This is generally what the splits should look like. Song Title: TBD Writers: Harry Allen – 12.5% Marcus Little – 12.5% Paul Davis – 12.5% Mike Jones – 62.5 % Publisher: Universal Music Publishing – 12.5% Sony/ATV Publishing – 12.5% Bug Music – 12.5% Jones Music Group – 62.5% Total of 200% Example #5 Rapper Large Joe (Joe Johnson & Cartagena Music Publishing/Jellys Jam LLC) writes a record that was composed/produced by Andy Hendrick (Hendricks Music Publishing) and the song use’s a Luther Vandross sample and Mr Vandross and his publishing company (EMI April Music/Uncle Ronnie’s Music) charges 85% of the writers and publishers share of the publishing. So generally the songwriter and composer of the new song will split the percentage left over that was not taken by the original writer and publisher.. Also Joe Johnson and Luther Vandross both have major publishing deals. So the following is a break down of the publishing splits. Writers: Luther Vandross – 85% Andy Hendrick – 7.5% Joe Johnson – 7.5% Publisher: EMI April Music – 42.5% Uncle Ronnie’s Music Company – 42.5% Hendricks Music Pubishing – 7.5% Jelly Jams LLC – 3.75% Cartagena Music – 3.75% Total of 200% As you can see from the five different Publishing 101 Blogs, Publishing can be very difficult but made simple by taking a few extra minutes to fill out the proper paper work making sure everyone involved in the creation of the songs gets the correct percentages based on there participation on the song. expert@newindustrytips.com
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Artist on the Rise:
T.Phoenix Got Next 36