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Cool V, Industry Insider, Shares His Expertise!
In regards to who inspired in my marketing and branding career, I would have to say my marketing teacher in col-
lege at ECC (Erie Community College) Dr. Kelly. He affected me more ways than he will ever know. He was the
1st person to believe in me and to truly inspire me to pursue my career in marketing. He told me that I had a gift
that I was taking for granted. When I used to come in his class high & hungover from deejaying and drinking at the
clubs I was playing at the night before. I can remember like it was yesterday, he said "You’re a good student and
got a gift that you don't even take seriously. While other people are studying their brains out you come in here
hop right in and stroll by with a B or B- without even studying you are gonna become wasted talent if you don't
apply yourself.”
I know NAME DROPPING is a no no, but you gotta give me something! Can you tell me a couple
artists you have helped along their road to success? Who was more of a difficult client?
::Exhales:: (SMH Ely is nooooo joke smiles only because I don't like doing this but for her and you the readers any-
thing ^_^)!! I have been very blessed to have worked with a ton of artists and help brand them in one way or an-
other as a promoter (threw events), and as a DJ (introducing them on radio and others threw marketing consulta-
tion). I have been extremely blessed to work and meet some amazing entertainers from 2Pac, Digital Under-
ground, King Assassin, DJ Skee, Sway & Tech, Craig Mack, The Notorious B.I.G., Common, Jay-Z, Boot Camp
Click, UGK, The Outsiders, The Superfriends, Adina Howard, Luke, Cory Gunz, Carl Thomas, Big Sean, B.o.B,
Glasses Malone, Richie Sosa, Drake, Kanary Diamonds, Gunplay, Wu-Tang Clan, J Dilla, Slum Village, Emily, Sean
Kingston, Mims, Ghostwridah, the list goes on & on.
If you could, what would you change about the music industry?
Wow again! I would change a couple of things, man, this is a dope question! Hmmmmmm.... First, I would make the
industry more about the music, less about the politics. Second, I would take some of the cutthroatness out this
business because like Q-Tip said "industry number 5080 because record company people are shady", also respect
to the pioneers for all their hard work and respect to all the people who truly make it happen: DJs, producers,
A&R, managers, promotional teams, label reps, promoters, radio stations and bloggers. The guys who are unsung
heroes who make it happen day in and day out people like "YOU", Ely, & College Underground Radio. Also the
people who go in day in and day out showcasing people like myself and educating the public while bringing light to
what goes on behind the scenes for this, I humbly thank you!!! ::bows::
We have many independent artists who are readers, half of who are trying to get signed by a label.
Do you have any advice or words of caution for those who are opting to get signed by a label?
Great question. My advice is: First, do your research. Do not get fooled by pictures and all the hype. Check their
LinkedIn pages and other social networks to see who's referred them. Also, Google them to check their recent
accomplishments. Never assume "just because you never heard of them", they are nobody. So before you speak to
anyone, I urge you to do your research!
Second, pleaseeeeee dead the ego and swag thing. Be confident but NOT cocky because there is a difference. Also,
you're gonna have to invest in time, energy and money. If you’re NOT willing to do so, this industry is NOT for
you! Please remember YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR!! Don't expect maximum results with minimum ef-
forts. Last but not least, STOP taking bad advice. I hear a ton of people loving "THE 48 LAWS OF POWER", but I
ask you this how many of you know the author or hear people discussing him? That book has some of the worse
advice for straight business. Instead pick up "Rich Dad Poor Dad" by "Robert Kiyosaki", one great book by an even
greater man who I admire!