The Industry Cosign

35 Years: Rachel Noerdlinger on Crisis PR, Health Equity: My Friends Are Better Than Yours

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 21:05:50 +0000

Meet Rachel Noerdlinger — founding equity partner at ACTUM, one of the top 10 fastest-growing public strategy consultancies in the world, and one of the most powerful crisis communications strategists in the country. With 35 years in media and PR, Rachel has been behind some of the most historic civil rights cases of this generation.In this candid conversation with BIG CED on My Friends Are Better Than Yours, Rachel opens up about her extraordinary career, her personal journey, and why she runs toward crisis when everyone else runs away.💥 In this episode:How growing up in chaos shaped her career in crisis managementGetting her start under legendary publicist Terry WilliamsHer first clients: Johnny Cochran and Rev. Al SharptonBuilding the National Action Network's media presence from the ground upThe most historic civil rights cases of our generationWhat ACTUM is, why it was built, and where it's headedBeing the only Black female founding equity partner at a global firmHer work in health equity and the current Medicaid crisisMental health, self-medication, and losing her mother to suicideHer son's redemption story and the next generationAI, social media burnout, and the future of Black mediaWhat she would do differently — and why scars matter🌱 Rachel is also hosting a vegan wellness retreat in Costa Rica — tune in for details!🔗 Connect with Rachel Noerdinger:📱 Social: @RachelNoerd🌐 Website: actumlc.com🎙️ The Industry Cosign turns 23 years old on March 15th!Subscribe, like, and share to support independent Black media.0:00 Intro & Welcome1:41 Rachel introduces herself — 35 years in media2:25 What is crisis management?5:20 Growing up in chaos — the origin story 6:09 Dropping out of Columbia & discovering PR 7:07 Learning from legendary publicist Terry Williams7:38 First clients: Johnny Cochran & Rev. Al Sharpton11:48 28 years with Reverend Sharpton & NAN12:30 Trayvon Martin, Sean Bell, Amadou Diallo & more15:13 Getting close to victims — the emotional weight16:44 What is ACTUM and why was it built?18:27 Bipartisan strategy & ACTUM's global offices 19:17 The goal: becoming a billion-dollar company 20:27 Being the only Black woman equity partner 22:20 Lifting as you climb — acquiring Sky Blue Media24:09 Health equity work & the Health Equity Coalition24:51 Vegan wellness retreat in Costa Rica26:27 Fighting health disparities under the current administration27:06 Al Sharpton + Newt Gingrich — strange bedfellows for change28:05 Mental health in the Black community29:06 Rachel's personal story — losing her mother 30:54 Self-medication, sobriety & finding tools to cope33:07 Midterms, rebuilding, and revolution34:04 Dark-skinned Black men — power, targeting & identity40:32 From entertainment PR to politics — the shift42:43 Why entertainers aren't as active today43:34 The role of Black journalists and media voices46:27 AI, robots & the death of entry-level jobs48:02 How BIG CED came to accept AI as a creative tool50:54 How ACTUM built their own AI tool 52:08 What's next for Rachel & ACTUM53:40 What would you do over again?58:26 Closing — gratitude & how to connectConnect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://rumble.com/user/bigced328https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/#RachelNoerdinger #ACTUM #CrisisManagement #BlackExcellence #TheIndustryCosign #PublicStrategy #RevAlSharpton #NationalActionNetwork #BlackWomenLead #HealthEquity #BlackMedia #CivilRights #BlackEntrepreneur #MediaStrategy #BIGCED

Entertainment Lawyer & Professor Bernie Lawrence Watkins, Esquire: My Friends Are Better Than Yours

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 23:27:04 +0000

In this episode of “My Friends Are Better Than Yours,” BIG CED sits down with powerhouse entertainment attorney and professor Bernie Lawrence Watkins, Esquire to talk about her 26‑year journey in entertainment law, her roots in Queens and at NYC’s legendary Music & Art (LaGuardia), and how Howard University and law school prepared her to build a respected practice in Atlanta. From watching her brother’s ups and downs as an artist to becoming a “contract killer” for producers, songwriters, and artists, Bernie breaks down how she advocates for creatives, negotiates better deals, and protects her clients in a changing music industry. She also shares how she built her own firm BLW & Associates, the story behind working with major producers (including Bangladesh and others tied to Ludacris, 50 Cent, Luther Vandross, Aretha Franklin, and more), and why she’ll walk away rather than put her name on a bad deal. Beyond law, Bernie talks about her role as an adjunct professor of entertainment law at Georgia State University College of Law, her passion for mentoring the next generation, her life as a triathlete and fitness lover, and her plans for the future—including a possible judgeship and an upcoming book targeted for 2026. If you’re an artist, producer, or future lawyer looking to understand the business, this conversation is packed with gems on discipline, time management, self‑belief, and navigating the industry as a Black woman at the top of her field.0:00 Intro – show and concept setup1:40 Guest intro – Bernie Lawrence Watkins, Esquire2:10 26 years in entertainment law, “contract killer” mindset3:09 Professor at Georgia State Law + CEO of Eclipse Distro3:59 Growing up in Queens, LaGuardia/Music & Art background5:03 Majoring in voice, choosing law over “starving artist” path6:03 Caribbean upbringing, family pressure to pursue college6:27 Brother Ron Lawrence at Howard, seeing artist struggles7:07 Two Kings in a Cipher and decision to become an advocate for artists8:25 College major changes, rejecting corporate job to attend law school10:00 Impact of LaGuardia and Howard on confidence and standards12:13 Long commute and working in high school, building discipline14:47 From quiet student to lawyer: learning to be a “voice for others”16:06 Majority at Howard vs. minority in law school18:03 Purpose vs. just “going to college because parents said so”19:42 Moving to Atlanta on industry advice, early law‑firm work22:14 First big entertainment client around 199923:38 Launching BLW & Associates in 200225:10 Building a producer‑heavy roster (Bangladesh, her brother, etc.)25:52 Streaming era shift and rise of independent artists26:16 Taking on 21 Savage and new‑school deals29:40 Navigating the “old boys” network as a young Black woman lawyer31:36 Reputation, results, and referrals building her roster35:34 Becoming an adjunct professor of entertainment law38:01 Time management, boundaries, and running a busy practice40:32 Triathlete life and long‑term commitment to fitness#BernieLawrenceWatkins #EntertainmentLaw #MusicBusiness #BlackExcellence #WomenInLaw#MyFriendsAreBetterThanYours #BigCed #HowardUniversity #LaGuardiaHighSchool #theindustrycosign #BLW #ronlawrence Connect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://rumble.com/user/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://theindustrycosign.com/

Hawaii Mike on Hip-Hop, Cannabis, and Health: A Journey of Culture & Community: My Friends Are Better Than Yours

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:08:19 +0000

Join BIG CED on My Friends Are Better Than Yours as he sits down with Hawaii Mike—entrepreneur, cultural curator, and advocate for wellness. From breaking into hip-hop in the early ’90s to pioneering cannabis advocacy and embracing holistic health, Hawaii Mike shares his incredible journey, insights on community, and why gratitude and authenticity matter more than ever.✅ Topics Covered:Hip-Hop’s evolution and cultural impactCannabis industry realities and advocacyBuilding LTD Plus and Chef For HigherFasting, wellness, and longevityWhy unity and collaboration are the futureIf you’re passionate about music, culture, entrepreneurship, or personal growth, this conversation is packed with gems you don’t want to miss.Timestamps0:00 – Intro 0:11 – BIG CED kicks off the show 0:30 – What is “My Friends Are Better Than Yours”? 0:56 – Meet Hawaii Mike 1:52 – Gratitude and celebration in life 3:15 – Why Hawaii Mike? The origin of the name 5:37 – Growing up: From Hawaii to San Francisco 6:03 – First encounters with hip-hop culture 8:03 – Dancing, DJ crews, and early hip-hop hustle 9:47 – Sneaking into the Gavin Convention & breaking into the industry 12:01 – First job in music: Diamond D’s “Best Kept Secret” 13:33 – Hip-Hop as authentic expression 15:05 – 35 years in the game: reflections and lessons 17:03 – Hip-Hop’s global influence and misconceptions 20:25 – The real roots of hip-hop culture 23:02 – Hip-Hop as modern foraging and cultural evolution 26:54 – Transition to cannabis advocacy 27:50 – Why cannabis became a business focus 31:02 – The truth about cannabis prohibition 36:02 – THC vs CBD explained 39:01 – Nature as the ultimate healer 41:01 – LTD Plus: Building culture through media 43:04 – Creating Inked Magazine and lifestyle branding 47:56 – Regaining LTD rights and relaunching 49:57 – From media to management: Clark Kent, Nigel Sylvester & more 52:25 – The power of community and collaboration 56:03 – Fasting and health: Hawaii Mike’s wellness journey 1:02:03 – Why fasting matters for longevity 1:05:07 – Balancing food, lifestyle, and discipline 1:08:03 – Breaking negative cycles and reframing perspective 1:12:05 – Connecting generations and building trust 1:18:02 – Final thoughts: unity, prosperity, and purpose 1:26:02 – How to connect with Hawaii Mike 1:30:00 – Closing remarks Connect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/

T‑Money: Long Island Legends, Yo! MTV Raps, & Hip‑Hop Careers| My Friends Are Better Than Yours

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:24:53 +0000

Hip‑Hop legend T‑Money — DJ, artist, member of Original Concept, and MTV’s Yo! MTV Raps pioneer — joins BIG CED for a powerful, unfiltered conversation about the culture, the history, the growth, and the future of hip‑hop.From Long Island’s influence to his days at WBAU and MTV, T‑Money speaks on the evolution of the culture, the transition from local tapes to global domination, and the obstacles Black creators still face today. The two break down generational gaps, responsibility, health, the importance of unity, and why older and younger artists need each other more than ever.This episode is loaded with gems for artists, creators, and true students of hip‑hop.👉 Guest: T‑Money (Yo! MTV Raps, Original Concept)👉 Host:BIG CED (My Friends Are Better Than Yours)🔥 Subscribe for more legendary interviews!https://www.youtube.com/@BigCed#TMoney #BigCed #YoMTVRaps #HipHopHistory #OriginalConcept #LongIslandHipHop #HipHopLegends #HipHopCulture #PodcastInterview #MyFriendsAreBetterThanYours #theindustrycosignConnect with T‑Money► YouTube: The T‑Money Podcast Joint► Instagram / Social: (add links if you want)⏱️ Timestamps / Chapters00:00 – Intro00:11 – Big Ced opens the show00:41 – Introducing T‑Money01:11 – Long Island roots & aliases01:40 – T‑Money Podcast mention01:59 – Gray hair & aging talk03:01 – Beard dye disaster story05:10 – Saluting longevity in hip‑hop06:01 – Reinventing yourself in the culture07:06 – Early hip‑hop environments08:31 – How hip‑hop reached Long Island09:54 – Mixtape era & DJ beginnings12:09 – Forming Original Concept13:37 – Meeting Chuck D & The Bomb Squad14:02 – Realizing hip‑hop could be a career15:04 – College, sports injury & choosing music15:51 – Def Jam beginnings & WBAU radio18:42 – WBAU’s impact on hip‑hop21:01 – Could hip-hop go global?22:54 – No‑rap era at parties23:38 – 80s explosion of rap labels24:50 – Why old-school hip-hop was diverse27:01 – Territorial styles shaping sound28:12 – Long Island’s hood culture33:02 – Hood realities beyond NYC36:08 – How Yo! MTV Raps changed everything39:43 – From cheap videos to million-dollar budgets40:55 – Marketing vs. talent42:07 – Younger artists & respecting pioneers45:07 – Gatekeeping, labels & control49:02 – Barclays Center vs. Summer Jam52:25 – Could hip-hop age like rock?53:32 – The unity hip-hop needs55:01 – Ownership, streaming & money57:38 – Men’s health & longevity1:00:05 – Sustainable income vs. entertainment highs1:04:46 – Salute to Sadat X1:06:03 – Platforms must support older artists1:08:07 – T‑Money’s podcast & current projects1:09:28 – Upcoming work with Ed Lover & Dr. Dre1:10:01 – Guiding the next generation1:12:20 – Growth, maturity & learning1:13:40 – Closing & sign-offConnect with BIG CED:https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/https://www.facebook.com/bigced328https://x.com/bigcedhttps://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5chttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://theindustrycosign.com/

The Wealth Playbook: Navigating Wall Street with Terron Tidwell: My Friends Are Better Than Yours

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 16:34:33 +0000

What does it take to jump from the music industry to the high-stakes world of Wall Street wealth management? In this episode of "My Friends Are Better Than Yours," we sit down with Terron Tidwell, a seasoned Wealth Manager at Hudson Point Capital with 17 years of experience.Terron opens up about entering the finance world during the 2008 crash, the reality of "babysitting" high-net-worth athletes and entertainers, and why he’s not afraid to tell his clients the truth—even when they don't want to hear it. We also dive into the future of finance, the impact of AI on the industry, and why your family might be the worst choice for managing your money.In this episode, we discuss:The transition from Jive Records to a career on Wall Street.The difference between a Stock Broker and a Wealth Manager.Managing "Big Egos": Handling athletes and entertainers.Why the "Yes Man" culture is dangerous for your bank account.The impact of AI on financial services in 2026 and beyond.Timestamps0:11 - Intro: "My Friends Are Better Than Yours"0:36 - Meet Terron Tidwell: Why everyone calls him "Tidwell"1:36 - Career Background: From Jive Records to Hudson Point Capital2:21 - The First Meeting: Why Terron "stalked" his host for a year4:31 - Maneuvering the Entertainment Space as a Finance Professional7:05 - The importance of honesty and "No Men" in business9:14 - How Tidwell got into the financial aspect of Wealth Management12:00 - The pressure of making seven figures vs. having fun14:55 - Dealing with high-profile athletes and big egos18:31 - The "Engineer Mindset" vs. Big Picture clients22:11 - Why family members can be "deadly" to your business24:34 - From Stock Broker to Wealth Manager: The 10-year evolution28:16 - Advice for those wanting to enter the finance industry30:03 - How AI is changing the landscape of wealth management#WealthManagement #WallStreet #Finance #Entrepreneurship #PersonalFinance #Investing #MyFriendsAreBetterThanYours #FinancialAdvisor #wealthbuilding #TerronTidwell #BIGCED #theindustrycosign Connect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://rumble.com/user/bigced328https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/#entertainmentindustry #business #musicindustry #hiphop

From Temple to W&W: Aaliyah Crawford on 35 Years of Entertainment PR, Building Legendary Brands & Breaking Barriers: My Friends Are Better T

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:57:21 +0000

From Temple to W&W: Aaliyah Crawford on 35 Years of Entertainment PR, Building Legendary Brands & Breaking BarriersJoin BIG CED of The Industry Cosign as he sits down with Aaliyah Crawford, Senior Vice President at W&W Public Relations and newly elected Vice President of the Recording Academy's Philadelphia Chapter. In this candid conversation, Aaliyah shares her journey from Temple University film student to representing icons like Janet Jackson, Alicia Keys, and Patti LaBelle.Discover the realities of entertainment PR, from managing client expectations to navigating social media's double-edged sword. Aaliyah opens up about the legacy of W&W founder Patti Webster, the importance of authentic brand building, and what it takes to succeed in an industry where rejection is constant. She also discusses launching her new podcast, "Team AC with Aaliyah Crawford," and becoming the first professional member to serve as VP in her Recording Academy chapter.Whether you're an aspiring publicist, entrepreneur, or just curious about what happens behind the scenes in entertainment, this episode offers invaluable insights from someone who's been doing the work for decades.Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction & Welcome1:03 - Aaliyah Crawford Introduces Herself2:26 - How Aaliyah Got Into Publicity3:11 - Early Interest in Entertainment & Education at Temple University4:49 - Entry into W&W Public Relations6:02 - The Legacy of W&W (Founded 1991)6:49 - Remembering Patti Webster8:02 - Patti's Impact on Industry Relationships10:04 - The Importance of Professional Courtesy in PR11:39 - Managing Inbox Overload & Following Up13:04 - Dealing with Rejection as a Publicist14:43 - Creating Effective PR Strategies15:29 - Managing Client Expectations20:11 - W&W's Impressive Client Roster22:15 - What Makes a Good Client Fit24:00 - Different PR Specialties & Finding Your Wheelhouse26:03 - When Artists Aren't Ready for PR28:15 - Average Campaign Length & Timeline30:03 - What Makes a Successful Brand31:39 - Navigating Social Media as a PR Tool32:43 - Social Media: Gift and Curse34:39 - Social Media vs. Traditional PR36:47 - Recording Academy Vice President Announcement37:08 - Breaking Barriers: First Professional Member VP40:09 - Launching "Team AC with Aaliyah Crawford" Podcast41:02 - The Creator Economy & Podcast Opportunities43:01 - Going Viral: The Sign to Start Podcasting45:46 - Authenticity in Content Creation47:08 - The Importance of Public-Facing Business Leaders48:48 - Minority & Female-Owned Business Representation49:18 - Connect with Aaliyah & W&W50:55 - Closing RemarksConnect with Aaliyah Crawford:Instagram: @aaliyahcrawfordW&W PR Instagram: @wwrelationsWebsite: w-wpr.comPodcast: Team AC with Aaliyah Crawford (YouTube)Connect with BIG CED: https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://theindustrycosign.com/

Jungle Brothers Get Inducted Into The National Hip Hop Museum

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 15:30:00 +0000

The Jungle Brothers were honored with an induction into the National Hip Hop Museum on Aug. 23, 2025.Mike G and Baby Bam of the legendary Jungle Brothers reflect on their earliest memories of Hip‑Hop, the power of manifestation, the Bronx and Brooklyn roots that shaped them, and the brotherhood that carried them through decades of culture‑shifting music.From childhood rhyme games and pause‑tape experiments to talent shows, Red Alert, graffiti missions, and near‑misses on the train tracks — this is a raw, heartfelt tribute to the journey that built one of hip‑hop’s most influential groups.Featuring: Mike G • Baby Bam • DJ Sammy BJungle Brothers • Universal Zulu NationShoutouts to Red Alert, Jam Master Jay, Andre Dorg, and the pioneers who paved the way.⏱️ Timestamps0:00 – Introductions: Mike G, Baby Bam, DJ Sammy B0:21 – “Good day” — setting the tone0:45 – Brotherhood, love, and friendship1:16 – Baby Bam’s origin story: age 9, rhyme games with his mother1:47 – Age 11: punishment, jazz records, pause tapes, Radio Shack mic2:25 – “This is my record” — early DIY creativity2:28 – Hearing Jimmy Spicer’s Super Rhymes for the first time2:48 – Realizing: “I’m gonna make a record”3:04 – Age 14: first turntables, early mixtapes3:21 – Manifestation before knowing the process3:38 – High school connections: meeting Red Alert’s nephew4:00 – First day at Murray Bertram High School4:22 – The talent show: meeting Mike G4:45 – Meeting Kool DJ Red Alert in the hallway5:11 – Making tapes, getting noticed, newspaper write‑ups5:23 – Apollo Theater: seeing Run‑DMC, meeting Jam Master Jay5:39 – First studio sessions in Coney Island5:51 – Shoutout to Andre Dorg (Straight Out the Jungle mixer)6:07 – Manifestation and choosing Murray Bertram6:25 – “We made a couple of records… and had a good time”6:36 – Mike G speaks: “I am hip‑hop. We all are hip‑hop.”6:50 – Early Bronx River memories: Cold Crush, Grandmaster Caz7:22 – Shoutout to Jervin Green7:35 – Graffiti days: tracks, tunnels, buses7:51 – Near‑death moment on the A train — life‑changing decision8:24 – Choosing the studio over the streets8:35 – Gratitude for the era: “We grew up in the best time period”8:57 – Encouraging the next generation of hip‑hop9:13 – Hip‑hop as community, teaching, and saving lives9:30 – DJ Sammy B’s influence and early support9:48 – Universal Zulu Nation salute9:52 – Closing thanks from Mike G and Baby BamConnect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://rumble.com/user/bigced328https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/#entertainmentindustry #business #musicindustry #hiphop #junglebrothers #kooldjredalert #theindustrycosign #bigced #thebronx #nyc #newyorkcity #music

Tanisha Colon-Bibb: From Harlem to South Africa: How This PR Boss Built a 2-Continent Empire: My Friends Are Better Than Yours

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 22:52:54 +0000

BIG CED sits down with Tanisha Colon-Bibb, a Harlem native who went from an intern at The Source Magazine to running PR and talent management companies across two continents. This conversation covers everything from navigating rejection as a publicist to building businesses with "delusional confidence" to the cultural differences between doing business in New York vs. South Africa.Tanisha shares the exact moment she realized she could run her own agency, the audacious networking tactic that landed her friend a Michelin-starred restaurant client, and why being featured in print for the first time hit different after 13 years of getting other people press.🎯 TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Intro: "My Friends Are Better Than Yours"1:04 - The Source Magazine Days & Harlem Connection2:32 - Lennox Terrace Neighbors Reveal4:54 - Eve the Rapper Lived Downstairs?!5:39 - Dame Dash, Cam'ron & Jim Jones Drama6:28 - Why Hip-Hop Was Inevitable8:00 - From Fashion Intern to PR Boss9:48 - Starting a PR Company with No Experience11:06 - The Move to South Africa (Love Story Alert)13:00 - Building Businesses Across Two Continents13:45 - The Moment She Started Rebelle Agency15:02 - Working with The Lip Bar & Black-Owned Brands15:15 - 2018 Burnout & Career Pivot15:45 - Tracy G & The Birth of Rebelle Management17:03 - Why Publicists Need Better PR17:21 - Handling Rejection as a Publicist19:12 - The Strategy Behind Great PR20:39 - Building Editor Relationships vs. Mass Emails22:32 - When Friendship Meets Business23:50 - Getting Featured in Glamour South Africa25:00 - First Time in Print: "Is This How You Feel?"27:02 - New York Aggression vs. South African Humility28:11 - The Uber Driver Greeting Incident30:20 - Being a Black Woman Business Owner32:21 - "I Can Be All Things, But Not All at the Same Time"33:29 - The Afro-Latina Experience35:04 - Full-Time Help & Work-Life Balance in SA36:08 - Starting a Business with "Delusional Confidence"36:22 - "I Could Run This Company Better"38:10 - When Your Brother Becomes Your First Investor40:36 - Future Plans: Africa, UK & The Diaspora42:04 - Reigniting The PR Agency in 202642:46 - How PR Has Changed Since 201244:33 - Doing What Makes YOU Happy45:13 - "You Have All the Resources to Make the Life You Want"48:36 - BE AUDACIOUS: The Michelin Restaurant Story49:30 - Asking the Universe for What You Want50:01 - How to Reach Tanisha51:04 - South Africa Travel Tips52:50 - Outro: My Friends Are Better Than Yours---ABOUT Tanisha Colon-Bibb:Tanisha is the founder of Rebelle Agency (PR) and Rebelle Management, representing talent across music, film, and digital media in both New York and South Africa. A Harlem native and Spelman College graduate, she's built a career connecting the diaspora and elevating Black voices globally. Her work has been featured in Glamour South Africa, and she's worked with artists like El Varnner, Tamar Braxton, The Lip Bar, and SiriusXM's Tracy G.ABOUT BIG CED:BIG CED is an industry veteran, writer for Black Enterprise, and host of "My Friends Are Better Than Yours" - a show dedicated to spotlighting the people you need to know. With over 21 years in entertainment journalism, he's The Industry Cosign you can trust.Connect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://rumble.com/user/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://theindustrycosign.com/

Life Griffith Successfully Switches Industries: My Friends Are Better Than Yours

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 22:28:30 +0000

"No matter what you think you know, you really don't know nothing at all, which is the first step towards knowledge."In this episode of My Friends Are Better Than Yours, BIG CED (The Industry Cosign) sits down with a long-time friend and industry titan, Life Griffith (Life Allah). With over 30 years in the game, Life’s journey is a masterclass in evolution—from the Golden Era of NYC Hip-Hop to military service as a combat medic, and now, to the halls of USC as an entertainment law student.Life shares rare, behind-the-scenes stories from the early days of Rush Artist Management, Def Jam, and Loud Records. He breaks down the cultural intersection of the Zulu Nation and the 5% Nation of Gods and Earths, explaining how "Supreme Mathematics" influenced the B-boy stance and the very foundation of Hip-Hop culture.We also dive deep into his latest venture, High-End Media Partners (HEMP), where he merges his passion for music with the legal benefits of hemp for veterans, all while navigating the rapidly shifting landscape of Generative AI.Key Highlights:The Golden Era: Growing up in Queens with LL Cool J and Run-DMC.The "Oreo Theory": Life’s philosophy on navigating the business of entertainment.From Combat to Cannabis: How serving as a medic in Iraq led to his advocacy for hemp and veterans' health.The AI Revolution: Why Life believes the industry needs "proper leadership" to handle the artificial intelligence shift.Legacy & Law: Why he decided to go back to law school at USC after decades in the business.Connect with Life Griffith:Company: High-End Media Partners (HEMP) – Creativity on a Higher NoteFocus: AI Consultation, Entertainment Law, and Veteran Advocacy.1:15- Introducing Life Griffiths: 30+ years in the game 2:30 - Life’s Background: From the music space to the military and law 3:30 - Why the industry needs "Proper Leadership" right now 4:15 - Doing things the "Legal Way" & the importance of education 5:00 - New York Roots: Growing up in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx 6:15 - Hip-Hop vs. Rap: It’s a way of life 7:10 - The Early Days: Krush Groove, Russell Simmons, and Rush Management 7:45 - The Culture: Zulu Nation, the 5% Nation, and Supreme Mathematics 9:10 - Military Service (1985-1989) & returning to a changing industry 9:40 - Rising through the ranks: Road Management and working with Chris Lighty 10:45 - West Coast Move: Working with Steve Rifkind and Loud Records 11:55 - The Intersection: Why Zulu Nation members often joined the 5% Nation 13:10 - The Street Code: Lessons, knuckle games, and the "Voice of the Unheard." 16:30 - The "Oreo Theory": Understanding the business of entertainment 18:50 - The Ghetto Airlines: Moving to LA and getting the call from A&M Records 21:50 - High-End Media Partners (HEMP): Merging music and cannabis 25:40 - Returning to Service: 9/11 and serving as a Combat Medic 27:50 - Helping Veterans: Using Hemp to move away from opiates 29:45 - Defining AI: Artificial Intelligence vs. Arrogant Ignorance 30:30 - The Future: AI Consultation and Industry ReplacementSubscribe to the Channel:Join BIG CED as he interviews the people he admires most—the friends who are actually doing the work behind the scenes. Because let’s face it: My Friends Are Better Than Yours.Connect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://rumble.com/user/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://theindustrycosign.com/

Kool DJ Red Alert Delivered Speech While Accepting Entry Into The National Hip-Hop Museum

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 15:31:36 +0000

One of the most revered DJs in the world, Kool DJ Red Alert, was honored last August in Washington, D.C., when he was inducted into the 2025 National Hip-Hop Honors. The ceremony took place at the Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company. He was joined by Kid ‘N Play, Jungle Brothers, Dana Dane, Kwamé, Sweet Tee, DJ Hollywood, and Antoinette.This video was taken that night in celebration of several legendary figures in Hip-Hop, and The Industry Cosign was there to witness the accolades.Kool DJ Red Alert, who is celebrating his 50th year in Hip-Hop and going on his 23rd year on the radio, accepted his award and acknowledged his career in front of the packed audience.The National Hip-Hop Museum is the world's first museum dedicated to Hip-Hop, based in Washington, D.C. In the halls of this monument, you will find The House of Hip-Hop Art Galleries, The Hip-Hop Shop, The Hip-Hop Cafe, and The Hip-Hop Museum Pop-Up Experience. The 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization is led by one of the first recorded Hip-Hop artists, The Sugarhill Gang's Master Gee, who serves as the executive director.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Tomika Anderson Greene

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 04:06:10 +0000

Tomika Anderson Greene is the founder and CEO of Manifest Greatness Media (MGM), a 5-star-rated, full-fledged marketing, public relations, and communications company that specializes in helping clients in both the commercial space as well as across federal, state, and local government. MGM helps visionary entrepreneurs and mission-driven organizations turn powerful stories into national headlines, government contracts, and real community impact.An Emmy and NAACP Image Award–nominated writer and producer, Tomika brings over 25 years of experience in media and public relations. Her work spans major outlets like CNN, FOX, BET, MTV, and NPR, where she has profiled and collaborated with cultural icons such as Beyoncé, Serena Williams, Michelle Obama, Usher, and Dave Chappelle. She has led successful campaigns for the Obama Administration, UNESCO, the Defense Logistics Academy, Microsoft’s NTA Program, and the Mississippi Black Women’s Roundtable—earning billions of media impressions across TV, podcasts, and digital platforms.Her PR strategies have helped clients land features in Forbes, Essence, NBC, Good Morning America, USA Today, The Washington Post, and more—translating visibility into revenue, recognition, and real-world results. Personally selected by the Obama administration to lead journalist training across Africa in partnership with the African Union and UNESCO, Tomika has trained nonprofit leaders, elected officials, and global influencers alike.She is an Executive and Certified Professional Coach (ICF-CPC), a Prosci-Certified Change Management Practitioner, and an adjunct professor in the Communications Department at American University. Beyond her media work, Tomika is also the founder of Single Parents Who Travel and Motivated Mamas—two global communities that empower single parents and entrepreneurs of all backgrounds and nationalities, including both women and men, through storytelling, curated experiences, and authentic connection.Whether she’s building brands or building community, Tomika leads with clarity, warmth, and purpose—and she’s on a mission to ensure more women and families win out loud.She’s also a proud boy mom to a high school senior who keeps her playlist fresh and her hustle sharp.Connect with BIG CED:https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/https://www.facebook.com/bigced328https://x.com/bigcedhttps://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://rumble.com/user/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5chttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Nicole Duncan Smith

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 03:25:29 +0000

Rev. Nicole Duncan-Smith is a dedicated bi-vocational minister whose theology is firmly rooted in the Baptist tradition and Hip-Hop culture. Embracing inclusivity akin to Jesus' universal love, she employs contemporary pop culture and technology to illuminate the path to spiritual enlightenment.Founder of The Sunday School Dropout, Rev. Nikki, as she is affectionately called, champions a ministry dedicated to hearing personal faith testimonies, nurturing biblical literacy, and providing sanctuary for those who seek God outside traditional church settings.Originally from West Philadelphia, she seamlessly integrates the dynamic influences of Hip-Hop into her spiritual practice, reflecting her upbringing immersed in its rich cultural tapestry.In addition to her pastoral duties, Rev. Nikki has made significant contributions as an editor and writer for a diverse array of publications, including AtlantaBlackStar.com, OprahDaily.com, theGrio.com, BET.com, AllHipHop.com, Rap Pages, Vibe Magazine, The Source, Christian Science Monitor, among others.Her career includes pivotal roles at various record labels, distribution companies, and entertainment firms, working alongside industry luminaries like Sheri Riley, Russell Simmons, Steve Stoute, Lauryn Hill, and L. Londell McMillian.Currently, she serves as the Director of Corporate Communications for the Ultimate Rap League and sits on the Advisory Board of The Hip Hop Museum. An accomplished author and lecturer, Rev. Nikki holds degrees from Spelman College and New York Theological Seminary. Her scholarly pursuits have taken her to lecture halls at Princeton Seminary, Drexel University, Virginia Tech, New York Theological Seminary, and globally in Nigeria and Japan, where she explores the intersection of religion, rap music, and cultural studies.Her spiritual journey began at Resurrection Baptist Church under the guidance of Reverend Dr. C.L. Amaker and her grandparents, Deacon James Tindal and Deaconess Lucille Tindal, shaping her profound connection to faith and community.In 2019, Rev. Nikki was ordained at the historic St. Paul Community Baptist Church, holding the distinction of being the first woman in the church’s history to receive this title.Rev. Nicole Duncan-Smith’s ministry starts at home, where her chief ministry is as wife to Gregory Smith, Jr., and mother to actor and physicist, Eden Duncan-Smith.Connect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Anthony L. Morris

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 01:29:36 +0000

The award-winning Morris Team has graced the pages of real estate publications: Brownstoner, Brick Underground, and Curbed. Their presence has also expanded to broader publications such as The New York Times, The New York Post, The Wall Street Journal, and national publications, Elle Décor and HGTV. With an 88% repeat customer and referral rate, they are in demand and proven.Their commitment to clients is to add the most sustainable value as they engage clients in the most important decision of their lives. Their 35 years of experience includes every aspect of real estate including working with buyers, sellers, renters, landlords, commercial projects, distressed sales, foreclosures, multi-property sales, condo conversion, 1031 exchanges, property management as well as out-of-state transactions including Georgia, Arizona, Texas, Maryland, and Florida. Their international network includes the United Nations Federal Credit Union which allows them to seamlessly transact everywhere.Reaching Top Sales status year after year is proof that they have successfully equipped clients with the knowledge that impacts their bottom line and wealth-building potential. Enthusiastically, they present every possible option, keeping their clients well-prepared to make the most informed and lucrative decisions. They believe in your dreams.There is no distance too far, no transactions too small, and no challenges that they don’t overcome. While serving theirclient’s immediate needs, they also aim to build their client’s future wealth. Craving long-term relationships, they are not afraid to commit.The Morris Team serves all in need of impeccable service during the good times and the bad. In a single day, they may be selling a million-dollar property while also moving a client out of a shelter into their first home. They understand that life has its ups and downs.Because of their hunger for knowledge, they hold additional certifications: Eco-Broker, Loan Origination, and Property Management. They deliver an unforgettable experience; explanation, education, empathy, and excellence. They are ready when you are.Connect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Bernie Lawrence-Watkins, Esq.

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 03:14:18 +0000

Bio of Bernie Lawrence-Watkins Bernie Lawrence-Watkins is a powerhouse attorney and the visionary founder of B. Lawrence Watkins & Associates, P.C., a premier law firm specializing in Entertainment, Intellectual Property, and Business Law. With a career spanning more than 25 years, she has built a stellar reputation representing some of the biggest names in hip-hop music, seamlessly navigating both transactional and litigation matters across copyright, trademark, and complex business deals.A trusted legal force behind a who’s who of the entertainment world, Ms. Lawrence-Watkins has represented top-tier artists including, but not limited to 21 Savage, Latto, Young Nudy, Baby Tate, Kevin Ross, Dess Dior, Jagged Edge, and Doe Boy, along with powerhouse producers such as Tay Keith, jetsonmade, Hitkidd, Kid Hazel, Digital Nas, and Cheeze Beatz. Her contract negotiations have shaped the careers of Grammy-nominated talent behind hits by Drake, Eminem, Lil Wayne, Beyoncé, Travis Scott, DJ Khaled, Usher, DaBaby, Future, and more.Ms. Lawrence-Watkins is also a trusted dealmaker for her clients, earning the motto “Bernie Gets You Paid”, negotiating high-value agreements with major global brands such as Apple, Sprite, McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, Burger King, Wing Stop, Just Eats, and Camille Rose. Whether it’s music publishing, licensing, influencer, endorsements, or complex corporate transactions, she is the go-to legal strategist behind the scenes, ensuring her clients maximize value and protect their creative and business interests.Ms. Lawrence-Watkins’ trailblazing work has earned her high-profile recognition, including Billboard Magazine’s Top Music Lawyer, a spotlight Billboard feature titled “My Lawyer is a Black Woman”, ASCAP’s Women Behind the Music Award, Black Music Moguls Award, a City of Atlanta Proclamation, and a place among Who’s Who in Black Atlanta.No stranger to the tv and film industry, Ms. Lawrence-Watkins has served in the capacity as a production attorney and legal consultant on a number of projects including, but not limited to, “Dementia; Alone” (2010), “ABFF Independent” (2015), “What Love Will Make You Do” (2015), “JINN” (2018), “When We Gather” (2020), and “Bull Street” (2024).Beyond the courtroom and boardroom, Ms. Lawrence-Watkins is committed to empowering the next generation. She serves on the boards of Georgia Music Partners and Girls Make Beats Inc., is a longtime member of the Recording Academy, and teaches future legal leaders as an Adjunct Professor at Georgia State University College of Law. In addition, Ms. Lawrence-Watkins periodically appears as a guest lecturer and panelist at colleges, law schools and conferences nationally and internationally. One of her most recent ventures is accepting the role as CEO of Eclipse Distro LLC, a tech start-up revolutionizing digital music distribution. A proud alumna of Howard University (both she and her two sons are Bison graduates) and the University of Baltimore School of Law, Ms. Lawrence-Watkins credits her success to a deep-rooted commitment to integrity, family, and balance.Connect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://rumble.com/user/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Jason Wallace

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 03:13:27 +0000

Introducing Jason WallaceBorn in Panama and raised in Brooklyn, Jason Wallace has been a storyteller since childhood—back when G.I. Joes embarked on cinematic adventures through the living room battlefield. His talent for narrative and performance first emerged through athletics, earning varsity honors as a student-athlete at Brooklyn Technical High School and later competing at the Division I level for McNeese State University.Jason then chased his dreams across continents, playing professional basketball for five years in France, Chile, and Saudi Arabia, and coming tantalizingly close to the NBA with a stint alongside the New York Knicks. His time on the court unexpectedly opened new doors—earning him a role in Spike Lee’s He Got Game and a long-standing relationship with Nike, where he contributed to 8 commercials and 12 global campaigns in a strategic, consultative role.After hanging up his sneakers, Jason earned his MBA from Purdue University and launched a marketing career defined by bold storytelling and creative vision. At Foot Locker, he transformed the brand’s social media presence from under-the-radar to viral powerhouse, creating unforgettable content like Kevin Durant’s appearance at Dyckman Park and Amar’e Stoudemire clocking in during the 2011 NBA lockout.Jason has since built a diverse portfolio as a producer and director, working with clients like Climate Nexus on campaigns about the global impact of liquefied natural gas, while also nurturing passion projects like Middle Age Marathon—a comedic, heart-driven web series documenting the wellness journey of two friends training for a marathon. His creative drive doesn’t rest: he's produced branded content, consulted for major organizations, and continues to merge marketing expertise with cinematic craft.As a filmmaker and marketer, Jason’s dual passions power his unique voice. He’s taken risks, self-financed personal projects, and taken on strategic contracts to sharpen his skills behind the camera. His goals remain clear—and ambitious: to win an Academy Award for Best Picture and Best Director. Every project, every story, is another step in that direction.Always an avid athlete, Jason has taken to running long distances, completing 18 half marathons, 3 marathons, 1 triathlon, and dozens of other races. You can keep up with his journey at messruns.comConnect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://rumble.com/user/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Ken Gibbs Jr.

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 02:37:27 +0000

Ken Gibbs Jr. is one of the foremost digital executives in the content space and has held leadership roles at Spotify, Amazon Prime Video, BET Networks, and numerous other media brands throughout his 25-year career. Gibbs Jr has a passion for entertainment, technology, and content creation. He began his digital career as part of the original staff of Henry Louis Gates’ Africana.com and remained with the product as it was acquired by Time Warner, then merged with AOL to become what was eventually known as the new Aol BlackVoices.com. Over the next two decades, Gibbs Jr would play a crucial role in building the digital foundation for brands like iOne Digital, Essence Magazine, BET, and more. Today, he offers insights to consumer and personal brands on website and social media platform conversion strategies in consultant or fractional leadership roles.Connect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://rumble.com/user/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Dana Dane

Sun, 10 Aug 2025 14:08:15 +0000

Revered as a legendary Hip Hop artist, Dana Dane helped pioneer the rap genre in the early 1980s. His 1987 debut album, Dana Dane With Fame, was the first rap album by a solo Brooklyn artist to be certified gold, thanks in part to his landmark story raps on songs such as “Nightmares” and “Cinderfella Dana Dane.” The project also garnered him a Soul Train Music Award nomination for Best Album of the Year and celebrated its 37-year anniversary in 2024.Beyond making music and performing, Dana Dane has expanded his reach into multimedia. He had a cameo appearance in Brown Sugar – 2001, playing himself and providing new music for the soundtrack. In 2003, Dana Dane launched his own Def Beat Entertainment media company and is a published author (Numbers– 2009; Dwaffes - 2017), and a screenwriter and film producer, whose credits include: Da Stuy: 5 Part Series – 2007; Passive Aggressive – 2010; Jesus – 2014 (Ocktober Film Festival, Indie Night Film Festival), all independent short film projects. He has also had recurring appearances on the TV One Unsung series.Dana Dane’s Def Beat Entertainment (DBE) has produced “To Live and Die in Bedstuy” (limited series), Honor Among Thieves (film), and the highly anticipated psychological thriller “SIN” starring Lou Gossett Jr in post-production. Dana has multiple films in production and pre-production for 2024 -25, where he will serve as Producer/Line Producer among other job titles. Dana is uniquely qualified to create, produce, and deliver quality projects from conception to completion and anywhere in between.Dana Dane’s robust creative output stems from his drive to consistently create. “One of the best feelings I’ve ever felt,” he reveals, “is bringing an idea from conception to completion.”Most recently, Dana launched Fan A Cake Blow A Cake™ products during the COVID-19 pandemic in June of 2020. Fan A Cake is the best, new, sanitary, fun way to blow out any celebration cake candles. No more spreading germs while you share your cake with friends and family. Through this new venture, Dana Dane is on a mission to save the cake celebration tradition!Dana Dane also spent more than six (6) years behind the microphone as an on-air personality for the Sirius Satellite Radio Backspin channel, now LL Cool J’s Rock the Bells Radio, and recently concluded an on-air personality stint for ScratchVision Radio’s where he created and produced the FullCircle show. In addition to his solo performances, Dana Dane also performs as a founding member of The Alumni, a super group consisting of Dana Dane, Kwame, Chubb Rock, Special Ed, Monie Love, and Greg Nice.Dana Dane is deeply committed to helping others and sharing his blessings with those in need. Dana is a board member in his wife, Dr. Tana M. Session, a nonprofit, From Foster Care to Fabulous Foundation. The mission is to assist foster parents who temporarily take care of children aged birth to 4 years old until they can find permanent, loving, nurturing homes. Dana also serves as a spokesperson for the Linda B. Pinchoff Foundation, which brings a voice and support to cancer patients and their family members.Connect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://rumble.com/user/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Bobbito

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 03:07:42 +0000

NYC native Bobbito García is a visionary creative who has put an indelible footprint on multiple urban movements.During the 1990s, the legendary air personality was one-half of the “Stretch and Bobbito” program on WKCR. The duo introduced the world to an unsigned Nas, Biggie, and Wu-Tang, as well as an unknown Jay-Z, Eminem, and the Fugees. The total record sales for all the artists that premiered on their platform exceed 300 million. In 1998, the Source Magazine voted them as “The Best Hip Hop Radio Show of All Time,“ and in 2023, they were inducted into the NAB Radio Hall of Fame. As the progenitor of sneaker journalism, García penned his landmark Source article “Confessions of a Sneaker Addict” in 1990, then in 2003 became the critically acclaimed author of Where’d You Get Those? NYC’s Sneaker Culture: 1960-1987 (Testify Books). He also wrote the foreword for A History Of Basketball In Fifteen Sneakers (Workman, 2023), the introduction for Out of the Box: The Rise of Sneaker Culture (Rizzoli, 2015), and contributed an essay to City/Game: Basketball in New York (Rizzoli, 2020). In 2005, ESPN’s “It’s The Shoes” series, hosted by Bobbito, became the first show on the subject in broadcasting history. A former professional basketball player in Puerto Rico, García performed in the groundbreaking Nike “Freestyle” commercial. In 2007, the brand released seven co-designed Air Force 1 sneakers bearing his name. The voice of EA Sports’ popular NBA Street video game is also a world-renowned DJ, who has spun World, Soul and Jazz music at Lincoln Center, Central Park SummerStage, and the Smithsonian (DC).As an award-winning filmmaker, García has directed Doin’ It In The Park: Pick-Up Basketball, NYC (PBS, NETFLIX), Stretch and Bobbito: Radio That Changed Lives (SHOWTIME, NETFLIX), and NY Times “Critics’ Pick” Rock Rubber 45s (Smithsonian African American Film Festival 2018 official selection). Transitioning to TV, he also directed eight “SneakerCenter” episodes for ESPN+. The documentarian’s photography has appeared in campaigns for Nike, has been licensed to Foot Locker and Patta for apparel, and has been exhibited at the Museum of the City of New York as well as multiple international galleries. A founding member of the Kennedy Center’s Hip Hop Culture Council and a 2018 Wesleyan University “Distinguished Alumni Award” recipient, "Kool Bob Love” currently produces his b-ball tournament Full Court 21™ in four continents, co-produces music for the Stretch and Bobbito + The M19s Band on 10x Grammy Award winner Eddie Palmieri’s label Uprising, co-hosts “Stretch and Bobbito Radio” on Apple Music Hits, and is the proud author of his children’s book Aim High, Little Giant, Aim High! and memoir Bobbito’s Book of B-ball Bong Bong!www.koolboblove.comConnect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://rumble.com/user/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Aria Wright

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 16:49:00 +0000

Aria F. Wright is a highly accomplished marketing executive with over two decades of expertise in developing and executing innovative consumer experiences for luxury brands. Her impressive career spans the entertainment, technology, and consumer packaged goods (CPG) sectors, where she has consistently leveraged integrated marketing strategies to drive brand growth and deepen customer engagement. Aria's portfolio boasts collaborations with luxury powerhouses including Moët Hennessy USA, Pernod Ricard USA, BET Networks, CoverGirl, and Microsoft.Aria has held pivotal leadership roles that shaped her extensive experience. These include Vice President of Client Partnerships and New Business Development at Iced Media, Associate Vice President of Brand Advocacy at Strategic Group (the Agency of Record for Moët Hennessy USA), and Vice President of Marketing for Frontline Marketing & Promotions (the Agency of Record for Pernod Ricard USA).Since 2018, Aria has channeled her expertise as the Principal and Founder of The Industry Connection, a specialized marketing consultancy focusing on lifecycle marketing. Through this venture, she skillfully deploys data-driven influencer marketing campaigns to enhance brand awareness and significantly boost direct-to-consumer sales. Her successes with leading national consumer affinity campaigns for clients such as Snoop Dogg's Indoggo Gin, AACA clothing, Miskeen Originals, the Global Black Economic Forum for Essence Communications, and CAMUS Cognac have helped establish consumer loyalty, trust, and a sense of shared values for her clients.Aria holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Temple University. Her professional ethos is deeply rooted in championing diversity, inclusion, and innovation, all while fostering authentic connections between brands and consumers. She continues to solidify her formidable reputation as a highly sought-after marketing leader, not only within the spirits industry but across the broader marketing landscape.Connect with BIG CED: https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Zulu Williams

Sat, 19 Jul 2025 02:56:38 +0000

Zulu Williams is currently the Senior Creative Director at Devil-Dog Dungarees, a men’s lifestyle brand known for specializing in denim. Prior to that, over a 16-year tenure at Macy’s Merchandising Group, he held several leadership roles from Design Director to Design Vice President and led teams in Men’s and Kids private brands.Zulu Williams began writing graffiti in High School, under the moniker, Serge One. Born and raised in Harlem, Zulu witnessed the genesis of Hip Hop first-hand, and his love for the culture led him to co-found PNB Nation, an early, influential New York streetwear brand through which he and his partners sought to express social commentary through design, graphics, and fashion. PNB Nation was listed as part of the 90’s Brands that Defined the Decade, by Complex (Jan 2022). Originally seen on NYC subway trains in the 80s and large-scale murals throughout the 90s and 2000s, Zulu's graffiti art has been documented in books, From the Platform 2, Tattooed Walls and Graffiti New York. His work has also been featured in the motion pictures New Jersey Drive and Juice.Connect with BIG CED: https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://www.dailymotion.com/bigcedhttps://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Rashaun Hall

Sat, 12 Jul 2025 22:19:43 +0000

Rashuan Hall serves as Vice President of Streaming & Partnerships at a global entertainment company, Fuse Media, the leader in the creation and distribution of inclusive, purpose-driven stories and experiences for culturally diverse young adults. Hall is responsible for spearheading growth across the company’s digital footprint, which includes subscription service Fuse+; mobile & CTV app development; YouTube and the company’s suite of DEI-focused FAST channels.Under Hall’s leadership, Fuse Media’s FAST channels continue to grow their distribution across all the major platforms, achieving nearly 4 billion minutes in 2024. He also led Fuse Media’s international expansion efforts into Canada, Mexico, the UK, Australia, and India.Prior to Fuse Media, Hall served as the Senior Manager, Digital Strategy for Music Choice. He has also held staff positions at Viacom, Billboard magazine, and Interactive One. Additionally, Hall has written outlets including Essence, Vibe, and Complex magazines and has served as an authority on pop culture for a host of media outlets, including The New York Times, USA Today, The New York Post, New York Daily News, CNNfn, and Newsweek.Connect with BIG CED: https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring The Blackspot

Sat, 12 Jul 2025 02:30:17 +0000

Larry “The Blackspot” Hester was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, where he developed a deep love for hip-hop music from an early age. His passion led him to intern at a local radio station, the “Kevin Keith & The Dirty Dozen Show,” providing him with valuable insights into the music industry.Vibe Magazine Era: In 1994, Larry secured a position as an intern for Vibe Magazine’s Special Events department while also working as an assistant in the mailroom. Determined to make his mark, he swiftly climbed the ranks and, by 1995, became a Staff Writer for VIBEonline. His humorous online column, “The Blackspotlight,” garnered acclaim, and within a year, he was promoted to the position of Editor-In-Chief of Vibeonline. In this role, he launched one of the first urban entertainment news sources online and made history with the “East Coast vs. West Coast” cover of Vibe Magazine.Notable Columns and Contributions: “The Blackspot” became known for his impactful columns at Vibe, including “Ten Years Later,” which featured interviews with celebrities like Philip Michael Thomas, The Fat Boys, and Papa Smurf, and “Notes From the Underground/Subterranean Sounds,” which highlighted emerging artists like Talib Kweli and Three Six Mafia. Broadcast Journalism and International Recognition: Expanding his horizons, Blackspot ventured into broadcast journalism, becoming the American rap correspondent for several British hip-hop radio stations, including the Friday Nite Flavas hosted by DJ279, the Blackout Radio Show in Croatia and the Tim Westwood Show on Radio One. His distinctive approach to radio broadcasting earned him a dedicated international following.XXL Magazine and Beyond: In 1998, Larry made the transition to XXL Magazine, where he served as Music Editor. Notable works include the cover story on Wu-Tang Clan’s Raekwon the Chef, which became the highest-selling issue at the time and featured in the feature film Brown Sugar. He also penned a comprehensive feature on Ol’ Dirty Bastard and broadened the scope of the magazine’s “Eye Candy” section to include music artists along with film and TV stars. Digital Ventures and Entrepreneurship: Larry “The Blackspot” Hester’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to become the Editor-In-Chief of the start-up hip-hop website Hookt.com in 1999. He spearheaded the graffiti iMac campaign for Hookt’s launch and played a pivotal role in producing content for Eminem’s official Slim Shady World website. His journey continued as he became the Senior Music Content Producer for BET.com in 2001. There, he interviewed everyone from the music’s most respected legends and popular newcomers.Best headphones dealsRecent Ventures: In recent years, Larry has collaborated with industry moguls like Russell Simmons to launch the successful website Global Grind. He also took on social media awareness for the Def Jam Rapstar video game and led the Video Games channel of Complex magazine. Today, he continues to channel his creative talents into technology, video games, and parenting websites, including blackamericaweb.com, mommynoire.com, ozy.com, and his newly launched thealmostcooldad.com. Larry “The Blackspot” Hester’s enduring impact on music journalism, digital media, and entrepreneurship cements his status as a pivotal figure in the entertainment industry. His dedication to the art and culture of hip-hop continues to inspire and shape the industry to this day.Connect with BIG CED:https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/https://www.facebook.com/bigced328https://x.com/bigcedhttps://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring DJ Chubby Chub

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 23:10:58 +0000

DJ Chubby Chub, New England’s most powerful DJ and ON-AIR personality, has come a long way from the Boogie Down Bronx. Born and raised in New York City, the Heavy Hitter SmashSquad Representative was influenced by Hip Hop pioneers like Grand Master Flash, the Cold Crush Crew, and the DJ Kid Capri.At the start of his career, Chubby Chub began mastering the turntable by playing at local halls, jams, and house parties. He then began to produce and host his very own Street mix tapes, giving him credConnect with BIG CED: https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://theindustrycosign.com/

Darnell 'J.D.' Williams Discusses Career Ranging From 'Oz, The Wire' To Current Role On 'BMF'

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 21:46:29 +0000

Darnell "J.D." Williams is an acclaimed American actor, cultural contributor, and storyteller, widely recognized for his nuanced portrayals of emotionally complex and socially resonant characters across film, television, and stage. A Newark, New Jersey native, Williams emerged from the city’s rich cultural fabric and performing arts community—attending the prestigious Newark Arts High School—before launching a career that has spanned more than two decades and earned him status as a vital voice in American television and cinema.J.D. Williams is perhaps best known for his unforgettable roles in two of HBO’s most revered series. In The Wire, he played Preston “Bodie” Broadus, a loyal but conflicted foot soldier in the Barksdale Organization whose arc captured the human cost of urban decay, mass incarceration, and systemic neglect. His performance in The Wire was both subtle and shattering, earning him critical acclaim and cementing his place in television history. Prior to that, he portrayed Kenny Wangler, a hot-headed teen inmate on HBO’s Oz, offering an unflinching look at youth caught in the prison-industrial complex. Together, these roles demonstrated Williams’ extraordinary ability to bring empathy, grit, and authenticity to the screen.In recent years, Williams has continued to push his craft forward. He currently stars as J-Pusha on the STARZ hit series BMF, a gritty and layered role that expands his legacy of portraying multidimensional characters entrenched in the realities of the streets. His portrayal adds another textured chapter to his career—one that remains in constant evolution.Outside of his signature HBO roles, Williams has appeared in a wide array of film and television projects, including The Good Wife, The Following, Law & Order: SVU, Manifest, The Night Of, and Bounce TV’s Saints & Sinners, where he held a main cast role as Jabari Morris. His film work includes roles in Surviving Family, Blood Brother, An American in Hollywood, Falling Awake, and the indie short One Sweet Night, among many others.J.D. Williams' connection to music and street culture also runs deep. Between 2002 and 2005, he became a familiar face in the music video world, appearing in videos for artists like R&B legend Alicia Keys, and rappers like Nas, Mobb Deep, and Tupac Shakur (posthumously), among others. These collaborations helped bridge the gap between hip-hop and television, further solidifying his status as a cultural mainstay.In addition to acting, Williams has a strong background in theater, having starred in stage productions such as A.M. Sunday, where he explored themes of identity, race, and family dysfunction. His approach to character work is immersive, often rooted in real-life observation, and reflective of his deep respect for the communities and stories he represents.A true artist of the people, J.D. Williams uses his platform to champion authenticity, advocate for overlooked narratives, and give voice to the voiceless. Whether he's portraying a street soldier, a veteran with PTSD, or a spiritual hustler, his work resonates with a raw emotional honesty that transcends the screen.Today, Williams continues to inspire a new generation of performers and storytellers. Off-screen, he remains active in supporting community-based arts initiatives, engaging with youth, and amplifying cultural conversations through his growing digital presence. Follow him on Instagram: @jdwilliamsvirtuallConnect with BIG CED: https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Chanel Rae Pettaway

Sat, 28 Jun 2025 02:24:47 +0000

Chanel is a Public Relations, Branding, Events, and Media Specialist for top brands across multiple genres, including music, fashion, and technology. She is the co-host of a new podcast for the millennial mom, “Our First Time; AMommyCast, which has been mentioned on Hot97, Bossip, VIBE magazine, and more. She is also a writer for Mirren (an advertising consulting firm) and was the recipient of the Essence of a Woman award from the Queens chapter of the NAACP (March 2012) and named Top 45 Publicists you Should Hire (May 2014).Chanel has worked in music, media, fashion, entertainment, and now government. Though Chanel is known for breaking artists in the music industry including rockstar Cardi B as well as today’s emerging artists like Zeddy Will and Honey Bxby, now you can also catch her in politics as she is now part of the PR support for Newark NJ’s Mayor Ras Baraka as he campaigns for Governor of New Jersey.Chanel was named AllHipHop’s Powerful Women and Urban Magazine’s Executive Power in 2018. She was featured in Black Enterprise for the brand alignment between Dipset, the NBA, and Bleacher Report in February of 2020. She also secured a spirits and wine partnership between Jim Jones and Luè/JADE in September of 2023.Chanel was highlighted on Urban Magazine’s Executive Power (March 2019), AllHipHop’s Powerful Women (March 2019), and Bossip as one of the Baddest Publicist Baes In The Game in 2021 and 2022. She was part of Sway’s list of 15 Black Women Making Waves in Our Culture (FEB 2024), and has now been added to XXL’s Awards Board (Feb 2025).Chanel has worked alongside WWE, Hot 97, Jimmy Jazz, Shaggy, Cam’Ron, Jim Jones, Dipset, Cipha Sounds, Peter Rosenberg, Salaam Remi, Joell Ortiz, Chinx, Fatman Scoop, Chrissy Lampkin, Michael “Blue” Williams, Smack White / URLTV, Embassy Lounge NYC, Hitmaka, Torae, J1, DJ Juanyto, DJ Drewski, DJ E. Stylez, Pretty Lou, DJ LilTaj, Kinship Apparel, Yay Apparel, and more. Her goal is simply to “save brands."Connect with BIG CED: https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Tamekia Flowers-Ball

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 20:44:38 +0000

"My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”This famous quote by the phenomenal Dr. Maya Angelou drives Tamekia Flowers-Ball and propels her to live out her passions of event planning, personal development, and teaching yoga. This Brooklyn, New York native began her walk along her winding career path the day she entered Syracuse University. Since graduating from this prestigious institution with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Mrs. Flowers-Ball amassed over 20 years of experience in event planning, marketing, and personal and professional development, working with entertainment and corporate companies, government agencies, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations.After holding managerial positions within the entertainment industry, Tamekia Flowers-Ball decided to make a career shift and started a non- profit organization, Hip Hop 4 Life. Under Hip Hop 4 Life, Mrs. Flowers-Ball utilized the arts to develop student's social and emotional learning competencies. The organization also provided workshops that educated, enriched, and supported parents and school staff. During her tenure, Hip Hop 4 Life served over 35,000 youth and adults in cities throughout the country.In 2006, Tamekia Flowers-Ball fostered her entrepreneurial spirit and launched Epiphany Blue, an award-winning event planning and experiential services agency committed to "Bringing Our Client's Vision To Life." Mrs. Flowers-Ball leads a team of event professionals who provide clients with events executed at the highest level of distinction. In a short time, the agency's clientele grew to include Peloton, Burrell Communications Group (McDonald's, Proctor & Gamble/Tide, and Toyota), the New York City Department of Education, The City of Newark, New York City Department of Youth and Community Development, NAACP, BET Networks, New York City School Construction Authority, NYC Office of the Mayor, and Wade's World Foundation (NBA All-Star Dwyane Wade), to name a few.Tamekia Flowers-Ball turned her passions into fruitful careers and has been committed to inspiring others to do the same. "I firmly believe that discovering your passions and purpose is the true path to happiness," says Mrs. Flowers-Ball. "I have been fortunate to discover these passions and realize my purpose early in my adulthood, and as a result, I now have careers that I love."Mrs. Flowers-Ball is a proud wife and mother. She is also a certified yoga instructor and member of the BOW Collective, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals, the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, and serves as an Advisory Board Co-Chair of the Syracuse University Office of Multicultural Advancement and Board Member of Scholarship Plus.Connect with BIG CED: https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://theindustrycosign.com/

DJ Chubby Chub On People Noticing His Dramatic Weight Loss

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 02:33:11 +0000

DJ Chubby Chub, who once weighed over 400 pounds, has taken his journey into weight loss to another level. With his new lifestyle, he has lost nearly 200 pounds! In this clip, he discusses how people barely recognize him when they see him. That includes a time when he ran into M.O.P. and they had no clue who he was until Tek from Smif-N-Wessun told them who he was, and they were surprised to see how dramatic his weight loss was!Full video:https://www.youtube.com/live/bLHfn9NvZBs?si=sv76Gg_XZNdeHINvConnect with BIG CED: https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/

Tamekia Flowers-Ball Explains Event Planning

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 02:25:58 +0000

Tamekia, CEO of Epiphany Blue, expresses the intricacies of what event planning entails. Many people really don't understand what it means to plan events, especially on a corporate level.Check out the full discussion: https://www.youtube.com/live/KrR0lNWjU74Connect with BIG CED: https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring R.M.R. (aka Millimetermac)

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 16:07:08 +0000

R.M.R (aka Millimetermac) is an MC that has an extensive hip hop history that spans from 1989 to the two thousand and twenties. The Bronx-raised MC started his career in the group NU-SOUNDS with partner Chaz Rich. The two MCs created the album “Mackin” under MCA Records and Strong City Records. RMR under Strong City Records would be label mates with Diamond D, Busy Bee, Grand Puba, and more, which allowed him to sharpen his rhymes skills behind the seasoned MCs before him. During those early years, RMR was able to be on songs with the likes of Sting, Africa Bambatta, Lord Finesse, the Ohio Players, and his future partner Dion Barnes (aka Broadway).Years later, after NU-SOUNDS disbanded, RMR collaborated with BROADWAY in a new group named STRICKLY ROOTS in 1992, which was the same team of production and management from the NU-SOUNDS group headed by Big Phil and DJ Fashion. RMR and BROADWAY created an EP titled Begs No Friends, which had the self-titled hit Begs No Friends (Remix) with Grand Puba and Fat Joe. Also, the controversial hit Duck Da Boyz In Blue. With this project's success, the group could tour and perform with the likes of Public Enemy, Shabba Ranks, Shine Head, KRS One, Wu Tang, Black Moon, The Notorious BIG, 2nd To None, and more. With the success of this project, RMR and BROADWAY decided to venture off into other projects because they were solo artist that merged together for the STRICKLY ROOTS endeavor. So RMR began to record with Diamond D and separately with GL for different projects under Mercenaries. Unfortunately, RMR and Broadway did not reconvene the journey as STRICKLY ROOTS, and they proceeded on in their own directions.In 1994, RMR released an EP called Mercaneries with hit songs Rymorator produced by BIG CED, Stick Up produced by Yogi of the group “CRU”; at the same time, RMR featured on the song “TORTURE” with GL of (Phase 2 Black) produced by RMR. One year later, RMR had another success with recording one of only two rap songs for a movie named “The KILLING MACHINE,” which gained critical acclaim. After getting a glimpse of how movie recording and production correlated with the music industry, RMR decided to step away from music and develop a new love for storytelling, filming, and production with his daughter.Currently, RMR has created MILLIMETERMAC FILMS, a film production that has amassed a collective viewership of over 30 million across streaming platforms such as TUBI TV, AMAZON PRIME, YOUTUBE, APPLE TV, and in independent theaters, still creating music for score.RMR has won 9 film awards, 1 platinum award for the hip hop version of the song “Unbelievable” with the group EMF, and also his most dear to heart achievement, 1 gold plaque for the song “Begs No Friends” from his group STRICKLY ROOTS in New York and Philadelphia. With 8 seasons of the hit series (JUICY), 3 seasons of the show (BISHOP & CHAINEY), 3 full-length features, one mini-series, and over 100 music videos, RMR has recreated himself as an artist.RMR (aka MILLIMETERMAC), a hip hop legend in his own right, and still representing the culture of hip hop well.Connect with BIG CED:https://www.youtube.com/@bigced328?sub_confirmation=1https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/https://www.facebook.com/bigced328https://x.com/bigcedhttps://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5chttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Wendell Haskins

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 02:36:07 +0000

Leadership in Action is the best way to describe the journey of Wendell Haskins. In an ever-changing world where an organization’s ability to understand and anticipate a broad range of trends and attributes is key, Wendell has spent more than twenty years providing corporations and organizations, unparalleled proficiency and proven strategies in diversity, inclusion and marketing which have yielded successful results in the areas of sports, entertainment, corporate social responsibility, culture and philanthropy.Inspired by a rich legacy of advocacy and activism through his father’s work in civil rights with the National Urban League, Wendell has forged his own path in championing diversity through the challenges of corporate social constructs.He cultivated and honed his knowledge earning accreditation from two of America’s premier universities, our finest HBCU, Hampton University, and a Diversity & Inclusion Certificate from Cornell University of the Ivy League.His experiences manifested into a perspective that values education, data analytics and keen instinct as the building blocks to his development in leadership excellence in marketing and diversity and inclusion.Creativity is one of the integral components in the development of comprehensive solutions to complex problems like diversity. Wendell systematized several innovative campaigns for diversity, inclusion and equity in areas of entertainment and sports where little existed before.Working as the former PGA of America’s Director of Sports and Entertainment Relations and Senior Director of Diversity and Multicultural Initiatives, he led advancements in the PGA’s inclusionary programs and initiatives.His efforts proudly spearheaded the golf industry advocating that Dr. Charles “Charlie” L. Sifford receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama in 2015, promoted Dr. Sifford’s induction into the PGA of America Hall of Fame and was the catalyst for Lee Elder being an honorary starter at the 2021 Masters. Mr. Haskins also initiated the relationships with NBA All Stars, Chris Paul and Stephen Curry and was the catalyst for Steph Curry to be an ambassador for PGA Junior League golf.Wendell believes in the power of diversity, how the employment of multi-faceted cultural viewpoints is beneficial to an organization and allows them the flexibility to create messages and communication that will resonate with the widest band of demographics.Connect with BIG CED:https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/https://www.facebook.com/bigced328https://x.com/bigcedhttps://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5chttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Attika J. Torrence

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 03:21:11 +0000

Attika J. Torrence, 2025 Black Author’s Festival Trailblazer Award Honoree, founder, author and CEO of At The Top Publishing LLC, began his publishing company during the lockdown of the Coronavirus pandemic of 2020 and attempted a feat that many thought was insane. That feat was to sell and distribute 500 copies of Attika’s SPECIAL LIMITED EDITION novel at the price point of $100 each. The book is beautiful. It is a 7” X 9” landscape, gold leafed, glossy paged, individuallynumbered book that comes with a certificate of authenticity. Attika sold out all 500 copies in a year.Attika’s second title as an author is an illustrated children’s book entitled “The Adventures of Young Atty – A Brother’s Love,” which tells the story of an older brother pouring confidence and belief into his younger brother so he (the younger brother) can work his way out of a challenging situation. During the process, the younger brother begins to believe in himself and gets stronger with that belief, and ultimately, accomplishes the goal of making it through the challenging situation.“The Adventures of Young Atty – A Brother’s Love” was written to help young readers identify and believe in their greatness and bolster the strength and abilities that lies within each person whether they know that greatness exists or not. Packed with life metaphors, The Adventures of Young Atty – A Brother’s Love” is enjoyable reading for children from first grade straight through 12th grade.At The Top Publishing, LLC is pleased to announce, they have received their first bulk order of “The Adventures of Young Atty – A Brother’s Love” from the Central Islip Union Free School District in Central Islip, Long Island, NY.“Sins of the Father” (drama/thriller) is a feature film written, directed, starring and produced by multi-award-winning producer, director, writer, and actor Attika J. Torrence. and tells the story of a young woman's quest to be loved by the father that doesn't even know she exists.Connect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Molaundo Jones

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 19:56:54 +0000

Molaundo Jones is a marketing strategist working at the intersections of art, entrepreneurship, and education. He currently serves as Associate Director of Content Marketing at Morehouse College.As a marketing coach and consultant, Molaundo has led workshops for thousands of artists and coached hundreds of individuals with institutions including New York Foundation for the Arts, Creative Capital, and Queens Council on the Arts. His book Art & Algorithms: Marketing Strategies and Tools for Artists offers artists and creative entrepreneurs best practices in marketing designed to grow their audiences and careers, drawing from decades of experience working with artists and cultural institutions.Molaundo has worked with several mission-driven cultural organizations, including Flushing Town Hall, Art21, Black Girl Ventures Foundation, Fractured Atlas, and the NYC Arts in Education Roundtable. He has also served on grant panels for the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, Museum of Arts & Design, and Brooklyn Arts Council. As Founder of The Clever Agency, he has partnered with global clients on marketing projects and has served as President of the Board of Fourth Arts Block (FABnyc) since 2021. He holds a BA in Marketing from Morehouse College and an MFA in Fine Arts from the School of Visual Arts.Connect with BIG CED:https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/https://www.facebook.com/bigced328https://x.com/bigcedhttps://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5chttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://theindustrycosign.com/My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Molaundo Jones

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Jackie O Asare

Thu, 22 May 2025 02:20:14 +0000

Jackie O. Asare, Founder, Publicist, Jackie O & Co. LLCAtlanta, GA Marketing | Publicity | Brand Strategy | Creative Consulting | Activation & Ideation Red Carpet & Event Coordination & Management | Media Training
Founded in 1997, Jackie O & Co. is a boutique public relations, marketing, and event coordination firm with over two decades of expertise in publicity, new media, brand activations, and strategic marketing. We specialize in executing high-impact editorial campaigns for film releases, musical artists, film companies, record labels, event promoters, corporate and non-profit organizations, and small businesses. We focus on creating a compelling narrative that brings your vision into view.
As a seasoned Account Manager, Media Specialist, and Publicist, I bring a strategic blend of storytelling, brand elevation, and media execution to the forefront. My passion lies in crafting narratives that resonate, curating innovative media strategies, and positioning clients for maximum visibility in today’s competitive landscape. Every campaign I manage is fueled by a deep commitment to authenticity, engagement, and results-driven success.
Through Jackie O & Co., in collaboration with esteemed PR and marketing partners—including ONE/35 Agency, Schure Media Group, and CN Better Media—I have successfully led and executed campaigns for some of the world’s most influential brands and organizations:📺 Film/TV/Tech/Streaming Media: Google, Apple TV+, Netflix, Peacock, Paramount, Disney, Magnolia Pictures, Fox Searchlight🛍️ Retail & Lifestyle: Macy’s🎶 Music & EntertainmentTech: GOOGLE🤝 Non-Profit Organizations: 100 Black Men of AtlantaLet's connect and explore how we can bring your vision to life!📲 Follow me on socials: @JackieoandcoConnect with BIG CED: https://www.instagram.com/bigced328/ https://www.facebook.com/bigced328 https://x.com/bigced https://bsky.app/profile/bigced328.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigced/ https://www.twitch.tv/bigced328 https://open.spotify.com/show/35yBW0BTd4c7HvCnh9dVXz?si=HvZeE8RfTJGH6YjvHBiYzg&nd=1&dlsi=a147a471e6ab4c5c https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-industry-cosign/id1638654676 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-industry-cosign-105171601/https://theindustrycosign.com/

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Kevin Davis

Sat, 10 May 2025 03:14:17 +0000

Kevin Davis, founder of Investment Dojo started his career as a recording artist in 1989 when he signed a recording contract with Warner Bros. Records. He had a hit under the name of K-YZE titled, "Stomp." The infectious hit combined his rapping skills with the sound of house music.Fast forward to 1995. He became a stockbroker honing his skills to make, not only himself money but his clients as well. Now, with the experience and knowledge he acquired over the years, he has developed an app called Investment Dojo, which launched earlier this year in April.Kevin is ready to bring others into his orbit to educate and help others build their fortune through the knowledge he has gotten over the years.

Naughty by Nature’s Treach Discusses Involvement in Cannabis Dispensary, The Medicine Woman

Fri, 09 May 2025 00:40:22 +0000

The Industry Cosign caught up to Treach at the official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at The Medicine Woman Jersey City. The Naughty by Nature lyricist is an investor along with Ice-T, Charis Barrett, Mick Benson, and Taylor Kinney.He discusses his involvement in the dispensary, which is located at 660 Tonelle Avenue, along Route 1&9. This took place on April 19#hiphop #themedicinewoman #icet #naughtybynature #treach #theindustrycosign #charisbarrett #jerseycity #cannabisdispensary #mickbenson #newjersey #blackbusiness #entrepreneurship

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Mahogany L. Browne

Wed, 07 May 2025 01:45:53 +0000

Mahogany L. Browne, a Kennedy Center's Next 50 fellow and MacDowell Arts Advocacy Awardee, is a writer, playwright, organizer, & educator. Browne received fellowships from All Arts, Arts for Justice, Air Serenbe, Baldwin for the Arts, Cave Canem, Hawthornden, Poets House, Mellon Research, Rauschenberg, Wesleyan University, & UCross. Browne’s books include Vinyl Moon, Chlorine Sky (optioned for a play by Steppenwolf Theater), Black Girl Magic, and banned books Woke: A Young Poet’s Call to Justice and Woke Baby. Founder of the diverse lit initiative Woke Baby Book Fair, Browne currently tours Chrome Valley (highlighted in Publishers Weekly and The New York Times) and is the 2024 Paterson Poetry Prize winner. Mahogany L. Browne holds an honorary Doctor of Philosophy degree awarded by Marymount Manhattan College, and is the inaugural poet-in-residence at Lincoln Center.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Tony Ferguson

Wed, 07 May 2025 01:06:47 +0000

With an impressive career spanning over 25 years in the realm of public relations, Tony Ferguson is a distinguished professional renowned for his exceptional leadership, profound industry insights, and unwavering commitment to shaping the trajectory of the field. As a dedicated PR pro, he has consistently demonstrated his knack for aligning business strategies with the intricacies of public relations, resulting in impactful campaigns and dynamic growth.Founder and Principal of Society House, a boutique PR team based in Los Angeles, Tony has masterfully orchestrated high-impact PR initiatives that have resonated with a diverse range of clients – from Fortune 500 brands and music powerhouses to TV and film projects, non-profit organizations, and corporate ventures. His ability to cultivate and nurture enduring professional relationships is a testament to his impeccable networking skills and innate understanding of client needs.Throughout his illustrious career, Tony has showcased his prowess in fostering top-tier client partnerships with digital, TV, and print platforms, as well as influencers and high-profile brands. His strategic acumen has not only driven brand recognition but has also facilitated the growth and empowerment of his PR peers. Mentoring has been a cornerstone of his journey, and many of his mentees have flourished into influential roles within major record labels, creative agencies, and media outlets.At the heart of Tony’s career lies his unbridled passion for championing the voices of his clients. With a historically diverse portfolio that includes luminaries such as George Clinton, De La Soul, Awkwafina, Roc Nation, DMX’s Memorial, BlackPAC, Otis Redding Foundation and Motown Gospel, he has seamlessly bridged the gap between creative vision and media representation. His remarkable contributions extend to high-impact placements in renowned media outlets, including GMA, New York Times, Black Enterprise, Forbes, Complex, CNN, USA TODAY, XXL, and Mass Appeal.Tony’s journey to industry leadership began during his freelance years in Los Angeles from October 2006 to August 2018. During this period, he leveraged his expertise to secure consulting contracts with PR agencies, guiding the development and execution of groundbreaking campaigns. His role as a tactical leader enhanced the capabilities of a variety of PR teams and ensured seamless communication between clients and artists. He was pivotal in amplifying positive media exposure for notable clients such as Tommy Boy Records, Kobalt Records, Primary Wave, RCA Inspiration, 5-time Grammy award winner Kelly Rowland, NBA greats Dwight Howard and Chris Paul, and more.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Guy Primus

Thu, 01 May 2025 21:50:28 +0000

Guy “Optimus” Primus is a dynamic technology executive with over 20 years of experience fusing media, innovation, and Hip Hop culture to drive explosive growth for companies, from groundbreaking startups to Fortune 100 giants. Renowned for his strategic acumen and inventive mindset, Guy has consistently turned bold ideas into reality, all while expertly managing risk. He is the lead inventor on two patented AdTech innovations.
Currently, Guy is the Managing Partner of Thrillerdome, a consulting firm that leverages technology and popular culture to create innovative solutions for its clients. Thrillerdome is redefining traditional business, blending technology and media to help companies achieve unprecedented growth.
Previously, Guy was the CEO of Valence, a trailblazing company dedicated to carving out new success pathways for Black professionals. Valence's vision was transformative: a future where its members spearhead monumental achievements in global business. Following Valence's acquisition by Greenwood Bank, Guy also served as a corporate VP, continuing his mission to empower and uplift.
Guy's influence extends beyond his CEO roles. He chairs the strategic planning committee for Southern California Public Radio and serves on LA-Tech.org's board. His leadership and vision have guided top-ranked institutions like Georgia Tech’s School of Industrial Engineering, where he was a two-term advisory board chair, and served on the President’s Advisory Board and the College of Engineering Board.
An advisor to innovative startups, Guy's portfolio includes Black Girls Rock! Blacksmith, SimWin Sports, and SemiCab. Guy also served as an early advisor for MoviePass. His strategic insights were also sought by former Intel CEO Paul Otellini for President Obama's Council on Jobs and Competitiveness, and he co-founded The Board Challenge to amplify Black representation in corporate boardrooms.
As CEO of The Virtual Reality Company (VRC), Guy orchestrated the smash-hit Jurassic World VR Expedition, propelling Dave & Buster’s to record-breaking success and boosting their stock by 59%. His collaboration with Apple on the Follow Me Dragon app showcased augmented reality's potential and earned a spot in Apple’s “Best of” list. Guy’s other visionary projects include the Starbucks/Apple “Pick of the Week” program and The Scenario for Sprite, which pioneered digital music as an advertising medium and introduced Kanye West, Beverly Bond, and D-Nice to MSN’s mainstream audience. At Tentpole Ventures, an early-stage investment vehicle with Will Smith, Guy backed revolutionary companies like Dollar Shave Club, Pinterest and Dropbox. He was also a founding member of Blue Flame Marketing, driving marketing strategy for Microsoft, New Era Cap Company, and Calvin Klein Cosmetics.
Recognized by Black Enterprise and Ebony magazines, Guy is celebrated as one of the most influential Black tech leaders and has been a guest on CNBC, Bloomberg, and Black Enterprise, reflecting his ability to cross cultural boundaries. He has been honored as a Captain of Industry by the Institute of Industrial Engineers, and was named one of Georgia Tech’s Outstanding Young Engineering Alumni. Holding degrees from Georgia Tech and Harvard Business School, Guy’s global experience spans partners, clients, and customers across continents.
A native of Pittsburgh now residing in Los Angeles’ historic View Park with his wife, Heather, son, Grant, and daughter, Clarke, Guy embodies the spirit of innovation, leadership, and cultural impact, inspiring business-minded Hip Hop fans and beyond.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Devon Christopher Johnson

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 00:38:47 +0000

Founder/CEO, BleuLife Media GroupCo-Founder, Black Owned Media Equity & Sustainability InstituteDéVon Christopher Johnson is co-founder of BOMESI and Dounder/CEO, BleuLife Media Group. He has leveraged his marketing knowledge and communications expertise to build his brand from a single publication, Bleu Magazine, the aspirational lifestyle publication for Black men, to a full-scale multimedia company serving diverse audiences worldwide. He’s led the brand into successful partnerships with dozens of Fortune 100 companies, including Pfizer, Nivea, BMW and Coach. He began his career in the entertainment industry at Def Jam Records and moved on to Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group and Atlantic Records; collaborating on projects for artists like Jay-Z, LL Cool J, Mariah Carey, Trey Songz and Rihanna. He also holds a Master’s degree in Journalism from Harvard University and is a firm believer in “He who controls the media controls the mind.” DéVon is determined to empower young people of color with positive representations of themselves.

Mathematics Discusses 'Black Samson, The Bastard Swordsman' from the 'Wu-Tang the Saga Continues...'

Sun, 13 Apr 2025 16:00:06 +0000

Mathematics took time out of his schedule to meet with fans at Rock and Soul Records in Manhattan to sign limited edition Vinyl LPs of the latest Wu-Tang Clan release, 'Black Samson, The Bastard Swordsman' from the 'Wu-Tang the Saga Continues.'While at the iconic record store, Mathematics did a DJ set as Wu-Tang Clan's Cappadonna made an appearance and blessed the mic as an added bonus for Wu-Tang Clan fans.This collection has been released through RZA's 36 Chambers as the album features 5,000 unique covers - all one of one - the ultimate collectors piece for a Wu-Tang fan.The album was produced by Mathematics and features all nine Wu-Tang Clan members along with artists including Kool G. Rap, Nicole Bus, and Benny the Butcher. The exclusive release took place on April 12, 2025.Mathematics took the time to meet with fans to do a DJ set and bless those who bought the limited edition two VINYL LP with a signature, making the album more of a collector's item.Only 5,000 unique copies were produced featuring Macroverse's Mixprint technology, ensuring each cover is one of a kind. This rare first-of-its-kind collectible piece of art is expected to be a must-have for Wu-Tang fans, lovers of Hip-hop, vinyl enthusiasts, and art collectors alike. This marks Wu-Tang's first LP featuring all nine members since 2014. The full LP will also be available for digital purchase in April."Wu-Tang has always been about pushing boundaries—musically, artistically, and culturally. With ‘Black Samson, The Bastard Swordsman,’ I’m giving fans not just an album, but a piece of history—something truly one of a kind,” said Mathematics. “This is more than music; it’s innovation, storytelling, and legacy all in one. I am excited for everyone to hear the music and see the artwork around this album.”“Mathematics adds another chamber to the saga collection, following his last solid outing....proud of him, ” said Method Man "This one looks to be another banger for the history books!!”“Mathematics is a top tier producer who makes music with his soul attached," said Raekwon. "Be sure of a great body of work!!"“I think Black Sampson is some of Mathematics's best work," said Masta Killa. "It displays his growth and development as a producer with the selection of music that he has arranged for our entertainment. Black Sampson is a must for hip hop listeners." "Black Samson, The Bastard Swordsman” from the “Wu-Tang the Saga Continues…” CollectionTracklist:1. “Sucker Free City” (Intro) feat. Kurupt and Ralph McDaniels2. “Mandingo” feat. Raekwon, Inspectah Deck, Method Man and Cappadonna 3. “Roar Of The Lion” (the lion's pit) feat. U-God, Kool G. Rap and Rza4. “Claudine” feat. Method Man, Ghostface Killah and Nicole Bus5. “Shaolin Vs. Lama” (bonus) feat. Raekwon and Inspectah Deck6. “Executioners From Shaolin” feat. Inspectah Deck, The Gza and Cappadonna 7. “Cleopatra Jones” feat. Raekwon and Masta Killa8. “Warriors Two, Cooley High” feat. Benny The Butcher and Method Man9. “Let’s Do It Again” feat. R.J. Payne, 38 Spesh, Willie The Kid and The Rza10. ⁠Dolemite feat. Cappadonna, U-God & Masta Killa11. “Trouble Man” (Outro) feat. Kameron Corvet**Bonus Vinyl Only: 12. “Charleston Blue, Legend Of A Fighter“ feat. Crooked I, Cappadonna and Nicole Bus.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Adrianne C. Smith

Sat, 12 Apr 2025 09:22:28 +0000

Adrianne C. Smith is SVP, Senior Partner, and Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at FleishmanHillard (FH), a leading global marketing and communications agency. At FH, she guides its mission to become the most inclusive agency in the world. Before joining FleishmanHillard, Adrianne was named the first Global Director of Inclusion and Diversity at WPP.  Adrianne is also the Founder and Visionary of the Can: Diversity Collective, a non-profit organization created to provide people of color and marginalized communities access to global thought leadership conferences in advertising, marketing, creativity, and communications. In 2018, she launched the first iteration of the Diversity Collective, the Cannes Can: Diversity Collective (CC:DC), which provides rising stars in advertising, marketing, creativity and communications industries the opportunity to attend and participate in the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. In 2019, she made history by creating the first stand-alone diversity, equity and inclusion beach in the festival’s 66 years of existence and named it Inkwell Beach – Cannes after the historic beach on Martha’s Vineyard. In January 2024, she launched the Can: Diversity Collective’s – Inkwell Beach – Davos during the World Economic Forum, making history again by building the first activation committed to conversations on the global impact of diversity, equity and inclusion. As a sought-after thought leader, Adrianne has been a speaker on global stages including Davos – World Women Foundation during the World Economic Forum, Dubai for the Dubai Lynx Festival, Iceland – Reykjavik Global Women’s Forum, Morocco – Marrakesh Literary Salon and Cannes – Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. Adrianne is on the board of the Harlem Business Alliance and the advisory board of the Reykjavik Global Forum. She has been recognized as an Outstanding Mentor by the Diversity Action Alliance, a Game Changer in the “Quantum Leap” category for the She Runs It Game Changers Awards, and received the 2023 ADCOLOR DEI Executive of the Year. She was also inducted into Morehouse College’s 38th Martin Luther King Jr. College of Ministers & Laity, named as one of PocStock’s Future of Black America Top 50, DEI Champion for the 2024 Women in Media and Marketing Awards benefiting Breastcancer.org and received the 2024 ColorComm Circle Award.

Ivory Scott Works With His Most Important Artist in Releasing 'Mud'

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 17:32:42 +0000

Despite Ivory Scott’s ascension as a much sought-after songwriter, penning hits for Beyonce, Trippie Red, and other artists that span across the diaspora of music, Scott believed that the next greatest hits he had yet to write should be for an artist that he knew best. Emboldened by the story he has not heard and motivated by the ability to create music that connects to a fanbase looking for something real, Ivory Scott set out to transform his trials into a beautiful struggle on his forthcoming debut LP MUD. Having escaped the ills associated with growing up in an environment that is best known for its murder rate, Ivory Scott provides a sonic journal that measures him as a man. Not as he hopes to be, but of the experiences and the people that have shaped what he now understands, Ivory Scott is the manifestation of the dreams he has refused to defer. Talent aside, Scott embraces the reality of survivor’s remorse and has chosen to pioneer what “those who have the will” can be by becoming the example of what is possible. “We need role models who come from where we come from that were able to avoid… A lot of artists have been through something but they don’t tell the story. All they see is the big chain, the cars and the things obtained but we forget to tell that story so somebody who is in the situation that we were in can get out of it.” MUD chronicles the journey of Ivory Scott’s experiences and captures the introspection and emotions of those experiences to help the listener answer the question: Who is Ivory Scott? As much as MUD provides the soundtrack of his journey, Ivory Scott wants this album to serve as a medium for the journey that everyone is going through. Having stepped to the forefront as the artist, he has only done so to be what he feels the people need. There is a gap for those dwelling in the mud of life who also need a soundtrack to get through. Knee-deep with stains of their circumstances beneath their fingertips, Scott wants to be the mirror for his listeners. Proud of the dirt, Scott wants to show them that they are more than what they think while in the grit of their situation. “When we are striving in life we got to go through the dirt in order to become something bigger than ourselves. I come from the mud. I come from the struggle. I come from the part of the world that people would be afraid to go but it made me. The lotus flower grows from the mud. Just like the lotus, I’m a flower that came from the concrete.” Ivory Scott and his debut album MUD are the motivation for what the people need and, most importantly, what they desire from music.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Christopher Williams

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 22:56:55 +0000

Christopher Williams is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Heart, Body & Soul, Inc. (HBS), a Brooklyn-based nonprofit and the creator of "The Black Man’s Health Festival," which he launched June 4, 2022, to focus on Black Men’s Health Awareness initiatives. A resident of Brooklyn, Christopher experienced a number of personal health issues including two heart attacks and a diagnosis of stage III appendiceal cancer, which forever changed his path and redefined his purpose.When asked why he developed HBS, Christopher had this to say - “Limited access to quality healthcare and poor health outcomes are huge issues in the Black community and unfortunately due to the healthcare disparities that exist, including lack of access to quality wellness programs, health education and so on, Black men are less likely to get annual check-ups, seek mental health services or share their challenges with others. Whether it’s cultural, psychological or generational, the fact remains that open and honest conversations about health need to be had and it needs to happen frequently among Black men.”Christopher is also Associate Publisher and co-founder of WhereItzAt Magazine, a NYC based, family-owned media company that has served the New York City community for over 20 years. Christopher has over 25 years of experience in media, financial services, recruitment and project management. Christopher began his career as a radio engineer alongside his father, who mentored him in the media and communications industry. Later, Christopher started his corporate career at Salomon Smith Barney in equity research and since then, has held various roles in the private and public sector.Christopher continues to provide expertise as a consultant in the areas of media and event production, but his primary focus today remains advocating for a change in the way Black men address their own mental and physical health challenges and work towards improving their outcomes.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Yolanda Wyns

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 14:58:13 +0000

Yolanda Wyns is an innovative music educator, veteran performer, and creative force among senior leaders, rebuilding the Harlem School of the Arts. As Music Program Director, Ms. Wyns has boosted enrollment, attracted students of all ages, and forged partnerships with New York City’s top arts organizations by refining the department’s strategic vision. She’s executed classes and programming across genres and given the school’s music output a contemporary refresh while preserving the original vision of HSA’s founder, Dorothy Maynor, to enrich the community through artistic expression and appreciation. Through her extensive network, Ms. Wyns has made HSA a powerful contributor to the city’s cultural scene with branded master classes, artist lectures, and outreach programs from recognized musicians and leaders. Ms. Wyns has a long history in music, beginning at just 4 years old, singing gospel in church. For 15 years, she was a backup singer for Freddie Jackson, Stephanie Mills, Patti Austin, and other pop and R&B stars. She then joined the cast of The Color Purple, as one of the Church Ladies, and the lead role of Sophia. Ms. Wyns has been included among the top 30 influencers on Musical America.com. Yolanda Wyns is a graduate of the Manhattan School of Music.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Smif-N-Wessun

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 13:53:30 +0000

Hailing from Bucktown, a borderless place where otherwisewarring Brooklyn neighborhoods find peace, hip-hop duo Smif-N-Wessun, aka Tek and General Steele, are recognized and respected worldwide for their steady lyrical control.Their presence commands with simple Timberlands, and since their debut in on Black Moon’s Enta Da Stage, and an appearance soon after on Mary J. Blige’s “I Love You” remix from her chart-topping sophomore album, My Life, Smif-N-Wessun never once strayed. They’ve never gone pop.
In true hip hop form, Tek and Steele flipped the spelling –– and meaning –– of a common device often used against the community. Like “bad” became “good,” Smif-N-Wessun became a nod to our most powerful life-giving force.
However, as swiftly as Smif-N-Wessun jumped out the holster, the gun company sent a cease and desist as thick as a book, muffling their merchandising potential the same year they released. Undeterred, Tek and Steele changed their moniker to the Cocoa Brovaz for their next LP, Rude Awakening.
Smif-N-Wessun also believes in working with the next generation and contributing to making the world a better place at the grassroots level. They are working with BKLYN.Combine.com, a non-profit community organization, focused on working with schools, city officials and to help provide critical education, leadership and social support programs to young adults. Tek and Steele also participated in the Black Men's Health Expo in Brooklyn on a panel discussing the importance of preventative health care.
Real hip-hop followers can stay in the know with tour news and more from Tek and Steele via smifnwessun.com.

Roxanne Shanté, GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Discusses Legendary Career

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 21:46:56 +0000

Most of us know the legend of Queensbridge-bred icon Roxanne Shanté. She is a legendary emcee who grew up in Queens, NY, battling boys and being undefeated amongst them, leading to her becoming a protege of hip-hop producer Marley Marl. Brooklyn group U.T.F.O. released a record about a neighborhood girl that they each admired and stepped to for the chance at romantic pleasures and was turned down. The name of that record, which was released in 1984, was "Roxanne, Roxanne." The independent song led to the young 14-year-old Queens rapper, under the tutelage of Marley Marl, releasing a diss record, "Roxanne's Revenge" with her using the persona of Roxanne (hence the name, Roxanne Shanté) to individually diss the rappers known as Kangol Kid, Educated Rapper, and Doctor Ice. Shanté's recording career started when she blew up with one of the first diss records in hip-hop.Throughout her legendary career, she has helped with the careers of legends like Big Daddy Kane, Nas, and MC Shan as she toured the world, recorded songs, and did shows to show off her talent. She was recently honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award earlier this year, an amazing 40 years after Shanté's introduction to the world. In 2018, the world got to see her story in a way that many people can't tell their stories, through film, as her biopic, "Roxanne, Roxanne," produced by Pharrell Williams and Forest Whitaker, was released on Netflix.Now, you can hear Shanté regularly as she hosts a show on LL COOL J's platform, Rock the Bells Radio on SiriusXM, where she draws over 7 million listeners daily. When she's not entertaining people through her radio program,Continuing to bless the world with her talent, she is a dedicated philanthropist and activist and serves as a spokesperson for the Diabetes Association and Breast Cancer Awareness. She and her husband also run a nonprofit organization, Mind Over Matter, which is based in Newark, NJ. The program is dedicated to mentoring and uplifting the community.The Industry Cosign got an opportunity to speak to Shanté to acknowledge her greatness in hip-hop and beyond. We spoke about the many awards she's received, the causes she champions, and how she is a living legend.#RoxanneShante #hiphop #Grammylifetimeachievement #queens #podcast #theindustrycosign #interview #blackgirlmagic #queensbridge #TheJuiceCrew #rockthebells #rockthebellsradio #siriusxm #radio #llcoolj #BIGCED #netflix #netflixoriginal #RoxanneRoxanne #queensnewyork #legendary

Will We Ever See Nia Long and Lorenz Tate in a 'Love Jones' Sequel?

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 16:25:03 +0000

With the recent announcement that Nia Long and Lorenz Tate will be hosting The 29th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) as ambassadors for the annual film fest, the audience still wonders and hopes that they will reprise their roles as Nina and Darius from their romantic movie, "Love Jones" which came out in 1997. As both actors have done so much since the iconic love story was told, the duo doesn't look older than when they filmed the project.The couple reunited for a Walmart promotion over the holidays, reprising their roles as the young couple, but in their later years, giving thoughts as to what the couple would be doing in these current times.THE INDUSTRY COSIGN spoke to both Long and Tate to discuss the chances that an upcoming movie may be on the horizon. Just like fans of the movie, they are just as excited as we are with the anticipation that it could happen.The two have stated that they have been friends all these years, and even the two of them would be excited about rehashing the roles that the public still questions them about, especially when they are out together."I think this is something the fans have been waiting for, for a very long time. Lorenz and I have a shorthand with one another," Long said. "We are like brother and sister, honestly. I mean, you guys see the characters in this romantic setting, but we really have a wonderful shorthand with one another that is timeless. And, 'Love Jones' is one of my favorite films. Wherever I go where, wherever we are, everyone's like when are you guys gonna do something together? And it was so cool when Walmart asked to do this commercial.""It's been really a joy to reunite with Nia," Tate says. "Obviously, we continue on with our strong friendship in real life, but when we're able to find moments like this man, it just feels so good and we've tried many times to figure out what we can do, but this just seems seamless. This opportunity worked with Walmart, which is such a great brand and we were like this makes absolute sense. Let's give our fans and the people that we consider family who've been supporting us for so many years a little peek into where Nina and Darius could be, or where they are right now."Knowing that after the Walmart commercial came out last year, the audience would be clamoring to see Nina and Darius once again and they both know that it should open the door for any possibility of rehashing the continuation of what may arguably be one of the best love stories seen on film. Tate speculates that it will place both actors in a better position when it comes to negotiations about doing a "Love Jones" sequel."That puts us in a position that we want to be in, to be able to create what that next thing is," said Tate. "And so with Nia being smart and creative and the incredible businesswoman that she is, I'd like to meet her on that same level. This will open up the doors for us to answer those questions after really, you know after this, but we're working on something."Long chimes in by thanking Walmart and saying, "We're going to have lots of offers after this commercial, thank you, Walmart!"She does admit that with all the leading men she has shared the screen with, Tate, hands down is her "favorite."But, they did reveal a little tidbit that fans may have not been privy to. They both did reunite for an upcoming movie about the "King of Pop," Micheal Jackson. Long plays the legend's mother, Katherine Jackson while Tate takes on the role of Motown founder, Berry Gordy.Seeing the two of them on the screen together just makes the audience want to see Nina and Darius soon. Hopefully, after the recent Walmart commercial, the upcoming ABFF in June, and then the Micheal Jackson movie, tentatively scheduled to debut in October, may be enough to get the sequel to "Love Jones" going.#LoveJones #NiaLong #LorenzTate #blacklove #walmart #podcast #interview #theindustrycosign #BIGCED #romance #love #reunited #movie #blackfilms

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Corey 'CL' Llewellyn

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 01:10:41 +0000

Corey “CL" Llewellyn is a seasoned music magnate with more than 25 years of experience as a leader in promotion and marketing within the music industry. CL's extensive resume boasts directorial positions at numerous major recording labels and reveals a go-getter attitude that propelled him into the music business at the young age of 17. Elektra/Warner Music GroupSony/Crave RecordsCornerstone's 1200 Squad & Mixtape SeriesAnd The Fader Magazine Though achieving success within all of these mediums, it is Digiwaxx Media that has been CL's greatest glory. Founded in 1998, Digiwaxx is a music marketing agency specializing in DJ Culture, Music Innovation and New Urban Culture

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring DJ Hard Hittin Harry

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 02:21:44 +0000

DJ Hard Hittin Harry, born in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, and raised in Montreal, Canada, and Newark, New Jersey, has had a remarkable career spanning over 40 years in the music industry. He has showcased his talent in clubs, through mixtapes, the internet, and television, establishing himself as a versatile and accomplished figure in the world of DJing. Harry's skills and contributions were recognized when the Father of Hip-hop Culture, DJ Kool Herc, presented him with a plaque on October 3, 2009, celebrating his 30 years in the industry. This acknowledgment affirmed Harry as a Supreme Spinner, Master Mixer, and Divine DJ. Further solidifying his influence, The Haitian Roundtable Organization inducted Harry as one of the Haitian-American Changemakers of the United States on November 9, 2019. This honor was presented by Mona Scott-Young, an entertainment mogul, and Dr. Jeff Gardere, America’s psychologist. Based in Brooklyn, Harry captivates audiences with his diverse mix of music genres, including Hip-hop, R&B, Soul, Funk, Reggae, Pop, Rock, Soca, Afrobeat, Haitian Kompas, Zouk, House, Techno, and more. His mastery of these genres is evident in every event and party he DJs, leaving a lasting impression on attendees. A pivotal moment in Harry's career was his association with The Fugees in 1993. Meeting Wyclef Jean, Lauryn Hill, and Pras at New Jersey’s Booga Basement studio, he became their official DJ and contributed to the promo of their debut album, “Blunted on Reality.” Harry's talents also extend to publicity work. Starting as an intern at Double XXposure PR Firm in Manhattan, he quickly rose to Senior Publicist in just a month, holding the position from 1994 to 1997. Subsequently, he co-founded Meridian Entertainment, a boutique PR company, representing various artists and brands.As a DJ, Harry has held residencies in several New York venues, and performed at numerous corporate events and media outlets. His appearances include PIX-11 Morning News, and FOX 5 Good Day New York, in addition to being featured in publications like Metro New York, Details, GQ, and New York Post. Harry is a multifaceted Caribbean contributor, who, alongside his cousin, Jimmy “DJ Super JB” Brea, co-founded 305-718 Music, a music and film production company, achieving success with their documentary short film, “Dear Father.” Harry is also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting Haitian organizations and promoting Haitian culture through his work with nonprofits. He proudly promotes and showcases his Haitian culture and heritage, as host of the HAITIAN ALL-STARZ RADIO on WBAI 99.5 FM. Harry was honored for his work within the Haitian community with a Proclamation by the New York City Council on May 18, 2023 (Haitian Flag Day). His recent performances on the Capital Jazz SuperCruise 2024 and residencies at notable venues like the Apollo Theater highlight his ongoing relevance and skill in the industry. DJ Hard Hittin Harry has had a successful journey and remains a significant figure to watch in 2024 and beyond!

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Rob Love

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 09:59:42 +0000

Rob Love is the Chief Executive Officer of Launchpad Worldwide Inc. which is a Marketing & Promotions Company that creates “ Organic Strategies and Solutions “ in Sports, Entertainment, and Technology. Rob Love is a music industry veteran and considered one of the most brilliant minds in multicultural lifestyle management. He founded the world-famous Def Jam Street team and has worked with the multi-platinum Jay-Z, Ludacris, LL Cool J, Methodman, and Redman. Branding these artists was the focus of Def Jam; this increased the market share of their parent company, Universal Music Group, by 35%, and it still holds a top position in the music industry. Rob's unique approach to lifestyle marketing and promotions spawned new branding opportunities for trans-cultural markets influenced by music icons. Fashion, Film, and politics have new branding strategies that integrate lifestyle and product marketing intelligence for consumer consumption that defines the trend. Rob's expertise in brand building and increasing the market share has produced the instrumentation that helps clients such as J Records, SonyBMG, Island Def Jam, Universal Music Group, Coca-Cola, HBO, Miller Brewing Co, Nike, Phat Farm, and Viacom Networks better relate with their consumers. Rob was a mainstay at SONY BMG and Universal Music Group Island Def Jam for many years.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours featuring Earl Christian III

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 22:28:31 +0000

Earl Christian III is a Howard University TV Production graduate, visionary, Creator, and Executive producer of the award-winning Urban Wall Street Project, as well as the dynamic, UWS Young Producers program. Since 2008, Earl has produced over 700 UWS and YP student-oriented short films/videos, garnering over 1.2 Million views on his YouTube channels. Having worked with thousands of students in NY, NJ, Boston public schools, and private organizations. Students learn the fundamentals of script writing, camera operation, directing, make-up, and other facets of video/filmmaking.
In the Summer of 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, UWS, in a collaboration with Team Management 2000 and BASICS INTERNATIONAL, a NGO in Ghana, launched a Virtual YP ACADEMY Media Production program with great success!! Earl's most recent independent projects, the feature documentaries "BLACK EXCELLENCE TOUR PARIS I & II” and “B.E. Tour London 2023”, received great praise from national and international audiences. With several feature-length films/productions currently on the UWS Youtube Channel, including the original series "MUSIC CITY", with the multi-platinum lead singer of the group SHAI, Dr. Garfield Bight, “Esquire Unlimited”, as well as the “HOWARD HOMECOMING: IMMORTALIZED” TRILOGY, Earl is a true asset to the culture, whose commitment to inspiring, motivating, and empowering others is unyielding!

My Friends Are Better Than Yours/Beyond 50 featuring Ralph McDaniels

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 13:23:29 +0000

If you're a fan of music, more specifically Hip-Hop, Ralph McDaniels should be listed as one of your heroes. Every hip-hop artist was influenced by the work that Uncle Ralph (as he is affectionately known) has done over the 40 years he has been working in this fickle industry. No matter who you support or are a fan of, more than likely, they were influenced by someone who was influenced by Ralph. Starting as a budding entrepreneur in 1983, Ralph and his former partner, Lionel C. Martin set out to present music videos to an audience who may not have had many options as Ralph and Lionel's show, Video Music Box, predated rap video shows like "Yo! MTV Raps!" The duo set up shop in Manhattan, NY, and landed at WNYC-TV where every weekday they showed music videos. Hip-Hop videos weren't the staple it is today and there were very few being broadcast, but the ones that were available had a home at Video Music Box. But, Video Music Box was just a part of the legacy of Ralph McDaniels and his partner, Lionel, who also used the name The Vid Kid. There weren't many companies producing videos, specifically Hip-Hop videos when the company owned by the duo, Classic Concepts set out to give recording artists visuals to go along with their vocals and art. They didn't only do Hip-Hop videos, but once they started, Hip-Hop artists found them. The number of videos that the duo did, many companies who performed the same work couldn't compare. Too many artists to name, mostly from New York City because that's where the bulk of the artists were from and grew up. Classic Concepts became a mainstay in the Hip-Hop world. As Ralph continued to make his mark in the industry, after the Vid Kid went off to Hollywood to direct some movies, Ralph stayed the course with Video Music Box adding several hosts like Tuffy, Crazy Sam, Ray DeJean, and Kevin Lawrence, to name a few. The magical moments that were caught on film included not only videos, but appearing at local events where the infamous phrase, "I want to give a shoutout to....." became popular and a mainstay in the Hip-Hop lexicon. We can go on, as Ralph has done SO many things for the industry, which we may discuss today, but the rich history of this man has him labeled as legendary due to, not only his popularity, but, the doors he opened for others to follow him through. Even those who mimicked his work, have to credit him for their success. Nas produced a documentary, "You're Watching Video Music Box" that premiered on Showtime in 2021 and touches on the work that Ralph had been involved in. As much as I can say about Ralph, there are layers to him that most people will never get to know, but, we can acknowledge his greatness in real time. I would like to personally thank Ralph for his guidance and for putting up with me as he directed me in several of the videos Classic Concepts produced and worked with me through various ventures including celebrity basketball games, parties, and other functions. Let's thank our legends while they can still hear and see us! As Ralph continues to celebrate 40 years of Video Music Box, he also has a project called the Video Music Box Collection. Video Music Box Collection Inc. is a nonprofit organization created by Ralph McDaniels, dedicated to the preservation, digitization, and archival of video footage to Hip Hop’s original music video show, Video Music Box. Established in 1983, The Video Music Box collection includes 20,000 hours of rare music videos and classic video content. Let's help him make the video collection available to other nonprofit and public organizations by donating to the website, https://www.videomusicboxcollection.org/ Text “VMBC” to 44321 to Donate!

My Friends Are Better Than Yours/Beyond 50 Featuring Wes Jackson

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 21:19:33 +0000

Wes Jackson has been giving back to the community in admirable ways. He has over 25 years of experience as a leader, entrepreneur, innovator, creative, and executive in entertainment and academia. He's currently president at BRIC Arts, located in Brooklyn, NY, and has been in this position since July 2022. Wes has been leading BRIC, a pioneering, multi-disciplinary arts and media institution anchored in downtown Brooklyn with programs that include the free, summer-long BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! festival, whose 44th season is currently underway; the New York Emmy Award-winning BRIC TV, whose programming includes acclaimed original scripted series, a live daily show, and hyper-local news stories and documentaries; Brooklyn Free Speech TV, a leading public access TV network; a major contemporary art exhibition program; BRIC JazzFest, which brings global legends and emerging artists in jazz to Brooklyn each October; the weekly Stoop Series of free public conversations at BRIC House with artists, authors and filmmakers; family programs; and more. BRIC’s nationally recognized school-based arts and media education program reaches thousands of NYC public school students each year. Wes' history in the arts is very rich and we will go into detail during the conversation. If you've ever been to the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival, then you have already experienced the work of Jackson's. The event ran for 15 years with the mission to create a world-class event to honor Hip-Hop music and culture and the borough of Brooklyn. He's had many luminaries of hip-hop culture such as Ralph McDaniels, Jay-Z, Kanye West, NYS Attorney General Letitia James, Deray McKesson, Kendrick Lamar, Fab 5 Freddy, Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, Q-Tip, just to name a few. Jackson is also a Trustee of the Brooklyn Public Library and Board Chair of the Brooklyn Crescents. But, the most important aspect is that I have had the pleasure of knowing this man since childhood and I don't have a bad word to say about him (At least as I'm writing this, can't promise what will come out in the discussion! lol) Wes proves, once again that My Friends Are Better Than Yours!

My Friends Are Better Than Yours featuring Dennis L.A. White

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 11:28:32 +0000

Acting is a skill set that many feel they may have, but the truly talented are the ones who are working. Dennis L.A. White is one of the working ones. You may have seen him in a few TV shows like "Kold X Windy," "The Closer," "Atlanta," or "The Family Business." Either way, he has appeared in over 70 movies and TV shows. The man is so talented that he has his own company, "ACT LIKE YOU KNOW," where he is committed to helping up-and-coming actors succeed in the craft. Not only is he working, he is preparing others to work as well! We'll get a chance to speak to him today about his career and how he is able to help others in a such a competitive field while still finding time to work himself. One of the things you'll see him in is a role in the Netflix series, "Haus of Vicous." Hear what he has to say.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours featuring DJ Evil Dee

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 03:56:25 +0000

Da Beatminerz was a responsible party of the backpack movement in Hip-Hop back in the 90s when that term was placed on a certain brand of emcees. The production team consisted of two brothers, Mr. Walt and DJ Evil Dee. They were the architect for Evil Dee's group, Black Moon which included Evil, Buckshot Shorty, and 5ft. The producers were instrumental in the many hits that came out of the Buckshot-led Boot Camp Clik on the independent label, Duck Down Records. Of course, many artists blessed the production team with their lyrics over the years. Too many to name but will be heard during the course of the show. Today, we speak to DJ Evil Dee who is also a radio station DJ, well-sought-after DJ and producer who is still around keeping heads nodding whether it's through production or providing head-nodding fits for those who tune into him whether he is spinning at a party or creating a mix.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours featuring Derrick McKinney

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 22:53:47 +0000

To be an independent label is a tiresome job and many don't have the business acumen to succeed in this industry. But, to be in business since 2011 and to STILL be doing things is a testimony to dedication and business intelligence. Derrick McKinney, co-founder and CEO of L.O.U.D. Muzik (The acronym is Live Out Ur Dreams) has been part of the Hip-Hop culture and a mainstay of the Houston music scene for many years as he built his entrepreneurial empire. As he started working for a burgeoning clothing label, FUBU, he built upon his marketing success to start the company he still runs today. With the likes of artists such as Houston legend Lil Flip, he is now directing the careers of artists like Skyrah, Fat Pimp, and Khody, with a new project from his partner in the label, T!m Ned, McKinney is still utilizing his expertise to stay a force within the Houston scene and beyond. Derrick McKinney has been running his business for almost 25 years and doesn't look to be stopping anytime soon! We discussed how he stays relevant in the industry, dealing with artists, and what's next for him, and his artists at L.O.U.D. Muzik. Also, look out for new projects from L.O.U.D. Muzik: T!M NED - Cadillac & cocktails Fat Pimp - But you can call me Chris Khody - The Khody Blake mixtape Volume 1 Skyrah - a purple girl in a purple world

My Friends Are Better Than Yours featuring Grandmaster Dee from Whodini

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 12:05:09 +0000

The world was captivated by the sounds of a group consisting of two emcees and one DJ from New York City named Whodini. The trio had a string of hits that kept people bobbing their heads and moving their feet whenever a song of theirs came on. With their self-titled album being released in 1983, they took off with "Magic's Wand" and the "Haunted House of Rock." But, their next album, "Escape" lifted them higher with the hits, "Friends," "Five Minutes of Funk," "Freaks Come Out At Night," and "Big Mouth." "Back in Black" brought us "Funky Beat" and "One Love." Grandmaster Dee was known for being one of the best DJs at the time and held down Ecstasy and Jahlil. The Industry Cosign gets the chance to speak to the one born Drew Carter about the days when hip-hop had just started getting commercial and worldwide appeal and everything in between until what he is doing today!

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Keith Perrin of FUBU

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 04:42:50 +0000

The acronym FUBU worked its way into our vocabulary back in 1992 and stood as the basis for Black-owned businesses catering to Black businesses. For Us By Us still is a call to arms for Black entrepreneurs to make their way to success. I am in no way saying that the blueprint that the founders of FUBU used wasn’t done before. Even if I wanted to say that, I’d be a fool since I freelance for Black Enterprise which was THE blueprint for Black entrepreneurs that has been around for over 50 years. Yet, four Black men from Queens, Keith Perrin, J. Alexander Martin, Carl Brown, and Daymond John were able to change the way we looked and felt about fashion. The four men are still making waves with the FUBU fashion label but all have also created other ventures that still drive the FUBU brand. Perrin started and runs FUBU Radio which is still growing and showing Black entrepreneurship still thrives in the heart of Perrin. The Industry Cosign’s BIG CED has a conversation with Perrn about his venture into entrepreneurship, the history of FUBU and the many years of functioning as a brand, and what his future plans are for not only the brand but, FUBU Radio specifically. The standard of Black entrepreneurship was enveloped when Perrin and friends embarked on their journey to ownership that escaped many people before them. Perrin still strives to make waves in another industry that has been kind to Black people but could still use a big infusion of talent and on the executive level to show the growth that the culture of hip-hop has shown over the past several decades. The commitment to better himself is still instituted in the Queens-bred entrepreneur who still incorporates the mindset that he and his friends had when they decided to disrupt the fashion industry some decades ago.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours/Beyond 50 Featuring Hakim Green

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 16:30:53 +0000

As a former New Jersey educator and frontman of the "true school" Hip Hop Group, Channel Live, Green has been a multi-dimensional force in the music industry for nearly three decades. Discovered by KRS-One, his group, Channel Live, debuted in 1994 with their platinum single Hip Hop anthem Mad Izm, followed by the gold-status album “Station Identification.” Their single Mad Izm would go on to debut at No. 3 on Billboard's Hot Rap Singles chart and peaked at 54 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1995. Green's tree of life in the entertainment industry continued behind the scenes as an artist manager and consultant in the music and film industries. His consulting work with singer Carl Thomas and producer Mike City brought forth smash hits such as “I Wish I Never Met Her” and “Make it Alright” from Bad Boy Entertainment. He also served as an A&R consultant for the late Jeryl Busby’s Umbrella Entertainment and their 2007 release of Carl Thomas’ LP “So Much Better”. Green's creativity also took shape in visual form with Nas’ Hip Hop classic video “Got Yourself a Gun,” which helped Nas and Sony Music reach platinum sales. Green's other film projects include LL Cool J’s “Love You Better” and Nelly feat. Kelly Roland, “Dilemma.” He was also an associate producer for the 20th Anniversary release of “Scarface,” a movie documentary distributed by Universal Pictures in 2004. In 2007 Green reunited with KRS-One to re-launch the "Stop the Violence Movement." This work has galvanized artists, educators, activists, and other community leaders to collectively say, “Stop the Violence." This slogan, to date, is still the rallying cry for organizations across the nation and around the world. 24HRSOFPEACE™
A legend in his own right, Hakim Green continues to use Hip Hop culture to inspire and educate the black community through his 24HRSOFPEACE organization, which began in Newark, New Jersey. 24HRSOFPEACE started as a 24-hour concert/festival of peace, formed to support the anti-violence work of Ras Baraka, the current mayor of Newark, NJ. Now going on twelve years strong, 24HRSOFPEACE promotes HIP HOP’s true principles of "PEACE, LOVE, UNITY, and SAFELY HAVING FUN." A yearly tradition and staple in the Newark community, Green is looking to expand the 24HRSOFPEACE festival and its curriculum in 2022. MAD IZM, INC.
In addition to running 24HRSOFPEACE, Green continues to release music and products under his label, MAD IZM, INC., a tribute to the classic Channel Live/KRS-One cannabis anthem. MAD IZM, INC., as a company and a brand, was created to maintain the legacy and lifestyle of the true culture of Hip Hop. The label's and Green's first solo album, "MAD IZM: Who Want This Smoke?," released in 2020, is filled with legendary guest appearances from KRS-One, Treach from Naughty by Nature, and Carl Thomas. Green would also launch a web magazine MADIZM.INFO The Ultimate Cannabis Journal, and 2 weekly LIVE shows, MADIZM.tv, and MADIZM.tv SPORTS. MADIZM.tv is a collection of interviews with special guests highlighting their cultural and artistic achievements in Hip Hop and the cannabis world.MADIZM.tv SPORTS is a weekly roundtable discussion on sports and entertainment with a host panel that includes Dj Kay Gee from Naughty by Nature, Wes Henderson, and Cliff Allen, aka Zatch. Green's latest EP, "Nah Mean," is a collection of singles produced by Big French that pays homage "to that old" true school "New York Rap," as the first single echoes eloquently. This collaboration takes die-hard boom bap fans back to the essence of NEW YORK RAP and what was happening back then to make Hip Hop the most influential cultural movement in the history of human existence. Additional tracks include "Now And Then," "Love N Hip Hop," "Son of God," and "Can I Eat." "Nah Mean" is available digitally on all platforms (link to platforms here). Listen and stream now.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours: Tracey Lee Is Still The Man With Many Facez

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 02:27:52 +0000

Many people transition from being an artist to going into another field or finding another vocation to take on in the same field. Recording artist, Tracey Lee, Esq., an entertainment attorney has successfully obtained his license to practice law and has been an entertainment attorney for many years. We were first introduced to him in 1997 when he released a single, "The Theme (It's Party Time)" that became an instant hit after signing with Universal/Bystorm. Hailing from the prestigious HBCU, Howard University where he met the man who would sign him to his first major recording contract, Mark Pitts (Who I, coincidentally, went to high school with at LaGuardia High School of the Arts). After a successful first single, the highly anticipated album, "Many Facez" (The title track, "Many Facez" was produced by me!) didn't pan out the way most had hoped. Tracey decided to steer direction several years later by going back to school to obtain his law license and officially became a practicing attorney in 2007, specializing in contracts and entertainment law. After experiencing some of the trials and tribulations most artists deal with once they sign on the dotted line, Lee decided to become an advocate for the artists. He also wanted to provide them with the information and legal support that he lacked when he signed his deal as a recording artist. Having known Lee for years since I had the pleasure to share space in a recording studio with him, we became friends and still speak to this day. I have to apologize to Mr. Lee as it took me some time to post this interview but, here it is! We talked about his experience in the music game and upcoming plans. As he is always on to the next thing, you can always count on him working on something despite what is going on. Join me to hear the discussion I had with the man with "Many Facez."

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Darryl 'Chill' Mitchell- Beyond 50

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 03:34:33 +0000

Growing up in the New York City area is challenging, yet fulfilling, especially back in the 1970s- 1990s. A young boy, born in the Bronx but raised in Long Island took a chance by entering the world of hip-hop at a time when hip-hop was still considered a fad and wasn't expected to last long. In fact, it was given the same lifespan as disco. But, Darryl Mitchell decided to try his hand at it anyway and joined his friends, Gene "Groove" Allen and Belal "DJ Belal" Miller, and using the moniker "Chill," the three became the hip-hop group, Groove B Chill. Groove B Chill appeared as one of the first acts on a new independent label named "Uptown Records." The label had many acts throughout the years which featured Guy, Al B. Sure!, Father MC, Christopher Williams, Jodeci, Jeff Redd, Monifah, and Mary J. Blige, just to name a few. But, Groove B Chill was one of the first acts on the label's debut project, "Uptown Is Kickin' It" which started with the first song and video, "The Uptown Crew- Uptown Is Kickin' It" featuring Heavy D and the Boyz, Finesse & Synquis, Marley Marl, Woody Rock, The Brothers Black and Groove B Chill. You recognized Chill right away with his trademark hat as Grove B Chill ended the song and video with their lyrics and recognizable dance. Shortly after the group made its debut, they appeared in the Kid N Play-led movie, "House Party." After appearing in the first and second House Party movies, Chill caught the acting bug and never looked back! He has appeared in shows like "The John Larroquette Show," "Veronica's Closet," "Brothers," "NCIS: New Orleans" and "Fear the Walking Dead." He has also made appearances in movies like, "Inside Man" and "A Thin Line Between Love and Hate." I got the chance to speak to Chill about a variety of topics, including how he coped with and overcame the tragic car accident that made him lose the use of his legs. He discusses coping with everyday life as an actor and performer and even speaks about becoming a comedian.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Jamie Roberts

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 02:12:43 +0000

Not everyone can handle entrepreneurship, but for comedian Jamie Roberts, owning a business is not a funny thing. The man has been on the comedy scene for years and has had a hand in running several shows in the New York City area. Roberts was the host and executive producer of a weekly show every Sunday called Sunday Night Live, the longest-running Sunday comedy show in NYC. There you were able to see many comedians honing their skills while hosting some recognizable names like Mike Epps, George Wallace, David Spade, and Marlon Wayans. He currently owns Harlem's Home For Comedy, 'Comedy In Harlem' which is located at 8 E 117th St where he has several shows per week featuring up-and-coming talent as well as established comedians. He also hosts a class that will help comedians handle their business called The Business of Comedy 101 with instructor Jamie Roberts. "The class is geared to show comedians how to make money as a business in comedy, how to obtain different streams of income within comedy, how to build your brand, and several other great tips and techniques for generating cash flow as a comedian." Roberts has also been featured on MTV, Tidal, Sirius XM Radio, The Grio, The Root, 770 WABC Radio (NYC), NBC’s Law & Order, Channel 7 ABC’s (NYC) Eyewitness, Channel 6 ABC News (Philadelphia) commercials. He, along with his partner-in-crime, Nicky Sunshine appeared on FYI’s A Question of Love for 10 episodes. The husband and wife team also tours with their brand “Married and Funny.” The Long Island native is the founder and executive director of 'Comedy With A Purpose,' a business that uses comedy to address some serious social matters. Being the entrepreneur he is, he also owns a radio station, 108 Soul NY Radio Station where you can listen to R&B and hip-hop. The Industry Cosign got a chance to talk to Roberts about his business endeavors and how he uses his talent and skills to keep his business going!

My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Bowlegged Lou of Full Force

Sun, 24 Dec 2023 04:00:29 +0000

You've heard many of their songs throughout the past 40-plus years. When it comes to legendary, this man and his music family fit the bill. He and his family, Full Force, which was comprised of brothers, Lucien "Bowlegged Lou" George Jr. "Paul Anthony" George, Brian "B-Fine" George, and cousins, Hugh Junior "Shy Shy" Clark, Curt "Curt-T-T" Bedeau, and Gerry "Baby Gee" Charles worked with artists like Kid N' Play, Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam, Samantha Fox, and the likes of *NSYNC and the Backstreet Boys, James Brown, Britney Spears, Lil Kim, Patti Labelle and many in between them. They made music history when they produced and released UTFO's "Roxanne, Roxanne" which spawned more answer records than ANY record in history. You've also seen him and his brothers in the "House Party" movies and they are well-respected by young and old people who appreciate the musical talents of the musical family. I got a chance to kick it with Bowlegged Lou about his storied career, the health issues he and his family have had to face and deal with, as well as the charitable work and efforts he partakes in. The respect this man garners is well-warranted and through our discussion, you'll get some surprises you did not know, and with good reason.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours: The Choice Is Yours- Dres From Black Sheep- Beyond 50

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 16:49:42 +0000

There are many recognizable songs in hip-hop history that all you have to do is hear four bars and you instantly know the song. Or, you know the most known and heavily recited lines, in this case, "Engine, engine number nine on the New York Transit line, if my train goes off the track, pick it up! Pick it Up! Pick it up!" Well, the next person I speak to in this series of "My Friends Are Better Than Yours" and "Beyond 50" is Andres Vargas Titus! We know him as Dres from Black Sheep! The Industry Cosign got the chance to chop it up with Dres as he talked to us about his latest project with late producer, J. Dilla, and the documentary, "The Choice Is Yours" streaming right now on Paramount +. THE CHOICE IS YOURS, directed and edited by Clark Slater (DMX: Don’t Try And Understand), is the story of rapper and artist Andres “Dres” Vargas-Titus, part of the legendary 90’s hip hop duo Black Sheep, and his incredible journey from being on top of the game to struggling with civilian life and staring down the barrel of his last chance at success. Along the way, he meets Maureen Yancey, aka Ma Dukes, mother to music icon J.Dilla who gifts him with a hard drive of unreleased Dilla beats and tasks him with creating the next great Dilla record. As Dres attempts to uncover the mystery behind his story, which hasn’t been told in full until now, Dres meets with artists, celebs, music executives and journalists to better understand who Dilla was, only to discover that not everyone is happy about Dres being gifted these beats. The accompanying controversy threatens not just the release of the album, but Dres’ very legacy. Dres also touches on the 50th anniversary of hip-hop which has helped many artists. He also discusses what he has been doing, as well as a little update on the class lawsuit against the record labels that he is spearheading.

The Industry Cosign- Beyond 50: Catching Up With Chip Fu

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 17:37:39 +0000

The importance of educating the youth is not lost on Brooklyn, NY's own Chip Fu. A founding member of the hip-hop group, Fu-Schnickens, his dedication to hip-hop helped shape his focus to making sure the youth have direction and focus for the future. The child of an educator, Chip is a natural for the program he started and is currently running M.A.A.T.H. (Music Appreciation, Art, Time, and Healing) Being a Facebook friend for years and running into each other over the years at hip-hop events, once I saw the program he was doing, I had to feature him on Black Enterprise. The importance of showcasing the positive aspects of hip-hop was definitely a mission to get him to tell the world what he was doing. When I decided to pick up the podcast again, a conversation was again needed from this Brooklyn artist who hadn't yet put down the microphone and pen and pad. I got the chance to speak to the Trinidadian, East Flatbush representative about the journey he is currently on and his plans beyond the 50th anniversary of this thing we live in called hip-hop. We discussed the re-emergence of artists who were able to perform due to the 50th anniversary of hip-hop and even got to talk about one of his friends, Shaquille O'Neal, and his return to the studio.

The Industry Cosign Presents 'Beyond 50' Featuring Author Lemar Ingram

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 17:36:13 +0000

Lemar Ingram is involved in corporate America for his day job, yet, he has instilled the learnings and culture of hip-hop in order to become successful in his line of work. The self-described hip-hop head is also the author of the self-published book, "The G-Code: Behind the Bars: Hip-Hop Connoisseur's Guide Through Corporate America." Ingram's tome offers a thought-provoking list of "commandments" crucial to success (and survival) within corporate working environments. The lessons that the once-Queens resident has learned over the years through the halls of hip-hop have given him the chance to bring some of the logic and thought processes to this book. "Lessons can be learned via positive or negative environments; all that matters is how we apply them," he wrote as the opening to The G-Code before he made his way into the first chapter, I Wrote Me a Manual. A manual it is indeed. "My goal with The G-Code was to help those with less traditional or socially acceptable forms of education visualize how their life experience is replete with transferable skills that will most definitely translate to success in the proverbial boardroom—if applied strategically. The Industry Cosign got an opportunity to hear some of the blessed words this author had to say as he explained the reason he wrote the book and what people can use it for. It's not just for the corporate world, you can use some of the advice in everyday life! Coincidentally while the world is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the culture we all love and live, his book comes around at the right moment. He recently debuted the book at the Museum of Graffiti in Wynwood. It is Miami's creative and cultural hub and outdoor museum to some of the world's best-known street artists. The book was also featured at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center's 11th Annual South Florida Book Festival. Watch the video to see how he used hip-hop to become successful in corporate America and give you the tool to do the same!!

My Friends Are Better Than Yours: A Conversation With Special Ed

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 03:17:49 +0000

You knew him as the youngest in charge! Legendary Hip-Hop artist, Special Ed is still around and doing his thing! I got a chance to speak to the Brooklyn-bred artist to discuss what he has been up to lately. He is still performing and traveling the world as the hip-hop audience still gets a kick out of seeing and hearing his catalog of hits. I have to apologize to Ed as we filmed this back in March and I slipped in getting it up sooner. He just performed at Radio City Music Hall in New York City with a bevy of other rappers with DJ Cassidy and his "Pass the Mic!" series. As we continue to celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, you can catch Special Ed anywhere in the United States performing. Although he has been hitting stages over the years, he is still "The Magnificent!"

My Friends Are Better Than Yours: Newark Councilman Dupre Kelly is a Politician Who Can 'Do It All'

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 22:08:00 +0000

Hip-Hop and politics are two things that are needed in the community and it was only a matter of time before both would intersect with each other. We have always known that there would be politicians who claim hip-hop but to actually see someone actually INVOLVED in the culture to enter into the arena of politics was eventual. Enter Dupre Kelly, who we know as DoItAll of Lords of The Underground. He is the first rapper, well, let's be more specific. The first hip-hop recording artist to be elected to a political office in the United States. The Newark, NJ native has always represented his city on vinyl, on the microphone, and definitely on stage. DoItAll, ahem, Councilman Kelly is now repping the West Ward in his hometown. We must give a shout to Shyne who has also become a politician in his home country of Belize. The former Bad Boy rapper is the Opposition Leader in the House of Representatives and the leader of the Belize United Democratic Party. But back to Councilman Kelly, amidst the battles he has had to endure in the rap arena, he has gone on to battle for his community. Initially, when Kelly decided to run for political office, he ran for a seat back in 2018 but lost to Councilman Eddie Osborne. Undeterred and still with eyes on the prize, Councilman Kelly beat Chigozie Onyema for the West Ward seat on the Newark city council. Hip-hop always wins and Kelly made sure he did that time! In winning his seat, Kelly became the first platinum-selling artist to hold a political office in the United States. I can go on and on about what he has done but whatever he has been involved with in the past, we just have to be prepared to see where he goes in the future. I got the chance to speak to the talented and educated man and he dropped some gems that anyone listening to can learn from. A year into office, he is still involved in making his community better. You can check out his website at duprekelly.com, his Instagram, or his Facebook page.

My Friends Are Better Than Yours: A Conversation With Markuann Smith, Executive Producer of Godfather of Harlem

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 14:20:45 +0000

This episode of My Friends Are Better Than Yours features a young man I've known for over 20 years. I've literally watched him grow up from being the younger brother of Uptown Records recording artist, Father MC to sharpening his skills while working at BET. And now, he is not only acting as Junie Byrd in the MGM+ series, Godfather of Harlem starring Forrest Whitaker but also the executive producer of the hit series drama. Markuann Smith is a New York City native who has been working in the industry for over 20 years. He got his start when he went on tour traveling the world with the likes of Tupac, Toni Tony Tone, Digital Underground, and Boyz II Men. Markuann never gave up his dream of becoming an actor. He also worked in reality television as the Presenter of VH1's Let's Talk About Pep, which starred Pep of the legendary hip-hop recording group, Salt N' Pepa. You can even see Markuann on Chappelle's Show, Juice, Poetic Justice, Code Blue, and A Good Day to Die. You can get a more in-depth interview with him from the Black Enterprise interview, ⁠Actor and Executive Producer Markuann Smith Tells the Real Story Behind ‘Godfather of Harlem.’⁠ We got a chance to talk about the recent season of Godfather of Harlem and his journey in the entertainment industry.

A Conversation with 19 Keys

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 22:04:20 +0000

The latest technology that seems to be on people’s minds is artificial intelligence. With the sudden rise of popular social media apps utilizing AI tools, it’s important that we get on board before it takes off. The Wrap reported that the November launch of the ChatGPT app generated 672 million visits in January. That number placed the app within the Top 50 global websites. With the recent announcement by Google that they will be releasing their own ChatGPT alternative, the competition is escalating. With information like this, it’s apparent that we need to focus on the latest technology, and 19 KEYS, a high-level thought leader who has a solid following based on his teachings and knowledge, knows that AI is the next big thing. 19 KEYS is the host of the hit podcast High Level Conversations, which is on the Earn Your Leisure Network. He is also the co-founder of The Block World Order (BWO), Goldewater, and Crownz Society. The knowledge he bestows upon his listeners makes him valued for all that he does for creating wealth and knowledge for those who want to create their own businesses. He is also determined to educate the younger generation in terms of creating wealth. With a growing audience that continues to tune in for what he has to say, he has recently obtained more than 22 million views, half a billion impressions, and 12 million watch hours. As we touched on myriad topics, one of the most important ones focused on artificial intelligence, with a look toward what’s next. Although it’s already here, we as Black people, who typically latch on to new things at the onset, must be prepared to not only know the importance of AI, but to start learning all aspects about it as the rest of the world plays catch up. 19 KEYS has been speaking about the significance of this latest technology as he wants people to be ahead of the curve. The shift is necessary as this is now “the next big thing.”

A Conversation With Bradd Marquis

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 04:11:12 +0000

BIG CED of The Industry Cosign got an opportunity to talk to recording artist, Bradd Marquis. The conversation centered around the upcoming tour that the singer is about to embark on starting on January 20th. The name of the tour is "The Music of Sam Cooke- A Change Is Gonna Come." The show will start in Texas and work its way to Saratoga Springs, NY in February. We got a chance to discuss what audiences can expect when he arrives in their city and takes the stage. He also has a single that will debut on January 27th. His rendition of the Bob Dylan and Sam Cooke song, "Blowin' In The Wind." Bradd and I discussed the stylings of Sam Cooke and soul music in general. Bradd Marquis is a multi-talented entertainer (singer, actor, writer, and producer). Marquis utilizes his soulful tenor to captivate and inspire audiences from the very first note he belts out. Hailing from a time in music when soulful crooners like Marvin Gaye and Teddy Pendergrass monopolized the airwaves, this gifted vocalist, who is often compared to these legends, has honed in on their sounds and given life to today’s music. As a result, Bradd has graced sold-out stages all over the country, performing his signature classic tribute dedicated to soul icon, Sam Cooke. Possessing a tone, passion, and purpose that separates him from the legion of today’s male vocalists, Bradd has piqued the interest of all who witness the magic he brings to the stage. "THE MUSIC OF SAM COOKE - A CHANGE IS GONNA COME TOUR" STARRING BRADD MARQUIS January 20th - Charles W. Eisemann Center, Richardson TX <-January 26th - Corsicana Palace Theatre, Corsicana, TX<- January 27th - The Grand, Galveston Island TX January 28th - The Centrum at Cypress Creek Church, Spring, TX January 30th - Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville, AR January 31st - Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville, AR February 4th - Academy Center of the Arts Historic Theatre Lynchburg, VA February 17th - Universal Preservation Hall, Saratoga Springs, NY

The Industry Cosign Presents My Friends Are Better Than Yours Featuring Chi Ali

Sat, 07 Jan 2023 08:29:31 +0000

BIG CED of The Industry Cosign talks to The Fabulous Chi Ali, who is the youngest member of the Native Tongues (De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, Jungle Brothers, Black Sheep). Chi Ali has just started his own non-profit organization named Choices Have Impact. We talk about the reason he started it and how he has been keeping his life on the right path. Choices Have Impact is a gun violence prevention organization that focuses on building productive members of society by leading healthy lifestyles that are rooted in knowledge of self, discipline, and personal development. The organization believes that the union of man, woman, and child is the highest form of love community. The focus is on nurturing families and teaching success by providing resources and tools to make impactful decisions. As some may know, Chi-Ali was 16 when his first and only album was released and after climbing the Billboard charts in the early 90s, his rise to stardom came to a halt when one poor decision in 2000 changed the next 12 years of his life. A manhunt that went on for over a year featured Chi Ali on the hit TV show "America's Most Wanted" which inevitably lead to his capture in 2001. Chi Ali was released in August 2012. He left with an Associate’s Degree in Behavioral Sciences and his personal experiences within a system that is detrimental to the lives of millions of families in one of the wealthiest nations. Chi Ali vowed to himself to be a part of the solution to these communities. Chi Ali looks forward to impacting & uplifting people by sharing his story, experiences, life lessons, and knowledge by speaking around the country. He is currently an activist for prison reform, a mentor, and a motivational speaker. Several years ago, he became an author when he penned the book, "Another Kind of Freedom"

The Industry Cosign Presents 'My Friends Are Better Than Yours' Featuring DJ Kenny Parker of Boogie Down Productions

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 04:27:52 +0000

BIG CED of The Industry Cosign talks to DJ Kenny Parker of Boogie Down Productions. Kenny discusses the book he just wrote and released 'My Brother's Name Is Kenny: The Greatest True Hip-Hop Story Ever Told' The book is a tell-all written by Kenny about the upbringing of himself and his brother, KRS-One, who is considered to be one of the most lyrical Hip-Hop artists of the world. Kenny goes into detail about moments that shape the legendary career that he has been a part of from growing up in New York City to living in luxury at the famed Lenox Terrace in Harlem to becoming homeless. Watching his older brother start his career representing the Bronx when he made a diss track going at Queensbridge Project's MC Shan, Mr. Magic, and the Juice Crew. After releasing "South Bronx" and then the follow-up song, "The Bridge is Over" Kenny was alongside his popular brother as Boogie Down Productions made its mark in music history by trailblazing the art form and helping to take it to another level. Kenny Parker is the longtime DJ and music producer for the iconic hip-hop artist KRS-One & Boogie Down Productions. He is a native New Yorker and the younger brother of KRS-One. During his over 30-year music industry career, Kenny has performed more than one thousand concerts with KRS-One. His contributions helped KRS-ONE earn the first-ever Source Magazine Award for ‘Best Live Hip-Hop Performer’ in 1994. Kenny Parker has appeared in more than 20 music videos and performed over a dozen nationally televised events, ranging from VH1, MTV, BET, and PBS programs to ‘Soul Train’ and ‘The Arsenio Hall Show.’ Kenny became the first DJ and producer to appear on a reality show (MTV’s ‘The Real World’ – Season 1 Episode 2), producing two songs for the groundbreaking show. Kenny Parker is credited with more than 50 major label song releases and produced music for four Nike television commercials. The book “SP 1200, The Art & Science” featured Kenny for his pioneering use of the legendary SP 1200 drum machine. Kenny holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology. You can find out more about him at DJKENNYPARKER.COM.

The Industry Cosign Speaks to DJBabe, Owner and CEO of Motor City Popcorn

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 03:40:15 +0000

The Industry Cosign speaks to entrepreneur, Ronier Golightly, better known as DJBabe, Owner and CEO of Motor City Popcorn. The industry veteran is a business owner, DJ and author has been a budding entrepreneur since he started perfecting his talent on the turntables in 1984. He was an on-air radio mixer with WJLB (Detroit), Superadio syndication as well as both XM and Sirius before the two merged together. His entrepreneurship started when he was the owner of a well-known mixtape website - MixtapeDJs.net which distributed mixtapes from the top DJs and artists of that time. For the past 10 years, he has been running his gourmet popcorn business, Motor City Popcorn which today operates from its own retail storefront in Detroit and distributes its products to stores across the country including casinos in Las Vegas and Detroit, airports, museums, grocery stores and can be found inside of several Ford Motor auto plants. Earlier this year, DJBabe released his first book entitled "I Finally Wrote This Book", which is a collection of stories from his past as a DJ traveling the US and eventually transitioning to starting a popcorn brand.

A Conversation With Revolt’s Detavio Samuels and Combs Enterprise’s Deon Graham

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 04:34:15 +0000

The Revolt Summit landed in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia in September. As hundreds of up-and-coming artists, industry executives, and admirers of the culture gathered to gain and/or give knowledge, the heat wasn’t only outdoors. The conference provided opportunities for everyone to network with like-minded people as mostly Black entrepreneurs and artists were there to expand their businesses, to start their own, or to find a way to be further connected. This year’s theme was aptly titled, “The Future Is Now” and I got the opportunity to speak to Detavio Samuels, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Revolt, and Deon Graham, Chief Brand Officer for Combs Enterprises. Both busy men made themselves available to talk about the future that is being planned for both entities.

A conversation With Former New York Police Officer, Bill Foster

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 18:04:36 +0000

Just a brief conversation with a former police officer, Bill Foster

‘King of Stage’ Bobby Brown Relishes Recent Emergence as he and Wife Alicia Strive Toward Entrepreneurial Success

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 03:26:21 +0000

He was anointed the “King of Stage” after leaving the popular group New Edition to embark on his solo career in 1986. We all know the story of Boston’s own Bobby Brown as he released his first solo album that immediately scored a number one R&B hit in Girlfriend. Although that first single went to the top of the R&B chart, his next two singles did not do as well and the album wasn’t the commercial success anticipated. Now Brown faced the prospect of getting dropped and seeing his childhood friends continue to be a successful group without him. Going into the studio with hitmaker Teddy Riley and the production duo of L.A. Reid and Babyface, he came out with an explosive project, Don’t Be Cruel. Brown came back with arguably the best album recorded that year as it hit number one on the Billboard charts while being the highest-selling album of 1989. His roller-coaster career included drugs, stints in prison, and a reputation that personified his “Bad Boy” lifestyle all while losing the spark of the successful career he built over the years. Through the trials and tribulations of becoming a superstar, the “Brown Bomber” married and divorced Whitney Houston (Who died in 2012) and had a total of seven children, two of who passed away (Bobbi Christina, 21, died in 2015 and Bobby Jr., 29, died in 2020). Brown remarried Alicia Etheredge and the couple has three children. In 2018, BET released The Bobby Brown Story which told the story of the former New Edition member but, with the opportunity to tell his own story, he and his wife, Alicia elected to go with A & E to produce and release Biography: Bobby Brown earlier this year. After the release of the biography, the network also gave the duo a reality TV series that shows the Brown family in the present time, Bobby Brown: Every Little Step. Alicia explained why they went with the network as they allowed them the creative control needed to rightfully tell their story. “A&E came to us and was very open and allowed us to have creative control which was very important to us, obviously. Doing a show and series like we have and letting them into our homes, we wanted to do and show particular things, obviously, we wanted it to be authentic.” When the cameras aren’t rolling, the Browns are running their businesses which range from a food line called Bobby Brown Foods, which is sold in some stores and online. They just started a wellness line that features CBD and mushroom coffee, alkaline salt, and fiber regeneration all the products that dwell on self-care. During the summer, their seasoning line typically sells out as it is popular around the states where they are sold. Bobby also explains that this biography being told by him was “therapeutic.” “It’s definitely a relief” for him to get his side of the story out. “It was therapeutic, for me to be able to be to release things that bothered me in my past.” Brown definitely appreciates the accolades he’s been given over the years and he feels these latest releases are similar to how he felt when Don’t Be Cruel was initially released. He and Alicia are happy and excited about future projects which include other television work, another Bobby Brown album and the continuing of their product lines selling out.

‘The Definition of an Entrepreneur’ Featuring WGOHipHop Flavor’s Ken Murph & D-Mitch

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 02:30:47 +0000

In the first of a series that BIG CED from The Industry Cosign has started, ‘The Definition of an Entrepreneur’ features select individuals who have started their own businesses while staying true to their passion. This conversation features New York City natives Ken Murphy and Derek ‘D-Mitch’ Mitchell discussing how they started WGOHipHop Flavor and how they continue to pursue their passion for their business.