Author: Calvin R. Evans
Published: September 14, 2005
Tool: [ email ]
How did you get started in the music business? I've been into music ever since I was a
young child - from the school Glee Club to Christmas plays to the drummer of a Go-Go
Band (that's a D.C. thing). Music has always played a roll in my life in one shape or
another.
What made you decide to start a record label, and what challenges did you face
starting out? I started I-66 Entertainment because I've always been interested in the
behind the scene workings of music - actually entertainment all together. As I got more
involved in it (music), I realized how much work that really goes into running a
successful company. Though, at times, the business can become disheartening, I truly
enjoy the challenges that comes with it. The other reason is I just simply wanted to be
more in control of my career as an artist.
Gaining control over your career is definitely a good reason to venture into starting
your own label.
What are some of the things you look for in an artist that you want to sign? All the
artists we work with are Christian artists - recording Gospel music. You must have a
heart for ministry and very serious about your craft. A self-contained artist is always a
plus i.e., write their own material and/or produces their own music. An outgoing person
who is marketable and open to new ideas is definitely key as well.
In your opinion, what is the current state of Holy Hip-Hop? I think HHH is still in it's
infancy stages. though great strides have been made to move it forward and more artists
are being recognized for their efforts, I find we're still having to fight to get our own
(church) to understand and accept this true art-form of ministry.
How do you, as a label executive, marry ministry with business? As Christians, we
should all be striving to be about our Father's business. So being involved in the music
business shouldn't cause us to forget who we are and Who we truly are representing.
Integrity, honesty, selflessness, and obedience to God's word should not be put to the
side just for the sake of doing business. Also, we as Christians should hone our skills in
business as well - whether it's reading books about music, practicing on our craft,
attending seminars or taking classes -we should have knowledge about the business
we're in. So when we do step into the music arena, we're fully equipped to handle the
pressures that come.
True Indeed!
What advice do you have for aspiring artists? First, know that this is truly what God
has called you to do and if so, despite all the obstacles, continue to move forward in your
ministry. Times will get rough and at times it will seem like you're just spinning your
wheels but God's promises to you will not return unto Him void.
There are tons of artists out there with a passion for ministry and love hip-hop that
I think are speaking to directly with that statement.
What do you recommend for an artist who is trying to get into the business to do in
order to get noticed by a label? Again, know that this is where you're supposed to be.
If so, perform at as many places as you can. that even includes performing for FREE!!
If you're passionate about it (and I'm sure you are) whether you're getting paid or not
won't be an issue. Try to meet as many people as you can - this business is truly a who
you know kind of business. Do favors for folks - and don't be afraid to ask questions.
There are folks out there who would love to be a mentor to you and to see you succeed.
But whatever you do, don't give up!!
You make some very good points with that brother. There are too many artists who
miss opportunities to touch lives because they refuse to perform if they are not
getting paid.
Now success in any genre of the music business is determined, at least in large part,
on how many records you sell. How do you measure a successful artist in the Holy
Hip-Hop field in terms of units sold? That's a hard question to answer. by industry
standard anything less than Gold could be cause for a label to drop an artist. But because
HHH is a different type of machine, a success in unit sales can be as little as 30-40
thousands units. But ultimately, it's what you deem to be a success or failure. but strive
to reach your goals no matter what it looks like to others. Trust God and follow-thru with
your plan.
