In this episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Serona Elton—professor, industry executive, and Director of the Music Industry Program at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music. With a career that includes leadership roles at EMI and Warner Music Group, and her current work with the Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC), Serona brings a deep well of knowledge on music rights, royalties, and industry education. She shares her journey from aspiring performer to music licensing expert, offering insight into how understanding the mechanics of the business is essential for today’s artists.

The conversation explores the evolving challenges in the music industry, including the impact of artificial intelligence on copyright, the legal complexities of music licensing, and the vital role of organizations like the MLC in ensuring artists are paid what they’re owed. Serona also breaks down key legislation like the Music Modernization Act and highlights why artist development and education are more important than ever. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about navigating the business side of music with clarity and confidence.

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In this episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with the dynamic Butta B Rocka—an internationally acclaimed recording artist, author, playwright, and philanthropist. From touring with legends like Usher and Bobby Brown to reinventing herself after a life-altering car accident, Butta shares her remarkable journey through the music industry. She emphasizes the critical need for artist development and continuous growth, shedding light on the mental and emotional resilience required to thrive as an independent creative.

Beyond her musical accomplishments, Butta B Rocka has built a powerful legacy as a best-selling author and playwright, while also leading a nonprofit that supports homeless college students. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, reinvention, and using one’s platform to make a lasting impact. This inspiring conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to turn adversity into opportunity and purpose into action.

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In this episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with nine-time Billboard-charting artist, producer, and engineer Davis Chris. A Houston native and co-owner of DFD Music, Davis shares his powerful journey from serving in the U.S. Navy to collaborating with music heavyweights like Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, and Yo Gotti. He discusses how his military background instilled the discipline and drive that fuel his creative success today, along with his passion for mentoring emerging talent.

Davis opens up about genre-bending production, the future of AI in music, and why understanding music theory still matters. He reflects on the highs and lessons of Billboard success, emphasizing the values of consistency, humility, and collaboration. Whether you're an aspiring artist or a music enthusiast, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a sustainable and dynamic career in the ever-evolving music industry.

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In this episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated songwriter and CEO of The Mezzo Agency, Tami LaTrell. From her early days as a performer to penning hits for icons like Whitney Houston and Keyshia Cole, Tami shares the pivotal moments that shifted her path from center stage to behind the scenes. She recounts the life-changing call that confirmed Whitney would record one of her songs, and how that moment sparked her deeper purpose in the industry.

Tami also discusses her evolution into a leading voice for music rights, founding The Mezzo Agency to help creators recover unclaimed royalties and protect their intellectual property. With over $1 million in royalties redistributed to date, her boutique firm stands as a powerful advocate for independent artists. This episode is both a masterclass in music business strategy and an inspiring reminder of how purpose, persistence, and legal knowledge can turn passion into long-lasting impact.

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In this episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Angel Soto, CEO of Benton Entertainment and a cornerstone of Tampa’s music scene. From spinning records as a DJ in the early '90s to launching Benton Records in 2001, Angel shares how his love for music evolved into building a vital hub for DJs, artists, and producers across the region. As the digital era reshaped the industry, he navigated the difficult closure of his record store and emerged stronger by founding Benton Entertainment in 2014—now home to over 400 titles and more than 40 artists and songwriters.

The conversation offers a deep dive into Angel’s roots, including his early exposure to radio through his godfather in Colombia, and his passion for connecting creatives through events like the Tampa Music Conference. He reflects on the challenges of transitioning from vinyl to digital and the lessons learned along the way. Angel’s story is one of resilience, adaptation, and unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation of music professionals. Tune in for a powerful look at how passion and reinvention can sustain a lifelong impact in the music industry.

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In this dynamic episode of The Indie Unplugged, hosts B. Vaughan and Yohance sit down with the genre-blending powerhouse International Nova. Hailing from the Bronx and now based in Atlanta, Nova shares his remarkable journey from gritty New York beginnings to becoming a Billboard-charting artist. Known for his seamless fusion of Latin, dancehall, R&B, and Afrobeat, Nova reflects on his early influences, his time with the group Street Corner, and the cultural tapestry that helped him craft his signature sound. With collaborations alongside icons like Ne-Yo and Petey Pablo, Nova’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and unwavering authenticity.

The conversation dives deep into the realities of navigating the music industry, the value of meaningful relationships, and the significance of staying true to one's voice. Nova speaks candidly about personal growth, the lessons learned from both triumphs and setbacks, and how music has served as a universal language in his life. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the grind behind the spotlight and the resilience it takes to thrive as an independent artist in today’s evolving music landscape.

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In this powerful episode of The Indie Unplugged, B. Vaughan sits down with the legendary Dr. Antwan “Amadeus” Thompson Sr.—multi-platinum producer, CEO of Platinum Boy Music, and a cornerstone of the iconic Bad Boy Hitmen production team. With credits spanning artists like Jennifer Lopez, Chris Brown, 50 Cent, and Trey Songz—whom he also serves as musical director and tour drummer—Amadeus shares an inspiring look at his journey from the Bronx streets to global stages. He reflects on how music became his refuge, and how sheer determination, from church drums to studio sessions, paved his way to his first major break with Foxy Brown.

Amadeus offers a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into his dynamic relationship with Trey Songz, revealing what it takes to lead live shows at the highest level night after night. The conversation also explores the pressure of sustaining greatness in the ever-evolving music industry and his unwavering drive to give fans unforgettable performances. Wrapping up the episode, Amadeus speaks about the future of Platinum Boy Music and his passion for mentoring the next generation of creatives. It’s an essential listen for music fans, producers, and aspiring professionals looking to learn from one of the industry’s most consistent and respected forces.

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In this engaging episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Brandon "Plan B 85" Ross—music producer, recording engineer, and founder of 1985 Music—to unpack his dynamic journey through the music industry. From playing drums in his grandmother’s church to landing placements on MTV’s Guy Code, Catfish, and scoring Tyler Perry’s Sistas, Brandon reflects on how his passion was shaped by early influences like his singer-songwriter mother and his self-taught approach to production. His story is one of grit, evolution, and staying true to his creative instincts.

The conversation dives deep into Brandon’s philosophy on authenticity in sync licensing, the power of creative freedom, and why the music he enjoys making tends to open the biggest doors. He also shares his commitment to mentoring emerging producers and the inspiration behind his brand, 1985 Culture—a fusion of music and fashion rooted in personal expression. Whether you're a producer looking to break into sync or just curious about what it takes to build a sustainable music career, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and real-world advice from a creator who’s doing it his own way.

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In this captivating episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan and guest co-host Yohance sit down with Jay Fooley Beatz—a talented music producer and engineer from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, now making his mark in Atlanta. Jay takes us on a journey through his musical roots, shaped by legends like Barry White and the Isley Brothers, and shares how his early exposure to soulful sounds laid the foundation for his signature style. From his 2017 move to Atlanta to navigating one of the most competitive music scenes in the country, Jay reflects on the cultural transitions that have shaped both his identity and his sound.

The conversation dives into Jay Fooley's creative process, his passion for community-building, and the lessons he's learned from the grind of the Southern hip-hop circuit. Whether he's engineering tracks or mentoring the next wave of talent, Jay offers a transparent look at what it takes to build longevity in music. With valuable takeaways for producers, artists, and music entrepreneurs alike, this episode is a powerful exploration of authenticity, hustle, and staying grounded while leveling up.

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In this thought-provoking episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Mogul Mal—a hip-hop artist, producer, podcaster, and community activist whose roots trace back to the historic Black Wall Street in Oklahoma. Now based in Atlanta, Mogul Mal reflects on how his upbringing and environment shaped both his music and mission. With powerful storytelling and a bold voice, he unpacks the influence of culture, history, and geography on his creative identity.

At the heart of the conversation is Mal’s latest project, Black in Amerikkka, a Juneteenth release that channels personal experience into poignant social commentary. The episode explores how he uses music not just as a form of expression, but as a vehicle for advocacy and change. From community empowerment to industry navigation, Mogul Mal offers sharp insight into the artist’s role in today’s social climate and the importance of mastering the business to amplify the message.

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