In this compelling conversation, acclaimed music producer and recording artist Anatome takes us deep into his artistic evolution. Drawing from rich influences like salsa, mambo, and Afro-Cuban jazz, Anatome explains why he initially chose not to incorporate these roots into his early work—offering thoughtful insight into how cultural identity and artistic exploration can intertwine. He reflects on the pivotal role his father played in igniting his passion for music, highlighting the personal lessons that shaped his creative foundation.

We also explore Anatome’s journey through his collaboration with iStandard Producers and his transformative move to Atlanta, a city whose vibrant music scene expanded his perspective and sharpened his sound. From navigating partnerships to adapting in a fast-paced industry, Anatome shares valuable reflections on staying relevant, building community, and evolving with integrity. This intimate dialogue unveils the many layers of his musical journey—equal parts heritage, hustle, and heart.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In our illuminating conversation with J. Dan—multi-talented music producer and recording artist—we explore the passion and persistence behind his journey into music. He reflects on the diverse influences that shaped his unique sound, offering a blend of genres and inspirations that set him apart in a competitive industry. J. Dan emphasizes the importance of deeply understanding one’s craft, explaining that true longevity in music comes not just from creating hits but from mastering the art form itself.

As an independent artist, he shares the highs and lows of wearing many hats—from creative to business strategist—while maintaining full artistic control. He provides a candid look into the world of online beat marketing, acknowledging its global reach but also the saturation it brings. J. Dan speaks openly about the need for patience in the music industry, reminding us that resilience, consistency, and growth are essential. Full of insight and authenticity, this conversation offers valuable lessons and inspiration for any artist navigating the independent path.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this engaging conversation, J. Wes—renowned singer, songwriter, and producer—opens up about his journey through the music industry, marked by resilience, passion, and bold independence. He reflects on the uphill battle independent artists face, candidly discussing the financial hardships, limited exposure, and the challenge of competing against major labels. Through personal stories and lived experiences, Wes provides a raw and honest look at what it takes to survive—and thrive—as an independent artist.

He fondly recalls his first live performance and the lessons it taught him about stage presence, authenticity, and audience connection. Wes also discusses the emotional weight of pursuing a music career, the courage it demands, and the value of learning from both criticism and praise. He offers insightful commentary on the evolution of trap music and its cultural impact, and teases what’s next—including a highly anticipated album with new collaborations and themes that reflect his artistic growth. This powerful conversation is filled with wisdom, inspiration, and a deeper look into the mind of a true creative force.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this insightful conversation, songwriter and radio host KB Tidwell shares her multifaceted journey through the music industry, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the art and complexity of co-writing. She breaks down the emotional intelligence required to navigate creative partnerships, emphasizing the importance of managing egos and prioritizing the integrity of the song above personal recognition. Her reflections reveal the delicate balance between collaboration and creativity in producing powerful, resonant music.

Tidwell also explores the nuanced differences between writing for R&B and Hip Hop, highlighting the unique demands each genre places on rhythm, structure, and lyrical tone. Shifting gears, she opens up about her radio show, Degrees and Chuck T's, discussing the challenges of content creation and technical production. Her honesty about the grind behind the mic adds depth to her story, offering an inspiring look at what it takes to thrive in both music and media.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Welcome to today’s conversation featuring the acclaimed music producer, Charity Work. From humble beginnings to championing the Space City Beat Battle, Charity’s rise in the industry has been nothing short of inspiring. Her victory at iStandard's Beast of the Beats solidified her status as a formidable talent, and it was during this time that she laid the groundwork for her visionary platform, God LVL—an initiative aimed at empowering the next generation of music creators.

One of her career highlights includes producing for lyrical powerhouse Cyhi The Prynce, an experience that sharpened her skills and deepened her understanding of the industry's inner workings. Charity also candidly discusses the challenges she’s faced as a female producer in a male-dominated space, sharing how overcoming doubt and stereotypes fueled her resilience. Her journey is a testament to determination, talent, and purpose—and serves as a beacon for future women in music production.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this engaging conversation, we dive into the journey of Rob Thomas—music producer, engineer, and DJ—whose path from a bedroom studio to a respected name in the industry is both inspiring and instructive. Rob walks us through the creative process behind his acclaimed album Ignorant Luxury, a genre-blending project that showcases his intricate production style and musical versatility. He also opens up about the challenges of selling beats online in a saturated market and how he developed smart strategies to stand out and thrive.

We further explore the highs and learning curves of artist collaborations, the necessity of maintaining personal boundaries in a demanding field, and the importance of self-care. Rob shares hard-earned wisdom on how to remain authentic in an industry that often chases trends, encouraging artists to find their own voice. His story is a powerful reminder that success in music comes not only from talent but also from intentionality, resilience, and staying true to one’s creative identity.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this illuminating conversation, we sat down with Jeff "Blactracks" Blackwell, Senior Advisor at Dynamic Producer, to explore his inspiring journey through the music industry. From his early passion for music to his pivotal role at Dynamic Producer—a company known for connecting artists and producers—Blackwell shared valuable insights shaped by years of hands-on experience. He discussed the company’s mission to foster talent and build impactful collaborations, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how meaningful connections drive exceptional music creation.

Our discussion covered essential industry topics, including the importance of mastering one's craft, understanding the cyclical nature of music trends, and building a personal brand that resonates in a crowded marketplace. Blackwell also emphasized the power of networking, offering actionable advice on how to become the “plug”—a vital connector within the music ecosystem. With charismatic storytelling and a deep well of knowledge, Blackwell delivered both inspiration and practical wisdom, making this conversation a rich resource for anyone navigating the music industry.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this intimate interview, multi-platinum producer Nick Fury takes us through his remarkable journey in the ever-evolving music industry. Known for his production on Lil Flip’s hit Game Over, Fury reflects on the creative milestones that helped shape his career. He shares a standout moment when Busta Rhymes paid $15,000 for one of his beats, a testament to the demand and respect his work commands. Behind his success lies not just talent, but resilience, vision, and a sharp instinct for musical direction—qualities Fury believes define a true producer.

Fury also opens up about the obstacles he’s faced, viewing them not as failures but as fuel for growth. He emphasizes resilience as a cornerstone of longevity in the music world. His appearance on DJs of Atlanta showcased his versatility beyond production, adding to his dynamic presence in the industry. Always one to give back, Fury offers heartfelt advice to aspiring creatives, encouraging them to stay committed, adaptable, and visionary in pursuit of their musical dreams.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this powerful conversation, acclaimed artist and songwriter Nashbi takes us through his compelling musical journey, rooted in his upbringing as a Seventh Day Adventist. He shares how the church profoundly influenced his artistic lens, while also presenting unique challenges as he navigated his place in hip-hop. With honesty and depth, Nashbi offers an unfiltered look at the industry's often-overlooked struggles, shedding light on the perseverance required behind the scenes of music’s glamorous façade.

A passionate advocate for mental health, Nashbi opens up about how music became his therapeutic outlet. His lyrics dive into themes of emotional complexity and self-discovery, creating songs that heal as much as they inspire. He also unveils the meaning behind the title of his latest album, offering a glimpse into his creative process and the life experiences that fuel his work. This intimate dialogue promises to enlighten and move listeners, revealing the heart of an artist devoted to authenticity and purpose.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Wes Toone, a seasoned music producer, director, and road manager, shares compelling stories from his dynamic career working with industry icons like Daron Jones of 112, Lil Mo, DMX, and Jadakiss. With a visionary mindset and a deep-rooted passion for music, Toone has carved out a distinctive path by making strategic decisions and embracing the industry's challenges head-on.

Emphasizing the value of hard work and teamwork, Toone champions a work ethic grounded in creating not just personal success, but value for others. His journey highlights the importance of dreaming big while staying prepared to seize opportunities. Through his experiences, Toone delivers a powerful message of perseverance, adaptability, and leadership—offering rich inspiration and guidance for aspiring creatives in the music world.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.