Creative Counts 20

Interview by Ketia Jeune | with Baylee Bennett

How do you feel like your college background in pre pre law helps you with your career today? Or does it?

It’s given me some seriously sharp research skills—I'm totally fearless when it comes to digging into anything and everything, and I’m not afraid to track down the right people and get the answers I need. This has been a game-changer, especially when you mix it with my background in law. I’ve tackled everything from business law to constitutional law, so I’ve spent a lot of time reading case law and understanding how things play out in a legal context. But what’s really powerful is how this ties into advocating for myself. In pre-law, you learn how to represent clients, but it’s also about learning to stand up for your own interests. This skill has been invaluable in navigating the industry, and it’s a tool I use when advocating for my clients too. It all connects—it’s about being strategic, informed, and confident in my ability to represent both myself and others.

I actually considered becoming an entertainment attorney myself! It’s fascinating how attorneys are always negotiating deals and opportunities for their clients. I imagine your pre-law background gives you an edge, especially when it comes to navigating conversations with the endless stream of people that come with the talent side of things.

With rap and hip-hop constantly evolving, how do you stay ahead of emerging trends, and how does that influence the artists you work with?

Becoming a friend to creatives is key. I’m surrounded by incredibly talented people working on everything from music video treatments to cover art, and they always have a sense of what's next. It’s not just about data or analytics, but staying in tune with what fans genuinely care about—seeing an artist they’ve supported succeed. Fans today want to root for someone and feel involved in their journey, which makes being a fan exciting. It’s about creating that anticipation and energy, like the buzz around something fresh and evolving, rather than exhausting a fanbase with endless wait. It’s the next-level creativity that keeps people engaged and makes the journey fun.

Exactly, it's all about word of mouth—the original blueprint of marketing that never fades. No AI tool can replace what people are saying, and it all starts underground. I also love what you said about creative friendships. Sometimes, it's less about connecting with stars and more about growing with those alongside you. That’s where the real growth happens.

So, what made you decide to get into A&R, and what’s a typical day like for you?

What drew me to A&R was the chance to be an architect of an artist’s career from all angles—marketing, PR, digital, and beyond. A&R isn’t just about picking beats anymore; it’s about crafting the entire story and rollout. Every day is busy, juggling so many different aspects of an artist’s journey. A&R has evolved a lot—it’s no longer just about discovering talent or finding the right sound in the studio; it's about shaping an artist’s brand, strategy, and narrative across multiple platforms. Working with female artists has been especially rewarding—it’s a challenge I relate to on a personal level, navigating the gender dynamics of the industry.

That’s an interesting point—it's like creating a space within an industry that’s often overlooked or limited by traditional barriers for women. It’s about building our own community and making sure our voices are heard in a space that hasn’t always made room for us.

If you had to pick one rap song that encapsulates your life or would be your personal anthem, what would it be?

King TROUP by Young Thug

That’s a fire choice, for sure. So, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to break into the music industry?

Don’t be afraid to admit when you don’t know something. Then, work ten times harder than everyone else to learn what you don’t know. Be an over-communicator—ask questions relentlessly, be persistent, and yes, even be a bit obnoxious if that’s what it takes. Seriously, be insane about it! Don’t hesitate to ask every day and push yourself to learn more. Don’t be afraid to admit when you don’t know something. Then, work ten times harder than everyone else to learn what you don’t know. Be an over-communicator—ask questions relentlessly, be persistent, and yes, even be a bit obnoxious if that’s what it takes. Seriously, be insane about it! Don’t hesitate to ask every day and push yourself to learn more.

Honestly, a lot of it is convincing—convincing people to listen to you, believe in your ideas, and get on board with your vision. It’s all about connecting the dots and finding creative ways to expand an artist’s influence, whether through sound, fashion, or reaching new fanbases. It’s not glamorous; it’s about strategy and persistence.

The convincing part can be challenging because I’m so passionate about my ideas and truly believe in them. But I see it as part of the process, and it pushes me to keep refining my approach. Thanks so much for your time!