Just A Thought 💭
I saw an interview with Kendall Jenner ( I know, I know, But just…Okay). In the interview, she talks about having a picture of herself as a little girl on her mirror that she looks at every morning; and every day that she see’s that picture she reminds herself that that little girl is who she is living for. She said, “I would never let anyone harm, or hurt that lil girl, and so I have to remember not to hurt her as well.”
Y’all, to be honest, I am the most tired I have been in a long time. The grind is fucking real, and I have not had the time I need to write this month’s newsletter in the way that I want to. I’m fighting the urge to feel disappointed in myself. In my head, all I hear is the grind must go on, you gotta be on your shit, but stressing myself out, and being overcritical of every move I physically can’t make wouldn’t be fair to that little boy that I’m trying to protect.
I think that’s my short but truly felt message today; keep going, but take care of yourself. I’ll be the first one to say that building an empire when you didn’t come from one is damn near impossible. It’s hard to stay sane and be the best that you can be all while trying to fucking survive. Life can, and oftentimes will be a beautiful struggle. But like one of my favorite online videos states, “It is what it is…” You got this. Take it day by day, and give yourself grace; and remember to protect that little kid that’s inside of you, because in the end, them being proud of you is the only thing that matters.
Helping Others In Their Glow-Up
Months ago I launched the creative services division of my company. My goal is and has always been to help others in attaining their goals. I have been so blessed to work with some amazing artists, and I hope to work with many more. Below is an example of the work that happens in a performance coaching session with me. Though I have many services, this is my favorite one.
I’m extremely thankful to Ciph Boogie for trusting me in our sessions, and for allowing me to share this moment with you.
If you want to take your set goals and reach them as a creative, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Indie Music Podcast Anyone?
One of the mantras I live by is, “Your process is your own”. While that’s true, I also think there’s a lot of value and community to be gained from hearing about others’ processes, and that’s in part why I created The Process, a podcast where we explore the moments and experiences that shape creatives, and on that helps answer the question: “How are dope artists made?”
Listen to my first five episodes with indie artists Precious Gorgeous, ReeCee Raps, Mandella Eskia, Natalie Carr, and Arie; as we dissect their journeys to become the artists and people they have become.
Listen to The Indie Glow-Up Playlist
Discover the best, the brightest, and the future of the music industry with ESMAF’s Indie Glow-Up Playlist: a monthly playlist that highlights 15 phenomenal artists on the glow-up from all walks of music!
This month’s playlist includes artists like Stacey Ryan, Amber Mark, Convict Julie, Lala, and more!
Upcoming NYC Shows!
🎟️ May 20th @nublu NYC featuring: Nik Moody & Kerry BLu
Concerts in Random Places
Have you checked out our new digital concert series Concerts in Random Places, yet?
Concerts in Random Places allows viewers the opportunity to witness amazing artists from all over the world performing their favorite songs in small businesses and local establishments of NYC!
You can now watch and listen to R&B songstress Emelia Vero and 2022 festival headliner Juice perform live.
Top 3 Glow-Up Tips Of The Month
Are you trying to figure out how to navigate the music industry all on your own? Looking to understand how getting a booking agent works, or how to get your music synced with TV, movies, and more? Then check out How To Make It In The New Music Business. A podcast created by musician and author Ari Herdstand that gives detailed information on everything music business related.
Looking for jobs in the music industry? The checkout The Digilogue, a diverse global music and tech community that programs career resources, artist discovery content, and educational conversations.
Looking for great rates on music rehearsal spaces? Check out Pirate Studios. A community of 24-hour spaces that spans over 700 locations worldwide housing recording studios, rehearsal spaces, and more! Save 20% on your rental when you book morning sessions!