Swizz Beatz Wisdom

As an avid fan of music within so many genres, and being a creative and a business person; I love to see artists & producers expand their horizons by fusing their talents and business ventures together. It's funny because even though I'm young, my first introduction to hip hop was via DMX and the Ruff Ryders. I literally studied everything about them and I remember it was so crazy to me that Swizz Beatz, circa 2000 era, was requiring $100k to just step into a studio with an artist. Back then, as a young kid, I was amazed that a rap producer was accruing that type of income but fast forward to now, with endorsements from Lotus, Reebok, Christian Louboutin, and through his own artwork; I see that Swizz has just always understood the business aspect behind his talent. It's a powerful thing and I hope that all aspiring music artists and producers really pay attention to this guy. It's important to understand that behind the fun...there is a business that outlines it. So check out his interview that he did with the Breakfast Club this morning to gain some enlightenment from Mr. Beatz.  

Insight via Steve Stoute

It's not someone's responsibility to hear you, it's your responsibility to make sure they hear you. 

- Steve Stoute 

S.S. has cemented his position as a entrepreneur through the brands that he has created & the brands that he has enhanced, both in and outside of hip hop. A really insightful guy that I respect from a cultural and business standpoint because he decided to fill the void that corporate America didn't even realize they possessed. If you haven't, go pick up his book, The Tanning of America. It's a great read. 
Credit: Nesha 

INFLUENCERS - The Doc

"There's not a rulebook, there's not a manual...it's something inside that's saying, this is right."
- DAO-YI Chow 
Co-Founder of Public School 
INFLUENCERS FULL VERSION

In present society, there is a plethora of individuals who would rather duplicate the persona & style of others versus developing their own...which is pathetic to say the least, but I believe that is also the differential between the two. Influencers do not set out to acquire such a position, they are just naturally born into it. Yet with the influenced, they dance into their position by believing they are being an influencer even though they are imitating someone else. I know, crazy shit right? R+I Creative did an amazing job at highlighting the definitions of a true influencer with this documentary. They focused on influential creatives who are elevating our culture right now & I absolutely loved it. However, I would love to see this be extended  to include various demographics around the world, since this doc was only focused on NYC.

Check out more from R+I Creative here.