the "Stay Tuned" blog had the opportunity to sit down with NickeyFresh, an up and coming manager/booking agent/event coordinator who works in the New York and Connecticut areas. For the purpose of this interview, we decided to focus on what makes her a good decision maker in the hard ball game of the entertainment industry. She is a very talented individual who is holding her own as a female in a "man's world". Let's listen in....
Who are you influences when it comes to music?
Music wise two of my biggest influences are Michael Jackson and my uncle Don. My uncle was a dj. He had me in the studio every since I was seven. I been in love with music every since. He passed away last summer so now I feel it if my responsibility to carry out his legacy and take it to the next level. As far as Michael Jackson, his work just speaks for itself. R.I.P to the both of them.
As for a business was Oprah Winfrey and Russell Simmons are my two big influences. They are two powerful African American people who came from a tough background and made something of themselves. I love their drive and passion for everything they do. I also love the way they give back and like to help other people.
Two things you love about the industry?
I can honestly say that the only thing I really dislike about the music industry is how they try to commercialize artist. I love the individuality of artist. Music to be is all about being yourself, expressing whatever emotion you need to express at the moment and most importantly having fun.
Anything you dislike about the industry?
I think some labels are put a lot of pressure on their artist and put some restrictions on their music out of fear that it won’t sale.
What are some projects you are working on?
Currently I am working with my team, Starque Ent. We have two male rap artists. One of them is Dee Jonez, who has done shows with B.o.B and Corey Gunz. He currently has an EP on iTunes entitled dO.Ob. Then there is Young Steady, the newest member of the team. He is currently working on his first mixtape. Outside the team I work with other artist like KoMika, Lady Angel & B.O.$.$. They are all currently in the studio working on new music.
How do you promote your talent/artists?
I promote my artist every way possible, from word of mouth, internet (twitter, facebook, myspace), shows, and just pushing their music out there.
What advice would you give those trying to make it in your position?
The thing I would tell those two are trying to make it is just true to yourself. It is not going to happen overnight but you just have to be dedicated and keep pushing yourself. And most importantly just have fun!!!
As a manager, you work to make decisions & negotiate on an everyday basis. Do your emotions ever get in the way or play a factor in your negotiations?
Sometimes it’s hard not to let you emotions get in the way because when you’re working so close with your artist you become friends. And I personally take my friendships seriously so when I am making business decisions I want the best for them. But at the same time I know it’s about the business and we all have to make certain scarifies. It’s hard but I’m still learning.
How often do you reach a mutual benefit when you are deal making, if ever?
Making deals is hard and some people try to get over on you. Being a female I run into a lot of male in the industry that come at me like I may not know much. But I tend to surprise them when they realize I am about my business and they can’t get over on me.
Do your try to negotiate with objective criteria (points that would benefit both sides)?
When I negotiate I try to be fair at all times but at the same time my main interest is my artist so if it doesn’t feel good then we have to go back to the drawing board and come up with another play.
You can check out NickeyFresh at DaMan Productions, Starque Ent, or follow her on Twitter @NickeyFresh
