Every since I was a senior in High School I had a dream of interning for Diddy at Bad Boy. Interning at Bad Boy was just a dream at that point and no type of action followed. Once I became a freshman in college at Claflin University that dream grew bigger but I didn’t know where to start so I put it on a back burner. In 2012 one of my favorite rappers Meek Mill was doing a concert at South Carolina State University and long story short I managed to speak to him. Meek took a interest in me and immediately I started working with his cousin Omelly. While working with Omelly I started throwing college parties and I made a name for myself around campus and the city. After working hard I finally got the opportunity of a life time to intern at Bad Boy by Roger Bonds, Diddy’s former head of security and currently a national ambassador for Ciroc Vodka. As time passed I succeeded at Bad Boy and was rewarded numerous times. After I left Bad Boy I went on to intern at Roc Nation and learned all I can learn about the industry. Fast forwarding I’m here introducing you my own R&B label Bari Entertainment.
What ignited the spark in you to start a new business venture or to make significant changes in an existing business?
How did the idea for your business come about?
I always had a uncommon passion to become an music industry executive, develop upcoming artists, and produce classic R&B music through my own record label. I knew this "dream" was going to be challenging so I studied the executives that came before me; then I came up with my own play followed by a plan.
What were the biggest initial hurdles to building your business and how did you overcome them?
My biggest initial hurdles were simply being too hungry. To hungry to succeed to the point where my actions became Reckless. I began to move based on excitement and enthusiasm opposed to strategy. I overcame when I fell flat on my back and had to hit the reset button.
Did you ever deal with contention from your family and friends concerning your entrepreneurial pursuits?
How did you handle it? What would you do differently in hindsight?
Absolutely. When you’re in the heat of the moment during those type of discussions the only thing that matters to you is your dreams opposed to reality which in my opinion is what makes it contention. The way I handled it and encourage others to handle it is to understand that your family has most likely been in your shoes before. Your family also has much more wisdom, so instead of getting mad I looked at it as a blessing and in hindsight they’re advice was always correct.
What would you say was the single most influential factor in your business success?
The most influential factor was and is inspiring others. On my rise, I posted everything on Instagram. To have at least 300 genuine consistent supporters that supported me from my first internship to now express their proudness in my growth means a lot. Also seeing my growth shows them and others than if he can do something and stick to it; I can also.
What do you know today that you wish you would have known when you first got started as an entrepreneur?
Wow…I wish I would’ve known the importance of work place politics in the music industry, how to maneuver through workplace vultures in the music industry and how to massage relationships in the music industry. Keep in mind during this time I’m speaking of I was only 18 years old.
What advice would you give to an upcoming young and old entrepreneur locally and internationally?
My best advice would be to do your history first. Study the ones that your trying to pattern in a sense and then come up with a plan and give it your all. It’s also important to not stay discouraged when faced with tough times. How can I not forget…you must be very strategic and not allow yourself to move off of instinct but instead move off of ration.
