What Every Black Man Doesn't Have To Be by James A. Smith

Fellas, Fellas, it’s time for me to shed light on ways to get in the industry, without picking up a ball or a mic at that! There are so many careers in the music industry that get no shine, but are just as important. Positions on the executive level such as marketing, publicity, and accounting are all careers that can take you to the top. Most of all there's always the opportunity of being an entrepreneur, and working behind your own vision.

Being an executive can always guarantee you work because there's always a need for someone to market artists; maintain their image in the eye of the public, and for someone to manage financial accounts. That's why Aaron Reid, Jason Johnson and I founded the YEEC (The Young Entrepreneur Empowerment Coalition). Our mission through this organization is to help today's youth become tomorrow's successful leaders.

I'm not trying to discourage anyone from their dreams, just put you on to what else is out there in the hip hop/ music and entertainment industry besides being a rapper, producer, or even a DJ.  If you are that “ball player”, what will you do after your professional ball playing career?  Being a professional ball player or a rapper, has but only so many slots open.  However once you’re an executive or entrepreneur, sky is the limit.

Being an executive has afforded me the opportunity to help others with their dreams and work with Hip Hop Legends like Russell Simmons and Rev Run on a project very dear to me, New Voices Tour.