Promotions are a very big part of the success of an artists. If your promotion game is not done correctly it could cost you millions, but even worst, it could cost your career. Timing is critical. Say you release your cd around the same time a major is about to drop. His sales could take away from your sales costing you thousands as a indie.
Or say you live in DC and you have a show scheduled next month in the ATL. You would want to start promoting in Hotlanta up to 30 days prior to when your show is. (10-15 days before if your working on a limited budget) These are just a few examples of how promotions play a big part in your biz, product or service.
That being said I have the utmost pleasure of introducing you to a very big figure behind the scenes in the music industry. His business is promotions, but that's no comparison to the experience and knowledge he has accumulated over the years.
He has dealt with numerous and certifiable individuals within and around the music industry. Deathrow Records, DJ Colombo, DJ Kay Slay are only a few of the industry insiders he has ties to. If you need to get connected he's the one you need to see.
So without further delay I introduce you to:
Ezy The Godfather
A name that suits him very well considering how connected he is to the music industry.
So Ezy, what is it that you do?
I'm a writer, promoter and resource for entrepreneurs in the music industry.
And around how long have you been doing promotions?
I've been doing this since 99'
Your currently in Boston, is that where your Promotions company began?
No, It started in Miami.
What was it that made you want to get in promotions?
I fell into it. I sold CDs, I was a manager, I booked shows and I was doing everything myself.
What areas do your services cover? For instance, if you have a artist or a business that wants you to promote them in say New York when they are all the way in LA could your services help them?
We cover everywhere the money takes us. Your product has to be fire for me to promote you with all I got. We will fly anywhere and we have hundreds of street teams nationwide.
You have numerous connections in the game and way to many to name. But what are some of the projects that our currently keeping you busy?
I have the Music Powers situation. I am starting an online store with Cirocco Jones. (For those of you who don't know Cirroco Jones is a Multi-Platinum Producer who has made hits for icons like Michael Jackson) I also have a situation with MTV Music.
So what percentage of the industry do you work with?
I'd say 50%, and they are real people.
So what do you look for when an artist approaches you for help with promoting them?
I want a artist to put in as much work as he can. He has to be hungry. I can't be the only one doing the work he has to hold his side to.
So what are your services going for?
Right now the online package rates are going for $75-$200. That's only for the online store. Services include things like a full bio and a written review of your music.
If an artist wanted to, could they have their album or products reviewed directly by you?
Yes, the going rate right now is $35
Your package rates online are incredibly affordable, but if an artist has the potential but can't afford your rates would you still work with them?
I've done favors for artists in the past so it depends on what mood I'm in. I don't have time for bulls@#!t.
I'm sure you have an extensive knowledge in the music industry. What are some of the pieces that make up your music background?
I've been a rapper, CEO of 2 labels, a manager, producer, and a mastering engineer amongst other things.
Is there any advice you can give to a someone who is interested in getting into the promoting game?
Find your own product. Promote that product and be prepared to spend a lot of time and a lot of effort.
If an artist needed to get in contact with you how could they reach you?
You were supposed to promote Korrupts album but it didn't fall threw, can you explain what happened?
Yea, they wanted me to promote the album down south. They wanted to give me 500 copies and wanted it done in 2 weeks. They just weren't feeling west coast rap down south at the time. It would have been impossible to complete the task within 2 weeks.
This interview was conducted live over the phone. After talking with Ezy, he came across as someone with massive knowledge about the music industry. He is very humble with his surroundings and his experience in various endeavors makes him "The Godfather" at what he does. His passion to help those ,trying to make the best of their situation, comes across instantly once you speak with him.
If your a artist, DJ, manager etc and you have a brand or logo that you want the world to know about, you must find Ezy. He has 100s upon 100s of street teams ready to go. He takes his job very seriously. If your project doesn't have mass appeal its going to be hard to persuade him to promote your product. But for those of you who can, Ezy The Godfather is a heavy resource for your promotional campaigns.
By Jamaal West
