#LifeofaCEO

The power isn't just in having the dream, but in believing in Him who gave it. Ecclesiastes 5:7

Had the privilege of hearing from and sharing with these brothers on everything from music to authenticity to serving people. We just had... ...a different conversation.

"Each one, teach one...or a few..." Last weekend, I had the privilege of starting the first of three free music business workshops that I'll be leading for the "I AM Music" series. The series, created, by myself and my team here at The Inaxxs Group, focuses on educating and empowering current and aspiring musicians and music professionals. The first workshop began with the complex discussion and defining of music publishing. Given my close to a decade of music publishing experience, even I knew that the discussion was going to be filled with questions, misunderstandings, and misinterpretations. In the end, it was the start of a great beginning to demystifying publishing.

**For more info on The Inaxxs Music Business Conference, check out www.imbc.nyc and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram - imbcnyc.

Ever since I had the privilege of listening to his music, attending his album listening session here in New York, and speaking with him, I have been a supporter of Jonathan McReynolds. When I heard that he had released this EP, Sessions, I knew that I had to get it. While every song isn't stripped down to just vocals and guitar, there is something that occurs when he's in his element. It's simply "pure oil". Make sure you you get this.

I've always enjoyed and admired the vocal power, dynamics, energy, and presence of Jazmine Sullivan. However this performance has got to be one of the most thrilling yet. Check it out.

If you thought that NYC Christian hip-hop was gone, welcome it back with Richard Dauphin.

I like good music just like everyone else. I had the opportunity to see this young lady perform at my good friend Odane Whilby’s monthly event here in NY called The_Ology and she performed this song live (check out the video here) - a true mash-up of two phenomenal songs - Titanium (David Guetta & Sia) and Ready, Aim, Fire (Mali Music). Part of the dynamic group Livre, Hambrick indeed represents that she is a force all her own. Check out the record for yourself.

God ultimately wants us all to embrace the future that He has promised us from the beginning. The key to that future is Jesus. By accepting what He did on the cross, we accept the key to everlasting life as a citizen of The Kingdom of God. The reason why many people can’t unlock their futureis because they’re juggling their own keys instead of accepting what The One True Key did, does, and grants them. S/O to @risenapparel​ for this. (Jeremiah 29:11; Ephesians 1:3-4; John 3:16-17)

In this video, Andy sums up the struggle best. In short, he points out how we as believers either make music for the church or from the church and oftentimes realize that both cannot operate in each other’s space. Perhaps that is why it is so important for us to embrace that each one of us is in our process and while we may have God on the inside of us, we have yet to come into full maturation of who He is.

If you haven’t heard this song, you’re doing yourself a disservice. 

So, if you’re not familiar with my good friend Kadeem Nichols, it’s okay, just make sure you get to know him. Besides putting out a great first (and FREE) project called, The Unusual, he comes out with this amazing Christmas EP entitled, The Thought That Counts. My only issue with this is that it’s too short and you’ll feel the same because the brother is really talented. He gives two all time faves - This Christmas and Christmas Time - and throws an original in there to round it out - Found in You. Get in the Christmas cheer and definitely take a listen here.

Check out the song and keep an eye out for this sister. She definitely will make you a believer that all things are possible.

Friday afternoon vibe out music: Catching @thesealbreakers ode to one of the most famous (and my favorite - no shade, promise) and memorable of #NYC boros, #Brooklyn. BIG UP to BROOKLYN MASSIVE! #lifemusic #LifeofaCEO #stillgettingthatworkin

Leuca, an up and coming artist from Long Island, drops a video of a song that brings back the essence of hip-hop. He’s a believer and he got bars. Check him out on Off the Chest.

So last night I went to see Jeff Staple chop it up with Steve Harrington at Urban Outfitters Herald Square store. With a packed crowd, the two talk about the humble and unique rise of Street Dreams Magazine and creating compelling content. It was great to hear from two guys who are seriously passionate about content compare notes on everything from Snapchat to their fanboy experiences.