Interview with OGPR's own Nancy Byron!
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INTERVIEW WITH LEGENDARY PUBLICIST NANCY BYRON!
1. Most interviews don't start off like this but, how are you today Nancy?
I'm stressed, as usual. SXSW is kicking my ass and I have a big week of media in NYC with my client, Marcus Manchild next week.
2. If someone walked up to you on the street and asked, what do you do? What would you say to them?
"A lil of this, a lil of that.' Seriously, my official role is that of publicist meaning I rally up media attention and interviews for entertainers, primarily rap artists. Truthfully, depending on the project I am so much more. I am very good at connecting dots and because I have been doing this for so long, a lot of dots present themselves. This can mean anything from booking shows at certain venues to facilitating music on video games or linking up with clothing endorsements. It has to be the right artist though. I know them when I find them.
3. How long have you been in the entertainment industry?
I have been in it for about 16 years in various capacities. I started on a serious note in the marketing department of New Line Cinema. From there I went to Warner Bros. Feature Films where I was a movie publicist and then music publicist to the feature film department. Everything I know about the music game and music PR is self taught. I have never worked at a label.
4. How did you begin your career? What inspired you to become what you are today?
I started on a serious note in the marketing department of New Line Cinema. From there I went to Warner Bros. Feature Films where I was a movie publicist and then music publicist to the feature film department. Everything I know about the music game and music PR is self taught. I have never worked at a label. Initially I wanted to do do this because of the excitement factor. Working with A-list film celebrities and hob-nobbing in those circles is very exciting. As time wore on though and I switched over to music and became independent, it was more about loving the process of elevating a project to the next level. I am very results oriented. I like being the one to make things happen.
5. What has been your biggest accomplishment in your time in the entertainment industry?
I'd have to say the work I did with Chamillionaire, who I still work with. He had just gotten signed when we began and to watch him go Platinum, win awards and bring a Grammy home was the best feeling ever. When you walk an artist down their first red carpet, get them their first magazine cover; it's a feeling like none other. It's like watching one of your kids graduate college.
6. Who are some of your clients, past and present?
I have worked with sooo many but off top, DJ Whoo Kid, 36-Mafia, Bobby Valentino, Killer Mike, Crooked I, YoungBloodz, Trae Tha Truth, Slim Thug, Paul Wall, Chamillionaire and I was Pimp C's publicist from the time he was released from jail until he passed. Currently working with Marcus Manchild, who I KNOW is going all the way, Driicky Graham, another budding young star, Anthm, who I cannot wait to unleash upon the world and South Florida's Statik Selectah, Numonics.
7. What word of advice would you give to an up and coming entertainment professional?
Be courteous, always. You never know who the person you are dealing with is going to be in the future. Don't over-promise; your reputation is all you have is this business, and finally, if someone is giving you money to perform a certain function, hold that in high esteem. You are not the only game in town so respect the fact that they have chosen to work with you and deliver.
8. How can we find out more about you online? Do you have a blog/website?
http://about.me/rappublicist
9. Any final words of wisdom or shout outs?
Shout out to each and every producer, editor and blogger that has shown support to me and my projects over the years. Without your continued support I'd have to choose another career path. Thank you for letting me be great!
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