Today we’d like to introduce you to Jai Yoko.
Jai, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
First, Jai Yoko Ent. is a consulting and artist developing company that helps the artistic evolution of musical artists Nationally and Internationally by connecting them to resources they need to enhance their careers. Jai Yoko Ent. uses a “KEEPING IT REAL” method to inform artists, seeing that the industry can often be manipulative and not so forthcoming and heavily monetary driven.
So, how did I get here?
I used to have a food truck called “Da Spizzot” in front of a strip club and I used to promote artists to foodies who visited the trucks. I had also been an intern under many influential people in the industry so I knew of various artists who I felt needed to be put on. At the time, I was interning under DJ Dr. Doom and he started teaching me the promotional aspect of the game. I was interning with two others Theo Brown of Atlantic Records (Radio Specialist) and Stephanie Davis a Publicist of Love and Hip Hop. At once, I was expanding my knowledge of Promotions, Radio, and PR. Getting a slew of knowledge from these three pivotal people invoked in me a need to help upcoming artists.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It was complete “HELL.” The Entertainment industry is male-dominated. Being that I am a woman, they felt like it wasn’t my place to do the things I was doing. Although my presence and outwardly display are masculine, that did not exclude me from industry misogyny. I was scammed by those close to me. I had a business partner at the time who stole money from me. There was a tour that was planned and the artist wanted something different and poof, when it was time to refund the artist, my partner was missing with the money. I was left holding the bag.
My advice to anyone and most importantly women navigating the industry, “Trust the struggle. Follow your passion. Don’t let anyone deter you. Learn the game and prepare to do things two times as hard. YOU HAVE TO MASTER THE BUSINESS SIDE. Stay a student!”
We’d love to hear more about Jai Yoko Ent.
Being the Boss of Jai Yoko Ent. I consider myself the Master Teacher who’s also a student of the game. I pass along the knowledge like a sensei. Anytime anyone asks me what I do, I simply say “I TEACH”.
I specialize in artist development and teaching the blueprint. Speaking of Blue Print, I have the opportunity to provide my teaching skills alongside Rel Carter (Roc Nation A&R) during his Rel Carter Tour. A Tour made to enhance the culture of hip hop through artist workshops and performances in the US and has stretched to the Dominican Republic.
Outside of that, I also offer consulting services to Loyalty Media Group.
HONESTY is what sets Jai Yoko Ent. apart from other companies and individuals. We teach artists what some in the industry dare not have artists to know.
Do you recommend any apps, books or podcasts that have been helpful to you?
The last book I read was “48 Laws of Power.”
My top favorite books:
“The Subtle Art of Not giving a fuck” “The Alchemist” “The Nat Turner Story”
Favorite Podcasts: Dusse Friday Podcast, it keeps me up to speed on what’s going on in the industry.
Reading “Music Business World Wide” emails is a daily ritual. It keeps me updated on music business changes nationally and internationally.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jaiyokoent.com
- Email: jaiyokotg@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaiyokoent/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JaiYokoENT/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/JaiYokoENT
Image Credit:
Chass Shootz (Photo of Jai Yoko in Button up shirt at 40/40 Club| Also group pictures), Pablo Fant (Photo Jai Yoko Black T-Shirt teaching Class at SXSW), Rel Carter Tour with Quote is also Chass Shootz
Lillian Blanche – Writing/Editing
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
