Today we’d like to introduce you to SM Tone. Them and their team share their story with us below:
CEO and Founder of Soufside Mafia & Souf Inner Circle LLC, Antonio Finley, better known as SM Tone, has always had a passion for helping others reach their full potential. At a young age, he found his self working as a stagehand helping his grandfather, John Peek, who at the time was the director of one of America’s first all-black Philharmonic Orchestra’s called Music South. From there his interest in music exploded, he began to play the snare drum, bass drums, bass guitar and piano during elementary & middle school and by high school, he had started songwriting and graphic designing his own clothes. While in college, he continued to follow his musical passion by starting a rap group with his childhood friends known as The Soufside Mafia. From there, he began to build relationships with numerous artists, photographers, DJs, producers and label/studio owners around the city of Atlanta. Working with names such as K factory Productions, Lil Bankhead, Hoodz Tv, Producer Grind, & Ian Burke just to name a few.
During this time, he discovered how difficult it was for upcoming artists and creatives to find opportunities and resources in the industry. From there, he started Soufside Records in 2017 but rebranded to Souf Inner Circle in 2020. Today, he works with multiple artists, producers, photographers, & graphic designers, assisting them with marketing strategies, resources, information and opportunities that aren’t available in mainstream media. He also manages and runs his own independent record label which is currently run out of Atlanta, Ga. His vision is to show the world that no matter the circumstances when you truly believe in your dream and invest in yourself, that anything is possible.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Well in the beginning, I was struggling with confidence, lack of money and people not believing in my vision. I’ve lost money with bad management deals and spent money to meet with labels just to find out I’m all I needed. I had to learn how to invest in myself and learn the information so I wouldn’t be taken advantage of again.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a Recording Artist, Songwriter, Label Owner, Graphic Designer, Engineer, Photographer, Author & I own a custom apparel company. I am most proud of my Record Label because even though I’ve always had a love for music from the band, I never imagined owning my own company and being able to manage some talented artists. What sets me apart from others is my willingness to constantly and consistently invest in myself day after day and allow myself room for growth in my professional and personal life.
What matters most to you?
Being able to leave a legacy matters most to me because I started with nothing and with time and investing, grew into one of the most influential people in my city. I love to help others and give back because when I was growing up, there wasn’t many positive role models to look up to for guidance. And lastly, ownership matters most to me because I want to be able to pass down all my hard work, assets and connections to my people after I’m gone.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.soufsiderecordsatl.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/smtone
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/tonesoufside
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/smtone1
- Youtube: www.YouTube.com/soufsidemafia
Image Credits
CapturedbyEvinity
