Today we’d like to introduce you to Abdul Chestnut.
Hi Abdul, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey began in Philadelphia, born into a family deeply rooted in music and creativity. My father and uncle, known as The Chestnut Brothers, were respected musicians who used their art to inspire peace and unity. Their musical projects—particularly the release of their EP “Peace Suite” in 2001 and “Retro Soul” in 2009—had a major influence on me, both creatively and spiritually.
In 1995, my mother, sister, and I relocated to Metro Atlanta. That move was life-changing—it positioned me in the heart of one of the most culturally vibrant cities in America. I immersed myself in Atlanta’s music scene and built authentic relationships with artists, producers, and industry leaders.
By 1999, I officially launched Abdul Entertainment, which later evolved into AE Music Group. Our first major projects included the CD release “With My Whole Heart” by Bishop James H. Morton and “God is Great” by Dirk Chaney & The Chosen Aggregation. I still remember the late Minister Dirk Chaney telling me I had a “natural gift” in this field. That affirmation gave me the push to take this career seriously.
In 2001, I released my first artist under the label, La’Trese, whose neo-soul and R&B album gained traction locally and internationally. Over the next decade, I expanded into video production, event promotions, and artist development, building a strong foundation for what would eventually become AEMG TV.
On March 1, 2009, I launched AEMG TV, a streaming network designed to spotlight independent artists, producers, and visionaries who are often overlooked by mainstream platforms. What started as a small, independent network has grown into a multi-dimensional platform with a global reach, now streaming content through major outlets like Amazon Prime, Filmhub, and PASSES.
Through it all, I’ve remained committed to uplifting communities, especially underserved youth and creatives. With the upcoming AEMG TV Academy of the Arts Eco-Plex and the Content Corner Selfie Museum, we’re creating educational and economic opportunities while reshaping Atlanta’s creative economy.
This journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. Every obstacle was a lesson, and every step forward was fueled by purpose. I stand here today not just as a CEO or Executive Producer, but as a product of faith, family, and the belief that with vision and hard work, anything is possible.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not a smooth road—but every challenge has played a key role in shaping who I am today and the direction of AEMG TV.
When I first started out, I didn’t have access to major funding, mentors, or corporate backing. I had to learn everything through hands-on experience—marketing, production, negotiation, artist management—you name it. There were many sleepless nights, and times where I had to invest my last dollar just to keep things going.
One of the biggest struggles was gaining respect in an industry that often overlooks independent voices—especially those pushing purpose-driven, community-centered content. Early on, I had to fight to get projects seen, heard, and taken seriously. I also faced challenges navigating a rapidly changing media landscape—from physical CDs and DVDs to digital streaming, then pivoting into content licensing, live events; and now immersive experiences like the Content Corner Selfie Museum.
Another major challenge was balancing creativity with business. Being a lover of music at heart, I had to grow into the role of CEO—learning contracts, intellectual property, distribution and ultimately how to build sustainable revenue models for myself and others.
I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in 2006, which was a fight for my life and has left me with permanent scars from 3 major surgeries. Then I caught COVID during the pandemic, which hit hard. Events were canceled, production slowed, and we had to rethink how we served our audience. But that challenge pushed us to innovate faster. It led to stronger virtual platforms, partnerships with global streaming outlets and new educational programs for creatives and youth.
Despite all the ups and downs, I stayed rooted in my mission: to create platforms, pathways, and possibilities for those who’ve been counted out.
The road wasn’t smooth—but it was purposeful. And that’s what made all the difference.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am the CEO and Executive Producer of AEMG TV, a media and streaming company that specializes in creating and distributing transformative content across film, television, music, education & social enterprise. I use media not just as entertainment, but as a powerful vehicle for healing, truth-telling & economic empowerment.
My work spans over 25 years of community service, youth mentorship, media production & advocacy. I’m known for producing with purpose and building platforms that empower independent creators, underserved youth, and marginalized communities to be seen, heard and celebrated.
One of the most defining chapters of my journey began in my hometown of Philadelphia. Following the tragic death of Porchia Bennett, I created the Save Our Children Campaign, which evolved into a foundational part of Philadelphia’s Stop the Violence Movement. This movement was born out of grief but transformed into action—uniting families, activists grassroots leaders to confront systemic violence, protect our youth and advocate for policy reform.
During this time, my family—Al & Ty Chestnut (The Chestnut Brothers) —stood beside me as dedicated community activists. Together, we worked closely with impactful organizations such as Men United for a Better Philadelphia, Mothers in Charge, PAAN (Philadelphia Anti-Drug/Anti-Violence Network), Mothers United Through Tragedy, Philly Native Clothing Company & many others who were committed to turning tragedy into transformation.
That spirit of activism continues to shape everything I do. I’ve launched initiatives like the “What About U.s” music project with Community Outreach Coordinator Dr. Debra L. Clark and multi-Grammy Award Winning Producer Devine Evans and S.W.A.P. (Sewing With A Purpose) with Accountant Sharin Ragin (DeKalb County, GA) to teach homeless and at-risk youth life skills and entrepreneurship. Through weekly outreach and shelter partnerships, we’ve served hundreds of families with meals, mentorship and meaningful career paths.
Most recently, on April 12, 2025, I was honored to receive the Youth Development Award from “Almost Lost In the System”, recognizing a lifetime of work with young people who’ve been overlooked or abandoned by traditional systems. That award isn’t just a milestone—it’s a reminder of why I started.
Today, AEMG TV is a global platform—with distribution on Amazon Prime, Filmhub and PASSES—but our roots remain in community. Our upcoming Content Corner Selfie Museum and AEMG TV Academy of the Arts Eco-Plex in Atlanta are designed to educate, employ & empower while setting a new standard for sustainable creative spaces.
What sets me apart is the fusion of artistry, activism & entrepreneurship. I don’t just create content—I create opportunities. I don’t just build businesses—I build bridges. My work stands at the intersection of culture, community & creative capital—and I do it all with legacy in mind.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up in Philly—first down 5th Street, also known as “The POUND” in the Southwark Housing Projects of South Philly, and later on 27th & Oakdale Street in North Philly—was an unforgettable experience that shaped everything I am today.
I came up during an era when it truly took a village to raise a child. There was a sense of community, discipline & love—even in the toughest environments. We didn’t have much, but we had enough. And we had each other.
I was always full of energy—curious, creative, and determined. I was a natural connector, always organizing something or rallying my friends around music, sports or dance. I went to George Washington Elementary, Pierce Elementary, then Roxborough High School and Southern (South Philadelphia High). I later attended Job Corps in Woodstock, MD, and ESI (Educational Services Inc.)—which helped me build life skills and lay the foundation for my future hustle.
Sports played a huge role in my life. I played basketball at George Washington and in the Sacks Playground Summer League, 4th & Lombard, Shot Tower, Starr Garden & PAL (Police Athletic League). I played football with the Capitolo Cowboys, and baseball out at Pepper Middle School. Sports taught me teamwork, discipline and how to channel my energy into something positive.
We eventually moved from the ’hood to Korman Suites out Penrose (Cobblestone), which was a whole new world for me. But no matter where we lived, I carried that South Philly & North Philly spirit with me.
I started working early—my first job was as a Bus Boy in Wynnefield, then as a Dishwasher at a seafood spot in Reading Terminal Market, and later Dairy Queen at Franklin Mills Mall. I worked at Orange Julius inside of King of Prussia Mall, McDonald’s right across from King of Prussia Mall, KFC out East Norriton, PA, maintenance at Montgomery Mall with my sister, then did stints with the IRS, Parkway Corporation alongside my mother, 30th Street Post Office, and even some time in law enforcement. All those experiences taught me hustle, time management and how to talk to people from all walks of life.
And of course—we danced! I stayed locked in to the latest moves watching the JukeBox Network, going to dollar parties, and hitting the floor with my friends trying to impress the pretty girls from the neighborhood. We lived for those moments.
Looking back, I’m so glad I grew up during the era of “It Takes A Village to Raise A Child.” That environment raised me—with tough love, real values and a foundation that I carry with pride into every business move, every mentorship moment and every life decision today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/abdulchestnut
