We recently had the chance to connect with Derrick Ballard and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Derrick, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is a normal day like for you right now?
I wake up anywhere between 8am-10am. I pray first, clean up (wash face, brush teeth and etc.), eat breakfast, watch 30min-1hr of podcast, go to the gym for about 45 minutes, check emails and run errands (if necessary). I don’t work really until around 9pm/10pm until 4am. That’s when things are calm and I can work without the distractions. I’d either be writing scripts, editing clips or recording music.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Derrick Ballard, but I known in the industry as “King June”. I’m a film director, artist and entertainment mogul. My film company is called “Blauqer Than Blac Productions”. There’s not a in depth meaning to my company name. I just wanted to have a name that wasn’t apologetic and something that described the type of films I’d be filming.
I’m currently working on three projects (“The King Of Atlanta”, “Both Ways” and “Rollin’ Stone”). They will be premiered in 2026.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
When I held a three movie premiere. Two years ago I’ve completed three projects around the same time. I wanted to do something innovative. Something that hasn’t been done before, by a single film maker. I booked three rooms at a theater and I probably promoted the projects from two weeks. I sold out all three rooms and I had an overflow with people waiting in the hallway and standing up on the sides. I received a standing ovation at the end. I was very inspiring and ever appreciated the initiative. It haven’t been done again since then.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
When I realized that when you are in a certain position, you have to learn to take the good with the bad. Never take anything personal. I wanted to befriend people. I was going out of my way to things for people and didn’t get the same energy in return. Once I knew that “everyone ain’t your friend”, I got further in life/with my career.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
You have to work hard to get to where you’re going. That totally false. You have to work smarter to get to where you’re going…
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
My empowerment. I’m a caring and loving person. My sarcasm (as crazy as it may sound), my honesty, grace and tenacity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.BTBProductions.net
- Instagram: KingJuneATL
- Twitter: KingJuneATL
- Facebook: June Ballard
- Youtube: Blaquer Than Blac Productions
- Other: https://www.EyeVLeague.net
