Rising Stars: Meet Janiro Hawkins II of Nashville

Today we’d like to introduce you to Janiro Hawkins II.

Hi Janiro, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey began in Flint, Michigan, where early life experiences helped shape my drive and creative outlook. I later relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, where he attended Tennessee State University, immersing myself in both academics and the city’s rich musical culture. With a somewhat clear vision for future, I eventually moved to Atlanta to pursue a career in music, gaining hands-on experience through street promotions with influential brands and entities such as Groove Essentials, Midnight Marauders and Aquemini Records, laying the groundwork for what I believe is my continued impact in the entertainment industry.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
While it hasn’t been a smooth road, I can also say that it hasn’t been the rockiest either. Yes, there’s been some very effortless moments, but the journey has been a nonstop learning experience that I will cherish forever.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am very proud to be one of the founders of the Southern Entertainment Awards (SEAs), a nationally recognized platform dedicated to highlighting and honoring talent throughout the South. With more than two decades of experience in the music and entertainment industry. It has been beyond fulfilling to play a major role in creating something from the ground up.

In addition to the SEAs, I have been able to serve as the Music Supervisor for Onyx Theory Arts (Angel and Demon, Fatal Lust, 12 Baes of Christmas, Girls Need Love & more). Here, I am able to oversee the creative integration of music in film, television, and multimedia projects. This work in itself, reflects a lifelong commitment to advancing culture, amplifying voices, and creating impactful connections through music and entertainment.

What does success mean to you?
Success, to me, is about progress with purpose. It’s not just measured by milestones or recognition, but by the consistency of growth, the ability to create opportunities where none exist, and the impact I make on others along the way. Coming from Flint, evolving through Nashville, and building in Atlanta, success means staying true to my vision while elevating the culture, opening doors for others, and turning passion into something tangible, sustainable, and meaningful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://riodejaniro.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/rio_de_janiro
• Facebook: facebooke.com/southernentawards
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/southernentawards
• Other: https://southernentawards.com