Today we’d like to introduce you to Raysean Smith Jr.
Hi Raysean, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always been musically and artistically inclined. I knew as a child that I would work in the entertainment industry. I attend Paine College after high school, I relocated to Augusta, Georgia. My area of study was business management. I didn’t like living in Augusta, Georgia after my first year since it was too slow in the industry I intended to work in, which was entertainment. I had to be in Atlanta, Georgia, I knew.
Following my first year of college, my elder sister eventually relocated to Atlanta, Georgia. I informed my mother that I would be moving to Atlanta, Georgia, with her so I could pursue a career in entertainment. I assured my mother that I would still complete my education. What college, I had no idea. I applied to Morehouse, my ideal school, but I was not accepted.
I decided to just concentrate on working in the music and entertainment industry throughout the summer. In the end, Akini Jeffrey from New Talent Choice offered me an internship. I assisted in casting for well-known artists’ music videos at this significant casting agency in Atlanta, Georgia. The Gucci Mane “Wasted” set was the first one I ever worked on. I fell in love with the entire creative process when I was on production. To me, it just came naturally. After working on set a few times, I decided that I wanted to be a creative director, and I began to seek side jobs as a result.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There will always be difficulties and hurdles in life. The journey I’ve been on hasn’t been easy, but the most important thing is that I’ll never give up and that I’ll always face and overcome my obstacles. A prime example is the fact that, after my first year of college, I was not accepted to my ideal university. A few years later, I received my associate’s degree from Atlanta Tech College. Later, I reapplied to Morehouse College, where I was accepted.
Everybody’s path is unique, I discovered. Obstacles, difficulties, and hardships all have a purpose. It shapes who you are and develops your character. The universe understood that I wasn’t prepared. I wouldn’t be who I am now if I hadn’t faced my share of struggles in life. I never would have met Akini Jeffrey and other people who helped me get my start in the entertainment industry if I had gone through the standard four-year college process.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m just an all-around CREATIVE! I enjoy creating! A creative marketing director, that’s me. I have a keen eye, ear, and passion for the arts and entertainment. I provided consulting services to numerous businesses, media organizations, and music artists in a variety of areas, including marketing, content production, business strategies, and more.
What sets me apart from others? I can work both in front of and behind the camera. I’ve always desired a behind-the-scenes role. I’ve never aspired to be in the limelight. An agent started putting me in front of the camera after spotting me working on set. I was so at ease since I was aware of how things ought to appear. I then began appearing in television commercials and print advertisements.
I’m just proud of my evolution and where I am today makes me happy.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I have to give credit when it is due.
My mother has been my strongest supporter throughout this entire journey.
Cortez, a well-known figure in Atlanta and a close friend and business partner. We both began out and developed in the entertainment business together. Cortez started off doing merchandise on tour with 21 Savage and Young Nudy. He now manages super producer Travis Marsh.
James “FLX” Smith, who is my mentor. Where I picked up a lot of my business knowledge.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.doeraymedia.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doeraymedia
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/doeraymedia
Image Credits
Chuckrare TheCamKilla Jentage
