Today we’d like to introduce you to Christchankeith “Ckay1” Marshall.
Christchankeith, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’m originally from Charleston, SC of which has a rich history and involvement in the arts. I’ve always been into the arts whether it be theatre, movies, etc. I started acting, dancing, singing (you know the usual) at an early age. I actually became the youngest black male to join the Robert Ivey Ballet Adult ballet company when I was 13. From then on I did a few documentaries and plays, so I really thought my career was heading down the Acting path. But among all this was my deep love for music fostered by parents and encouraged by my circle. The acting and dancing eventually tapered off due in part to HS sports and I resigned to the idea of become a corporate attorney. Graduated Academic Magnet HS and attended Florida A&M University (Go Rattlers!). I had an amazing time! Developed life-long friendships, joined a fraternity (Alpha Phi Alpha), and just became an adult. It was during this time that I started to get into production. We would have “Freestyle Nights” when folks would just come to the crib, kick it, and freestyle on whatever beats I made. This was around the time that “The Black Album” came out along with the acapellas. A frat brother of mine encouraged me to follow the trend of making remix albums using them. I jumped in, finished the project titled “The Gold Album”. I pitched it EVERYWHERE I COULD!
Of course, this meant that I needed to make as much copies as possible and since I was limited in resources, I linked up with a studio in Tallahassee by the name of 360 Studios. Amazing people who made me feel at home. It was there that I came into the orbit of the producers Justice League, T-Pain, and other incredible producers such as Kenjo of Theripy and Jak Brown. It was also there that I met Shawn Jay of Field Mob. He and Chevy P took me under their wing which led to my first major placement on “Light Poles and Pine Trees”. Those guys were family and I’ll never forget the chance that they took on me. I did some more projects major and local and then moved to ATL in 2008. It was here that I hit the music scene heavily collaborating with other producers and working with various artists. The producer scene in ATL is really supportive and it provides avenues and opportunities for producers of all levels. I kept grinding, hitting different spots, and just kept my ear to the scene, I was fortunate to get a manager who’s connections gave me the opportunity to work with various artist on Universal, Island Records/Def Jam. I eventually linked up with the super talented producer Needlz and then a really dope artist by the name of Adela by way of Streetrunner. Establishing those connections were clutch and here we are now!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Definitely not! Anything worth having is worth fighting for, ya know? The music industry is tough and its filled with some amazing people and some not so great ones. More than anything, it’s the struggle to keep going. To keep pushing even when you’re doubting yourself. You sacrifice a lot, but you gain so much more. I’ve been fortunate to have some mentors in the game like Needlz and some really incredible friends that have helped me develop and weather the storms that may come about. Having a circle that you can trust is essential. It’s like air in this industry. You’re also dealing with an overly saturated market where standing out really makes the difference. You have to not only sell your sound but yourself as well.
N.O.T.E Productions, LLC – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
N.O.T.E Productions, LLC is a full scaled music production company that serves the music and film community. We specialize in creating curated music content to be used at various levels of a company or artists platform or project. Our ability and passion for what we do enables us to focus solely and reliably on the client’s needs to execute a product that’s not only wholly representative of the identity of the client but also has the ability to provide a distinct character that can set their brand apart in their respective fields. In all honesty, that’s what I most proud of. The fact that we’re there for you. We’re there to listen. We’re here to execute and we’re here to elevate.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is determined by your expectations. Of course, there are traditional markers for success, but it really depends on the individual and their desired impact on whatever it is that the may embark on. Success, for me, means achievement of one’s personal goals and benchmarks, whatever they may be. As well as a natural aversion to complacency and a motivation to get to the next level.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.ckay1.com
- Phone: 404-790-2459
- Email: noteproductionsllc@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ckay_1
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ckay1official
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/ckay1music
- Other: https://www.soundcloud.com/ckay1
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