Grammy winners including Ludacris and Earl Klugh told Atlanta high school students that the music industry has plenty of different jobs to offer.
They advised about 300 teenagers on Wednesday to find their niche and show the world their own talent during a discussion at the Clark Atlanta University’s Park Street Music & Art Complex.
“Self-education is the most important thing to have,” Ludacris said. “I know you can have street smarts. But if you combine that with book smarts, you’ll be unstoppable.”
Klugh, a veteran jazz guitarist who has received a Grammy and 13 nominations, talked about touring and understanding how to make money from music.
Panelists who included R&B singer Lyfe Jennings, music engineer Phil Tan, record label executive Dee Dee Murray and songwriter Tab Nkhereanye said the behind-the-scenes roles are important.
“I can’t play songs, rap or play instruments like all big headliners,” said Tan, a Grammy winner who has worked with Mariah Carey, Usher and Gwen Stefani.
“But I have the ability to mix songs to make them sound great,” he added. “If you want to be a part of the music industry, there’s always something to do.”
Murray, general manager of Purple Ribbon Records, offered insights as to how to act professional. She told the students to take charge of their education.
“Reading, writing and speaking well are useful in this industry,” Murray said. “You have to go that extra mile to get what you want in life. That’s with anything.”
