We recently connected with Kevin James and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Kevin thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Looking back, do you think you started your business at the right time? Do you wish you had started sooner or later

When I first decided to start my label, Beautiful Sinners Empire, I was either 20 or 21 years old. However, I had already envisioned owning my own company when I began pursuing my music career back in 2017. Before leaving Georgia in 2020, I interned at a recording studio in Atlanta called 11th Street. During this time, my mentor provided invaluable guidance and insights that helped me get started. Sometimes, I wish I had begun my music career much earlier, like when I first entered high school, but I believe everything happens for a reason. I wouldn’t change anything because I wouldn’t have met the incredible people I’ve encountered so far in life.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hello, my name is Kevin James, but I also go by Neagas. I am a recording artist, producer, and engineer. I own a record label called Beautiful Sinners Empire, which has been established for the last four years. My interest in music began around the age of 12 when I was introduced to orchestral music and learned to play the violin. From there, I explored various styles to discover what I liked and didn’t like. I don’t confine myself to a specific genre; I aim to create music for people who stand for something and strive to be the best versions of themselves. Personally, I have a long way to go, but I am most proud of not giving up on myself and of those who are willing to follow me on this journey to greatness. It can be very discouraging, especially when you’re making all the plans and investments yourself.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

When you know you’re great, people will try their best to belittle you and undermine your journey. It’s crucial to maintain emotional intelligence. Don’t take things personally; accept people for who they are because not everyone you encounter is meant to stay in your life forever. Sometimes, they are just there to teach you a valuable lesson, so pay attention, listen, and act accordingly.

I also had to learn to set aside my pride. You can’t feel entitled to people’s time, no matter how much you love and care about them, because often the feelings won’t be mutual, and you’ll end up disappointed. It’s best to appreciate what you can get and focus on yourself because, at the end of the day, you’re left with yourself. If you’re not happy with who you are, you’ll never be happy with anything in this life.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

The hardest part of starting a business is taking that first step. When I started my label, I had only about $500 in my bank account, but I decided to patent my business name and jump in headfirst. You don’t need much money to start a business; as long as you have a clear vision of how you want things to go, you’ll be alright. Everything else will come with time, experience, and consistency. So, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and take that chance, you never know what might happen.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/neagas__
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neagasbse?igsh=d2pxMHpjZzducjl1
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/neagasbse
• Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/D2FpDYZ2KdkVmz88A

Image Credits

Alex Folster
Mattie