We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Anthony Keys a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Anthony , appreciate you joining us today. One deeply underappreciated facet of entrepreneurship is the kind of crazy stuff we have to deal with as business owners. Sometimes it’s crazy positive sometimes it’s crazy negative, but crazy experiences unite entrepreneurs regardless of industry. Can you share a crazy story with our readers?

In the beginning of my DJ career, I was searching hard to get myself out there, taking anything that came my way. I stumbled upon an ad looking for a DJ for a festival. Excited about the opportunity, I connected with the organizer only to discover it was a medieval festival! Ready with Enya and Celtic music as a backup, I found out I was playing right before Lindsey Sterling. Nervous but determined, I adjusted my strategy to play some house music, and to my surprise, the crowd loved it! I met Lindsey, discussed the business, packed up a happy camper, and left with a new big accolade on my chest.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Hello, I’m Anthony Keys, also known as KEYTONE. My journey into the music business began when I decided to leave truck driving, seeking a change from a life where I felt miserable and disconnected from my kids. Always having a knack for music, melodies, and instrumentation, I started DJing in bars and small lounges. I quickly learned that the longer I kept people entertained, the more valuable I became to the venues.

Progressing to nightclubs and local festivals, I discovered my talent for making large crowds dance. However, a void lingered; it wasn’t enough to play songs that made people move—I wanted to create those tracks. Thus, my focus shifted from just being a DJ to producing music that moves people.

This journey led me to establish Humble House Records, a label for the underdog—the creators who, like me, faced rejection from labels that sought a specific sound. We provide a platform for those who know they have much to learn but struggle to find support. Humble House Records is a haven for aspiring DJs and producers, offering mentorship, opportunities, and exposure.

Our specialty lies in creating a safe space for creators to gather, learn, and showcase their skills. Through residencies in St. Petersburg and exposure in different markets like El Paso and Atlanta, we support local DJs and producers. We hold meetings to guide artists on necessary steps and foster collaboration to make bigger impacts.

I take pride in knowing that the artists/DJs that want to grow with us will have the knowledge and skill to progress to new heights, all while contributing to the collective learning experience.

For potential clients/followers/fans, I want them to know that Humble House Records is not just a label; it’s a community. We value collaboration, mentorship, and inclusivity. We strive to provide a platform where diverse talents can shine, and everyone, regardless of their starting point, has the chance to elevate their craft. Our commitment is not just to the music but to the growth and success of the individuals who make it happen.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Had to shake off this idea that I had to be the lone wolf doing everything to claim it as mine. Before launching the record label, I was convinced it was all about me doing it all. But then, just before diving into Humble House Records, it hit me – helping others is a game-changer.

Lending a hand to as many folks as I could wasn’t just about being nice. It turned out to be a goldmine of learning for me. Instead of going solo, I discovered the magic of teamwork and support. It’s like, the more I helped, the more goodness circled back.

So, unlearning that “it’s all mine if I do it all” mindset paved the way for a vibe where we all rise together. At Humble House, we’re not about solo acts; we’re about a collective journey where everyone’s success is part of something bigger.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Absolutely, here’s a more concise and less formal version:

I hit a point where the truck driver life gave me an unexpected beer belly, making me pretty miserable. Realizing I needed a change, I decided to leave truck driving behind. I cashed in my retirement savings, got my first DJ setup, and started making money doing what I genuinely enjoyed – DJing. It was a refreshing shift that not only bid farewell to the beer belly but also brought newfound satisfaction and self awareness.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.djkeytone.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djkeytone?igsh=MTc3MGg4eHpuZnFucQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djkeytone?mibextid=2JQ9oc
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-keys-ii-368b63269?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@djkeytone?si=KYyrjYQKu1XrfV2I
• Other: Humble House Records: https://www.facebook.com/humblehouserecords?mibextid=2JQ9oc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humblehouserecords?igsh=cWRuMTE2bWE5Z2E5

Image Credits
Main picture by Summer Leigh Ann Choate
Janzer Aesthetics. Darius K. Jeff Wilhelm Anabel Evora