Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Deuce Malone. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Deuce, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your career and how did you resolve those issues?

An unexpected issue that I think every creative runs into is themself. At times I get in my own head wondering am I going about a project in the right way. Is what I’m creating going to resonate with anyone. Will the project touch someones heart. I want to my art and message to touch the masses, but ultimately it is also my release. And whether or not the world understands I need to do it for me. Once I get those feelings out, nothing can get in my way.

Deuce, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m a 20 year music industry vet. I’ve worked in music at retail, artist management, festival management and commercial radio. More recently I have added Author to my list of accomplishments. I’m currently working on a new book which will be a blueprint for anyone trying to pursue a career in the music industry. I got into music by having a passion and following it. Anywhere there was music, is where I was going to be. By the grace of God that led to an opportunity in college to work as an on campus radio DJ. When I graduated, I got a job at the commercial radio station in Austin as a promotions coordinator. From there, I worked myself into an on-air job.

After radio, I transitioned to managing artists and working on festivals and ultimately working with TROY NōKA. TROY is a GRAMMY award winning producer and artist who has worked with Doja Cat, Frank Ocean and Chris Brown to name a few. He made me President of his independent record label and we have been working together for over 10 years. The label provides me the opportunity to look for new artists, cultivate talent and guide artists on their journey. My book will be an extension of that.

Last year, I also became a member of the Recording Academy of America. The Recording Academy is the organization that puts on the GRAMMYs and I was able to attend my first GRAMMYs this year. This was big because an an artist that GRAMMY stage means your peers recognize your talent. To be able to have a professional hand in awarding and helping other musicians at that level is truly an honor.

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

My biggest pivot was my radio career ending for me. At the time the radio station I worked was number 1 and we had basically been the top station for six years straight. It put me in positions where I never thought I would be. I met people I looked up to in music and entertainment. My literal job was to talk to celebrities, party, listen to music and get paid for it. What more can you ask for. Then 2009 came. The heart of the recession. The station decided to move in a different direction and our station was shut down. I had to get on unemployment and figure out my next step. I ended up working temp jobs to keep the lights on. I worked as a substitute teacher, I did everything that I could find. But I never gave up music. I would freelance and write for outlets for little to no money. I would cover events and even offer my services for free in hopes of keeping my name in the mix and it worked. Once paying gigs came around, I was top of mind because I stayed humble, worked hard and had experience. This is how I ended up becoming President of Wiz Up Entertainment. TROY and I locked in together and went all in. The festival I volunteered for offered me an actual position as well. It was rough, but finding jobs outside of music kept me afloat until things picked up. But never lose your dream or your passion. Find a way to sustain it until you can get it back full time.

: Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My mission is to be a voice and give people an escape in their day. Music and storytelling are universal languages that can change the day for a person. I want to provide that outlet so that people can release and enjoy their free time.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.theworldofdeuce.com
• Instagram: @theworldofdeuce
• Facebook: facebook.com/theworldofdeuce
• Twitter: @theworldofdeuce
• Youtube: www.youtube.com/hotdjdeuce