We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Eric Hayes a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Eric, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What do you think it takes to be successful?
To be successful, you yourself must believe and love what you are doing for longevity. Some do thing for the money then live to regret it later .
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am originally from Detroit Michigan , a product of the Metro Detroit public school system . My journey really began while employed at American Axle & Mfg in 1996-1998. A coworker asked me to come along and help do some promotion for an artist out of New York. I guess you can say I caught the buzz 🐝 from there on .
Ended up relocating to Atlanta in 98. Around 2001 began doing street promoting with local artist in Atlanta . From working with Crunk Energy Drink to Lil Jon and the Ying Yang Twins . It’s been an experience.
Seeing that I was from Detroit and the hip hop market was not being shined upon outside the state. I found my own market to tap into. Created my magazine in later years not only focusing on my hometown but other areas around the country in the same situation. The name “ CrunkAtlanta” began circulating and people were emailing me faster than I could catch up to.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
From 2005 -2009 , I was basically a stay at home dad of twin girls Ericka and Jocelyn . I was working remotely before Covid . Trying to make things happen at home and stay connected with what I had established.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
That going to school and getting a degree was the only way to make it. I later learned that it’s dedication is what drives you to success.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.crunkatlanta.com
- Instagram: CrunkatlantaMag
- Twitter: CrunkatlantaMag