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

Kay, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Alright, so you had your idea and then what happened? Can you walk us through the story of how you went from just an idea to executing on the idea

I launched my first business (JPB, Inc.) out of necessity. I began my career as a DJ, then grew into a producer, emcee, and show promoter. While learning these skills, I realized that the independent scene lacked substantial media coverage. My focus switched from being an artist to becoming a media professional because this was a void that definitely needed to be filled.

Several signs led me to believe I needed to be more active on the media side of my business. I had hired a small media company to film my showcase and create commercials to air on TV as promotion for upcoming showcases. However, I wasn’t receiving footage in a timely manner. My commercials were often late and unable to meet the deadlines for TV airing. I decided to learn what I was asking others to do, to see if it was truly that difficult.

I learned two key things: 1. Video editing is very time-consuming, and 2. “I could do this myself.” Over the next few years, I slowly redeveloped my company into a media source and outlet.

In 2017, I was finally able to acquire a building. I rebranded my company name from JPB, Inc., which had been my company’s name for 20 years, to Grind City Media, Inc. We recently celebrated our 9th year in existence under this new brand.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

K.Bey, also known as DaButtonPusha. It’s clear that she is a multifaceted entrepreneur and creative professional with a significant impact in the entertainment and media industry. Here’s a summary of the key points about K.Bey and her work:

1. Background:
– American entrepreneur, entertainer, producer, author, and videographer
– Known for her work ethic, self-taught skills, and motivation of indie artists
– Has influenced five generations over nearly 3 decades of service

2. Achievements:
– Released a book “Da Building Process” and a documentary “DaButtonPusha Who” on Amazon
– Created two international award-winning videos (recognized in Italy and India)
– Owns and operates Grind City Media LLC for 8 years

3. Business Ventures:
– Previously ran Just Pressin’ Buttons Productions for over 20 years
– Current owner of Grind City studio in Swissvale, PA, which includes:
– Music recording studio
– Photo and video studio
– Live stream TV studio
– Radio station
– Small print shop

4. Media Platforms:
– Owns a Digital Streaming Channel Available on Roku and coming stoon to call digital stream outlets: The Channel is called “Grind City Tv”
– Owns & Publishes “Grindaz Magazine”
– Owns & Operates internet radio station “Wgrind radio”

5. Community Work:
– Taught Hip-Hop Therapy at Children’s Hospital and McKeesport Hospital
– Part of the Sonny Pugar Music Smiles Program
– Provided live stream services to continue the program during the COVID-19 pandemic
– Teaches at Phase 4 Best Buy Teen Tech Learning Center

6. Philosophy:
– Works from a place of love
– Inspired by others’ work ethic, hip-hop culture, and youth potential
– Focuses on highlighting independent talent and entrepreneurs
– Believes in doing GOOD Business

7. Social Media Presence:
– Instagram: @mediagrindcity, @dabuttonpusha @grindazmagazine, @wgrindradio
– Twitter: @wgrindradio, @grindazmag, @dabuttonpusha
– Facebook: @TheGrindCity @GrindcityTv

K.Bey’s work spans multiple areas of media and entertainment, with a strong focus on supporting independent artists and entrepreneurs. Her company, Grind City Media LLC, is described as “The Plug and The Outlet” for the entertainment industry, suggesting its growing influence in connecting and showcasing talent.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

Funding my business is an ongoing grind since I have never depended on any loans or grants.

I can share the story of how I got my building.

There was a time in my career when I realized doing what I do from the basement of my home was no longer what I desired – I wanted a building. I would mumble the dream to the universe but not with full intention. Finally, I asked God with full intention for a building. He said, “Tomorrow, look on Craigslist.” I thought, “Really, God? Craigslist? Okay.” So the next morning, I got up and looked on Craigslist. I saw a building that would be ideal for what I wanted to do. I called the owner.

We met; I showed him what I do, and he showed me the building. It was not in great condition, but he promised that he would help me build to suit if I came up with the payment to secure the lease. I had 30 days to come up with the money. At the time I met him, I had a job, so I figured it would be easy. I met him on a Friday – by that Monday, the company surprisingly went belly-up. We all lost our jobs, and that was that.
My first thought was, “Well, why would God put this in front of me and take it away?” I was confused. Not only did I have to think about how I was going to get this building, but I also had to consider all of my basic life functions – I was suddenly unemployed.

My first task was to get a new job, which was easy; however, the pay was not great, and I had to wait three weeks for my first check. That was okay for my house bills, but the building fund needed a quicker resolution.
For five days, I would go to work and then drive past that building and sit there, trying to figure out how I was going to get this money. On the fifth day, I had my camera with me. I’m looking at the building, then I looked at my camera, and all I heard was “USE ME.”

I’m not crazy, so I know my camera didn’t say it, but the sound came from somewhere, and the voice was strong. The voice had a point. If I was going to spend money on a building just to do what I do with my camera, why not make the camera pay for that business?

So I got to work. Quick job after quick job came to me. It was December, so I was getting Christmas parties, pictures, and videos as gifts. Then came January with New Year’s Day parties, and before that 30 days was up, I had that payment.

I have been in my building for 9 years now. Sometimes it isn’t the bulk of money that gets you where you desire; it’s the grind and the willingness to turn pennies into dollars that will get you there.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Simply…

Going out into public spaces

Interviewing people I encounter

Showing genuine interest in their stories and perspectives

Quickly editing and publishing the footage

This is the way we capture authentic stories and give voice to everyday people.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.grindcity. biz
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grindcitymediallc
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGrindcity
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mediagrindcity/
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/mediagrindcity/

Image Credits

GrindCItyMedia LLC