We were lucky to catch up with Mali Wilson recently and have shared our conversation below.
Mali , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s start with the decision of whether to donate a percentage of sales to an organization or cause – we’d love to hear the backstory of how you thought through this.
“During National Women’s Month, I released my debut single ‘No Place Like Home,’ Part of the proceeds are supporting EarthAngel, our nonprofit empowering women in music. We’re bridging the gap for female musicians, amplifying their voices by giving them a safe place to record and teaching them the business.”
Mali , 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?
“Welcome to my story – a journey of resilience, faith, and creativity. I’m Mali Wilson, formerly known as Malissa ‘Mali’ Hunter, a Grammy-nominated producer, artist, and businesswoman. Embracing my married name marks a new chapter in my life and career.
Growing up in the church, surrounded by my grandparents’ devotion, music became my solace and passion. Mentors like Alan Moore, Clarence Avant, and Charlie Feldman guided me through the industry’s complexities. However, as a young woman, I faced numerous challenges, forcing me to take the long road to success.
Instead of compromising my values, I chose to help others, working behind the scenes to create safe creative spaces for iconic artists like Whitney Houston, Lenny Kravitz, 2 Chainz, and Drake. Managing Carly Simon’s career and learning from her experiences further shaped my expertise.
Before COVID-19, I reunited with composer Craig Snider, and together, we began scoring films and crafting original songs for sync. My production company, alongside Snider and Ronzeyl Newsome, offers music supervision and scoring services.
My personal life also underwent a beautiful transformation. My business partnership with Eric Wilson blossomed into romance, and we now co-write songs like Ashford and Simpson did. His love and support rekindled my desire to share my voice.
Through trials and heartbreaks, my faith remained unwavering. I’m proud to have never lost hope, using my music to spread messages of love, peace, and resilience. My debut single, ‘No Place Like Home,’ pays homage to evolving but never forgetting where you came from.
What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to my values, my unrelenting passion for music, and my dedication to uplifting others. I’m honored to have worked with legendary artists, but my true pride lies in staying true to myself.
To my fans, followers, and potential clients, I promise authenticity, creativity, and a steadfast commitment to empowering others. Join me on this journey, and let’s create harmonies that inspire and uplift.”
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
I’ve had to pivot multiple times, but one pivotal moment stands out. In 2006, I was offered a record deal by Clive Davis, yet the industry was shifting, and record sales were dwindling. Despite opposition from those around me, including friends and family, I made the bold decision to decline the deal.
That period was tumultuous – I went through a divorce, lost friends, and faced skepticism. However, my grandfather’s wisdom echoed in my mind: ‘Skills pay the bills, and multiple sources of income are key to success.’ Also staying humble helps your heart when it seems like you’re all alone with a hope and a dream.
I leveraged my business acumen to launch my marketing agency and founded the EarthGirl movement, empowering women in music. I also discovered a new passion for cooking and wellness, becoming ‘Chef Mali’ in my recording studios.
Pivoting from ‘starving artist’ to ‘music business mogul’ required putting business first. I stayed focused, driven, and committed to my vision. Pivoting again to a Grammy winning producer and music supervisor with a fabulous team scoring music and placing tunes on tv & film.
Today, I’m proud of my resilience and adaptability. My journey teaches me that:
– Diversifying income streams is crucial
– Business savvy is essential for artistic success
– Empowering others amplifies one’s own value
– Perseverance conquers adversity
I hope my story inspires fellow entrepreneurs and creatives to pivot with confidence, stay true to their vision, and cultivate multiple revenue streams.”
We’d love to hear the story of how you turned a side-hustle into a something much bigger.
“From Music to Marketing Maven: How My Agency Became a Full-Time Career
My agency wasn’t exactly a side hustle; it was a strategic pivot. As artist budgets shrunk, I leveraged my advertising connections I met at the start of my career in Chicago. Those relationships have now come full circle, and we’re building on the foundation of great people and creatives.
In 2014, Geoff Edwards, a friend and advertising mogul, advised me to launch a boutique agency, connecting authentic talent with brands. This pivotal conversation sparked a decade-long journey.
Key highlights of my agency’s success include partnering with esteemed brands like Coca-Cola, Constellation Brands, Burrell (Toyota) and Nike, pioneering influencer marketing through my celebrity network, cultivating an organic social media presence, and expanding my team. This growth has freed me to focus on philanthropy and artistry.
Today, my husband and team manage the agency and publishing company, allowing me to now share my voice/songs around the world
Contact Info:
- Website: Mali Wilson.com
- Instagram: @iam_mali
- Facebook: Malissa “Mali” Wilson
- Twitter: @iam_mali
- Youtube: Mali Wilson
Image Credits
Brianna Crudup