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

Michael, appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I’ve always had a deep appreciation for creativity and the arts from a young age. I remember being drawn to colors, shapes, sounds, and the beauty in the world around me. My passion for expressing myself through various artistic mediums intensified as I grew older. There wasn’t a specific moment when I knew I wanted to pursue a creative path professionally; it was a gradual realization that my love for art wasn’t just a hobby but something I wanted to make a central part of my life. Over time, I’ve honed my skills, sought opportunities to learn and grow, and ultimately decided to channel my creativity into a professional pursuit. It’s a journey that continues to evolve, and I’m excited about the endless possibilities that a creative and artistic path offers.

Michael, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Thank you for the opportunity to introduce myself and my work. I am Michael Hunte also known as The Gentleman, and I am deeply passionate about music, I am grateful to be gifted with this amazing gift of music. My journey into this field began at a very young age, when I discovered my love for music. Over the years, I’ve honed my expertise and committed myself to my craft, I believe that God has given me this gift to be of service to others. Everything I do as a creative is intentional because I want to be impactful and bring joy to someone’s life, what I do is bigger than me and I will continue to use what I have to make a difference in the World.

In my business, I specialize in creating original music compositions or arrangements tailored to the client’s needs.
Collaborating with artists and local businesses to develop unique and captivating musical pieces. I take pride in working closely with local businesses to help shape and define their identity.

The core value of Just Music Productions is centered around, being committed to upholding the highest standards of artistic integrity, fostering an environment where creativity flourishes, and artists are encouraged to express their unique voices.

Ultimately, my work is a reflection of who I am and my commitment to my craft, and I look forward to building more amazing relationships, and embarking on future endeavors, and collaborations. Thank you for taking the time to get to know me and my brand.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Supporting artists, and creatives, and fostering a thriving creative ecosystem involves a multifaceted approach that addresses various aspects of their professional and personal lives. In my view, society can take several measures to best support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem:

Cultural Appreciation and Education:
Foster an environment that values and appreciates the importance of art and creativity in society. This starts with integrating arts education into curriculums to nurture an early understanding and appreciation for the arts.

Accessible Funding and Grants:
Establish and maintain accessible funding opportunities and grants for artists. This financial support allows them to focus on their craft without the constant pressure of financial instability, fostering a conducive environment for creativity.

Fair Compensation and Copyright Protection:
Ensure fair compensation for artists through transparent payment structures and effective copyright protection. This encourages artists to continue creating by recognizing the value of their work and protecting their intellectual property.

Community Spaces and Collaborative Platforms:
Develop and maintain community spaces and platforms that encourage collaboration among artists. Shared studios, exhibition spaces, and online platforms facilitate networking, idea exchange, and collaborative projects.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives:
Promote diversity and inclusion within the creative industry. Encourage representation of artists from diverse backgrounds to ensure a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences in the artistic landscape.

Arts-Focused Infrastructure:
Invest in arts-focused infrastructure, including theaters, galleries, and performance spaces. These spaces provide venues for artists to showcase their work and engage with audiences, contributing to the vibrancy of the local creative scene.

Public Art Programs:
Implement public art programs that integrate artistic expression into public spaces. This not only provides exposure for artists but also enriches the cultural experience of the community at large.

Digital Platforms and Technology Integration:
Embrace and support digital platforms and technology that facilitate the distribution and consumption of art. This includes online galleries, streaming services, and virtual exhibitions, allowing artists to reach global audiences.

Mental Health and Well-being Support:
Recognize the unique challenges that artists often face, including financial instability and the emotional intensity of their work. Establish support systems, including mental health resources, to ensure the well-being of artists.

Advocacy for the Arts:
Encourage advocacy for the arts at the governmental and community levels. Recognize the economic and cultural contributions of the creative industry and actively work to integrate arts policies into broader societal frameworks.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being creative is the ability to translate thoughts, emotions, and ideas into tangible expressions. The creative process itself, from conceptualization to execution, serves as a powerful means of self-discovery and communication. The joy lies in seeing one’s imagination come to life, whether through visual art, music, writing, or any other form of creative expression. Additionally, the impact on others is often a deeply gratifying aspect. Knowing that my work has the potential to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, or inspire others is incredibly fulfilling for means an artist. The ability to connect with an audience on a profound level and contribute to shared human experiences is a unique and rewarding privilege.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @theofficalgentleman @justmusicproductions
• Linkedin: /in/michaeljthunte
• Twitter: @michaelhunte1
• Youtube: @theofficalgentleman