We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Quinntin Smith a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Quinntin, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?
I started making money in music in Austin, Texas. At Huston Tillotson University my Professor Dr. Gloria Quinlan helped me develop a skill to work within many different music platforms. In college she often had me perform/work in studio sessions, religious gatherings, funerals, concerts, etc… Studying these techniques of preparing and observing I’ve been able to become a better performer but I also help other artist in development! I took percussion/drum line in grade school and I also would sing background Vocals for my sister while accompany her on the piano at church. This gave me foundation to start on but the work was and still is ahead of me!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Quinntin B. Smith! I go by Q or QBSMITH! I make music content. I’ve studied jazz and classical percussion. My foundation is Gospel and anything Rnb. When you love music you simply want to be apart of it. Im a multi instrumentalist and vocalist. Having the instrument side as well as vocal insight gives me a broad look on artist or bands that I work with. I’ve written and produced for Bell Biv DeVoe , August Alsina , and Austin’s own Alesia Lani. In fact, I wrote and produced her song ‘I DONT MIND’ with her at my home studio in Long Beach, CA
Can you share your view on NFTs? (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)
My view on NFT’s is limited but I’ve been doing some light research. Im into vinyl records. I love the physicality of the product and how that one copy is just for its intended buyer! The NFT platform gives me the idea that we’re doing this in a digital way
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
The music industry is always revolving. At the time I was Top lining (a form of songwriting) in LA. I was hearing where music was headed and I started to go against the grain a little. I grew tired of hearing the same melodies and arrangements. I had already been diminishing my musical IQ for reasons that I though were out of my control. I hit a hard reset. I picked up the engineering skills a bit and got to work. I didn’t personally cut any clients but I did raise my rate! This gave me the ability to meet my desired income and have more time to invest/create in other opportunities! Balance is everything and I realized I have to be inspired. Money is here today and out tomorrow!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @qbsmith_
- Facebook: Quinntin Brooks Smith
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxCNkDvPs5U