We were lucky to catch up with Rodney Coursey recently and have shared our conversation below.

Rodney, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Before we talk about all of your success, let’s start with a story of failure. Can you open up about a time when you’ve failed?

Yes. I have several stories about failing, but one that stands out most is my short time at a reputable creative agency. Upon earning my first job in music publicity, I set multiple goals I intended to accomplish within the industry. A key goal was transitioning from an entry-level PR specialist to a senior-level publicist in less than three years. I achieved my goal in two and a half years through discipline, dedication, and determination. I was incredibly proud when I applied and was offered what felt like a dream job, but my ascension quickly came to a screeching halt.

The company let me go less than three months into my new role. I was angry, sad, and embarrassed. How could this happen? I worked hard to earn this opportunity and felt I wasn’t given enough time to show why I deserved to be there. After returning my office key and company laptop, I walked to an industry networking event less than three miles from the office. I called my mom to share the bad news, then spent the rest of my walk reflecting on everything I achieved at that point. “They made a mistake. I’m the guy you bet on,” I said to myself. I accepted my failure, but knowing someone else’s opinion determined my fate did not sit right with me.

By the end of the following month, I had developed a business model to work through an LLC I had established to take back control. If I’m going to fail, it will be on my terms, and here we are nearly five years later.

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.

Going into my sophomore year of college, I spent countless hours discovering new music on hip-hop blogs. This particular era became known in popular culture as the “Blog Era.” The fascinating thing about the “Blog Era” is that major record labels relied on these platforms to discover and sign new talent. Some popular names to rise from the “Blog Era” were Kid Cudi, Mac Miller, and Wiz Khalifa.

As an avid reader of many popular hip-hop blogs during that time, I realized New Jersey hip-hop artists were rarely written about. This gave me the idea to create my company, Garden State Hip-Hop, which primarily focuses on hip-hop artists from New Jersey. After building the brand through original content and live events, I began applying for internship opportunities in the music industry. From everything I accomplished as a [music] community organizer and “influencer,” I landed two internships, which set me on my path to becoming a publicist.

Since beginning my career in the entertainment industry, I’ve led PR campaigns for nationally recognized figures like Soul Train Music Award winner Silentó, Golden Globe Award-winning actress Regina Taylor, Dove Award-nominated hip-hop artist Steven Malcolm, America’s Got Talent standout Wyn Starks, and NBA Hall of Fame inductee Earl “The Pearl” Monroe.

From the obstacles of breaking into the music industry, I’ve built a positive reputation for myself through a creative and results-driven approach to my campaigns. My background is DIY, so I connect with my clients differently than other entertainment publicists, which has enabled me to build a sustainable career.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

My passion and sincerity helped build my reputation in my market. I learned very early in life that I shine most when I’m serving other people. A pastor friend of mine once said, “What God has given us is not ours. It’s meant to bless others.” I keep that at the top of my mind in everything I do, professionally and personally. It’s the primary reason I’ve evolved into the man and businessman I am today.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is seeing an idea come to fruition. What’s more powerful than turning an idea into a reality? What’s more powerful than connecting with like-minded souls? The feeling I get from following through with a vision is indescribable.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.gardenstatehiphop.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rodneygshh/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodneycoursey/

Image Credits

Press photo, Jacob Rubenstein (Lost Lens Media)