We were lucky to catch up with Steven Smalls recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Steven thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

The story behind my mission is deeply rooted in my personal experiences across various roles within the entertainment industry. As an artist, poet, dancer, photographer, promoter, DJ, and even security personnel at my own events, I have gained valuable insights into the dynamics and challenges faced by individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Through these experiences, I have come to understand the significant role collaboration plays in fostering a thriving and cohesive entertainment community.

My mission is to create an unparalleled collaborative event that brings together a diverse range of talents, including dancers, singers, poets, rappers, vloggers, YouTubers, athletes, influencers, comedians, models, photographers, videographers, car clubs, performers, food enthusiasts, health advisors, and more. This event will serve as a powerful platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and cultural exchange, aimed at bridging the gaps that often exist between different cultural groups.

What makes this mission particularly meaningful to me is the realization that despite our varied backgrounds and skill sets, we are all interconnected and reliant on each other for success. By curating a vacation-style environment that is both enjoyable and informative for attendees of all ages, backgrounds, and interests, I aim to not only provide a great escape but also facilitate the establishment of new and impactful business relationships.

In essence, my mission is a testament to the belief that unity and collaboration are fundamental to the continued growth and success of the entertainment industry. By showcasing the power of diversity and collective creativity, I aspire to set a new standard for inclusive and harmonious collaborations that resonate globally.

Steven, 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?

Steven Smalls: From Landscaping to Entertainment Entrepreneurship

Steven Smalls is a Florida-based entrepreneur who has carved a unique path in the realms of property renovations, entertainment, and event organization. Originally hailing from Columbia, SC, Smalls made his way to Florida in 2012 and, alongside his family, delved into landscaping and home repairs before transitioning to property remodeling for homeowners. This journey culminated in the establishment of his independent renovation company, “Kristopher’s Commercial & Home Renovations & Lawn Services,” in the same year.

Building on his passion for entertainment, Smalls ventured into the music industry in 2015 with the launch of “Dubbshakaz Entertainment.” Motivated by a desire to support independent artists and offer them opportunities to excel, he set up his first professional studio, initially providing recording services to emerging talents without financial gain but with a vision to become the city’s premier engineer.

His experiences attending independent showcases revealed a gap in the industry where artists were often charged for performances without reaping substantial benefits. This realization fueled Smalls to establish a record label under Dubbshakaz Entertainment, signing independent artists with the dual objective of nurturing their individual brands while building his own.

The evolution continued as Smalls expanded his horizons into production with the creation of “Small Tyme Productions” in 2017. Drawing inspiration from industry giants like Cole Bennet, Director X, and Michael Bay, he honed his skills in recording, editing, lighting, cinematography, and more, setting a high standard for production quality.

In his quest to provide platforms for emerging talents, Smalls launched “The Premier Club” in 2022, a venue that welcomed independent artists from various regions to showcase their talents without financial constraints. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations with established artists such as “Yung Joc,” “Rich Homie Quan,” and “Fredo Bang,” he elevated the exposure and opportunities for independent artists, cementing his reputation as a catalyst for emerging talent.

As the CEO of the “Orange Crush Festival,” Smalls positioned himself as a key figure in the entertainment scene, offering not just events but a blueprint for others to follow in different regions. His philosophy of planning, organization, and a commitment to supporting artists and causes has not only shaped his success but has also set a benchmark for others in the industry.

Looking ahead, Smalls aims to expand his franchises while remaining open to cross-promotional opportunities that align with his values. His “Orange Print” year marks a pivotal phase as he refines his processes and gears up for what promises to be the summer’s most significant entertainment event—a testament to his vision, passion, and dedication to driving positive change in the industry.

We’d love to hear about how you met your business partner.

Absolutely. Our journey began amidst challenges and a shared vision for revitalizing an iconic event. When I met my business partner and co-founder of Orange Crush Florida, he was navigating legal complexities stemming from events in Tybee Island, GA. The festival faced significant obstacles as the city actively sought to impede its operations. I was introduced as the individual capable of reinvigorating the festival’s success, particularly in Jacksonville, FL, where I was already establishing myself as an entertainment mogul.

That initial year was marked by urgency and financial strain due to unforeseen circumstances. However, I saw an opportunity to shape the business into a thriving enterprise that could eventually recoup the initial setbacks. Assuming complete control in Florida, I worked tirelessly while my business partner battled legal challenges and worked to restore his reputation in Georgia. The following year, I orchestrated a comprehensive plan, including rebranding the festival and forging new partnerships with dedicated professionals committed to its success.

Throughout this process, my relationship with my business partner evolved into a deep bond of friendship and mutual respect. He entrusted me with ownership of the brand, recognizing my dedication and ability to realize our shared vision. While we continue efforts to rebuild in Savannah, GA, I remain focused on leading Orange Crush Florida to new heights, honoring the legacy of the festival while creating a legacy of our own.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

During my journey, there was a pivotal moment that tested my resilience in a profound way. I had invested heavily in my passion for renovations, with equipment valued at over $400,000. However, a devastating setback occurred when all of my equipment was stolen. The magnitude of this loss left me disheartened, and I found myself questioning whether I could rebuild from such a significant blow.

In the midst of this challenge, I made a conscious decision to pivot towards another passion of mine: entertainment. I had always harbored a love for music and considered myself a skilled rapper. This transition wasn’t just about finding something new; it was about adapting swiftly to a new path that resonated with me.

I chose to set aside my microphone temporarily to focus on developing other artists. This shift not only reignited my sense of purpose but also allowed me to channel my experiences and knowledge into supporting emerging talents. It was a journey of transformation, where resilience became the driving force behind my ability to navigate adversity and reinvent myself in the face of unexpected challenges.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.orangecrushflorida.com
• Instagram: @orangecrushflorida
• Facebook: orangecrushflorida
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-smalls-a98101298/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_feed%3B6xk1pIIkThuyNSTllr8Lew%3D%3D
• Youtube: orangecrushflorida
• Yelp: orangecrushflorida
• Other: YouTube: Dubbshakaz Entertainment LLC

Image Credits
@Yung Joc .(Artist) @Party Plug Mikey (Co- Founder) @Natalac @News for Jax @Fredo Bang @Majornine @Trick Daddy