It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?
My story begins a little over ten years ago. What started off as admiration for a group called Fatty Koo (signed to Sony Urban/Columbia Records) turned into being appointed Head of their fan club which would later pave the way for other ventures. These ventures and experiences would lead me to work with some very well-known clients such as: Tiffany Pollard, Blac Chyna and then I was a Project Manager For Grammy Award-Winning R&B singer Mya independent Album titled Smoove Jones which was Grammy nominated in 2017. Recently I launched my new multimedia company called XXELULOUS Music Group in partnership with Grammy nominated music producer- Baby Paul “BPZY” Hendricks. XMG will encompass business management, artist branding, and artist development. With the recent success of my son and recording artist, Lil XXEL we broke ground by having the newest artist to penetrate the mainstream market. In partnership with Sparta Distribution and 300 Entertainment we are excited to offer some of the best talent in today’s industry climate with our next ventures in all forms of media.
How the Love & Hip-Hop franchise impacted your entrepreneurial journey?
First I would like to thank Mona Scott Young and Big Fish Entertainment for casting me for the franchise of Love and Hip Hop Hollywood. My journey as a business manager of talent on the show has expanded exponentially since my tenure on network television, having secured 7 figure deals for clients I represent as well breaking new music and media content in the current market place. Hey you just might see me again you just never know.
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
Establishing yourself in this industry is not easy because you have to stand out. You have to make people see what you can bring to the table. There is so much to oversee and you must always anticipate the next move, have a Plan B and be ready to spring into action no matter what. My clients appreciate that I bring a little bit of normalcy in an industry that is very demanding and chaotic. For the most part, obstacles and challenges that I have faced are usually the result of undertaking those of my clients.
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
I specialize in artist development and branding, as well as business management. I know how to take fresh talent and turn them into star power, with the help of my partner Baby Paul who handles the creative aspect of song making with me and curates upcoming new talent. We are a force to be reckoned with in today’s industry climate.
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
The advice I would give anyone thinking of pursuing this career path is always remember the opportunities are a privilege not an obligation, stay true to yourself and never compromise yourself, give respect and demand it as well no matter what your role is within this ever changing industry. “Sometimes in the wave of change we find our true direction”.
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
Success means to me the following: Contacts, Resources, Relationships, Money, an influx of opportunities, etc.
What’s next for you?
Next up is new music by my signed artists. We are developing and collaborating with legendary artists like Trina from Miami, AZ from Brooklyn, Monie Love from London and many more. Also I would like to introduce Poncho Biggs who is up NEXT-UP from Chi Town who has a hot new record in the works.
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
You can search my name Antonio Velaz on all social media platforms or if you like you can click on this link https://direct.me/antoniovelaz to stay locked in with me.