Hidden Hands EP 3 (Wayno) | Developing Artists, A&R Talk, Being Broke, QC
Jul 18, 2023
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Wayno, former Roc-A-Fella Records mail room employee turned A&R specialist, talks about being a successful A&R, managing and developing artists, maximizing industry opportunities, the impact of media coverage, developing an artist's brand, navigating collaborative production, the implications of AI in media and music, movies, zodiac signs, personal relationships, and advice for success in the music industry.
Building genuine relationships and receiving mentorship are crucial in the music industry.
Resilience, mental health, and gratitude play a significant role in overcoming career challenges.
Staying true to personal values and goals drives success in the music industry.
Collaboration in music production requires clear communication and understanding of credit and compensation.
Deep dives
Jason Burger's insights on entertainment law and navigating the industry
Jason Burger, a renowned entertainment lawyer, shares his expertise on navigating the music industry and offers insights on the importance of contracts, protecting intellectual property, and building successful careers as an artist or manager.
The significance of relationships and mentorship in the music industry
Wayneo highlights the importance of building genuine relationships and receiving mentorship in the music industry. He shares personal stories about the impact of mentors like Jim Jones and his mentor, Set Free, who have helped him navigate challenging moments and maintain a successful career.
Reflecting on rock bottom moments and staying resilient
Wayneo opens up about facing challenging moments in his career, including getting fired from Rockefeller and adapting to the split between him and Dave East. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, mental health, and gratitude, and how these qualities have helped him push through difficult times and continue pursuing his passion.
The hunger for success and the value of staying true to oneself
Wayneo reflects on the impact of his upbringing and the hunger he had to succeed and provide for his family. He shares how staying true to his own values and goals has driven his success and allowed him to overcome obstacles and setbacks along the way.
The Importance of Collaboration and Clear Communication in Music Production
Collaboration in music production is becoming more frequent, with a greater number of producers working together on a single track. This trend is seen especially in bigger records, which often have multiple credited producers and writers. While collaboration can be creatively beneficial and allow for diverse input, problems can arise when there is a lack of clear protocol or communication. It is crucial for producers to have discussions and establish understandings early in the process, including how credit and compensation will be divided. Additionally, having someone to run point and navigate negotiations can help maintain a smooth workflow and ensure fair treatment for all parties involved.
The Power and Potential Pitfalls of TikTok in the Music Industry
TikTok has emerged as a popular platform for music discovery and promotion, with its viral dance challenges and soundbite-driven culture. While TikTok can be a valuable tool, it is important to recognize its limitations. Success on TikTok does not always translate to overall career success or sales. The platform's short-form content may capture attention and generate trends, but it does not necessarily result in long-term fan engagement. Artists should approach TikTok as a supplementary tool for exposure and connection, while also focusing on creating compelling and meaningful music that resonates beyond viral moments.
The Influence of Fatherhood and Mentorship in the Music Industry
The role of fatherhood and mentorship can have a significant impact on individuals in the music industry. Having a supportive and loving father figure can shape one's outlook and approach to life and creativity. While the relationship between a father and child may not always be perfect or conventional, the lessons and values instilled by a father can be carried into professional endeavors. The bond between a father and child can teach lessons of love, protection, and navigating the challenges of life. Additionally, mentorship from older and experienced individuals in the industry can provide guidance and shape one's professional journey, emphasizing the importance of communication, authenticity, and embracing the next generation of artists.
Lessons from Movies: Resilience, Balance, and Perseverance in the Music Industry
Movies can offer valuable lessons and insights for individuals navigating the music industry. Films like Casino, Juice, Bruce Almighty, and Who Framed Roger Rabbit can provide inspiration and examples of resilience, balance, and perseverance. Casino reminds us of the importance of understanding the dynamics and staying in control of our environment. Juice highlights the significance of being selective about the company we keep and avoiding negative influences. Bruce Almighty teaches us about the potential dangers of trying to play God and control everything in our careers. Who Framed Roger Rabbit serves as a reminder that amidst the chaos and challenges of the industry, it's essential to maintain a sense of humor and not take everything too seriously. These movies can inspire individuals to navigate the music industry with wisdom, determination, and a balanced perspective.
Welcome to Hidden Hands, a TmrO Network Production all about uncovering music's backstage heroes. Travis (Rod Wave's engineer) & Cruz (Meek Mill's engineer) will shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked individuals who play a crucial role in crafting the songs we love.
As a young man, Wayno’s commitment to excellence plucked him from the mail room at Pitney Bowes to the offices of the legendary Roc-A-Fella Records. Wayno developed and garnered his A&R skills under the leadership of greats such as Kyambo "Hip-Hop" Joshua ,Gee Roberson , and Lenny S. Wayno gathered major credits as an A&R with acts such as the Young Gunz whom he led to a Grammy nomination in 2003. In 2012, he founded Triangle Offense to continue to practice the coveted teachings he learned at Roc. Through his leadership, Triangle Offense has become a management, A&R and marketing group that strives for excellence for young talent in the digital age.
In this episode they go into everything from what it's like to being a successful A&R, how manage and develop artists, maximizing opportunity the industry, and much more!
