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Label News

Izzy Reign Releases Her Self-Titled Debut Album

March 21, 2025
Artist News, Label News
Electronic Rock, FiXT Music, Label News

By Leasia Korbel

Izzy Reign has released her self-titled debut album Izzy Reign from FiXT. 

Emerging from the shadows and into the spotlight, Izzy Reign has crafted an electrifying collection of tracks that push boundaries into a compelling and emotionally charged sonic experience. This debut record is a culmination of Izzy’s raw power and genre-defying artistry, reflecting personal struggles, societal critiques, and a hauntingly raw beautiful dive into the human psyche. Boundaries will be crossed, genres will be pushed, crushed, and turned inside out. All hail the Queen.

Each track, an artistic blending of metalcore, alternative metal, and hard rock, stands as a testament to her ability to seamlessly merge brutal instrumentals with atmospheric elements, making this album a must-listen for fans of innovative rock and metal. From “Your Entertainer” a concept track tackling the mental toll of fame to “Into Oblivion” inspired by the Egyptian goddess Ammit, this alternative pop-metal track delves into Izzy’s personal struggles with religious-induced OCD and intrusive thoughts. “Pandora’s Box” is a dichotic experience of chaos and introspection drifting between sensual to brutal. “The Sunken Place” is inspired from the psychological horror movie Get out, exploring manipulation and survival instincts through a raging soundscape. The electrifying album manages to capture the essence of various genres while smashing through each and ultimately bending them to her will. No subject is too small, no corner of humanity too dark. Izzy Reign is a deep dive into not just her own struggles but humanity’s as well.

Releasing with the album is “Bird of Prey” which premiered yesterday at Revolver Mag. The song captures the perspective of an antihero, someone who doesn’t shy away from confronting harmful people head-on. With a cynical yet powerful tone, the track explores the concept of necessary evils, where the protagonist serves as the consequence for others’ harmful actions. Reign emphasizes the importance of standing up for the voiceless and holding others accountable, delivering a taunting message that there is no escape from the paths people choose.

“‘Bird Of Prey’ was written from the viewpoint of the villain’s Villain. The not quite a hero but more of an anti hero. I grew up with the standard of a zero tolerance for crappy people. That if I saw someone causing harm, I would cause said person double the amount. I made it clear that I would never be the cause, but always the result. Is it the best way to go about things? Probably not, but sometimes, a necessary evil is a good thing. Really wanted to portray a powerful yet semi cynical vibe in this song. A more taunting feeling of saying, there’s no escape. That you chose this path, now here are the consequences. I encourage people to always stand up for those who do not have a voice of their own and hold them accountable. Always have and always will. Sometimes, the right thing to do, IS to make it your problem.” – Izzy Reign

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iu03-a3x-ds

Bold. Eclectic. Rebellious. Izzy Reign thrives on originality and thinking outside the box. Her music is nothing short of a reflection of this. She grew up singing to Alanis Morissette, Jewel, and Madonna. Inspired by Enter Shikari’s music video “Sorry You Are Not A Winner” and the musical stylings of Imogen Heap, Izzy took the plunge into the industry and played her first live show when she was 15 years old. 

Since then she’s taken a deeper dive into production, songwriting and performing, working with a variety of artists that come through the production house she shares with producers Jon Eberhard (I Prevail, Skillet, Sleeping With Sirens) and Nick Matzkows (Wind Walkers, Until I Wake, ENMY, Attack! Attack!). Over the past four years she has released a myriad of covers, originals and music videos on her YouTube channel racking up millions of views. She has received notable attention for her popular The Nightmare Before Christmas cover of “This Is Halloween”, which has over 10 million streams across Spotify and YouTube along with 73,200 videos using the sound on TikTok.

In 2023 Izzy came to the attention of the US-based record label FiXT, through the discovery of her independent release, “Broken By Design”, which showcased a new edge to Izzy’s sound. Signing on for a multi-album deal, Izzy Reign is now set to release her self-titled debut album with FiXT on March 21, 2025. 


Follow Izzy Reign
Stream Izzy Reign

FiXT Labs: Upgrading Your Mental Operating System for Success in the Modern Music Industry

March 13, 2025
Label News
FiXT Music, Label News

The modern music industry is as rewarding as it is demanding. For every artist trying to break through the noise, every label scouting new talent, every publicist securing a coveted press feature, or every touring band grinding through long hours on the road, the challenges are relentless. A composer may spend days crafting the perfect pitch for a film or TV sync placement, only to face rejection, while a graphic designer revises artwork for the 13th time in pursuit of perfection. These stories are all too familiar, underscoring the difficult reality of working in this industry…

Check out the rest over at V13.net
FiXT Labs: Upgrading Your Mental Operating System for Success in the Modern Music Industry


FiXT & V13 Media Announce New Partnership

March 13, 2025
Label News
FiXT Music, Label News

By Leasia Korbel

Twenty Years In The Making

FiXT, the independent record label dedicated to artist development and genre innovation, and V13 Media, the established media outlet showcasing independent voices in music and entertainment, are proud to announce a new strategic partnership aimed at amplifying independent music on a global scale.

This collaboration brings together FiXT’s cutting-edge approach to artist growth with V13 Media’s expertise in music promotion, editorial coverage, and media outreach. Through this partnership, both companies will work to provide unparalleled exposure and promotional opportunities for FiXT artists, bridging the gap between creators and fans worldwide.

Under the partnership, FiXT will provide two monthly columns. FiXT Labs will serve as an industry column offering educational and informative articles on the music industry, targeting artists, musicians, and industry professionals. Additionally, FiXT New Noise will feature a monthly spotlight on a FiXT artist, sharing in-depth insights into their creative world.


FiXT and V13 Media have a long history together, starting from the first article on Celldweller posted in 2005 when V13 Media was known as PureGrainAudio. Over the last 20 years, V13 Media has covered multiple FiXT artists through premieres, features, as well as conducting interviews with the label’s staff.
 

As a trusted name in music journalism and promotion for two decades (celebrating its 20th anniversary on March 31st), V13 Media offers in-depth artist features, reviews, interviews, and has recently expanded into artist development (V13 Promo) and book publishing (V13 Press). This partnership will strengthen V13 Media’s ability to showcase FiXT’s diverse roster while ensuring that independent musicians receive the attention they deserve in an ever-evolving industry. 

“Our relationship with V13 has a rich history, and I’m thrilled to embark on this next chapter. Through FiXT Labs and the upcoming FiXT New Noise columns, we’re eager to expand FiXT’s mission of development and education to a broader audience. We look forward to sharing valuable insights and tips drawn from our decades of experience, helping others navigate and grow in their career journeys.” – James Rhodes, FiXT President


“For 20 years, V13 has championed independent music with relentless passion, and this partnership with the venerable label FiXT represents the next evolution of that mission. Independent artists don’t just need visibility—they need a movement behind them, a force that believes in their art as much as they do. Together, we’re perpetuating that movement, ensuring that boundary-pushing musicians get the recognition, opportunities, and support they deserve.” – Christopher Gonda, Publisher & CEO, V13 Media

The FiXT x V13 Media partnership launches today with the inaugural FiXT Labs column, available now here. Music fans, industry professionals, and artists alike are invited to explore this groundbreaking collaboration that will reshape how independent music reaches global audiences. Audiences can follow both FiXT and V13 Media on social media to stay updated on exclusive content drops, artist features, and industry insights that will emerge from this powerful alliance. This partnership represents not just coverage of independent music, but a commitment to propelling it forward on a global scale.



Check Out V13 Media!
Check out FiXT Labs!

FiXT Announces FiXT Academy

March 5, 2025
Label News
FiXT Music, Label News

By Leasia Korbel

A Groundbreaking Initiative Designed To Educate, Support, and Empower Artists In The Modern Era

FiXT, the pioneering independent record label known for its cutting-edge approach to music and artist development, is proud to introduce FiXT Academy, a new suite of services led by FiXT President & Co-Founder, James Rhodes, designed to empower musicians and producers with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration they need to elevate their careers. To learn more, visit fixtacademy.com and join the FiXT Academy Waitlist and Newsletter and receive a free New Release Action Guide for Artists.

FiXT Academy is a comprehensive range of products, including engaging webinars, a membership community, dynamic mastermind groups, personalized coaching, and consultations tailored for artists, producers and labels. With a vision to educate, develop and inspire, FiXT Academy serves as a one-stop resource for creatives aiming to refine their craft, build sustainable careers, and connect with like-minded professionals in the music industry.

“The idea for FiXT Academy came from years of providing similar resources of webinars, mastermind group sessions and community fellowship for our internal staff and artist roster. We would talk with industry colleagues about what we were doing and would consistently get positive feedback on how cool it was along with external artists telling us they wish they had access to the same resources and opportunities. I’ve always had a passion for using the resources available to me to bring educational and inspirational content to the FiXT team and artists, and now I’m extremely excited to bring that to a much larger audience. Along with sharing my own 20+ years of experience, I get to invite amazing guests to share their knowledge and wisdom. In the past we’ve hosted such incredible guests as Dustin Boyer (Venture Music), Hisham Dahud (Artist Pro), Nate Sirotta (Impulse Artists), Michael Lau (AIMP), Michael Levine (Levine Pictures), Mark Garrett (Kardavox Academy), and talented composers / producers such as Tom Salta, Joey Sturgis, Eyal Levi, and Jon Eberhard, and of course FiXT Owner/Founder and artist/producer mastermind Klayton (Celldweller / Scandroid),” said James Rhodes, President of FiXT.

FiXT Academy will feature exclusive video tutorials, webinars, workshops, in-depth resource guides, live Q&A sessions, mastermind groups, and access to 1:1 coaching and consulting plus direct access to an entire network of  industry professionals. Whether an artist is just starting out or looking to refine their craft, FiXT Academy will offer guidance from experts who understand the challenges and opportunities of today’s music business.

“Working with James and the FiXT team has been one of the absolute highlights of my career so far. James has a unique style of giving direction that’s both real and kind. He’ll tell you what you need to hear, but in a way that leaves you feeling motivated instead of down. That kind of support has been a huge part of helping me level up as an artist.

What I really admire about James and FiXT is that they actually live by the values they talk about. FiXT doesn’t just slap some nice-sounding principles on their website, they actually back them up in what they do. As an artist who has worked with 10+ different record labels in my career, I can say it’s rare to work with a team that aligns their actions with their ideals, and it makes the whole collaboration way more enjoyable and productive.

If you get the chance to work with James, take it! He’s one of the best in the business, and working with him and FiXT has made me a better artist and person.” – James Guttman (HIGHSOCIETY) Artist / Producer / DJ

As a FiXT Academy member, you gain exclusive access to high-impact webinars designed to elevate your knowledge, skills, and career. Led by industry experts, successful artists, and thought leaders, these in-depth sessions cover everything from music production, branding, and marketing strategies to business growth and industry trends. Whether you’re an aspiring creator or a seasoned professional, our webinars provide actionable insights, behind-the-scenes knowledge, and real-world strategies to help you stay ahead in a competitive industry. Plus, with live Q&A opportunities, you get direct access to experts who can answer your questions and provide personalized guidance.

“James is one of the best label executives I’ve had the pleasure of working with. His top-tier communication skills and approachable demeanor make every collaboration seamless. James is a person of unwavering integrity—someone who consistently delivers on their word, a rare quality in today’s world. Working with him is always a privilege and something I enjoy a lot.” – Joel Wanasek (Nail The Mix | Drumforge) 

“Over my 18 years in the music industry, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless independent and major label executives, but I’ve never encountered anyone quite like James Rhodes. His passion, kindness, and relentless drive set him apart in every way. James’s dedication to FiXT and the artists he works with goes beyond the surface—he’s deeply invested in educating, empowering, and guiding artists to achieve lasting success. It’s rare to work with someone who genuinely cares about both the craft and the creator, and James embodies that rare blend of integrity and commitment.” – Michael Money (Beyond Unbroken) | Artist/Producer

FiXT Academy is launching in April 2025! Join the FiXT Academy Waitlist and Newsletter and receive a free New Release Action Guide for Artists at fixtacademy.com.

James Rhodes is the President of independent record label FiXT, an artist-owned label which he co-founded in 2006 alongside respected artist, producer, and composer Klayton, best known for his solo projects Celldweller and Scandroid. Building the company around the strength of Klayton’s projects, James and Klayton have turned FiXT into a global brand with dozens of artists, millions of monthly listeners, and thousands of die-hard fans in over 180 countries.

Some of Rhodes’ accomplishments at FiXT include notable artist signings such as The Browning, Fight The Fade, ENMY, and The Anix to making key personnel hires including Kurtis Redden (Vice President), Travis Brockett (Administrative Director), and Michelle Steer (Merchandise & E-Commerce Manager). In 2015 he spearheaded FiXT’s move to join the American Association of Independent Music (A2iM), become MERLIN members and move FiXT’s digital delivery business to FUGA. Rhodes is also credited with moving FiXT’s e-commerce operations to Shopify in 2015 and later negotiating direct deals with multiple DSPs including Amazon, and Pretzel. In 2022 he set up FiXT’s global publishing administration deal with SENTRIC and in 2023 co-led FiXT’s sync catalog expansion in a deal with APM Music paired with a global sub-publishing network of 20 territory based partners. He has served multiple terms on the A2iM Mentorship program, and been a guest on numerous industry podcasts, including the Top Music Attorney Podcast, The Music Industry Blueprint Podcast with Rick Barker, Burn This World Podcast with Jonny McBee, and Headliner Mindset Podcast with Nik Cherwink.

Follow James Rhodes!
Check out FiXT Academy!
Join the FiXT Academy Waitlist and Newsletter! 

The Plague Releases New Album The Divided States Of Hysteria

February 28, 2025
Artist News, Label News
Electronic Rock, FiXT Music, Label News

By Leasia Korbel

The Plague has released his latest album The Divided States Of Hysteria now available across all platforms from FiXT.

The Divided States Of Hysteria is a sonic manifesto diving into themes of addiction, identity, societal pressures, self-reflection, and the complex duality of human nature. Synths, guitars, bass, and drums collide to create an intense sonic palette that mirrors the album’s themes of internal and external chaos. The Plague combines raw and vulnerable lyrics, with complex soundscapes showcasing his unparalleled ability to blend emotive lyrics with powerful instrumentation. The album captures The Plague’s signature blend of rock, hard rock, and alternative influences, delivering tracks that are as energetic as they are thought-provoking. From powerful synths to driving guitars and thunderous drums, the instrumentation provides a dynamic backdrop for lyrics that tackle deeply personal and universal themes.

Featuring singles like “Man Machine or Beast” that challenges the impact of technology on our relationships, while “Predator” confronts humanity’s darker instincts. “Float Right On By” is a poignant reflection on selfishness and the search for redemption and “Clean Slate” is a heartfelt anthem of renewal and forgiveness. While “Right Back Down” is a firestorm featuring thrashing guitars, brutal vocals, as an intense exploration of a relationship that ends without warning. The Divided States Of Hysteria is a deep and honest exploration of the human condition. 

Releasing with the album is “Say What You Want To Say” which premiered yesterday at Revolver Mag. In The Plague’s own words, “I spend a ton of time in the studio, and its VERY easy to get critical voices coming in and criticizing me. I started to ask myself where do these voice come from and tell them to f off! I started to realize that a lot of hater say the same things as the voices in my head which really leads me to believe its a universal spiritual attack. This song is flipping the bird to that whole attitude. The lyric “I can’t put the beat to the music” was originally intended as a place holder but it grew on me. I thought it was kind of cool to leave a lyric that was a reference lyric in a song where the spirit is just go for it and don’t think to much. It was funny because “beat to the music” is not a title i want for obvious reasons, so then the nest hook line was “say my name” also had the same problems lol. We went with ‘Say What You Want To Say,’ that passes the sexual innuendo test.”

Follow The Plague
Stream The Divided States Of Hysteria

HIGHSOCIETY Announces New Album DATAMOSH Available To Pre-Order Releases “Harm” (feat. The Anix)

February 19, 2025
Artist News, Label News
Electronic Rock, FiXT Music, Label News

By Leasia Korbel

HIGHSOCIETY has announced his upcoming album DATAMOSH is available to pre-order from FiXT. The album drops March 28, 2024. 

Prepare for a sonic onslaught like no other as HIGHSOCIETY’s highly anticipated new album, DATAMOSH, smashes through genre conventions with a ferocity of a rampaging sonic juggernaut. Merging the worlds of alternative metal, hard rock, and industrial with EDM, DATAMOSH is a relentless exhibition of raw energy, thunderous rhythms, and cutting-edge production. 

One of the hallmarks of DATAMOSH is its jaw-dropping roster of collaborations featuring appearances from Micah Martin, ENMY, BVLVNCE, Craig Mabbit (of Escape The Fate), Daedric, Young Medicine, The Anix, Coping Method, Becko, and Protect Your Heart. Each brings their own unique edge to the table amplifying the intensity of every track. With singles like “OBSOLETE” with Coping Method, a brutal metalcore-dubstep crossover that defies convention; “Voices” featuring Micah Martin, a blistering anthem born from an electrifying one-day creative sprint; and “Dead By Dawn” with Daedric, where soaring cinematic grandeur meets punishing breakdowns. And these are just the tip of the iceberg. 

At the heart of the album is the concept of “DATAMOSH” — a sonic philosophy that sees HIGHSOCIETY blurring the lines between genres, bending them to his will. It’s a fusion of cybernetic precision and primal human emotion layered over sound. The result? A completely original multifaceted album that’s as unpredictable as it is unforgettable. From dubstep bangers to metal anthems, HIGHSOCIETY’s sonic palette knows no limits.

Dropping with the pre-order announcement is “HARM” (feat. The Anix) which premiered yesterday at Outburn. The single brings together the powerhouse rocktronic styles of HIGHSOCIETY and The Anix, combining jagged synths, crushing metal guitars, and intricate breakbeats. Known for their mastery in merging aggressive rock with dynamic electronic elements, the duo create a powerful, melancholic anthem that’s both haunting and hard-hitting. 

In his own words HIGHSOCIETY explains,“Working with The Anix on this track is a real full-circle moment for me. I actually found FiXT through his music (I thought it was his label at first). Out of all the amazing collaborators on this album, The Anix is the one I look up to the most. His project has been a huge inspiration, both sonically and visually. This track gave me the chance to explore a more melodic, atmospheric side of my sound to match his vocals, which was a lot of fun. I’m so glad we got to add a ‘slow-motion in the rain’ moment to the album to balance out all the heavier tracks.”

The ascending bass music talent that is known as HIGHSOCIETY has been on a rapid rise as of late, thanks to his addictive blend of stadium-crushing future bass, metallurgic dubstep, and blazing trap. With a seemingly endless torrent of releases across standout labels from FiXT, Barong Family, and Universal Music, to Red Bull Records and Lowly Palace/Trap Nation, HIGHSOCIETY has firmly established himself as one of the most exciting new acts in electronic music. 

In the past HIGHSOCIETY worked with respected labels such as Dim Mak, Red Bull Records,  Island Records, Lowly Palace, Welcome Records, Barong Family,  Universal, and now FiXT. He’s also worked with many high-profile artists including Craig Mabbit of Escape The Fate, AWOLNATION, Attack Attack!, Celldweller, Teddy Killerz, The Anix, Big Shaq, Reid Speed, Palisades, Jade, and Le Castle Vania as well as earned sync placements with HBO, MTV, MTV2, ABC Family, Freeform, and Oxygen. He’s performed live with Steve Aoki, Knife Party, Kill The Noise, Slushii, Modestep, GTA, and Elohim at many live festivals including but not limited to Live 105 BFD Festival, Bottlerock Festival, Amsterdam Dance Event, and many headline shows across the US. 

Follow HIGHSOCIETY
Stream “HARM”

Izzy Reign Announces Her Self-Titled Debut Album Out March 21st

February 14, 2025
Artist News, Label News
Electronic Rock, FiXT Music, Label News

By Leasia Korbel

Izzy Reign has announced her self-titled debut album Izzy Reign is available for pre-order and will be out on March 21, 2025 from FiXT. 

Emerging from the shadows and into the spotlight, Izzy Reign has crafted an electrifying collection of tracks that push boundaries into a compelling and emotionally charged sonic experience. This debut record is a culmination of Izzy’s raw power and genre-defying artistry, reflecting personal struggles, societal critiques, and a hauntingly raw beautiful dive into the human psyche. Boundaries will be crossed, genres will be pushed, crushed, and turned inside out. All hail the Queen.

Each track, an artistic blending of metalcore, alternative metal, and hard rock, stands as a testament to her ability to seamlessly merge brutal instrumentals with atmospheric elements, making this album a must-listen for fans of innovative rock and metal. From “Your Entertainer” a concept track tackling the mental toll of fame to “Into Oblivion” inspired by the Egyptian goddess Ammit, this alternative pop-metal track delves into Izzy’s personal struggles with religious-induced OCD and intrusive thoughts. “Pandora’s Box” is a dichotic experience of chaos and introspection drifting between sensual to brutal. “The Sunken Place” is inspired from the psychological horror movie Get out, exploring manipulation and survival instincts through a raging soundscape. The electrifying album manages to capture the essence of various genres while smashing through each and ultimately bending them to her will. No subject is too small, no corner of humanity too dark. Izzy Reign is a deep dive into not just her own struggles but humanity’s as well.

Releasing with the pre-order, Izzy Reign’s new single “Phobos” delves deep into the unsettling world of panic attacks, drawing from personal experience to convey the overwhelming and unpredictable nature of these episodes. With raw emotion and vivid descriptions, the song captures the sensation of air thinning, heartbeats overpowering, and the inevitability of panic despite any attempts at control. Through “Phobos,” Reign seeks to resonate with those who have faced similar battles, whether through the struggle to resist the attacks or the resigned acceptance of their recurrence, creating a visceral sonic journey of anxiety and resilience.

This song is about the experiences of having panic attacks. A true understanding of how the feel and how at complete random they can occur.

In her own words, “I spent many years of my life undergoing random panic attacks, which felt like, for no reason at all, but upon learning and understanding how much the subconscious stress levels of your brain truly affect the physical responses of your body, it seemed to make more sense. I struggled with this for a long time and as many people have experienced them selves, it can take a major toll on ones every day life. How ever, I wrote this song in regards to this becoming my norm, and when I felt the coming on, I just had to take them steps to prepare and let them pass. The inevitable would happen, regardless of how in control I felt or how much I changed my situations/surroundings. I wanted to give the feeling of what a panic attack felt like to people who have gone through the many different stages of them. Whether or not they let it consume them, the sensation of the air around them thinning, or your heart beat being the only thing you can hear, or the other side of acceptance, almost, in a way, being annoyed that you have to sit down and ground yourself to prepare for what you’re already used to.”

– Izzy Reign
https://youtu.be/3pZbMK_n18k

Bold. Eclectic. Rebellious. Izzy Reign thrives on originality and thinking outside the box. Her music is nothing short of a reflection of this. She grew up singing to Alanis Morissette, Jewel, and Madonna. Inspired by Enter Shikari’s music video “Sorry You Are Not A Winner” and the musical stylings of Imogen Heap, Izzy took the plunge into the industry and played her first live show when she was 15 years old. 

Since then she’s taken a deeper dive into production, songwriting and performing, working with a variety of artists that come through the production house she shares with producers Jon Eberhard (I Prevail, Skillet, Sleeping With Sirens) and Nick Matzkows (Wind Walkers, Until I Wake, ENMY, Attack! Attack!). Over the past four years she has released a myriad of covers, originals and music videos on her YouTube channel racking up millions of views. She has received notable attention for her popular The Nightmare Before Christmas cover of “This Is Halloween”, which has over 10 million streams across Spotify and YouTube along with 73,200 videos using the sound on TikTok.

In 2023 Izzy came to the attention of the US-based record label FiXT, through the discovery of her independent release, “Broken By Design”, which showcased a new edge to Izzy’s sound. Signing on for a multi-album deal, Izzy Reign is now set to release her self-titled debut album with FiXT on March 21, 2025. 


Follow Izzy Reign
Stream “Phobos”

Behind The Scenes – Interview: Travis Brockett

February 11, 2025
Artist News, Label News
Label News

By Leasia Korbel



Tell us a little about yourself—where are you from, and what’s a fun fact people might not know about you?

The easiest answer is that I am from Burlington, IA but I have lived in multiple places in Southeast Iowa but have lived in Burlington on and off throughout my adult life. I most recently came back when I got hired at FiXT.

My go-to fun fact is that I am a classically and commercially trained vocalist, having attended Millikin University for voice in the early 2000’s and have done everything from Opera to Deathcore. I currently have one active metal project (Lituus) that I am working on and a few now dead projects.

What’s your role in the music industry, and what do you love most about what you do?

I am the Administrative Director for FiXT which encompasses a great deal of things but a lot of it focuses on the finance side of the business. I really enjoy numbers and data. I like to analyze things and look for trends or things that might help us make better decisions for the label and our artists. I also enjoy the connection we have to our artists. There is a trust and respect that goes both ways.

You are also a metal vocalist. What got you into metal, and what drew you to extreme vocals?

So my love for metal started back in the early 90’s when my stepdad got me into the Metallica album And Justice for All. It got me into thrash metal and I listened to all of the Big 4. I started to develop my own tastes through the years and always tried to scream along with the songs. I wanted to learn how to do things right so I talked to my commercial vocal styles teacher in college about screaming and then a few years later got into the Zen of Screaming video series from Melissa Cross.

Can you share a bit about your journey in the music world? 

On a professional level, things started with my schooling at Millikin. I knew from there that I wanted to get into the industry but I thought my only way in was through performing. There aren’t a lot of options in the Midwest. I ended up in the finance world, working in banking for 13 years. I saw a job for FiXT posted and I knew James Rhodes because he was a friend of mine that I met in High School. I hit him up and the rest is history. I started as the Accounting & Royalty Manager working mostly on finance related items but have picked up things like Rights Management, HR, Legal and more in my time since coming on and getting promoted.

On the personal side, I have been performing since I was a kid. In the metal world, I joined my first band in 2005. I have been in a few different bands during that time but in 2021 I really kicked things up starting a Death Metal band called Misery System. From there, I did a solo project under my artist name BlkmetalvoX and am currently working on a project called Lituus.  

What are some career highlights or accomplishments you’re most proud of?

Recently we made a switch to the Curve royalty processing system and it was quite the lift to get everything up and running. I took on a lot of that burden as the person who was going to be working with the system more hands on and getting that moving and having a next level royalty solution for our artists was a great feeling. Also, just working on the budgeting process when it comes to the label and our roster as quite the accomplishment. Lastly, my promotion to Administrative Director was an incredible honor. I appreciate the trust and support that Klayton, James and Kurtis have put in me. 

Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your career?

Vocally, I have plenty of musical influences but on the metal side of things, it would be people like Howard Jones (ex-Killswitch Engage, Light The Torch, Blood Has Been Shed), Vincent Bennett (The Acacia Strain), Trevor Strnad (The Black Dahlia Murder), Brook Reeves (Impending Doom) and others. I think that I was able to take pieces of their vocal styles to really find my own. I try to write about what I know or am going through. With Lituus, I am really trying to dive into my story telling and build a world. 

Are there any Black artists, producers, or industry pioneers who have inspired your path?

I mentioned him before but Howard Jones is a big one for me. I also have a lot of respect for some black artists in the metal scene because it is hard for us out here. Byron, Doc, and Corey from God Forbid, Terrance Hobbs in Suffocation, Tom Morello in RATM, Tosin Abasi in Animals as Leaders, and more. I grew up a big fan of Prince and Michael Jackson and was in awe of the talent that they had. It is people like that who truly inspire me.

Have you faced any unique experiences or challenges as a Black professional in the music industry? How did you navigate them?

I think the most unique thing I have had to deal with is microaggressions. I have lost track of how many times I tell people that I work for a record label and their automatic perception is that it must be a rap/hip-hop label. As a person of color, these things tend to happen more often than some would expect so you really learn to deal with it in a way that resolves things in a good way. I usually just try to explain what we do, what I do, and squash any misconceptions.

What’s one piece of Black music history that more people should know about?

The Broadway musical “Shuffle Along”. It was the first major black musical in 1921 and it was pivotal for having black representation on stage. It really challenged racial barriers not only on the stage but in this country.

Hardcore Keem (The Browning) & Travis Brockett

How has your cultural background influenced your artistry, business approach, or work ethic in the music industry?

I have always felt like I needed to work a bit harder because of my background. I didn’t want to fit into a shell or stereotype that someone had created for me. I feel it has made me a better person and I try to meet others like me in the industry to connect with. I want to continue to grow in this industry and I know there are others out there doing what I want to do. The best way to get there is to start those conversations so I am going to take advantage of the conferences I attend or calls that I have with other black music industry professionals.

What advice would you give to young Black artists, producers, or industry professionals trying to break into the business?

Do not let others tell you that it can’t be done. There are black people in all of those walks of life. I would recommend reaching out to anyone you see that is doing what you want to do or is on a similar path you want to take. I think we are all there to support each other and want to see our people succeed. If I am the person that can help you, I want you to hit me up.

Outside of work, what are some projects, initiatives, or community efforts you’re involved in that celebrate Black culture and music?

I have been a mentor for young black youth through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, I have volunteered with inner city youth in the past, and I have been a guest speaker at numerous black events including the Teen Summit by Delta Sigma Theta at the University of Iowa with the goal to help young minority students acquire the tools to become successful both personally and professionally.

If you could recommend one song, album, or performance that embodies Black excellence, what would it be and why?

I am gonna give two just for different reasons. The first is “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” by Nina Simone and the second is “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” by James Brown. The first just really speaks to empowering young black people and the second is just an anthem to show pride in who you are as a black person in this country.




What’s a piece of advice or a motto that has helped you in your career?

I think one of the guiding things I learned years ago was “The Talented Tenth” by W.E.B. DuBois. The thought is that for black people to advance, there must be an elite of exceptional men to lead them. I have always strived to be one of those men.

“The Negro race, like all races, is going to be saved by its exceptional men. The problem of education, then, among Negroes must first of all deal with the Talented Tenth; it is the problem of developing the Best of this race that they may guide the Mass away from the contamination and death of the Worst, in their own and other races.” – W.E.B. DuBois

What’s the best way the music industry—and fans—can celebrate Black history and Black artists all year long, not just in February?

While it is great to see highlights of past or current examples of black excellence during Black History Month, it would be great to see them year round. We can utilize this time to show the great things we do but I urge fans to continue to reach out and try to find artists or companies of minority groups and push them out to those you know. Spread the love. I think the industry could continue to push for panels at conferences, articles in publications, and just lifting minority voices all year round instead of what has become the convenient time to do so. 

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