For decades, Atlanta has birthed some of the most successful artists in the music industry, and today remains a global leader in the world’s most widely-consumed music genre. But while nobody can deny the unstoppable tear that Atlanta’s hip-hop scene has been on for over twenty years, very little is known about the sacrifice and dedication that goes into creating and maintaining the careers of the exceptional artists, writers, and producers leading the wave. Talent itself plays a large role in the trajectory of these individuals, but their management and direction plays an equally—if not sometimes more–important role in their success.
Adonis Hill, president of the event curation company Level Up Atlanta, strives to bring awareness to the key players behind the scenes by organizing events that educate attendees about the inner workings of the entertainment industry. Hill’s “Connecting the Dots” event series provides a platform for local creatives to mix, mingle, and partake in intimate, informative conversations with some of the most influential and innovative leaders in entertainment.
“The purpose of these events is to be a vehicle for elevating Atlanta to the next level. We focus on social experiences for the people of Atlanta and serve as a platform for others to contribute,” Hill says. “Through ‘Connecting the Dots,’ we hope to increase the value of education within the city and provide storytelling experiences for the people here.”
Level Up Atlanta’s inaugural “Connecting the Dots” event took place on February 25th at Azjio Gallery, featuring Malita the Mogul, entrepreneur and co-manager of Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum producer OG Parker. Participating in a discussion guided by music journalist and content creator Ashley Vance, Malita shed light on the trials, triumphs, and lessons she’s faced on the journey to success.
“My journey has been a roller coaster, to be honest,” said Malita when asked what it was like moving from Baltimore to follow her dreams in Atlanta. “Every day isn’t a good day, and every day isn’t a bad day, but every day is an opportunity to change the way I think and move. People often search for the keys within other people’s success without knowing what success means to themselves in the first place.”
While the majority of the conversation focused on Malita’s personal experiences and the strategies she uses to remain productive, she also provided insight on what she looks for in her team, and how successful brands manage to get major tasks completed.
“I look for people that are the opposite of me,” Malita revealed. “I’m the assertive ‘bad cop’ in most situations, but everyone I work with has the same passion and drive. Everyone deals with things in their own way, and I’ve realized that I don’t grow if I’m around a bunch of people that are like me. You have to be able to listen to the people you work with, and keep the personal things out of business.”
When asked how she manages her own schedule and keeps the balance between her personal life and her client’s, Malita expressed the reality of the grind:
“I don’t have a schedule—their life is my life,” Malita said. “Literally, when my clients call me, they call me ‘momager,’ so If they want me, they expect me now. There are no days off.”
Hill’s “Connecting the Dots” event series will continue throughout the year, and those interested in attending future events can stay up to date by visiting the Level Up Atlanta website.
More Info
Web: levelupatlanta.com
Facebook: @LevelUpAtlantaa