Street Smart Marketing is a full-service marketing team, dedicated to providing specialized development, promotion and support to a wide array of artists and clients.

Tell us a little about yourself and your experience.

Ebony is my name, publicity, marketing and content creation is my game. In addition to being a music publicist and marketing manager, I’ve contributed content to Substream Magazine, Under The Gun Review, and SonicBids. I am a metalhead at heart with a strong affinity for all things musically inclined. If it’s about music I’ve either sang it, pitched it, wrote about it, or at the very least, know about it. My experience has been entrepreneurial from the start- I launched my own publicity and consulting company in 2010 then cut my teeth as an intern and later tour publicist at Century Media Records. I currently work in the publicity and marketing departments at Street Smart Marketing and KBB Records in Los Angeles, CA.

What drove you to choose your career path?

Being the child of a jazzy soul singer and entertainer led me down a path forged in the love of music. I’ve been on both sides of the stage my whole life and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

How did you go about getting your job? What kind of education and experience did you need?

I graduated from The Ohio State University with a B.A in Communications and a minor in Women’s Studies, I also recently completed my M.B.A in Marketing at Argosy University in Los Angeles. Both degrees have helped me understand the scope of communications and strategic marketing, however the real world education of interning at several businesses including record labels and launching my own company truly equipped me with the experience needed to successfully contribute to the music industry.

What do you actually spend the majority of your time doing?

Writing, writing and more writing. When I’m not at work or out enjoying a live show, I’m writing my forthcoming e-book series filled with tips, tools, and tricks for executing successful independent publicity and marketing campaigns.

What misconceptions do people often have about your job?

That it’s all glitz and glamour. Don’t get me wrong- the industry does have its perks, but real hard work is far from glamorous (although it is greatly rewarding). 

What are your average work hours?

24/7! I’m always “on” but my desk hours are from 10am until around 7pm.

What personal tips and shortcuts have made your job easier?

I make a to-do list every morning which helps me structure my day and gives me a sense of accomplishment when I get to check things off the list. I also always have my phone on me so I can take notes or record ideas whenever they present themselves.

What do you do differently from your coworkers or peers in the same profession?

Other than responding to every single email no matter what, I think what sets me apart is that I always seek to find roads less-traveled when it comes to innovating new ways of connecting people with the music they love (or will love). I try to always think outside of the box and three steps ahead!

Do you have any advice for people who need to enlist your services?

As a freelance writer and independent business owner, I must reiterate that freelance does not mean the price is free. When seeking services from freelancers and businesses in general, never expect people to work for free if you won’t. End rant.

What's the worst part of the job and how do you deal with it?

When I put effort and energy into a project that gets cancelled or terminated before schedule is always heart sinking but it happens, and it’s out of my control, so the best way I deal with it is to highlight my achievements and move on to the next project.

What's the most enjoyable part of the job?

Seeing my name in print always gives me a special sense of pride and I also really enjoy the part of my job when I make the call or send that email to my clients and make their day with awesome opportunities!

What kind of money can one expect to make at your job?

That depends on how hard you work and also what you’re willing to accept as far as valuable payment for your time and energy. The possibilities are actually endless when you put your nose to the grindstone and carve out a path for your future.

How do you move up in your field?

Networking and working smarter, yes it’s about who you know; but it’s also about what you can show! #resultsmatter

What advice would you give to those aspiring to join your profession?

Work smart, work hard, and be nice to people! A little common sense and common courtesy can go a long way!  - @ebonyjeanettepr

Thanks so much for interviewing me!