Today we’d like to introduce you to Nick Martinez.
Hi Nick, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started the music business by investing in a Christian Hip Hop group, The P.R.I.V.A.T.E. Boyz, from Riverside, CA. I developed and signed the band to N Soul (Diamanté) Records. That year, the group was nominated for Best New Rap Group at the Dove Awards in Nashville. The group was young and needed management, marketing, and business guidance. I was 50% owner of a mortgage company then, so I had some experience connecting with the public through the proper presentation. I applied those experiences to the band with success. Soon after, I received a job offer from a small indie label named Intelligent Records (then owned by Bobby Avila Sr. and his family). Bobby Sr. had a wealth of music knowledge. His work ethic was unbelievable.
Combine those traits with undeniable talent, and you’re positioned for success. I guess that’s what I saw in those young men from Riverside and Tyler Lyon in Kansas City. I went on to discover Christina “T” Lopez. I introduced her to De Passe Entertainment. “T” completed two world tours and continues to do what she loves with entertainment. The ability to identify marketable talent led to the discovery of a young vocalist named “Christian,” who was chosen for The Prince of Egypt soundtrack. I’m currently working with Paris Escovedo, the son of legendary percussionist and writer Thomas “Coke” Escovedo, and two young and upcoming artists, Jaalene Serenity and Joel Soto.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve had my fair share! Thank God I spent numerous hours in studios from day one of my career. I learned about keeping sessions private from the people I was working with, so I’ve never had any problems there. Most of my obstacles and challenges came from not realizing my value in this music business. Identifying, connecting with people, and introducing them to the next level came naturally for me. Easy. I didn’t understand that people came to me because they were “stuck” and needed help getting to that next level or the next person that could keep them moving forward. I spent many years not recognizing that what seemed so easy to me wasn’t easy for everyone and, therefore, had value. I quickly learned to ask specific and direct questions, listen very carefully and take as many notes as needed. There are two ways of doing business, good and bad. There is no in-between. Understanding that not everyone is what they appear to be was an important lesson. Many of my struggles came from building projects, getting them into position only to have someone else screw them up, try to steal them, or fall short of commitment.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m very confident in my ability to find true talent. I’ve had success in signing talent to production companies and record labels. Identifying talent and knowing how to build around that talent have helped most of my successes. I’m always open to learning and discovering. My business partner, Richard “RIMO” Moreno, and I have discovered talent in music, film, and video production and mentored many young execs in the business world. We are always available for consulting, especially to new talent trying to find a good entry point in the entertainment business.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I like Kansas City and discovering new talent. I had an opportunity to work in Kansas City for one year with a band named The Leo Project. I was most impressed with the music scene and the area’s talent level. Having been born in Newton, Kansas, I knew the culture and nature of the area but had yet to learn the level of talent and the fans’ dedication. There is nothing about this city that I don’t like. It is one of the most comfortable cities I’ve experienced, and the creative talent is unbelievable. From food to entertainment, it has a lot to offer. Besides, I’ve been a Chief fan all my life!! As far as dislikes go, I don’t particularly appreciate wasting time. There is much talent, but the music business takes much more than talent alone. It takes perseverance despite setbacks, sacrifice, and dedication to the craft. It takes a large degree of humility. I’ve watched many talented individuals fall by the wayside because they aren’t willing to make changes or think their talent should be enough.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://five19musicgroup.com
- Instagram: Nick_martinez1959
