We had the good fortune of connecting with Rayvaughn West and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rayvaughn, what inspires you?
I’m one who appreciates the small things, so I tend to find inspiration all around me. But if I had to choose, I’d say I’m most inspired by music and music creatives. Ever since I was a kid the art of music, vulnerability, and creativity that goes along with it was just fascinating to me. I was born and raised in Detroit, so naturally music is a part of my cultural identity.

Real talk – It resonates with me in a way that ignites a feeling and compels me to give back to the art form by helping to protect, promote and support it. And working behind the scenes within Music Publishing & Administration affords me the ability to do just that especially in today’s climate where being “independent” is often sought after, yet many don’t understand the business of music and how to make a career of it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m traveling a path from success to significance. I’ve achieved much success as a management consultant having negotiated and led from a commercial perspective, multi-million (even a billion, twice!) dollar technology licensing deals for global enterprises. I can honestly say I’ve achieved every goal I set for myself in that arena. Now, I find joy in leveraging those skills and experiences to educate music creatives on the business of music, helping them collect royalties, protect and manage their music rights, and overall become more business savvy with the convergence of Music and Tech.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout goes to my wife who has always been in my corner to motivate and affirm me that what I have to offer is appreciated and of value to the music industry. It’s kind of funny but through her I’ve learned that everyone is creative, you just have to find what you’re passionate about and the possibilities are endless.

Secondly, I have to shoutout the multi-platinum Grammy Nominated songwriter and CEO of The Mezzo Agency, Tami LaTrell. The last couple of years she’s served as a my mentor and I’m just forever grateful for the knowledge and wisdom shared that’s helped me find my way in this industry.

Website: https://mezzoagency.com/

Instagram: @rxyvaughn

Twitter: @rxyvaughn

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.