Meet Jason Howard | Owner of M37 Management & NLS Distribution

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

Hi Jason, how do you think about risk?
I think risk is the key ingredient in growth. In my life I’ve picked up and relocated 3 times. I was 24 before my first move, I had put the move off for two years because I had just brought my first home three years earlier. I was scared and nervous at the risk I was taking because I was so comfortable and thriving in the environment that I grew up in – although I knew in my heart that I wanted a change. After taking that first leap of faith and landing on my feet, relocating the other times didn’t feel as risky. I’ve taken that confidence with me into being an entrepreneur and not being afraid to try new things and invest in new endeavors without knowing if I’ll see an immediate return. That entire process of taking on the challenge of the risk and coming out on top has allowed me to grow in ways that I never would have imagined as that 24 year old kid scared to leave Philadelphia.

What should our readers know about your business?
My businesses operates on 3 main pillars. The 1st being marketing. Next Level Sounds (NLS) is a marketing, promotion and distribution company that is focused on finding independent artists a fan base. The 2nd is Management. M37 Management is a management service devoted to independent artists. We specialize in internet based exposure and opportunities for up and coming artists. The 3rd is Content Creation. Spotlight Studios Atlanta is a platform designed to highlight the appearance and story of up and coming artists and creatives. We offer recorded interviews (w/ our host Industry Influencer Boujie Boss). photoshoots and videos for artists and creatives. It’s a concept (Spotlight Events) that we are taking on the road this year to a lot of different cities. I’m proud of the amount of traction we’ve been able to generate for artists. We’ve been able to get 2 deals and 1 label partnership for ours clients. Our difference is that we are results driven. I also am an A&R for Approval, we are an Atlanta based independent label focused on partnering with artists via Distribution deals. It’s been quite a challenge building up to this point. Me and my partner with NLS Jamal Davis have took every hurdle in stride. If one door closed we just have been relentless in continuing to push forward until other opportunities arise. We’ve never got too up or too down. Our sales numbers last year were great, we are just focused on improving that # by 20% year by year. Currently, I’m trying to master our operation in one area before moving on to another, the freelancer and creator in me just wants to continue to build new businesses but I have to slow down. I’m grateful for the partnerships I’ve been able to make, NLS has sponsored the prizes for 3 internet based competitions for independent artists in 2020. With everyone in quarantine we still wanted to find was to help artists get their voice out. We also just hosted a cypher with our friends at World Emcee, rap legend Cassidy was our host and we got to feature some great up and coming artists.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Itinerary planning is one of the features we are adding to our portfolio so this is right up our alley. If they arrive in town Friday evening the first spot we are hitting is Big Daddy’s Soul Food on Old Nat to get something to eat – we might hit Harold’s or the New Orleans Daiquiri Bar for some drinks after that. On a Friday, we are definitely going to hit Elleven45 that night. Saturday breakfast at HomeGrown, and a day party at Circa – definitely hit a Spotlight event Saturday evening for some good vibes and networking. Oak, Compound or Diamond Club Atlanta on Saturday night, Sunday brunch at Milk and Honey is a must and Sunday night at Medusa. Throughout the rest of the week the Trap Museum is a must see as well as an event at The Met. The Atlanta Fish Market, J Alexanders, Slutty Vegan and Thumbs Up Dinner are also some great spots to eat.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I was a kid that grew up in the inner city, I lost my father when I was 18. A big reason I was able to keep a good head on my shoulder at that pivotal time in my life was the support system of family and friends that my father left me. I owe a lot to the Tylers, Clacks and other friends of the family that embraced me as one of their own. I also definitely want to give acknowledgement to a book that changed my life, encouraged me to invest into myself and led me to this path of being a serious business owner. That book is Once Upon A Cow by Camilo Cruz Ph D.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/m37_jase/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-howard-a060a21a2/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSPPamIJEvuATQcOrSJD9FQ

Image Credits
Photographers: Samuel McKnight (King Snook) Donald Johnson (4EverFocused Photography) Studio: Spotlight Studios Atlanta \ Ag Studios