We had the good fortune of connecting with Industry Standard aka Indy and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Industry Standard aka Indy, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started Industry Standard Music (my music label) to create a way I could pursue my own music career and not be taken advantage of. Signing myself to my own label allowed me to work directly with major music distribution companies. I highly recommend this to all up and coming independent artists.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My name is Industry Standard aka Indy and I am an international recording artist. Most fans just call me Indy. I perform music in a variety of genres spanning hip hop, rhythm & blues, afrofusion, and pop. I set myself apart from others by tapping into my love for R&B and Afrofusion sounds. I also put myself in the room during music production to make sure my voice is heard.
I pride myself in writing songs that I consider therapy to my fans and listeners. I’m most proud of releasing my very first single, Suga Babe, through a major music distributor and seeing all the positive feedback so far. It was really hard for me to release the single because I’m a perfectionist and really want the world to love what I create.
I love my fans and I consider them part of my Indy Tribe. I am most excited for my tribe to hear my first studio album, Scripts. Scripts is a body of work spanning multiple genres. I hope my fans fall in love with the variety of music on Scripts and my style of songwriting.
Pursuing a music career has not always been easy for me. After leaving medical school, I realized I just wasn’t happy despite having achieved the ultimate goal of becoming a medical doctor. A friend of mine referred me to a local music studio (Wealth & Riches Music) where I met a producer who believed in me and motivated me to chase my dream of becoming a recording artist. Still, it was not easy. The music industry is full of people who prey on the dreams and hopes of others. Along the way, there have been setbacks. I stay motivated by performing and feeding off the love that my fans give me.
During my journey, I have learned that a career is often defined by the opportunities you say “no” to rather than the ones you accept. I hope that other upcoming artists never have to feel desperate or be taken advantage of in ways that I have experienced.
I want the world to know that I am a beacon for love, peace, and happiness and my music can shift the bad energy out of any moment.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend visited me, we would definitely have to stop by Sage Lounge in Marietta, Ga on August 31st for my album release party. It’s going to be a vibe and celebrities will be in the building!
Other than that, we would go to Piedmont Park and enjoy tacos, city views, and people watching.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to shoutout Wealth & Riches Music. This the recording studio through which I create my music and pursue my dreams. They have always been very gracious to me and helped me through the tough times.
I would like to shoutout my fiancé, Dr. Kayla Phillips. Without her, I couldn’t be half as productive or successful as I have been. She truly is my rock and motivator.
Website: www.indstrystndrdmusic.com
Instagram: @indstrystndrd
Twitter: @indstry_stndrd_
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamindustrystandard?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@indstry.stndrd
Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3CIZQT1UUsikMi9vGCtVBg?si=rbA_NTkwTy2kzrTovg9ZIw
Image Credits
Ne-yo, American singer-songwriter