Meet Jabari Crowder | Director/Author/Producer/Editor

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

Hi Jabari, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Upon my release from prison in 2012, I recognized the significant challenges that my criminal record would pose to my future employment opportunities. Given my background, I realized that my best chance for a successful and sustainable career would be to take control of my destiny by starting my own business. This decision was driven by a desire to overcome the barriers associated with my past and create a viable path forward in the business world.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

My career has indeed been a journey. I first developed a passion for film in 2002 when I contributed a song to the soundtrack of the movie The Players Ball. At that time, I was working as a rapper. This initial exposure to the film industry inspired me to pursue formal education in Film and Editing, during a period when analog technology was still prevalent. Unfortunately, circumstances led to some legal issues, resulting in an 8-year prison sentence.

Upon my release, I returned to the music industry but faced financial constraints that prevented me from affording professional visuals. This challenge prompted me to learn filming and editing on my own, initially working with fellow artists. The quality and impact of my work quickly gained recognition, leading to a successful career in shooting music videos. During my incarceration, I wrote several screenplays, and upon my release, I produced my first film, Fakin’, with just $2000. The film’s successful premiere at a sold-out theater was a pivotal moment, affirming my potential in filmmaking.

After a subsequent probation violation that led to another year of imprisonment, I used that time to intensively study filmmaking. I advocated for and successfully established a photography teaching program within the prison, which continues to operate today. Since my final release in 2016, I have steadily advanced in the film industry. I’ve released multiple projects, collaborated with independent filmmakers, founded the SHOOT YOUR SHOT FILM FESTIVAL, and launched The Leylo Show podcast. My most recent work includes a short film pilot, THE GAS STATION. (Watch Here: https://vimeo.com/903003380 ) I’ve also gained experience at Tyler Perry Studios.

Despite facing significant personal challenges, including losing everything in a house fire during the pandemic and the passing of my mother to cancer in 2022, I remain dedicated to my career and continue to move forward with resilience and determination.

For more information on my work:

• Fakin’
• IMDB

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

As a proud Atlanta native, I’m excited to showcase the rich culture and vibrant energy of this historical city. Atlanta offers an incredible array of experiences, from culinary delights to iconic landmarks. Here’s a week-long itinerary to make the most of a visit:

Day 1: Historical Downtown

• Morning: Begin with breakfast at The Flying Biscuit Cafe for their renowned Southern-style breakfast.
• Afternoon: Explore Centennial Olympic Park and visit the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, a staple for authentic Southern cuisine.

Day 2: Cultural Excursions

• Morning: Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.
• Afternoon: Tour the High Museum of Art and the Atlanta History Center.
• Evening: Dine at Canoe, a beautiful restaurant along the Chattahoochee River, for a memorable meal.

Day 3: Midtown and Nightlife

• Morning: Have brunch at South City Kitchen in Midtown.
• Afternoon: Stroll through Piedmont Park and visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden.
• Evening: Experience the lively atmosphere at Ponce City Market, with rooftop games and drinks at The Roof.

Day 4: Westside Adventures

• Morning: Enjoy breakfast at West Egg Cafe.
• Afternoon: Check out the Atlanta BeltLine for a scenic walk or bike ride, stopping at the unique shops and art installations.
• Evening: Savor dinner at The Optimist, known for its exquisite seafood dishes.

Day 5: Music and Arts

• Morning: Start with a hearty breakfast at Thumbs Up Diner.
• Afternoon: Visit The Fox Theatre for a tour and check out the Center for Puppetry Arts.
• Evening: Grab dinner at JCT Kitchen and catch live music at Variety Playhouse or Tabernacle.

Day 6: Day Trip to Stone Mountain

• Morning: Head to Stone Mountain Park for a hike up the mountain and enjoy the scenic views.
• Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch in the park.
• Evening: Return to the city and dine at Gunshow for a unique dining experience with a rotating menu.

Day 7: Shopping and Relaxation

• Morning: Brunch at Buttermilk Kitchen.
• Afternoon: Spend the day shopping at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza, or exploring the indie boutiques in Little Five Points.
• Evening: Cap off the week with dinner at Bones, a renowned steakhouse, and a cocktail at The Clermont Lounge, an iconic Atlanta dive.

Atlanta truly is a city that never sleeps, with countless opportunities for dining, entertainment, and cultural exploration. This itinerary ensures a memorable and engaging experience, capturing the essence of what makes Atlanta such a dynamic place to visit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

I’m grateful to several individuals and organizations for their support and contributions to my journey. Here are a few key shoutouts:

• Investors Academy: Their invaluable guidance and resources have been instrumental in shaping my business strategies and understanding of the financial landscape.
• Masspike Miles: His collaboration and creative insights have been pivotal in many of my projects, and his support has been unwavering.
• Lovizionz Media Centre INC: Their exceptional media production services have played a crucial role in enhancing the quality and reach of my work.
• Yung Joc: His influence and mentorship in the music industry have provided me with unique opportunities and perspectives.
• Shawty Comedian: His humor and creativity have brought a fresh and engaging element to my projects, making them more dynamic and relatable.

These individuals and organizations have each made significant contributions to my personal and professional growth, and I am deeply appreciative of their support.

Shawty Comedian

Website: https://www.lovizionzmediacentre.org/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jabari-crowder-818a5685/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/filmmakerlaylo/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_wumu4FEpifTH4a42T-Zmg

Other: Film Festival
https://filmfreeway.com/ShootYourShotFilmFestival

Podcast
https://www.theleyloshow.com/