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

Hi Keisha, what role has risk played in your life or career?

It really boils down to how much you believe in YOURSELF. As with anything, you don’t dive in headfirst without understanding exactly what you’re looking to gain. If you can deal with the potential loss, you’ve won half the battle. Keeping your ego in check and learning from past experiences is a MUST.
New ventures/levels can be intimidating, but that’s where growth happens. I’ve worked with a lot of artists and each time I started a new working relationship, it was slightly intimidating, sometimes frustrating, but also very exciting. Every single time, I questioned if that job was for me. I accepted it, not only because I respected the artist, but knew it would take me out of my comfort zone. Example… L.A.Reid called me to sing background on Toni Braxton‘s freshman album. It was my very FIRST studio background gig outside of working for my mother.  Blew my mind! When L.A. requests you in the studio, you don’t decline lol. I was intimidated, but I “showed up”! That session opened the door for work with so many others, including Organized Noize, Faith Evans, Da Brat, Aretha Franklin, Outkast, Erykah Badu, George Clinton, Raphael Saadiq, and more.
In 2001, I started One Voice Entertainment to help other singers get gigs. I taught them basic road etiquette, schooled them on contracts, and coached them on the difference between lead and background vocal singing. I had no idea how to get clients, or if there was even a market for it because I had never seen it before…but I knew it was needed. It took years for the needle to move. At one point, I wanted to quit but knew if I dropped the ball, someone else would pick it up and run with it (and I’d be pissed lol), so I stayed with it…and It finally came together.
You can’t grow without taking risks…but educate yourself first. Get IN it and do the work. In this business, your experience is your education.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The process is never easy. It will always show you who you are. As a creative, I’m proud of my ability to stay fluid within the industry. I work in front, as well as behind the scenes. I sing lead and background on “live” stages as well as in the studio. I’ve studied Entertainment Law, Business Management and Psychology. It’s been a 30 year roller coaster ride, but the experience makes the difference. It allows me to help others through artist development (as a coach) and placements (as an agent).

The music business is not for the faint of heart. It’s very easy to become jaded in this industry. Becoming a life coach was absolutely essential in making a positive and effective impact on others. Every artist and experience is unique, so having the tools to navigate that has been priceless.

Learning multiple sides of the industry, maintaining respectful work relationships, and of course, good work ethic, is the reason I’ve been successful.
I’ve recorded on projects with iconic artists like Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Toni Braxton and Raphael Saadiq and developed long working relationships with groundbreaking artists like Outkast and Erykah Badu, among others. Each artist taught me something different and I’m extremely thankful for the professional and life lessons.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In this current climate, I don’t do much hanging out lol. It’s mostly work for me. When I’m not working, I’ve come to really appreciate my time a with my family. However, the live music and social scene in Atlanta has always been popping. The great thing about ATL is weather you’re in Decatur, S.W., Midtown or Buckhead, it’s easy to find great food, live music etc. Atlanta IS the culture. The whole city is a vibe!

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?
Every experience and person (supporters and haters alike) have played a part in my success. The lows were just as important as the highs because they taught me valuable lessons. However, the “village” was key. My mother’s example has helped the most. However, I’m extremely thankful to my children for their patience, the many mentors, the babysitters, those who bought a ticket to a show, recommended a book, offered gas money when I didn’t have it, and even those who left an encouraging comment on a post. Life is real. It all matters!

Website: http://keishajackson.com/

Instagram: @keishajackson / @daughtersoflegacyofficial / @onevoiceentrrtainment / @ventboxpod

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

Youtube: https://youtube.com/user/keishajack

Image Credits
Mike Mulholland Will Byington Emily Butler

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