Meet Omari Mcclain | Music Entrepreneur

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

Hi Omari, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
Knowing when to keep going or when to step back is one of the hardest decisions we face. I’ve been on both sides of that fence. There are times when self-doubt creeps in, when your mind says, ‘Stop, it’s too hard,’ or you feel discouraged by the lack of engagement or support. But then there’s the other side—faith, belief, and that drive to prove to yourself and others that you’re capable. I believe that with perseverance, prayer, and a little faith, doors will open, often just when you least expect it. Sometimes the breakthrough is right beyond the challenge. The key is to stay aligned with your purpose, keep putting in the work, and trust that the right opportunities will come in their own time.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I started my journey back in 2010 when I founded my record label ( So Be It Entertainment) while still a student at Middle Tennessee State University. I’d drive between Murfreesboro, TN, and Birmingham, AL, balancing my studies with recording sessions and managing my artists. In those early days, I wore every hat imaginable—using financial aid refunds as startup capital and learning the business, often through trial and error.

Entrepreneurship, especially in the music industry, has its challenges. But no matter how hard it got, I never quit. In 2012, a tornado completely destroyed my studio and office. With no external help to rebuild, I had to get creative with the little I had, making the most of limited resources and keeping my vision alive. Those experiences taught me resilience and the importance of adapting to whatever life throws at you.

Today, I’m proud to say that those hard-learned lessons shaped my approach and my brand. I want the world to know that success doesn’t come without setbacks—it’s about perseverance, adapting, and staying focused on your goals. My journey is a testament to the power of grit, creativity, and relentless dedication to the vision.”

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?
Honestly, it’s tough for me to put together an itinerary because I rarely get the chance to go out and enjoy the city myself. I’m so driven by my goals that I stay focused on the work, always pushing toward success. Birmingham, AL has so many amazing spots I’d love to explore—from food and music scenes to cultural landmarks—but I just haven’t had the time to dive into them the way I’d like. If I did, though, I’d make sure it was a mix of local flavor, music, and a few hidden gems that capture Birmingham’s unique vibe. One day, I’ll have to take that break and explore it all properly!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to send a huge shoutout to my brother and mentor, Ray Daniels. I first encountered Ray during COVID at a Zoom A&R webinar hosted by Eddie Blackmon in 2020. Every time Ray spoke, he brought this incredible charisma and insight to the conversation that made me stop and think, ‘Who is this guy?!’ I started doing my research, and I knew right then that I wanted to work with him one day.

For four years, I kept reaching out and knocking on doors, just hoping for the opportunity to learn from him and make music together. His first reply to me was, ” Who tf are you?!” lol Now, I finally have that chance, and it’s been nothing short of impactful. Working with Ray has been a grateful, meaningful, and informative experience. His guidance has shaped my approach, and I’m grateful to him for sharing his wisdom and experience so generously.

Website: https://www.sobeitentertainment.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omarimcclain/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1sobeitentertainment/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJyohobfzBSqu2slEB00Ljg