We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Wade Burnside. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Wade below.
Wade, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
How you find your purpose is ironic. I believe your purpose finds you. I know that it is pre-ordained in a sense but your purpose will always find you.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As a dedicated business owner and music executive, my mission is to empower musicians by elevating their careers through comprehensive business management, creative direction, and project management. With a deep-rooted passion for turning ideas into successful realities, I thrive on the process of taking something from concept to completion and watching it flourish.
From a young age, I was driven by a desire to help others, particularly those I saw in need. This foundational goal has shaped my career and approach to business, where I strive to be a reliable and supportive resource for artists. I believe that achieving this requires more than just good intentions—it demands a combination of continuous learning, hands-on experience, and the willingness to navigate the challenges that come with trial and error.
My brands, Hot Producers Only and Hot Records Only, are a testament to my commitment to creating an environment where musicians can feel at ease and focus on their craft. These brands represent the quality and dedication I bring to every project, ensuring that the artists I work with have the resources and support they need to succeed.
In the past two years alone, I have successfully recovered over $250,000 in overdue record label advances under Hot Producers Only, a significant achievement that underscores my commitment to ensuring fair compensation for my clients. Additionally, I have secured more than $150,000 in publishing royalties, further demonstrating my expertise in navigating the complexities of the music industry.
Beyond financial successes, my career has been marked by the privilege of signing and working with some of the top talent in the music industry. I take great pride in being part of their journeys, helping them to reach new heights in their careers while fostering an environment of creativity, collaboration, and mutual respect.
Ultimately, my goal is to continue building on this foundation, using my experience and knowledge to uplift and support the next generation of artists. Through Hot Producers Only and Hot Records Only, I am committed to making a lasting impact on the music industry.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities stand out as the most impactful: resilience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the music business.
Resilience is crucial in the music industry, where setbacks and challenges are inevitable. The ability to keep pushing forward, even when things don’t go as planned, has been instrumental in my success. For those early in their journey, I recommend building mental toughness by embracing challenges as learning opportunities. Every setback is a chance to grow and refine your approach, so never shy away from difficulties.
Adaptability has also been key. The music industry is constantly evolving, with new trends, technologies, and business models emerging all the time. Staying relevant means being open to change and willing to pivot when necessary. To develop adaptability, I suggest staying curious and keeping an eye on industry developments. Continuous learning, whether through formal education or self-study, will help you stay ahead of the curve and ready to adjust your strategies when needed.
Lastly, a deep understanding of the music business has been vital. Success in this industry requires more than just talent; it demands a strong grasp of the business side, from contract negotiation to royalty collection. For those just starting, I advise investing time in learning the ins and outs of the industry. Whether it’s through courses, mentorship, or hands-on experience, gaining a solid foundation in music business fundamentals will set you apart and enable you to make informed decisions that protect your interests and those of the artists you work with.
In summary, resilience, adaptability, and a thorough understanding of the music business have been the pillars of my journey. My advice to those beginning their path is to cultivate these qualities through continuous learning, staying open to change, and never letting setbacks deter your progress.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
Throughout my journey, my parents have been the most instrumental in helping me overcome challenges and develop the essential skills, qualities, and knowledge needed to be successful.
**My mother** has always been my biggest supporter and a constant source of encouragement. Her unwavering belief in my potential gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams, even when the path wasn’t always clear. She taught me the importance of resilience and perseverance, instilling in me the mindset that no obstacle is insurmountable with hard work and determination. Her wisdom and guidance have been a cornerstone in my development, helping me to stay grounded and focused on my goals.
**My father** played a crucial role in shaping my understanding of business and the importance of integrity in all that I do. He was the one who first introduced me to the concept of hard work and the value of being thorough and meticulous in every endeavor. His lessons in discipline and the importance of learning from every experience, whether positive or negative, have been invaluable. His practical advice and life lessons have been a guiding force, helping me navigate the complexities of the music industry with a strong moral compass and a clear vision.
Together, my parents provided a balanced foundation—one rooted in emotional support and practical wisdom. Their combined influence helped me to develop not only the technical skills needed to succeed in the music business but also the personal qualities of resilience, adaptability, and integrity that have been essential in my journey. I owe much of my success to the lessons they taught me and the values they instilled in me from an early age.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hotproducersonly.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wadebceo
Image Credits
Credit: Recording Academy
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