Spud Brooklyn shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Spud , thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity—because without it, intelligence and energy can be misused.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m SpudBrooklyn—a music industry professional, entrepreneur, and philanthropist whose journey is rooted in resilience and transformation. After overcoming a life sentence and serving 13 years in prison, I returned to society with one mission: to create opportunities and uplift others through business, music, and community work.
I’ve worn many hats—artist, songwriter for major acts, A&R consultant for labels like Universal and Sony, and owner of SHU Music Group, an independent label and distribution company. I also founded SHU Studio, where we’ve brokered deals with companies like MTV and Def Jam. My nonprofit, SPUD! Inc., uses the arts to guide youth away from street life, and my work has extended to collaborations with global brands like TikTok, Instagram, and the Brooklyn Nets.
As President of Nuovo Entertainment and host of multiple media platforms, I’m dedicated to building bridges, inspiring change, and showing that no matter your past, you can write your own future
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
One moment that shaped how I see the world was hitting rock bottom—being 15 years old, sentenced to life in prison, and feeling the weight of being counted out before my life had even begun. In that environment, you see humanity at its rawest—both the worst and the best of people—and you realize how easily society can label and discard you. Coming home after 13 years, I carried those labels, but instead of letting them define me, I used them as fuel. It taught me that your value isn’t determined by where you’ve been, but by what you choose to build after.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me patience, humility, and the ability to find strength when there’s nothing left to lean on—lessons success could never teach, because comfort doesn’t test your survival
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Loyalty—because it’s the foundation of trust, respect, and long-term relationships. In both life and business, talent and opportunity mean nothing if the people around you can’t depend on you or you can’t depend on them. Loyalty is what holds a team together through challenges, keeps your word meaningful, and ensures that success is shared—not just enjoyed alone. It’s a value I protect at all costs because once it’s broken, it’s almost impossible to rebuild
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely. Most of my greatest dedication happened in the dark—when no one was watching, no one was clapping, and the world had already counted me out. Even in the free world, I’ve worked tirelessly behind the scenes, putting in hours no one saw, with no guarantee of praise or recognition. That’s where I learned that real commitment isn’t about who’s watching—it’s about showing up every single day, even when the only person who knows you’re giving your all is you.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.spudbrooklyn.com / www.spudinc.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spudbrooklyn?igsh=MXB2YmtkaWg4d2lsNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spud-brooklyn-49913560?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
Image Credits
Eric Campbell
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