We were lucky to catch up with Maverick “Baby T” Turner recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Maverick, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
This might be the best question I’ve received in a very long time and I will try to keep it short as possible, because I could speak forever on this subject.
In my field I am usually one of if not the only black man in the room and with Locs it draws a lot of questions and concerns at times.
You have to be very strong and confident within yourself that you are the best and you wouldn’t be here if you weren’t.
You need to be resilient, because you will be tested and you have to overcome every obstacle while still maintaining self credibility and the confidence and courage to do the things that got you where you are today.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Well, my normal day to day is in sports media where I freelance as an audio engineer (mixer) for several television networks.
Those days are quite long and can be very eventful, but there is no trill like working in sports!
I also run my own publishing company named “TYLER KAYDEN MUSIC GROUP, LLC where the intent is to help artists achieve whatever goals that they may have in mind. I don’t care if it’s music or film. I am passionate about giving back whenever I can.
I was self taught growing up and I’ve always said if I could dedicate my time and efforts to help others who look like me and show them that you have options to achieve your dream’s I will do just that.
Last thing, I am currently finishing up a new hip-hop album entitled “MISUNDERSTOOD” and planning a live streaming concert in Chicago, IL at a venue named “LIVE BASH”.
Both set to release on the same day, “March 29th, 2024” – Good Friday
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three most important skills or qualities would have to be:
– Availability
– Humble & Focus (that’s two)
– Confidence
I learned early on that availability is the #1 most valued trait to have, because when people see that you have a great personality and great at the job they will want you around which opens more doors for other opportunities.
The next 2 (or 3) can be difficult as you progress further, because some will look at your confidence as bragging and others will see a focused individual. So, to blend the two you need to remain humble.
Celebrate your wins of course, but do it briefly as the next objective is right around the corner.
If you are early on in the journey just remember to have fun and enjoy every moment.
Success doesn’t happen overnight and your journey is different than anyone else’s.
Celebrate those wins!
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Visit www.itsbayt.com & Follow me on all socials @itsbabyt
Contact Info:
- Website: www.itsbabyt.com
- Instagram: @itsbabyt
- Facebook: @itsbabyt
- Linkedin: @itsbabyt
- Twitter: @itsbabyt
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/babyt
Image Credits
Studio 1524, Chicago IL
