Meet Minister Jazz’ Thomas-Jones

We recently connected with Minister Jazz’ Thomas-Jones and have shared our conversation below.

EmCee’ Jazz’, so great to have you with us and thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with the community. So, let’s jump into something that stops so many people from going after their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. We’d love to hear about how you dealt with that and persisted on your path.
As Tha1stLady – “Southern Soul Historic, Minister, EmCee, Internet Radio/TV Personality, Podcaster, Blogger, Decorated Navy Veteran, Advocate, and Community Leader” it is hard to not have haters, or nay-sayers since everything is connected to us today via social media. I currently serve as President & Founder at Platinum Media Network (Streetz989ATL) a Mobile, Ministry, and Media Outlet.

In 2005 no one believe a “internet radio outlet or a podcast platform” would revolutionize broadcast media, and become the new “online radio/talk” shows. But today there are more podcasters with a variety of styles and formats, than anyone could have envision. I appreciate people admiring me and trying to “imitate” that let’s me know that through all the “hate” there is admiration as well. I believe one reason I continue to excel in my career is because of my flair, dedication, and the divine guidance over my life. I owe my success to “GOD” for giving me the vision to see beyond what any man, or woman could envision in 1978 while attending my HBCU – Albany State University. I’m also thankful for my ability to appreciate computer technology and artificial intelligence in my life and career. In the 1980s & 90s, many individuals didn’t realize the impact communicating via the internet would have on our society.

I believe “loving your haters” and doubters is one of the greatest rewards to being successful in this world of unbelievers. I can remember my Grandmother Mamie saying baby if it’s something you want, and you put your heart into it “God” will grant you the wishes of your heart. As an “innovator” and “change maker” once I put my mind to something there is no stopping me, and grannies statement remains true today regardless of the haters, and nay-sayers.

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?
As a “Street Minister” I am available 24/7 for bookings local and will travel directly from “family, friends, and referrals only” when services are requested.  I provide a variety of services, weddings, bereavement, mistress of ceremonies, prayers, christenings, hospital visits, and house blessings. During the spring/summer months we hold “Churchin in The Park” at various locations around the metro area. I also participate in “Advocacy” & “Community Engagement” with local entities such as Atlanta City Hall, Atlanta Press Club, Forest Park City Hall, Stockbridge Amphitheater, SCLC, National Action Network, and Champions For Justice Network.

As a Media Pioneer, Podcaster, Journalist, Blogger, and Online Radio/Television Personality, I interview extraordinary leaders, entertainers, and community advocates via Facebook, Fire TV, You-Tube, and Instagram.  We have been streaming worldwide since 2010 and we have a dedicated audience of over 300k, a number we could have never reached without artificial intelligence. Our main audience streams via Facebook, Linkedin, and You-Tube however, our Blogs are growing in numbers we never envision for a small independent mobile, ministry and media outlet. Our guest include extraordinary leaders who are involved in changing the lives of others through empowerment, and giving back to their community.

As the “Southern Soul Historic” aka Tha1stLady – EmCee’ Jazz’ our platform has been instrumental in the music and media exposure of the “Southern Soul Music Genre.” A soul/blues music platform that gives African American “Independent Artists” more control of their career and music. However, this genre of music continue to be underrated in the mainstream media – but no one can stop the music – because the love is stronger than the hate. In 2013, we begin working with southern soul artists, consultants, and promoters in Atlanta, Ga., to generate exposure. Since then we have continued as one of the internet radio/podcast and media platforms streaming and covering this genre of music. Today, the music genre continues to gain exposure online, and it is with aspiration that one day “Southern Soul Music” will be accepted by all, and streamed on internet and terrestrial radio platforms.

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?
As a visionary (3) qualities need to be successful:

Perseverance – You must have the ability to with-stand during times when you must stand alone on your journey.

Determination – When there is a delay in achieving the mission, remaining focused is the reward in maintaining balance.

Faith – Realizing when everything fails GOD controls all and the mission will be accomplish in it’s own time and not when one desires.

One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
I would like to connect with more leaders in the entertainment arena who has a desire and passion to take southern soul, and independent artists music to another level within the industry. A leader who not only knows what it takes to advance someones career, but also has the connections and financial backing to make it a reality. As a trendsetter, innovator, podcaster, and media pioneer, I am always looking to connect with extraordinary leaders, legendary entertainers, and community advocates. If that sounds like you, let’s connect and make this music elevate to a new meaning of prosperity for everyone connected.

My social media networks are below Let’s Connect!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Streetz989ATLTV
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/minister-jazz%E2%80%99-%E2%80%9Cmz-true-life-experiences%E2%80%9D-t-aa94b341/

• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClcANmTGiNPh1hKxp9bzeNg

Image Credits
Minster Jazz’/Streetz989ATL