Today we’d like to introduce you to Walter “J.R.” Brooks.
Hi Walter “J.R.”, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Chicago, IL and have been in music since the age of 2, when I started playing the drums. During my 7-12th grade years, I attended the Merit Music Program, which is a charter program of the London School of Music. During this time, I was also a member of the Chicago All-City Jazz Band as a first-chair saxophone player and played drums in church every week. Upon graduating high school and moving to Florida to attend Florida A&M University, I began to explore more opportunities with music which allowed me to play professionally, as well as start producing and engineering. In 2006, I started my own music company with a partner, but we eventually parted ways and I started Diamond Sound Worldwide Entertainment Group in 2009. In 2017, I was offered the opportunity to start a Music Production/Sound Engineering program at William H. Turner Technical Arts High School where I currently serve as the Chair of the Academy of Entertainment Technology. In addition to teaching, I also Produce, Engineer, and Score professionally for various major artists and companies around the world.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. When I initially got into production, I had a partner, but after three years I realized that we had different views and vision for the company. As a result, we parted ways and I started my own company. One thing that I have realized and has become my mantra is that Success can only be achieved through effort, determination, and perseverance.
We’ve been impressed with Diamond Sound Worldwide Entertainment Group, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business was founded in 2009. I have had the opportunity to work with many big names as well as independent artists, both in the studio and in live concerts. Diamond Sound believes in creating a collaborative and innovative environment where artists can thrive and reach their full potential, where great music, great minds, and great energy meet. What sets us apart from others is the fact that I am an actual musician, which allows me to be more creative and versatile in various music genres. The other thing that sets us apart is that we have a team available to assist artists in various capacities including but not limited to writing, production, vocal training, marketing, and image consulting. Overall, I’m most proud of the relationships we have been able to establish over the years. We currently offer Studio Time, Production, Songwriting, TV/Film Scoring, and Artist Consultation, which can all be booked via the web at linktr.ee/jrtheceo
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
When it comes to finding a mentor or networking, the two things that have been most successful for me is to never be afraid to introduce yourself and always build genuine relationships.
Pricing:
- Studio Time $75/Hr
- Mixing Starting at $150
- Consulting $150/Hr
Contact Info:
- Website: Linktr.ee/jrtheceo
- Instagram: @JRtheCEO
- Twitter: @JRtheCEO
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFT_JpGNrzXWw1wUi7kMqnd2pVST6HGNV
