The Indie Unplugged Podcast

In this powerful episode of The Indie Unplugged, B. Vaughan sits down with the unstoppable Monique Nikkole—a Grammy-nominated singer, entrepreneur, former detective sergeant, and true queen of reinvention. From her early roots in Brooklyn to her breakout success with “Red Bottoms & Lingerie,” Monique shares her journey of overcoming stage fright, surviving artist management struggles, building her music empire, and finding her voice in activism through her hit single “Queen of the Hustle.”They dive into everything: her take on the BET Awards, the AI artist debate surrounding Timbaland’s “TaTa,” the reality of being an indie artist wearing multiple hats, and the discipline it takes to maintain her personal health, brand, and mission. Monique also talks about receiving the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, launching her upcoming EP Enigmatic, and why staying grounded in your truth as an artist matters more than ever.This isn’t just an interview—it’s a blueprint for every independent artist chasing purpose over popularity.Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this inspiring episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Madeline Jackson, a rising force in the Atlanta music scene and Director of Events Programming at Rival Entertainment (Center Stage, The Loft, and Vinyl). Madeline shares her journey from growing up in small-town Georgia with a deep love for music to becoming a key player in curating some of the city’s most vibrant live experiences. She opens up about her early career pivots, the importance of internships, and how a pivotal moment at Kanye West’s Donda listening party helped realign her purpose.Throughout the conversation, Madeline reflects on the power of manifestation, the impact of parental support, and the lessons she’s learned on both the creative and business sides of the industry. She also offers thoughtful insights into the future of live music, including how technology and AI might enhance — but never replace — the irreplaceable connection of in-person performance. Whether you're a future music executive or a creative chasing your path, this episode is filled with practical advice, personal reflection, and industry wisdom.Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this impactful episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Prince Howard, a powerhouse music executive, publisher, and entrepreneur whose influence spans from Montgomery to the global music stage. As CEO of Pacific Music Publishing and President of Royalty Genius, Prince has earned over 60 gold and platinum plaques, contributing to the success of artists like Beyoncé, 21 Savage, Moneybagg Yo, and more. He shares how his legacy—rooted in entrepreneurship and civil rights activism—shaped his business mindset and propelled him into the music industry with purpose and precision.From military service to financial consulting and ultimately to global music publishing, Prince recounts his unconventional journey with candor and clarity. He dives into the importance of ownership, the hidden power of publishing revenue, and the strategies artists often overlook when building sustainable careers. With insider insights on artist management, royalty structures, and industry pitfalls, this episode is a masterclass in turning creative passion into generational wealth. A must-listen for any artist or entrepreneur navigating the modern music business.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it.We Create Music TV is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this powerful episode of The Indie Unplugged, B. Vaughan sits down with Da-Neek, a Brooklyn-born MC, songwriter, and activist known for his razor-sharp lyricism and socially conscious message. Da-Neek opens up about his journey from the streets of East New York to his spiritual transformation through the Nation of Islam, and how that evolution shaped both his music and his mission. He reflects on the legacy of his aunt, DJ Spinderella, and how her influence instilled in him a deep respect for artistry, discipline, and integrity.The conversation explores the shifting landscape of hip-hop—from its soulful origins to its current commercialization—and Da-Neek’s call for a return to authenticity and purpose in music. He unpacks his past projects like Concrete Gorilla and Brooklyn’s Problems, and teases his upcoming album Rise, a powerful reflection of growth, resilience, and cultural responsibility. For anyone passionate about hip-hop’s potential to inspire and uplift, this episode is a masterclass in staying true to the message while challenging the status quo.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it.We Create Music TV is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this powerful episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with the dynamic and inspiring David Je’—a Grammy-nominated, Billboard-charting artist, songwriter, producer, and vocal coach. From his gospel beginnings in Newark, NJ, to collaborations with industry heavyweights like Maya and Eric Bellinger, David shares the defining moments of his journey, including his work on Emmy-nominated productions. His story is one of resilience, purpose, and a deep commitment to artistic integrity.The conversation dives into the heart of artist development, where David emphasizes that true greatness stems from a blend of natural talent, rigorous discipline, and ongoing mentorship. He reflects on the importance of mastering your craft and why striving for excellence should always outweigh chasing popularity. David also unpacks his entrepreneurial ventures with Dreamwalker Entertainment and offers empowering guidance for rising creatives. This episode is more than a conversation—it’s a blueprint for building a sustainable, purpose-driven career in music.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it.We Create Music TV is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this insightful episode of The Indie Unplugged Podcast, host B. Vaughan sits down with Mathew Steele, founder of SteelSync and a pioneer in the sync licensing space. With over 13 years of experience in the entertainment industry, Mathew shares his journey from Tampa to Atlanta and how he built a licensing company that has secured placements in major films like Limitless and The Family, as well as TV favorites such as Parks and Recreation and Sons of Anarchy. He explains how SteelSync helps independent artists break into sync licensing and monetize their music through strategic placements and royalties.The conversation dives deep into the mechanics of sync licensing, including the common challenges indie artists face, the importance of metadata and production quality, and how tools like AI and networking can streamline the process. Mathew also introduces Sync Spotlight, an upcoming event designed to educate creators about licensing through panels, networking, and live feedback. Whether you're an artist, producer, or industry pro, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable strategies for making your music work for you in film, TV, and beyond.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it.We Create Music TV is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this powerful episode of The Indie Unplugged, hosts B. Vaughan and Brian Onrea sit down with legendary music industry consultant and Rap Coalition founder Wendy Day. Known for her fierce advocacy for independent artists, Wendy breaks down the true financial cost of launching a successful music career, offering unfiltered insights into marketing, building a fanbase, and securing investor support. She emphasizes the importance of education and strategic planning, encouraging artists to treat their careers like businesses with clear goals and structured campaigns.The conversation also takes a thoughtful turn as Wendy discusses the importance of cultural respect within hip-hop. She offers heartfelt advice to those outside the community who wish to engage with the genre, stressing the value of authenticity, passion, and historical awareness. Packed with real talk, industry knowledge, and actionable tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about building a sustainable career in music.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Grammy-nominated producer and engineer Darius “3D” Jenkins. Hailing from Jacksonville and now rooted in Atlanta, Darius reflects on his journey from interning at legendary studios like Patchwerk and Tree Sound to working with industry giants such as Kanye West, The Weeknd, and Lil Wayne. His Grammy-nominated work on The Life of Pablo cemented his status as a sought-after producer, and he now co-leads Kreative Villains—a dynamic production duo responsible for some of today’s most innovative soundscapes.Darius shares the vision behind Kreative Corner Studios and the launch of Kreative Academy Atlanta, his initiative to mentor the next generation of producers. He dives into his creative process, insights from writing camps, and his evolving perspective on the role of AI in music production. This episode offers listeners an in-depth look at what it takes to rise in the industry and stay ahead of the curve—making it essential listening for aspiring music creators and fans of cutting-edge production alike.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this insightful episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Morgan McKnight, Executive Director of the Production Music Association (PMA), to discuss her unique journey from digital marketing and event production into music administration. Morgan shares how she found her passion advocating for composers and songwriters in the world of production music—an often overlooked yet vital sector of the industry.The conversation explores the evolving challenges and opportunities within production music, including fair compensation, copyright protection, and the impact of emerging technologies like AI and global streaming. Morgan also emphasizes the power of relationships, collaboration, and understanding the business side of music. For anyone navigating the complexities of today’s music landscape, this episode offers practical insight and inspiration from one of the field’s most dedicated advocates.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Ray Daniels, CEO of R.A.Y.D.A.R. Management and a powerhouse in the music industry who’s helped shape the careers of stars like Lizzo, Future, and Chloe Bailey. Ray shares his journey from humble beginnings to industry leadership, offering sharp insights on artist development, mentorship, and the value of authenticity in a highly competitive field. He opens up about the challenges of wearing multiple hats—from A&R executive to podcast host—and the lessons he’s learned along the way.The conversation explores the realities of validation, social media pressures, and the importance of self-worth in building a sustainable career. Ray emphasizes the need to stay grounded in your values while navigating the demands of the industry, touching on topics like leadership, fatherhood, and giving back. Whether you're an emerging artist or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with real talk, actionable wisdom, and inspiration from one of music’s most respected voices.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Serona Elton—professor, industry executive, and Director of the Music Industry Program at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music. With a career that includes leadership roles at EMI and Warner Music Group, and her current work with the Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC), Serona brings a deep well of knowledge on music rights, royalties, and industry education. She shares her journey from aspiring performer to music licensing expert, offering insight into how understanding the mechanics of the business is essential for today’s artists.The conversation explores the evolving challenges in the music industry, including the impact of artificial intelligence on copyright, the legal complexities of music licensing, and the vital role of organizations like the MLC in ensuring artists are paid what they’re owed. Serona also breaks down key legislation like the Music Modernization Act and highlights why artist development and education are more important than ever. This episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about navigating the business side of music with clarity and confidence.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with the dynamic Butta B Rocka—an internationally acclaimed recording artist, author, playwright, and philanthropist. From touring with legends like Usher and Bobby Brown to reinventing herself after a life-altering car accident, Butta shares her remarkable journey through the music industry. She emphasizes the critical need for artist development and continuous growth, shedding light on the mental and emotional resilience required to thrive as an independent creative.Beyond her musical accomplishments, Butta B Rocka has built a powerful legacy as a best-selling author and playwright, while also leading a nonprofit that supports homeless college students. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, reinvention, and using one’s platform to make a lasting impact. This inspiring conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to turn adversity into opportunity and purpose into action.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with nine-time Billboard-charting artist, producer, and engineer Davis Chris. A Houston native and co-owner of DFD Music, Davis shares his powerful journey from serving in the U.S. Navy to collaborating with music heavyweights like Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, and Yo Gotti. He discusses how his military background instilled the discipline and drive that fuel his creative success today, along with his passion for mentoring emerging talent.Davis opens up about genre-bending production, the future of AI in music, and why understanding music theory still matters. He reflects on the highs and lessons of Billboard success, emphasizing the values of consistency, humility, and collaboration. Whether you're an aspiring artist or a music enthusiast, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a sustainable and dynamic career in the ever-evolving music industry.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated songwriter and CEO of The Mezzo Agency, Tami LaTrell. From her early days as a performer to penning hits for icons like Whitney Houston and Keyshia Cole, Tami shares the pivotal moments that shifted her path from center stage to behind the scenes. She recounts the life-changing call that confirmed Whitney would record one of her songs, and how that moment sparked her deeper purpose in the industry.Tami also discusses her evolution into a leading voice for music rights, founding The Mezzo Agency to help creators recover unclaimed royalties and protect their intellectual property. With over $1 million in royalties redistributed to date, her boutique firm stands as a powerful advocate for independent artists. This episode is both a masterclass in music business strategy and an inspiring reminder of how purpose, persistence, and legal knowledge can turn passion into long-lasting impact.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Angel Soto, CEO of Benton Entertainment and a cornerstone of Tampa’s music scene. From spinning records as a DJ in the early '90s to launching Benton Records in 2001, Angel shares how his love for music evolved into building a vital hub for DJs, artists, and producers across the region. As the digital era reshaped the industry, he navigated the difficult closure of his record store and emerged stronger by founding Benton Entertainment in 2014—now home to over 400 titles and more than 40 artists and songwriters.The conversation offers a deep dive into Angel’s roots, including his early exposure to radio through his godfather in Colombia, and his passion for connecting creatives through events like the Tampa Music Conference. He reflects on the challenges of transitioning from vinyl to digital and the lessons learned along the way. Angel’s story is one of resilience, adaptation, and unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation of music professionals. Tune in for a powerful look at how passion and reinvention can sustain a lifelong impact in the music industry.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this dynamic episode of The Indie Unplugged, hosts B. Vaughan and Yohance sit down with the genre-blending powerhouse International Nova. Hailing from the Bronx and now based in Atlanta, Nova shares his remarkable journey from gritty New York beginnings to becoming a Billboard-charting artist. Known for his seamless fusion of Latin, dancehall, R&B, and Afrobeat, Nova reflects on his early influences, his time with the group Street Corner, and the cultural tapestry that helped him craft his signature sound. With collaborations alongside icons like Ne-Yo and Petey Pablo, Nova’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and unwavering authenticity.The conversation dives deep into the realities of navigating the music industry, the value of meaningful relationships, and the significance of staying true to one's voice. Nova speaks candidly about personal growth, the lessons learned from both triumphs and setbacks, and how music has served as a universal language in his life. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the grind behind the spotlight and the resilience it takes to thrive as an independent artist in today’s evolving music landscape.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this powerful episode of The Indie Unplugged, B. Vaughan sits down with the legendary Dr. Antwan “Amadeus” Thompson Sr.—multi-platinum producer, CEO of Platinum Boy Music, and a cornerstone of the iconic Bad Boy Hitmen production team. With credits spanning artists like Jennifer Lopez, Chris Brown, 50 Cent, and Trey Songz—whom he also serves as musical director and tour drummer—Amadeus shares an inspiring look at his journey from the Bronx streets to global stages. He reflects on how music became his refuge, and how sheer determination, from church drums to studio sessions, paved his way to his first major break with Foxy Brown.Amadeus offers a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into his dynamic relationship with Trey Songz, revealing what it takes to lead live shows at the highest level night after night. The conversation also explores the pressure of sustaining greatness in the ever-evolving music industry and his unwavering drive to give fans unforgettable performances. Wrapping up the episode, Amadeus speaks about the future of Platinum Boy Music and his passion for mentoring the next generation of creatives. It’s an essential listen for music fans, producers, and aspiring professionals looking to learn from one of the industry’s most consistent and respected forces.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this engaging episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Brandon "Plan B 85" Ross—music producer, recording engineer, and founder of 1985 Music—to unpack his dynamic journey through the music industry. From playing drums in his grandmother’s church to landing placements on MTV’s Guy Code, Catfish, and scoring Tyler Perry’s Sistas, Brandon reflects on how his passion was shaped by early influences like his singer-songwriter mother and his self-taught approach to production. His story is one of grit, evolution, and staying true to his creative instincts.The conversation dives deep into Brandon’s philosophy on authenticity in sync licensing, the power of creative freedom, and why the music he enjoys making tends to open the biggest doors. He also shares his commitment to mentoring emerging producers and the inspiration behind his brand, 1985 Culture—a fusion of music and fashion rooted in personal expression. Whether you're a producer looking to break into sync or just curious about what it takes to build a sustainable music career, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and real-world advice from a creator who’s doing it his own way.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thanks for reading We Create Music TV! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this captivating episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan and guest co-host Yohance sit down with Jay Fooley Beatz—a talented music producer and engineer from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, now making his mark in Atlanta. Jay takes us on a journey through his musical roots, shaped by legends like Barry White and the Isley Brothers, and shares how his early exposure to soulful sounds laid the foundation for his signature style. From his 2017 move to Atlanta to navigating one of the most competitive music scenes in the country, Jay reflects on the cultural transitions that have shaped both his identity and his sound.The conversation dives into Jay Fooley's creative process, his passion for community-building, and the lessons he's learned from the grind of the Southern hip-hop circuit. Whether he's engineering tracks or mentoring the next wave of talent, Jay offers a transparent look at what it takes to build longevity in music. With valuable takeaways for producers, artists, and music entrepreneurs alike, this episode is a powerful exploration of authenticity, hustle, and staying grounded while leveling up.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thank you for reading We Create Music TV. This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe

In this thought-provoking episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Mogul Mal—a hip-hop artist, producer, podcaster, and community activist whose roots trace back to the historic Black Wall Street in Oklahoma. Now based in Atlanta, Mogul Mal reflects on how his upbringing and environment shaped both his music and mission. With powerful storytelling and a bold voice, he unpacks the influence of culture, history, and geography on his creative identity.At the heart of the conversation is Mal’s latest project, Black in Amerikkka, a Juneteenth release that channels personal experience into poignant social commentary. The episode explores how he uses music not just as a form of expression, but as a vehicle for advocacy and change. From community empowerment to industry navigation, Mogul Mal offers sharp insight into the artist’s role in today’s social climate and the importance of mastering the business to amplify the message.This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thank you for reading We Create Music TV. This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wecreatemusictv.substack.com/subscribe