Brad Davidson
Vice President of Urban Promotion, RCA Records
Creator, FMusic
Brad Davidson has been in the music business for over 20 years as a radio promotions executive. Having worked for such labels as Capitol Records, Jive Records, Blackground Records, Warner Music, and Columbia Records, he’s currently the vice president of Urban Promotion for RCA Records.
He is the creator of “FMusic,” a reality TV satire with an A and a B story.
Davidson shares, “The A story in ‘FMusic’ is the relationship between the lead character David Frank aka D and his wife, reality star/author/former video model Karen Shabazz Frank. The B story will usually be based on current headlines and gossip about singers, producers, awards shows, rappers, industry professionals, etc.”
“Def Jef and I are co-writers and co-producers,” he offers referring to the multi-hyphenate Def Jef – TV producer/writer/actor – whose credits include MTV’s “Lyricist Lounge,” and his skills as a music composer and supervisor for Disney’s “That’s So Raven,” BET’s “The Wayans: The Next Generation” and “The Game.”
Read what else he had to say.
How did you arrive at this career choice? Was it a deliberate decision or a gradual and natural evolution?
To work in the music business was definitely a deliberate decision. I decided that what I wanted to do when I was in high school. I started as an intern in the retail marketing department and even worked in the warehouse of Warner Music, shipping CDs, cassettes, vinyl and VHS tapes. Working in the radio promotion department happened gradually. It’s a department that most people don’t really know about if they’re not in the industry. Everyone knows about the people that sign artists–the A&R department.
What separates you from others in your field? What is unique to the experience that you create?
The fact that I try to come up with a unique approach for every song that I promote. A lot of people in my position tend to just roll out songs the same way every time, as it relates to marketing to radio stations. I always try to take each song, and give it it’s own special plan.
For those considering entering this arena, what skill sets do you recommend mastering? What traits are most conducive to success?
I consider myself a salesman, one that‘s been blessed to be able to sell a product that I’m passionate about–music. So being a salesman, you have to have thick skin and patience.
Name two of your top role models: one from your industry and one from outside of it.
My role models are the entrepreneurs of the music biz; Russell Simmons, Diddy, Jay Z, [Jimmy] Iovine – they’re my heroes because they started with music and have become moguls.
Why do you consider continued learning important?
Learning should be like change-constant. You can always learn. I’m trying so hard to get my digital game together right now.
What affirmations do you repeat to yourself that contribute to your success?
I just remind myself to be grateful for what I have.
Please define your personal brand.
Passion and honesty.
What is your favorite vacation destination and why?
Hawaii. It’s like a laid back Miami, which is my second favorite.
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
No more war, no more hunger.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
No negative energy-ever!
What scripture(s) are you leaning on?
Cover me and family with the blood of Jesus.
What’s on your playlist?
Valerie June is my favorite new artist right now.
