Steve “Face” Riley has been appointed the new general manager of Big Boy Music LLC and SUGO Music Group Distribution. In this role, he will be responsible for running the day-to-day operations, managing staff and signing new artists to the label. Riley’s goal for Big Boy Music is to become the new millennium Motown.
Please describe your leadership style as a CEO.
I am a no nonsense, no holds barred type person. I am very direct and I don’t pull any punches. I always give you the truth, regardless of if I think you are going to accept it.
What is your personal mission statement?
My mission is to discover, sign and develop a new generation of superstars in the music business.
What three skill sets are critical for the future executive that you hire for your organization?
1. Flexibility
2. Well versed in all genres of music
3. Knowledge of marketing and promotions – that’s 90 percent of how you become successful.
How does having an advanced degree benefit you and your clients?
Having a communications degree has helped me with public speaking. It has also taught me how to communicate across the board to various types of clients and organizations. My advanced degree has benefited my clients because I act as a liaison speaking on behalf of clients to various companies, organizations, etc.
How do you utilize technology to benefit your organization?
I capitalize on technology via social networking as well as marketing and promoting the company.
Finish the sentences…
Team work is important because…it makes the dream work.
The best way to recruit great talent is…to actually go out and see it live.
Speaking a second language is important because…it makes you more marketable to other genres of music.
What social media platforms do you engage in the most?
Twitter and Facebook.
What professional organizations do you support?
ASCAP and BMI.
Describe your networking style.
I am open to talking to anyone, regardless of their status in the industry. I deal with a lot of independents because I believe independents are the new majors.
If you were giving a graduation speech to college students, what would the title of your speech be? Give three reasons why.
The title of my speech would be, “Take Advantage of Everything You Possibly Can.”
1. Success is not guaranteed because you have a degree. There are plenty of people who have a degree and are working at McDonald’s.
2. A degree is not necessarily your strength but it is definitely an area of concentration. Therefore, be open to opportunities that may capitalize on your natural strengths and talents even if it’s not the area of concentration you may have studied in school.
3. Find a way to capitalize on what you love you to do. Most successful people are doing what they love to do.
Name your two favorite vacation destinations to relax and recharge? Why?
South Beach, Florida and Florida Keys. I love water, nature and fishing. These are the most relaxing places outside the Caribbean, I’ve been.
What are you reading?
I am reading The Saints of LA novel I’m co-writing with author Tonya Mason, which will be released in summer 2017.
Two favorite books?
Super Rich by Russell Simmons
The Soundtrack of My Life by Clive Davis
Name three business leaders and political leaders who inspire you.
Business Leaders: Steve Jobs, LA Reid and Berry Gordy.
Political Leaders: Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Favorite sports team and hobbies?
Favorite sports team: New York Giants
Favorite hobbies: Fishing and camping
Two favorite quotes that motivate you.
1.”If you don’t stand for something, you will fall for anything.”
2.”Be all that you can be.”
