Daryl Jones is a power player whose chill demeanor and humble nature belie his impressive accomplishments. Jones has negotiated contracts for a who’s who of recording artists and producers in both mainstream and gospel music, and most recently was the legal representation for The Program Pictures LLC, which is the production company behind the Tupac biopic All Eyez On Me. As co-CEO of Artists & Brands, he develops creative branding and marketing strategies for Fortune 500 companies.
Describe your leadership style:
I am very observant and strategic. I lead by example, by understanding what a situation or a problem requires, and delivering a solution. The people that I work with and who work for me, therefore, are empowered to do the same.
What is your personal mission statement?
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
What three skills are critical for the future executive that you hire for your organization?
Knowledgeable in multiple practice areas;
Great work ethic; and
Technology-social media-marketing savvy. Above that, also someone who is self-driven and creative.
How does having an advanced degree benefit you and your clients or organization?
I graduated from Valparaiso University School of Law, where I not only learned the intricacies of legal theory and processes, but I developed research skills that I still use today. Law school helped me master research and find creative solutions to problems.
How do you utilize technology to benefit your organization?
Right now I mostly use LinkedIn and Instagram. I use LinkedIn because it is a professional network and it allows me to connect with peers. I use Instagram so that I can see what my clients should and should not be posting. I am also immersing myself in apps right now, and researching how they are created and how they can be monetized.
Finish these sentences:
Teamwork is important because … it creates synergy and better overall result for the client.
The best way to recruit great talent is … by seeking referrals from people that you know and trust.
The best way to succeed in the music business is … to find a mentor in the business that is willing to teach and show you how the business works. Also, networking at conferences, studio, music events, etc.
What social media platforms do you engage in the most?
LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram
What professional organizations do you support?
Black Entertainment & Sports Lawyers Association (BESLA). The National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS), where I was formerly on the Board of Governors. Lawyers for The Creative Arts. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Describe your networking style.
I am very aggressive with my networking. If there is someone in the room that I need to get to, or that need to have a conversation with in order to get a deal done, I get to that person. I always work the room to find out who is in the room and who I should talk to.
If you were giving a graduation speech to college students, what would the title of your speech be? Why?
“Be Determined to Succeed” … Some people succeed because they are destined to do so, but most people succeed because they are determined to do so; I would want to encourage students to be determined and driven toward their own success.
Name your two favorite vacation destinations to relax and recharge. Share why.
Jamaica — I love the culture and I love the food; I have traveled throughout the island.
Africa — I have been to different parts of the continent; I love the culture, and being able to experience the origins of civilization and where we came from as a people.
What are you currently reading?
I am mostly reading trades at this point. The top three trade publications for me to read are Billboard, Advertising Age and Variety.
What are your favorite books?
Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison; To Kill a Mockingbird by Ralph Ellison and Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, which we had to read in law school, and the Bible.
Name three business or political leaders who inspire you.
Barack Obama
Magic Johnson
Oprah Winfrey
