Want to learn how I got my big break? DM me the word “LETTER” on Instagram for a guide on how to get any job you want: https://www.instagram.com/randallkaplan
Rodney Jerkins is one of the most successful music producers of all time – he has worked with some of the greatest artists of our time, including Michael Jackson, Rihanna, Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, and many more.
He has been nominated for 18 Grammy Awards and has won 2 – for the Record of the Year and Best R&B song. He is also an incredible songwriter and musician. His journey to excellence is incredible so tune in to hear more!
(00:00) Rodney’s background
Born in Pomona, New Jersey (Dad was a pastor, mom a housekeeper)
Rodney is the fourth child
His mom was very sick while pregnant with him
Mom worked for wealthy families
Listening to rap music in secret
At 10, he decided to be a producer
At 13, started making and selling songs to local artists
Dad became his manager
Rodney was forced to play the piano
(10:52) Never stop dreaming, never stop believing
At 11, he started working and saving for Akai MPC 60
Went with his dad to a seller
Rodney copied the manual and read it every day (Rodney's dad realized his talent and broke his insurance policy to and bought him a machine)
The visit to Toledo, Ohio that changed Rodney's life forever
Rodney was blown away and inspired
Never stop dreaming, never stop believing
As a child, Rodney wanted to work with Michael Jackson
Dream the impossible dream
40-day family road trip
(27:20) From washing dishes to working with James Jones
Saving to buy the equipment
At 10, he asked for a job at local dinner (washing dishes)
Went to a mall and asked for a job at Foot Locker (Dug Smith let him stock the shelves)
At 15, went to Manhattan
James Jones from Uptown records (Rodney sent him a tape with a letter – James LOVED the music)
James Jones calls him to come to New York and work with him
At 16, dropped out of school and went to New York (Rodney's dad allowed him to go after his dreams)
(38:42) The biggest deal is not always the best deal
At 17, offered a 1.8 million dollars contract from EMI
At the same time, a 2.2 million dollar offer from Sony
Closed the deal with Brian Jackson (bigger money doesn’t mean a better deal)
Rodney bought his mother a car and a house for his parents at 17 years old
Wanted to be a blessing to them
The story about Randall’s grandmother
(50:04) Strike while the iron is hot
Doing local demos in South Jersey
A group hired him to make a demo for the Impact music convention (playing music for Teddy Riley)
Drove 6 hours to Future Recording Studios in Virginia Beach
Invitation to come and learn during the summer
The internship is very important for success
Having interns and giving them a chance
The right mentor is essential
Randall’s experience with interns
Advice to interns
Sponsors:
Sandee – https://sandee.com/
Bliss: Beaches – https://www.amazon.com/Bliss-Beaches-Randall-Kaplan/dp/1951836170/
Want to Connect? Reach out to us online!
Website – https://insearchofexcellencepodcast.com/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/randallkaplan/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/randall-kaplan-05858340/