Oakland, California, native Tina Davis developed a natural flair for music and media early on. She has worked her way up to becoming one of the most influential A&R execs in the industry, first as senior VP of A&R at Def Jam for more than a decade and also as manager of Chris Brown’s career. She is currently VP of A&R for independent Bay Area music and distribution company Empire, which inked deals recently with Universal Music Group and Hitco, and is also developing and producing television content.
Did you go to college?
I attended Grambling State University in Louisiana. I did not finish. I had one year left and I decided to seek a job in the music business. I envisioned being a sports anchor and reporter. I loved journalism and being at the anchor desk in front of the camera. I changed directions because I could no longer get financial aid so I decided to go for my love which was music. I played classical piano for 13 years and knew I didn’t want to be a pianist. I chose to focus on the music business.
How did you get your start in the industry?
I got my start in the industry by working as an assistant at Chrysalis Music Publishing for my best friend from high school, LaRonda Sutton. Then interning for Def Jam’s A&R staff while working as an A&R admin for them on the West Coast.
You started off on the performing side in Oakland then decided you wanted to work for Def Jam. Do you still have the urge to be in front of the camera?
Yes, I do have the urge to be in front of the camera. I recently created, executive produced and appeared on a new, ten-episode show called “The Next Big Thing” on BET that’s due out this fall.
Empire is described as an independent music distribution company. What are some of its artists and projects?
Empire is an independent music distribution company, but it also a music label. We have Young Dolph, Tyga, Lil Duval, Wande Coal, Jade Novah, MAJOR, Mario, Trevor Jackson, Cierra Ramirez many more. I’m responsible for everything concerning the artist and repertoire.
You worked in A&R at Def Jam for a decade. What artists are you most proud of having worked with?
I’m most proud of working on Scarface “The Fix,” DMX, Case, Montell Jordan, Music Soulchild, LL Cool J, The Nutty Professor and the Rush Hour soundtracks. There were so great many projects … and proud moments.
Are there challenges for women executives within the world of A&R?
There are absolutely challenges for women executive in the world of A&R. It is hard to maintain a relationship if you’re in the studio all night and morning with stars. Your relationship becomes a messy pool of insecurity and hurt. You sometimes find that your business etiquette and kindness is mistaken as a personal interest and you have to get past that and get the music done and on time within budget. I have found that majority of the artists that I’ve worked with respected my position and knowledge. However, there were others that needed to be reminded from time to time.
Has it changed since you started in the business?
