Episodes
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BEING BUILT BY DESIGN & NOT BY CIRCUMSTANCE. “It’s our responsibility to know better, show better, and do better.” - Ray Daniels Ray Daniels is a music industry executive that has the insight of a modern day philosopher in helping those unfamiliar with the path to success, understanding what to expect, and how to navigate safely and effectively. On this episode of 'Win Big, Clinton Sparks and Ray Daniels discuss the importance of understanding the power of money and how to use it to your advantage. They share their stories of overcoming adversity and learning to create their own destinies. They also discuss the importance of understanding the world you want to live in, rather than the world you come from. Clinton Sparks and Ray Daniels discuss the importance of having the right manager and team when building a career in the music industry. They emphasize the need to network to the left or right of you, and to not chase up. They also share their stories of working hard and putting in the effort to get to where they are today. Wanna learn from the best? Listen now and get familiar. For more visit: https://clintonsparks.com/products Follow Clinton Sparks on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clintonsparks/
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THE POWER IN YES
“If I ever feel like I drop the ball, I just pick it up and keep dribbling” - YesJulz Some people are just such an anomaly, they are hard to define. This is the case with Yesjulz. A walking idea machine with the ability to connect the right people to get the job done. On this episode, Clinton Sparks speaks with YesJulz, a dynamic and ambitious individual known for her ability to make things happen. They discuss YesJulz's journey of becoming a go-to person for parties and events, from throwing a legendary high school party to managing artists and working with Kanye. They also touch on the challenges of balancing spontaneity and sticking to a plan in her career. They also discuss the challenges of being persistent and having big plans, as well as the importance of compartmentalizing ideas and delivering messages effectively. Julz understands that the power in the word yes, and how it brings so much more opportunity and experience than no. Say yes, then figure it out.Listen and get familiar with her story, and more gems during this powerful conversation between Clinton and Julz.
For more visit: https://clintonsparks.com/products Follow Clinton Sparks on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clintonsparks/ -
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WHY YOU SHOULDN’T SETTLE FOR SUCCESS A-Trak is one of the most incredibly talented and eclectic DJ - Producers of our generation. I’m this conversation with Clinton, they discuss how he practiced at a young age to become the world champion scratcher at the age of 15. They discuss how he personally worked with Kanye and helped bring the electronic sound to the album Graduation. The mixtape era, and him and Clinton’s impact. A-Trak is definitely an originator and musically walks his own path. It was this mentality that helped him defy the odds for success. Clinton and Atrak discuss their similar paths to having to prove themselves, and that they knew what they were talking about when trying to convince others to listen to their ideas. A-Trak is also the president of the extremely successful and influential record label, Fool's Gold which was founded in 2007, and is credited for developing the careers of artists such as Kid Cudi, Danny Brown, and Flosstradamus. Among other collaborative projects, he is part of the DJ duo, Duck Sauce with Armand Van Helden, and was nominated for a Grammy in 2012 for their song "Barbra Streisand.” Listen to this amazing conversation and get familiar with the Canadian Cultural Icon, A-Trak. For more visit: https://clintonsparks.com/products Follow Clinton Sparks on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clintonsparks/
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WHY YOU MUST WORK LIKE YOU'RE AT THE BOTTOM EVEN WHEN YOU’RE AT THE TOP
“No matter what your dream is, it's important to remember that the path to success is never a straight line.” - Megan Ryte On this episode of Clinton speak to Megan Ryte about her inspiring story of resilience and determination. From being homeless in Miami to being fired from a radio station who told her she wasn't good enough to be on the radio, Megan has overcome many obstacles to get to where she is today. Hear her story of hard work, sacrifice, and incredible networking that brought her to become a prominent figure on HOT 97 radio, who has since a resigned to pursue tv/ film, and has been seen on Good Morning America to People. Some people want it, and some people have it. Megan has it and you will agree once you listen to her inspiring story, that is STILL being written.Listen now and get familiar.
For more visit: https://clintonsparks.com/products Follow Clinton Sparks on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clintonsparks/ -
USING GREAT FOR GOOD with Brain Austin Green
“Comments, or critiques about me aren’t really about me. They are about the guy you think you know” - Brian Austin Green Most of us know Brian Austin Green from his role in the legendary show, Beverly Hills 90210 but, there is a lot you do not know about Brian. You may be surprised to learn all that Brian been through, and who he has worked with. Did you know Brian was an artist signed to Babyface? Clinton and Brian talk about his experiences in the entertainment industry, including his early success in acting and music, struggles with managing money, and dealing with disappointment. They also discuss the importance of perseverance and humility in maintaining a successful career. How he landed his iconic role on 90210, his relationship with his parents, and the mistakes he made coming up. Brian also discussed his commitment to helping others and social good.This is one of the most interesting and insightful conversations Clinton has had on WIN BIG
For more visit: https://clintonsparks.com/products Follow Clinton Sparks on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clintonsparks/ -
From Mixtapes to G-Unit: The Wild Life of DJ Whoo Kid Clinton Sparks interviews Whoo Kid about his first encounter with 50 Cent and how he became his DJ. They also talk about the early days of G-Unit and how Lloyd Banks started rapping on the same night. Whoo Kid shares some of the intense questions he was asked during the hiring process. Clinton and Whoo Kid also discuss the power of mixtapes and how they helped shape the music industry. Whoo Kid shares his top five DJs and how he influenced Drama's career. They also talk about the rivalry between the East Coast and the South and how adding Lil Wayne to mixtapes helped bridge the gap. And, you’ll hear which a-list celebrity’s girl Whookid was in bed with while he was calling and texting. Listen now and Get Familiar. For more visit: https://clintonsparks.com/products/ Follow Clinton Sparks on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clintonsparks/
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Changing Lives and Making People Happy: Lessons from Charlie Rocket's Journey
“I use to think it was the people up top where I would learn, but it was the people below” - Charlie In this episode of WIN BIG with Clinton Sparks, Charlie Rocket shares his journey in the music industry, how he overcame setbacks, and achieved his dreams. He also talks about the importance of recognizing genius in unexpected places and helping others achieve their dreams. He emphasizes the importance of having a focused plan and identity, networking effectively, and becoming a value add in any industry. Charlie is the modern day charity champion buy helping so many people. His drive to raise money and help others have a better life is what really makes him a champion.Listen to his insightful message in this conversation with Clinton now, and get familiar with a class act.
For more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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Lessons Learned from Being a CEO and a Father: The Power of Intellectual Honesty and Authenticity in Business
“If you want to be successful and be a differentiator, do more than what was asked of you 100% of the time” - Rich Antoneillo To say Rich is a legend and built one of the most culturally impacting platforms is an understatement. From music, fashion, food, and conferences, Rich led Complex to a global powerhouse. In this episode, Rich Antoniello, CEO of Complex, and Clinton Sparks discuss the challenges of being a leader and the sacrifices that come with building a successful business. Rich also delves into the impact of Complex on his career and culture. Antoniello shares his pride in helping others succeed and the importance of creating a platform that elevates and gives opportunities to underrepresented talent.Get familiar and listen now. Don’t forget to follow Clinton for daily game. All socials - @clintonsparks
For more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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Ray J's Journey From Failure to Nine Figures “You can’t be everywhere at once, and I didn’t listen.” - Ray-J Right as he was about to lose it all, a bigger opportunity came. Not many have persevered and kept coming up with wins like Ray-J. From hit records, hit TV shows, controversy, to building successful businesses. Ray is always figuring it out. Listen to how he discusses the importance of belief and hope in keeping him motivated despite setbacks and failures. He shares his experience of going against Pharrell's advice and the depression he faced as a result. Ray J emphasizes the need to make compromises and sacrifices and to listen to the right voice when making decisions. Ray-J also talks about the success of his electronics company, Raycon, and the power of saying no to opportunities that don't align with one's goals. He also shares his experiences of running a company independently and taking the same template to technology. Ray J emphasizes the need to be oneself and not try to be someone else in business meetings. One thing is for sure, Ray is always Ray, take it or leave it, and he doesn’t put on any kind of act to fit the situation he’s in. Get familiar with the master of making it happen, and listen to this incredible and insightful conversation with Ray-J and Clinton Sparks. Listen now.
For more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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“My artists want my personal brand to stand out, they know it makes them look good too” - Dre London On this episode of Win Big, Dre London, the manager of Post Malone and Tyga, talks about the challenges of managing artists' personal lives and the potential backlash from being in the spotlight as a manager. He shares his worst decision as a manager and emphasizes the importance of paying attention to detail and being hands-on. Dre talks about the insecurity of an artist choosing someone else over him after all of his work. Just like in any business, your work can be overlooked or dismissed. How do you manage this and make sure it’s recognized. Dre’s vision to not only see in Post Malone what no one else saw, but to continue to build his brand, as well as his own, is a testament to how incredibly talented Dre is. Don't miss this valuable conversation from one of the music industry’s most successful managers about business, personal relationships, and perseverance. Listen now and don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and comment if you enjoyed the show. 🙏🏼
For more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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From Wiping Out to Winning: The Journey of a BMX Pro and the Importance of Good Teamwork
On this episode of WIN BIG with Clinton Sparks, BMX rider, Nigel Sylvester shares his journey to becoming a professional athlete and the importance of dedication and hard work. He also discusses the evolution of BMX culture and how it's now more accepted in pop culture, inspiring kids to pursue their dreams. Nigel has taken BMX riding to star status with groundbreaking brand deals from Mercedes to Coach to Jordan brand, and mainstream media coverage that have been typically reserved for major league athletes. Nigel has paved the way for the next generation of BMX riders.Listen now and Get familiar with Nigel Sylvester.
For more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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Navigating the Music Industry: Business and life lessons from Hip Hop Legend Bun B “You gotta manage your energy” - Bun B Bun B shares his long journey in the music industry, including his experience negotiating with record companies and collaborating with Jay-Z on the hit song 'Big Pimpin', and how he was paid to be apart of that record. He also discusses the importance of owning one's publishing rights and the impact it can have on an artist's income. Additionally, the Trill Burger CEO reflects on his biggest mistake of selling his publishing rights at a young age and the lessons he learned from it. Bun B is not only a music legend but an Entreprenuer, and incredible human being who has developed respect and relationships in many different industry’s. Listen to why he is able to move in different arenas, and not be over in as just a music artist. His latest venture, Trill Burger has become many celebrities new favorite burger, and he is expanding the brand through brick and mortar restaurants now.
Listen to the UKG legend and Clinton’s conversation now and get familiar.
For more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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THE 3 LAW PHILOSOPHY TO SUCCESS according to David Meltzer
“Have goals, but I always end up somewhere better than the goals I set for myself.” - David Meltzer So many people that aim for success aren’t prepared for the let downs or the knock downs. Many don’t survive the tornado to success like David Meltzer has. He’s made it, lost it, made it, lost it, made it, and then dedicated his life to helping and teaching others how to avoid the mistakes he has. When your goal to make a billion people happy is your focus, there is no losing because even if you never hit that goal, you still improved on millions. It’s just like the adage, if you shoot for the moon and miss, you’ll still be amongst the stars. David Meltzer is a shining star that you should follow, as he will lead you to your happiness and success. Listen to this powerful conversation with me and the guy who ran the sports agency from the Jerry Maguire movie, as I like to refer to him as. It’s one of my all time favorite movies. If you watch the movie, you will see where I learned a lot of how to be a good person, treat people well and care more about doing right and good than making tons of money. Watch or listen now. Links in bio.GET FAMILIAR.
For more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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“You need to overcome thinking you need somebody else to help you succeed” - Millyz There is an old adage that says, there are a bunch of ways to lose and only one way to win. In 2023, that theory no longer stands. There are so many ways to win now, if you stop thinking the only way to win is by doing it the way someone else did. There is also a saying that overnight success takes 10 years however, most overnight success doesn’t last 10 years. Millyz has been around putting in the work for over 10 years and you can literally see his work turning into success. I watched first hand how he kept going and going. Despite doubters, despite money, despite times when he felt like quitting. These are the traits of everyone who has won or continues to win. If you are an independent artists, you definitely want to listen to this conversation. Millyz has taken a path that some won’t, many don’t, and a lot don’t have the stamina to attempt. Now, he is doing sold out shows, touring, and getting critical acclaim. Get familiar and listen now.
For more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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WINS IN THE PAST DO NOT GUARANTEE YOUR SUCCESS WILL LAST.
“My past success yesterday doesn’t have anything to do with whatever I’m working on today.” - Jermaine Dupri People assume that because you had success in the past, opportunities are now handed to you. Sure, past success can create a network and help you get in doors now, but that doesn’t guarantee that people will automatically accept your new idea. Continuing to have the desire to outdo yourself creates an internal drive that will have you continually outwork others. Most people that fall off is because they are content, or lost the desire to put in the work, or think they no longer have to prove their value. How many times and how long does one have to win before people just respect them as a winner? “Human nature makes people challenge those that win” - Jermaine Dupri Your job, keep doing the work that creates more wins, and never assume people will remember past wins, or even believe you can keep winning. Their believing is NOT as important as you focusing on just doing it. Listen to my conversation with the legend Jermaine Dupri as he discusses, • Why T.I. was angry with him. • How social media affects his business. • How he needs to keep proving himself despite having made hits for Usher, Mariah Carey, etc. • The importance of teaching others, and not getting angry when they don’t know. • The negative affect of arrogance. • Was Suge Knight talking about Jermaine at the infamous Source awards when he talked about executive producers dancing all up in the videos? • And, WHO CREATED THE PRODUCER BEING ON THE RECORD DOING AD LIBS, him or Diddy. Jermaine breaks down the difference between Diddy and himself, and who was breaking artists and doing it big first. JERMAINE DUPRI vs DIDDY is coming soon to @verzuztv “If you are doing something good, pay attention to it, and pay attention to the people that’s helping you do it.” - Jermaine Dupri Stop paying attention to others, and keep your attention on what you are doing. Your friend, ClintonFor more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
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"I forget the things that I've done so I can keep going." - Teddy Riley How do you handle success? It's easy to get inflated and puffed up when you finally hit a big milestone you've been working toward, like... reaching that high follower count on socials getting a million views or a million streams going viral with one of your TikToks Making money for your product or services Winners who win consistently do so by USING EVERY SUCCESS as a launchpad to the NEXT SUCCESS. Endurance, grit, perseverance... these are traits you must develop ALL THE TIME - even when you're on a winning streak. Yes, each win and each milestone reached IS another step up on the ladder and you should feel good about this - BUT YOU MUST KEEP CLIMBING. Teddy Riley has been through so many ups and downs, yet he is still here almost 40 Years later just as hungry, and….. just as humble as someone who is starting out and grateful for opportunities. Celebrate and take pride in each win - but don't get so absorbed in that feeling that it prevents you from WINNING BIG AGAIN AND AGAIN. Imagine Tom Brady being good with just one Super Bowl ring, or Steve Harvey still relishing in his Kings Of Comedy days?? True winners don’t consider themselves winners because they won once. In fact, most true winners never feel like they’ve won enough. You must learn to win, repeat, win repeat. And in order to do that, you must constantly learn, evolve, focus, grow, and the super secret, treat people well. When people know that you care about delivering quality work, showing up, putting in the work, being consistent, and about them, The people will always care about you. And, when you truly care about what you do, you will keep doing it even when it doesn’t work, even if you’ve taken some loses, and even when you’ve already WON! Why, because winners win. And, even when they don’t win, the passion for what they are doing is so strong, that just doing it is a win for them. Now, go WIN! Your friend, Clinton
For more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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"Don't make no excuses, surround yourself with the right people, and do the shit!"
- Gillie Da Kid It is widely believed that you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. Are you surrounding yourself with winners? People who challenge you to level up? Or are you limiting your own acceleration by surrounding yourself with those who are on a fast track to NOWHERE? If you are the smartest person in the room, YOU ARE IN THE WRONG ROOM. Sure, it's comfortable to stay in places you're familiar with, around the people you grew up with; the people you're used to. It might seem intimidating to branch out and insert yourself into the winners' circle - but in order to grow and learn and excel, you MUST get out of your comfort zone. Social dynamics are more important than most people realize, and you must understand that your network is your net worth. Diversify your circle. "But HOW, Clinton?" you ask. I've heard all the excuses. "I don't have connections." "I don't get invitations to the Grammy parties." "These people don't know me." "I live in the middle of nowhere - nothing is poppin where I am." When I was starting out, I HAD NO CONNECTIONS EITHER. My friends, while the internet is both a blessing and a curse to this industry - it has made it EASIER THAN EVER BEFORE to make connections, grow your network, and find out about events that YOU CAN ACCESS. To learn about seminars, conferences, and panels where influential industry executives, artists, and investors are gathering either in person or virtually (you don't even have to leave your home?!) - and many of these events are available to you for FREE! Instead of mindlessly scrolling social media - USE IT INTENTIONALLY! Your mentor could be a DM away. Winners don't have time for negativity or people who are content living a mediocre life. The company you keep is a reflection of who you are and where you are going. Just ask Gillie Da Kid, who has never been afraid to surround himself with industry heavyweights. Check out our conversation and be inspired. Your friend,Clinton
For more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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"You won't believe how many opportunities you have to screw up. You're constantly given new screw ups you can make because the world changes."
- Nolan Bushnell I don't know if you have ever noticed this before, but humans are so hard on themselves. As people who want to win, we often fixate on our mistakes, lament wrong decisions we've made, or mentally replay all the could-have's and should-have's. Nolan Bushnell and I both want to tell you to let that sh!t go. If you are not familiar with Nolan Bushnell, he is an insanely successful and influential businessman who founded Atari and invented Pong. Oh, and then he went on to found Chuck E. Cheese and more than 20 other companies. When I sat down to talk with Nolan about innovation, vision, and his path to success, I asked him about times he missed the mark or passed on ideas that he later regretted. He told me that he passed on the classic, iconic arcade game, Space Invaders, which has grossed over $13 billion in revenue to date. YIKES. Thing is, Nolan didn't sit around and cry about it. He kept it moving, and you should follow his example. People don't remember your screw ups. You can fail a million times and win once, and guess what people will remember? YOUR WINS. When you Google Nolan Bushnell, you find things like "Father of Electronic Gaming" and "Video Game Hall of Fame honoree," not "guy who passed on Space Invaders." Can you imagine if he let that mistake change his opinion on himself, his abilities, or his vision?My point is, L's are lessons, not losses, and are certainly not the end of your career. In fact, these lessons are often beneficial in the long run - they are opportunities to sharpen your vision, adjust your game plan, and move according to the changes happening in the world around you. So, don't be so hard on yourself when you experience a misstep - it could very well be a step toward your next win.
For more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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"The success of music... and the pitfalls and downfalls... opened my mind up differently."
- Ja RuleHave you ever considered the depths of your own potential, really?
Maybe you're a rapper. Or an entrepreneur. Or a producer. Or a gamer. You've put in the work, persevered, and enjoyed some well-earned success. But, now that you've reached some goals, where will you go next? Have you really considered ALL THE LAYERS of greatness that are stored up inside you?
When people think of Ja Rule, they think of hit records. But did you know that Ja is also passionate about and very successful in the tech space? This isn't a space he considered before seeing success in music, but being the smart, consistent winner that he is, he used his platform and success as a springboard to explore other endeavors. It is important to understand that success in one space can and will open up so many doors in other spaces and take you to levels you've never imagined. Levels that you need to get to in order to achieve longevity and to continue to win big.
The dope thing about having a winning mentality is that you can apply it to any and everything you decide to pursue. If throughout my career I opted to stay in only one lane, there is no way I would be where I am now, doing the things I'm doing now. As a winner, you must evolve - take the limits off yourself and see what happens.
Your friend,
ClintonFor more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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"Logic over emotion." - Tee Grizzley
You know what can really derail your success? Letting your emotions control your actions. I get it - creatives are passionate people who really care about what they are doing, their work, their art, and their relationships. Creatives are emotional by nature BECAUSE they are so invested in their projects - however, emotional responses can be detrimental to your business, to your relationships, and to your growth, both personally and professionally.
How many times have you said something in anger and regretted it after? Or, talked yourself out of trying something different out of fear or insecurity? To win big, you must look at situations from a logical perspective, not an emotional one. Of course, we will all experience uncomfortable feelings and it's healthy and beneficial to deal with and manage those emotions. But, getting in your feelings and staying there is where you will cause damage.
I implore you to LISTEN before reacting, THINK before you speak, and LEARN before you act. I've watched lucrative deals and incredible partnerships fall apart before my eyes because of emotional responses. Winners who continue to win are able to do so because they have learned to regulate their emotions and choose a logical approach instead.
Tee Grizzley and I both subscribe to this way of thinking, and you should consider it, too: to win big, you must learn to control your emotions or your emotions will control you.
For more, visit: https://www.howtowinbiginmusic.com
Follow Clinton Sparks: https://www.instagram.com/ClintonSparks/
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