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words DOMINIQUE CARSON L.A. Reid has many titles under his belt: , , , music executive, former music judge, and now chairman and CEO of Epic Records. The entertainment industry undeniably recognizes his contributions in music, business, and entrepreneurship. The Grammy Award- winning executive has mentored some of the biggest names in music including P!nk, TLC, , , , Donnell Jones, and . His work is commended because he understands the importance of being business ANTONIO savvy, turning a prospective artist’s dream into a reality, and composing and recording material that will leave the world stunned. L.A Reid turned his life- long passion of music into a business empire emulated by aspiring business men. But achievements didn’t come automatically--he took risks, embraced his humble beginnings as an artist, believed in his former , and wasn’t afraid of “LA” REID change and the process of evolution. Reid’s musical debut began when he was a member of the R&B band, , which also included Kenneth “” Edmonds. The group recorded their groundbreaking hit, “Two Occasions” in the 1980s. Even though the group disbanded before the single was released, it is still considered one of the greatest R&B tracks of all time. The group performs the single occasionally at because it will always be a Top 10 hit for listeners. Fans can sing the lyrics to a significant other when trying to reconcile. After his stint in Deele ended, Reid launched LaFace Records with Babyface in , Georgia in 1989. Reid’s professional accomplishments show how he utilized his gifts and talents to help others make names for themselves in the . Already knowing the “ins and outs” of the music business, he reached out to , founder of , for funding to start his label. From that point on, Reid and Babyface received mainstream success as executives and LaFace was one of the biggest record labels in the 1990s. Reid handled all of the business affairs and Babyface was a prolific songwriter for their musical acts. Aspiring artists were intrigued by the success and of the artists who were signed to the label at the time. The label had experienced a few stumbling blocks (bankruptcy and lawsuits from Braxton and TLC), but it will always be known for creating memorable moments in R&B history.

After a number of business affairs, Reid teamed up with Arista Records and One of became CEO of the label for four years. While there, he sharpened up his expertise as a lead businessman. Under his leadership, artists experienced overnight success. Usher released his diamond selling , Confessions in 2004, P!nk’s Missundastood sold five million records, Avril Lavigne’s debut album,Let Go sold Music’s Biggest six million records and Outkast’s Grammy Award-winning album Speakerboxx/ The Love Below sold 10 million records. Unfortunately, Reid was released from his contract in 2004. But one failed professional endeavor didn’t stop him from helping other artists regain their prominence. Eventually, he became Chairman and CEO of Island Def Jam Music Group. During his time at Island Def Jam, Innovators Mariah released her multi-platinum selling album, and was responsible for other artists’ success including , Jay-Z, Ne-Yo, and former teen sensation, Justin Bieber.

As Chairman and CEO of Epic Records, Reid is embarking on a new journey in his life as he discovers up and coming artists for the near future. Reid mentioned his future musical endeavors with journalist Roy Trakin: “My greatest joy is in seeing an unknown become somebody. By taking this Epic job, I needed to do that again. Doug [Morris] told me there’s a place for people like me… it’s called the insane asylum.” As the music industry continues to evolve, there will always be unfinished business for Reid. He knows consumers are waiting to hear about his next move or what musical act he will place on the scene. Indeed, we shall see.

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