First, a few basics: First Name, Last Name or the name by which your work is known, and where you’re from (represent!)

I’m Lady Tha ProducHer and most call me ‘Lady’. I created this name with intent of uniqueness relative to being a female producer of many things. I’m adamant as well in the spelling of ProducHer, as most are intrigued with this. I reside in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

What’s your story? How’d you get involved in your hustle? How do you make a living? How long have you been doing what you do?

I’ve always been into music. I was exposed to it early on and have always had passion and appreciation for it. I’ve collected cassettes, albums, and CD’s for years. I took piano lessons during my childhood and thru my late teens. I played cello and violin in elementary school. I played my first wedding at age 13 and began playing for churches at age 16. I’ve played for numerous weddings, recitals and other functions. I majored in music in college as well as played drums.

I produced and recorded my first singing project in another studio in the mid 90’s. From that point on, I wanted my own studio. At the time, I was the only female in my area with a studio and I knew I had to learn the studio business to compete with the male dominated arena. As many doubted my abilities, and after extensive self-training and help from those who offered it, as well as reading many books I’d bought; I soon developed the respect of being a recording engineer and music producer.

I later produced an artist showcase which resulted in a three-peat performance which toured the city of Baton Rouge and surrounding areas. As the artists performed original music, the show was surprisingly a phenomenal success with strong support from the highly rated local radio station. I wrote, produced and recorded many of the performances.

Some few years later, I was promoted in my (then) other job which required extensive travel. As I had planned to do this for 2 years, it turned into almost 7. I dabbled with my music when I could, however practically living in hotels made it difficult around my schedule. As writing has always been in my life, it then became my soul medicine. I kept a blog about my travels which kept me artistically sane. As I always knew I would return to my world of creativeness; I resigned my duties in November 2007. My leadership responsibilities and the huge obligation of planning, managing and organizing multi-million-dollar projects as well as the diverse people experience I endured, is what has developed me into the business woman I am today. This time around, I’ve realized talent is only a small part of being relevant in today’s music industry. Business savvy is essential. As I’m a strong believer of God, I believe my purpose is where I am now. I just had to go out in the world and gather some notes.

I make my living now as a music producer, writer, graphic/web designer, and scenic photographer. I also operate a full recording studio.

What are some resources you’ve found invaluable to your work?

I find the internet to be a valuable resource for any business these days. I don’t eat if the internet got up and walked away. I learn, build, network, market, and promote my business through the internet.

Another invaluable resource is my books. I study all the time. Education is necessary! Whether in school or schooling myself, I feel in order for me to continue to move forward as a person and or business, I have to stay fed up! As reading has always been a part of my life, it’s also a habit. I’m avid in buying and collecting the tools necessary for my trade as well as learning new things. I also find having reliable people in my circle as an invaluable resource. I like being able to ask questions and gain honest feedback. To find that is rare, however, it’s necessary for this industry.

How do you get the word about your hustle?

Because I am a people-person first, it’s easy for me to market and or promote my creativeness. I enjoy meeting, networking and conversing with people who are equally driven. I also balance that scale by consulting with those who need that extra boost. Through these instances, clients are developed. It’s not just something I set out to do; it’s who I am. I focus on positive consistency. I say positive because one can also be consistently negative. My clients and or the artists I pull under my wing are always my priority and they know that from day one. I’m firm, yet honest in my approach. I’m warm-hearted, genuine and very straightforward. My work ethic is solid and as most people recognize… I’m driven by my passions. I’m a creative person who provides creative services, but more than anything, I am a businesswoman.

Where do you find your inspiration and/or motivation?

Music is my breath. Listening to it, and creating it. I am highly motivated by people who are making power moves. I’m inspired by a certain ambiance. I love incense and candles, good neo-soul, or some lyrical Hip-Hop, add in a good latte’ and a nice fall rain against a large window pane. I’m driven by great spoken word. I’m inspired by simply reading something.

My inspiration is also in solitude. I’m such a loner who’s always been very comfortable with that. One would not think so until they got to really know me because on the surface, I’m often engaged with many people.

What are two or three things you find difficult on your path to your dreams? How do you deal with these challenges?

I think having to face the reality of many who still doubt the abilities of a female producer. While I’ve certainly earned credibility in this business, it’s no secret that many would still rather work with male producers. That’s okay by me, because I’ve learned my work makes its own statement and whether I’m chosen is no longer my problem, it’s their issue! Fortunately, I find this less of a problem in my design services.

Another difficulty to the industry as a whole in my opinion is when aspiring or so-called producers are not placing value on their music in selling it for pennies. How can one be serious about their art if they don’t feel their music isn’t worth paying for, and the same for the artists that’s buying? This affects all of us who are serious about this music business. Even many producers who are deep in the game have been affected by having to lower their prices to compete with a large scale of cheapskates. I would rather give a track away (and have on numerous times)… then to sell it for pennies. Too many people are looking for handouts. I had to get to a point where I had to focus on connecting with the caliber of people who are willing to pay and or can afford my services. I’ll help anybody, but I also have to maintain a business. I work very hard, long hours, and I think I keep a fair price tag on my work based on my knowledge and experience… which wasn’t given to me.

How has this so-called recession affected the way you conduct business

I haven’t noticed a big impact because my business is an off/on type of thing anyway. I have the good and the bad, however, I maintain by staying ahead of the game and organizing my position. I also work closely with clients with reasonable budgets and offer payment plans as necessary to offset their financial circumstances.

Which people or organizations do you look up to? Why?

I respect people who have a history behind their success. Those who suffered and endured set-backs… yet conquered. I respect organizations that are committed to supporting the less fortunate.

What is the work you’re most proud of?

As I’ve done many projects, I’m most proud of finally incorporating all my creative services into my business. This was a personal struggle for me! As I’m confident in what I do, I’ve always been uncomfortable with acknowledging that I am a multi-gifted woman. Now I stand proud, and don’t consider the rules. I realize I can’t change what is in me; therefore, I choose to continue to embrace and enhance what God has given me.

What are you working on currently?

I’m working with certain producers and labels in adding more production credits to my name. I’m designing a web design project and logo for a consulting firm. I’m designing a logo for a life coaching company. I’m currently writing three non-fiction books, (two relative to music, and a coffee-table book of my motivational expressions) I’m writing, marketing, promoting and maintaining my music blog, StudioNoize.com

What is your dream project? Where do you plan on going with your business/hustle?

My dream project is to work with exceptional artists who focus on setting the tone. As I’m connected to the industry and know a few people, I’m not interested in the trend. I’m interested in creating art through music. I’d also love to do more production work in the film industry, and write an informative best seller. As for my graphic/web design; I want it to be non-stop! I want Ink Butter Productions and Designs to be ‘the’ name you can call on for all your professional creative needs!

How has your dedication to your hustle affected your personal life (family, school, relationships, faith, etc.)

Family and friends have always been supportive although my dedication to my business has somewhat created a communication barrier. I am working on making the compromise because I realize my root will always be my growth process. Because I am single, relationships have been difficult because very few recognize my passion. They may see it, but they don’t feel it like I do, nor do they understand it with the same depth, and once they are influenced by it, sometimes it’s difficult to consume.

Faith has strongly affected my personal and business lifestyle as I realize that I can’t do this without my spiritual welfare. Faith is my influence. It’s my gateway of communication to the one who feeds me.

What is something you know now that you wish you’d known before?

Not so much in that I wished I’d known before because I believe everything has its place and time; however, I believe effective business management and marketing, and the ability to adequately address adversity and diversity are essential in business development and success. And because I’ve gained extensive knowledge in these areas, I have to also assume that ‘timing’ played its part. Only ‘it’ knows when you are ready to take the next step and I’m grateful for that opportunity.

Lots of us are trying to reach and achieve their dreams. What is something you’ve learned on your path that you would share with anyone just starting out

First, one must start with themselves and assume they are on the path of their desires. From there, the focus is in place, and the blood, sweat and tears so-to-speak become reality. This is not easy and it won’t be…but it can be the most exciting and adrenaline rushing journey. Tunnel vision is essential in keeping your eye on the prize, however, your surroundings keeps you grounded… or not. Whether good, bad or other, you have to choose, experience and learn what or whom takes the ride with you, as the others becomes wind dust.

And remember no one rides alone…you must always have a few good people as your support system (yes you need one). Lose the thin skin and besides, that’s not an attractive look in this playing field. Go thru some things, learn from some things, and always… always study your craft. You never know enough!!! Ask questions and put your energy in the right place and build an empire! Work hard! You may not please everybody, but as long as you put your best foot forward…you’ll still reap the reward. Your clients, and or fans and those around you will appreciate and respect your intentions.

Lastly, and more importantly… help someone along the way. You define ‘how’. Just do it… What could be more beautiful?!

Thank you Lady Tha ProducHer!