My life is somewhat like a puzzle and I know what the missing pieces are and it’s my fear and insecurities. More on that later! I started my blog on March 10, 2010. Two years later, it became one of the most prominent Hip-Hop and fashion blogs. I always knew that if I wanted someone to invest in me and my brand, I had to invest in myself first and I did. I paid for photo shoots, shirts, flyers, graphic designs, travel fees and car fare out of my own expense to market and promote my blog.
When I first started YDBR, I had no idea I would have to learn how to run a business. That I would have to one day hire an assistant, learn how to write proposals and fill out invoices for advertisers and write out checks. I had no idea; I would be contacted by different music artists, fashion companies and corporations for advertisement. I had no idea, that I would be getting book for speeches, interviews, concerts coverage/invites and interviews.
Speaking of interviews, I have gotten a lot of invites to do interviews and in the past. I turned them down because my fear was being on camera and my biggest insecurity is my voice/the way I speak. I am well-educated and spoken, but my accent is raspy and squeaky. My grandparents are from the deep South and I am from the projects in New Jersey. I have a BA in Journalism and Media Studies with a minor in Africana Studies from Rutgers University, but I still don’t know how to pronounce words right and I still have trouble with my grammar. I also have a speech impairment. So in order for me to overcome my fear and insecurities, I am investing in a speech and dialect coach, on camera coaching and training. I already invested in media training. I am getting better at doing off-camera interviews. I know how to conduct myself and not be so nervous. Earlier in the week, I was at 50 Cent’s G-Unit office in Manhattan, New York to interview one of his artists. The interview went so well and will be posted on HipHopWeekly.com tomorrow Friday (March 16). I did a great job, according to the people who were there.
I turned down some opportunities in the past because I wasn’t ready to be on camera. For now on, I am not turning down any on camera opportunities or interviews. I am in the process of expanding my brand and growing as a blogger/journalist and music manager. In 2012, I promise you guys will see more of me on camera. Thanks for the love and support. Chat with you guys soon!
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Thanks so much Clayton and thanks for constantly viewing my blog.
Keep up the good work and stay true to yourself. Good things come to those who wait – you will go far DB.