I felt the benefits of my hard work when I took a job in the fields that I love—music and education. Charleston Phillips , Charleston Phillips, Platinum Status Bachelor of Science in Audio Production, 2016 , The Art Institute of Houston

Creates Marketing Plans for Epic Records’ Recording Artists

Charleston Phillips is responsible for creating marketing plans for recording artists including Future, DJ Khaled, Rick Ross, and Travis Scott. “I evaluate their various target markets and make calculated decisions on where we will have the most success in placing their music,” he says.

He uses the education gained at The Art Institute of Houston to “speak the language” of the music business. Charleston adds that his coursework helps him to successfully implement progressive business practices. Since graduation, he’s marketed songs that have made it to the top of the Billboard charts and reached platinum status, including "Mask Off" by Future, "Bank Account" by 21 Savage, and "Rake It Up" by Yo Gotti and Nicki Minaj.

Before his current position, Charleston discovered his interest in merging business and music. He took a shot at pitching a new job—one he hoped to fill himself. “I observed how business was conducted and how relationships were maintained. Then, I created a portfolio and a resume to show the studio that I could be an asset by collaborating with Houston's local artist as well as celebrities.”

Charleston says that his plan worked—he was hired to fill the position he’d created and now hosts events throughout the city. He also serves as a field representative for The Art Institute of Houston, talking to high school students about creative careers. He feels passionate about the school because his education helped him to achieve his career goals. “I studied audio production and used all of my electives to study business. Now I am well rounded—I can record, produce, run a concert, and DJ if I need to.”

He adds that the music industry is constantly changing—both in the way music is consumed and marketed. Charleston says that current students should be prepared for a career that requires lifelong learning and flexibility. “Going to school for a creative career and graduating already shows your level of commitment. Some the of people in our field do not have this level of education. Understanding the concepts of your field can put you years ahead of your competition.”

While he’s had success in guiding his own career path, Charleston knows that it’s important to maintain a creative feel in the workplace. “I like to keep decorative information packets and swag around my desk so my teammates know exactly where to go when they need that type of stuff.” He also makes a positive impact by lending a hand when coworkers have audio and music business questions.

Today, he is thankful that The Art Institute of Houston equipped him with the training he needed to advance his career. He continues to learn on the job and is joining organizations, such as the Audio Engineer Society, that teach him more about the music industry. The society is national but also has a presence at The Art Institute of Houston. “They host workshops and competitions that students can enter to obtain industry level feedback before graduation,” he mentions.

Charleston believes it’s also important to be well-rounded in the field. “I found that I have a passion for education and helping others. That’s why I have decided to give back to my local community and the school that provided me with the tools that I use for my everyday success—The Art Institute of Houston.”

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