A woman with braided hair in a high bun, wearing a white blazer, a V-neck top, and a necklace, smiles confidently against a plain dark background—a look that reflects the spirit of independent artists from Soulsville Charter School.
Picture of Amber Dean
Amber Dean

SOULSVILLE CHARTER SCHOOL ALUM PIONEERS PLATFORM FOR INDEPENDENT MEMPHIS MUSIC ARTISTS

MEET KHAYLAH JONES: EMPOWERING MEMPHIS ARTISTS FROM THE GROUND UP

Rising University of Memphis Junior and 2023 Soulsville alum Khaylah Jones, is on a mission to reshape the Memphis music scene. Drawing from her backstage experiences with Recording Academy, the Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) , Rock the Bells, and performing with legendary artists, Khaylah knows the music industry inside and out.

Now, she’s using that knowledge to uplift independent artists without major music labels through her platform the Backstage Mentor.

Two people pose together indoors; one wears a black dress with braids, the other wears a black t-shirt and pants. A table with water bottles is in the background.
Two women stand close together smiling at the camera, one wearing a tan shirt and green pants, the other in a black shirt and white pants.

TELL MEMPHIANS ABOUT THE BACKSTAGE MENTOR.

I created The Backstage Mentor because I saw so many talented artists with the passion and drive but not enough access to the knowledge behind the scenes. Things like publishing, branding, and how to actually monetize their art. Coming from different programs like the MLC and Grammy U where I realized how powerful mentorship and education can inspire me to want to be that resource to others. 

HOW DOES IT FEEL BEING A YOUNG WOMAN IN THE MUSIC BUSINESS? 

It’s empowering. It comes with challenges, of course sometimes people underestimate you or try to box you in but it’s also an opportunity to change the narrative. Being a young black woman in this space motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and creating room for others.

A woman and a man stand together and smile for the camera, with colorful artwork and musical instruments visible in the background.
A woman stands in front of a backdrop with "4U Recording" logos, wearing a light denim jacket, white t-shirt, and black pants.

HOW HAS THE ALUMNI PROGRAM BENEFITED YOU AND YOUR CAREER ENDEAVORS?

I first became involved in the Choose Alumni program in my senior year of high school, it was amazing to know that I would have a support system after graduating high school! The Choose 901 Alumni program has been such a blessing. It’s opened doors for networking, collaboration, and visibility. Being featured and supported by an organization that uplifts local voices has helped me grow my platform, gain exposure for “The Backstage Mentor” and connect with other creatives who are just as passionate!

WHAT DOES BEING A MENTOR MEAN TO YOU? 

Being a mentor is all about motivating others. It’s not about having all the answers, instead listening and offering support. It means being invested in someone’s growth while reminding them of their “why” throughout the journey.

A woman wearing a plaid coat, blue jeans, and a beanie poses in front of a Recording Academy backdrop, wearing an event badge on a blue lanyard.

AS YOU CONTINUE TO THRIVE AND GROW IN YOUR BUSINESS, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO’S LOOKING TO FOLLOW IN YOUR FOOTSTEPS? 

Start with your why. Know your purpose and let that guide everything. Also be a student of the game, understand that you will always be in this state of growing, stay curious and ask questions. Surround yourself with people who inspire you and share what you’ve learned there is power in giving back.

Share Article:

More Articles