Having run a full-fledged record company that was the first and only record to influence a whole generation in how they walked, talked, dressed, and acted, James Malcom Jenkins has some important lessons to deliver to the new generation of creative individuals in the entertainment industry and other industries. James Malcom Jenkins was the owner of Uptown Records during its heyday and played a massive role in impacting popular culture and spreading that culture worldwide.
Working with various creative and talented individuals, from artists to singers, rappers, filmmakers, directors, and photographers has given him the range to understand the important things that every creative person should know. Pioneering the New Jack Swing undoubtedly places Uptown Records as a game-changer in the entertainment industry.
James Malcom Jenkins aims to connect with young people between 15 and 25 and then impact the elderly up to 65. His focus is also on mostly women because he believes women have a strong influence on men, and with the women adequately enlightened, the men will follow. One of the first lessons James wants to pass along is to have a clear vision and thick skin to withstand all that the world might throw in one’s way. He credits his thick skin and vision to where he’s from, and as he grew in business, he connected with many powerful men and people who were not afraid to take risks. Some of his influences include James Baldwin, Langston Hughes, Truman Capote, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nicky Barnes, Andy Warhohl, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Russell Simmons, Andre Harrell, Naomi Campbell, and many others.
He’s also passionate about teaching and passing along information he has acquired to the world. James’s work over the years has revolved around giving truly talented people the exposure they need to thrive. Doing this gave the next generation of talents some hope they can be heard too and can become the next big thing. Despite the cutthroat competition in the entertainment world, James Malcom Jenkins has successfully taken some talented artists to the limelight, and he firmly believes he can do it again.
With a continued interest in the entertainment industry, James sees himself winning an Oscar in a few years and heading an entertainment company making more than $100 million in annual revenue. He wants to be a success story to inspire many people. He hopes to play his part in teaching the younger generation all they need to thrive in their chosen careers.
“I have a typical story of struggle and suffering which have built me into the man I am today. I want to showcase that part of me to people so they can draw influence from my strength and wisdom that I have acquired over the years,” James said. He also advocates for entertainers to know their rights and exercise them when they are right. “Do not cower no matter what. Once you know what’s due to you, fight for it, and you will get it deservedly,” he asserted.
Learn more about James Malcom Jenkins on his official Instagram page.
