1,450 words

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KEY POINTS

Background: Justin Garner is a Black male solo artist from Prairieville, Louisiana, with a Bachelor's degree, who started his career with YouTube covers and has since developed into a professional musician.

Musical Style: His music blends RnB, Pop, and Soul influences, creating a unique sound that incorporates elements of blues and country.

Professional Experience: Has performed extensively, including at the ESSENCE Festival, sung the National Anthem for major sports teams, and had music featured on NBC's Grand Crew and MTV's Teen Mom OG. He's a Recording Academy member and has achieved international chart success.

Current Situation: Currently earns under $10,000 annually from music and works independently without professional representation or a music publisher.

Project Status: Has a completed album and is ready to record five additional tracks for an extended version. All songs are fully written and prepared for production.

Technical Plan: Will work with audio engineer/producer Shaun Bennett at Zone Music Studios in Darrow, Louisiana, for recording, mixing, and mastering. Aims to complete by March 17, 2025, with release planned for April 11, 2025.

Marketing Strategy: Plans a comprehensive campaign including teaser visuals, social media countdowns, music videos, media interviews, playlist placements, live listening events, and ongoing fan engagement through multiple platforms.

Business Understanding: Demonstrates strong industry knowledge through Recording Academy membership, active engagement with industry news, and participation in educational opportunities. Understands the importance of both creative and business aspects.

Impact Potential: Grant would enable professional-quality production while alleviating financial strain, allowing focus on creative development and marketing efforts to reach a broader audience.

Key quotes from application:

"I value working with a producer and going into a studio to record because it brings a collaborative energy that can elevate my music to new heights. A producer's expertise and fresh perspective can enhance my creative vision, helping to refine my sound and bring out the best in each track."

"My work has been featured on TV shows like NBC's Grand Crew and MTV's Teen Mom OG, and I've had the honor of being featured on prominent streaming playlists. My journey began with YouTube covers, which later led to international chart success, collaborations, and performing the National Anthem for major sports teams."