The Blueprint: Music Industry Greats Teach at CAU

From sports, to entrepreneurialism, to entertainment, Atlanta has truly earned the name “The Black Mecca.” Clark Atlanta University, and other schools within the AUC (Atlanta University Center), have access to so many cool opportunities as well as industry professionals that are eager to help the next generation. This holds true to Jerry Clark, Bryan Calhoun, and Keith Perissi, the three newest professors on campus. While they may be new to teaching, their careers and endeavors prove that they’re at the top of their class, bringing real-world experience and lessons to the classroom. 

At the start of the spring semester, CAU implemented a “Fundamentals of the Music Business” elective course, the first of its kind on campus. With the class being a success at Kennesaw State University, it’s only fitting that the next stop is at a school right in the center of successful, Black entertainment. With decades of experience and success between the three of them, these professors are making sure that students are receiving actual insights and advice, not just textbook knowledge. 

Jerry Clark is considered an Atlanta legend and had his hands in the development of many major artists from back in the day like Bone Thugs & Harmony, Three 6 Mafia, Jeezy, and Killer Mike to name a few. As a previous President of Urban Promotions at SRC/Universal Music and VP of Promotions at SoSo Def/Island Def Jam, to say that Mr. Clark is fit to lead the class would be an understatement. Aside from his charismatic nature, Jerry Clark is all about giving students a seat at the table, and even gave a student DJ the opportunity to open up for Bryan Michael Cox at his birthday party.

Bryan Calhoun is a respected music industry executive and currently serves as the Head of Digital Strategy at The Blueprint Group. In the past, he served as a member of the Artist Marketing and Industry Relations team at Pandora and the VP of New Media and External Affairs at SoundExchange. Aside from his positions, Calhoun also created the Music Business Toolbox; a set of tools, templates, and advice for musicians looking to navigate the complexities of the music industry. With Calhoun’s experience in royalties,  licensing, and distribution, the students are able to get a direct, insider’s perspective on the business. 

Keith Perissi is the Director of the Joel A. Katz Music & Entertainment Business (MEBUS) Program at Kennesaw State University. He initially started his career in Atlanta as a professional, touring musician and has experience in various avenues in the industry like touring, talent management, songwriting, etc. 

Students in the class represent many majors, from Business Administration to Mass Media Arts. Clark, Calhoun, and Perissi are helping students understand the different types of deals that record labels can offer, what artists need in place in order to make money off of their music, public relations, and a magnitude of other topics related to the music industry. They want students to be well-rounded in their knowledge. Kennedi Johnson, a current student in the class, is a direct product of that.

“You never know what you’re getting in that class, and I think that’s something a lot of students need. Especially right now in college and definitely within the AUC and specifically Clark. It’s not repetitive at all; we’re constantly learning something new every day.”

 Kennedi stressed the fact that it’s not just lectures in every class. There were times when the professors brought surprise guests to class like veteran Warren G, newcomer Icewear Vezzo, a Facetime call from Killer Mike, and they even let Toosii crash their class during his Twitch stream to briefly talk about his journey in the industry.

Aside from all of this, at the end of the day, these professors want students to feel confident in themselves to take on the ever-changing industry, no matter the avenue. Having an open mind and needing to pivot is ok, as long as you have developed skills that are transferable. Students are also being reminded of the value in maintaining connections with everyone you meet. 

“The thing that I love most about this class is that our professors are not just professors. They’ve also done the work within the industry, are still doing work, and still have those connections.”  

For CAU, the appearance of successful, Black creatives and professionals is not uncommon. From the notable alumni to the current professors, it’s clear that many have recognized the talent that is being nurtured and released from the institution. While there is always room for improvement, there’s no doubt that the start of this class is a step in the right direction. Kennedi spoke on the need for more student/alumni interactions and the opportunities that can come from CAU utilizing their powerful network. “They’ve given us the opportunity to step into our young, professional selves and learn from experience, and I don’t think that’s anything we have seen when it comes to the other professors. I feel like the best way that you can learn is hands-on experience and they’ve given us that. They’ve thrown us all kinds of opportunities.”

As the semester comes to a close, the success of this new elective has opened the doors for conversation about the importance of bridging academic learning with real-world expertise, all while reaffirming Atlanta’s role and the AUC as a launching pad for Black talent and aspiring executives.