Amadeus of Platinum Boy Music talks music, motivation, and

Antwan “Amadeus” Thompson, a CEO, (@produceramadeus) world renowned Producer, Motivational Speaker, Role Model, Music Enthusiast, and multi-talented Musician, is one of the most sought out professionals in the music industry. Having worked with a number of major talents thus far, he’s dominated the charts with acts like Chris Brown, Justin Bieber, Trey Songz, and almost everybody in between.

While Amadeus is very involved with his career and business, what’s most admirable about him are his consistent efforts to empower and give back to music world around the nation. From number one hits, to youth development, Amadeus has truly dedicated his time and effort to creating a profound legacy and making it count, every step of the way.

Tell us how you became the Amadeus we all know and love today. How did you first get your start in the industry?

Amadeus: I’ve been playing the drums since I was in the 4th grade. That’s what got me started. I grew up around it (music). I became a Hip-Hop fan at a young age, but at that time I had to sneak to listen it because of my parents. It wasn’t until I turned 16 years old, that I decided record producing was something I was going to do as a career. I got my first placement with an artist named, Foxy Brown, who was signed to Def Jam Records. She was working on a song that ended up being featured in the movie, “Cradle To The Grave.” The track sold 500,000 copies, and that was the first time I shared my given talent with the world.

Speak to me about the genesis of your career from that point.

Amadeus: Since then, I’ve been blessed enough to say I’ve produced for over 60 artists. It’s been 15, almost 16 years, and I appreciated every step. With all the artists and clients on my resume like J Lo, French Montana, Fabolous, T.I., and even ESPN, it’s been a great journey. What makes me who I am is the fact that I can’t be just boxed in. There’s no limit for me, and what I’m capable of doing musically or creatively.

Having a successful career, let alone getting an opportunity to showcase your talents isn’t always easy. Did you find it hard getting your first chance in the industry?

Amadeus: My career was, and still is a real serious hustle for me. When I started years ago, there was no social media. I had to actually go take meetings at labels and play beats for managers and artists. Back then, you had to really hit the streets and I learned at an early age relationships are key. There was always events going on, and label meetings. I just found a way to connect the dots, stay consistent and persistent.

What are some of the challenges that you’ve faced on your journey thus far?

Some of the challenges I’ve faced are not getting compensated or accredited properly. ANother thing is that there are artists I still haven’t worked with, and there are barriers causing that. I don’t feel that it’s impossible, but there is a challenge to get to those predominate and elite group of folks. I push hard towards it, and I continuously reach out whether I receive a response or not.

While you’ve done a lot in music, tell us a little about the other roles you play in the music industry.

Amadeus: Apart from being a producer, I am Trey Songz’s Music Director, a professional Drummer, and I’m also a Motivational Speaker. I work alongside Trey to create the best shows possible. I work a lot in the production of the sound, dancers, and every aspect that is necessary to put together a great show. I’ve been alongside him for 20 years now, and it’s amazing. We’ve travelling around the world to places like Africa, Japan and so much more.

You have a tour called, “Music 101.” What is that tour about?

Amadeus: I started the Music 101 College Tour last year, going all around the us to encourage, empower, and educate people on the industry. There are a number of people that don’t understand what is required to be successful in this industry. We’ve done a number of schools like Howard, Yale and a lot of others. Because we’ve come up in the business, we give back and definitely pay it forward by doing Music 101 and many other things.

I hear that there is an element of live club performances in your career.

I have a residency at the number one Hip-Hop club in Las Vegas, “Drais.” I basically play drums alongside the DJs. The partygoers love it, and what I do enhances that experience for everyone. I play live drums and add to people’s favorite records.

These days so many aspiring industry professionals can be discouraged. How is it that you’ve stayed motivated over the years?

We all have journeys and destinations. Music is something I love, and that I’m passionate about. It’s the thing that has kept me pushing. I know that this gift I have, is a gift from God. It’s something I have, that no one else has. I just know and believe in what I have, and what I’m capable of doing. If God says it’s so, than it’s so. It’s your job to do what you need to do, and not to worry about anyone or anything that’s trying to block you, or stop you.

What is the end goal? In doing everything you do from the music, to your business, “Platinum Boy Music”, what are you guys trying to accomplish?

Our main goal is to create a legacy one that people can remember. I want to ultimately be able to provide my son with a great college education, push his dreams, and endeavors. When I’m done, I want people to look back at me, my team, what we’ve done, what we’ve given back to the world, and appreciate it.

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Featured Image: Photo credit @sladeschlomo

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Tags: Amadeus, Hip Hop, Platinum Boy Music, Producer, Trey Songz