Ava Brea
Music Journalist
Ava Brea is an accomplished music journalist known for her insightful and comprehensive coverage of the music industry. She began her career writing for the New York Times during her college years in New York, where she honed her skills in journalism and developed a deep passion for music. Ava’s early exposure to high-caliber journalism set a strong foundation for her future endeavors in the industry.
Following her time at the New York Times, Ava worked for Entertainment Tonight, where she gained significant experience and exposure in the entertainment field. This role allowed her to delve into various aspects of the entertainment industry, interviewing top artists, covering major events, and reporting on the latest music trends. Her work at Entertainment Tonight further solidified her reputation as a knowledgeable and versatile music journalist.
In addition to her practical experience, Ava has pursued extensive academic training in music. She has taken multiple courses at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, further honing her skills and knowledge in the field. This education has equipped her with a deep understanding of music theory, production, and the business aspects of the industry, enabling her to provide well-rounded and informed perspectives in her writing.
Ava’s extensive background in the music scene includes covering stories about prominent artists and producing features that have topped the Billboard World Charts and been featured in numerous TV shows and films. Her work has reached audiences through top positions on the iTunes sales charts and features in popular TV shows such as “Empire,” “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.”
Based in Los Angeles, Ava continues to make significant contributions to the music industry, balancing her roles as a journalist and a vocal advocate for artists. Her passion for music journalism is evident in her dedication to covering a wide range of genres and her ability to provide deep, engaging insights into the music world. Ava’s work is characterized by her keen ear for emerging talent, her ability to capture the essence of an artist’s work, and her commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful stories.
HB – CEO
Sign Ya Self
HB, the CEO of Sign Ya Self Records (SYS), is a visionary leader whose influence and legacy in the hip hop industry remain impactful. As a great businessman, he demonstrated his exceptional talent for discovering and nurturing musical talent early on. One of his most notable achievements is discovering the now-famous recording artist Gucci Mane.
HB’s keen eye for talent and dedication to his artists are exemplified by his role as the executive producer of the hit hip hop song “So Icy,” featuring Young Jeezy from Def Jam and Boo from Cash Money, produced by Zaytoven, which marked the beginning of Gucci Mane’s successful career. This collaboration not only showcased HB’s ability to create hit records but also solidified SYS’s reputation in the hip hop industry. “So Icy” charted on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, peaking at number 46, and reached number 24 on the Hot Rap Songs chart in 2005. As a testament to their strong professional relationship, Gucci Mane proudly bears an SYS tattoo on his neck.
Through determination and a relentless passion for hip hop music, HB’s contributions to the industry continue to inspire and shape the future of hip hop.