J. Sims: Connecting Culture and Business Through Music and Innovation

Your CEO Talk Empowers Africa Tour is a major step in connecting business and culture. What role do you see music playing in bridging the gap between African and U.S. industries?

Music is the universal language that cuts across borders and unites diverse narratives. For me, it has been the foundation of creating a network where creative innovation and business acumen meet. It opens doors for collaborations that fuse Africa’s vibrant energy with the dynamism of U.S. industries. Sometimes, a conversation starts around music and evolves into discussions about joint ventures in completely different sectors, like avocado farms. This synergy shapes new opportunities and challenges the traditional boundaries between commerce and culture.

You’ve collaborated with major names like Jacquees and Jagged Edge. How has working with artists shaped your approach to business and brand-building?

Collaborating with top-tier artists has taught me that authenticity and storytelling are at the heart of brand-building. In music, your reputation hinges on the connections you make and the narratives you craft, and this applies just as much to business. I’ve learned that owning your story and staying true to your voice creates a lasting brand—one that resonates far beyond the immediate spotlight. It’s about balancing creative passion with a strategic vision that connects on a deeper level.

With Afrobeats and African creatives dominating the global stage, how can U.S.-based Black entrepreneurs and music executives tap into Africa’s booming entertainment industry?

Africa’s creative scene is on fire, and U.S.-based Black entrepreneurs and music executives should approach it not as a market to tap into but as a partner in co-creation. The focus should be on investing in local talent, immersing oneself in the culture, and building authentic relationships. It’s about respecting Africa’s heritage while actively collaborating to shape a future that benefits everyone. This is where true potential lies.

Financial literacy and ownership are huge challenges in the music business. What’s one critical mistake you see artists making, and how can they avoid it?

A critical mistake many artists make is neglecting the business side of their careers, particularly when it comes to owning their work. The key to avoiding this is taking the time to understand financial literacy and ensuring you have a knowledgeable team to guide you through the complexities of the industry. Protecting your creative output is just as important as the art itself—without ownership, you lose control of your narrative.

Your CEO Talk sessions are bringing mentorship to young entrepreneurs across multiple cities. What’s one piece of business advice that completely changed your trajectory?

The game-changer for me was learning to bet on myself. I realized that success isn’t about waiting for validation from others; it’s about trusting your vision and taking bold action. When you invest in your growth and stay true to your mission, opportunities begin to open up. That mindset of self-ownership has been pivotal in shaping my journey, and it’s advice I pass on to every entrepreneur I mentor.

Media and storytelling are powerful in shaping careers. How can Black-owned platforms better amplify independent artists and entrepreneurs on a global scale?

First, understanding the industry landscape, market climate, and potential competitors is crucial. By creating and amplifying authentic narratives, Black-owned platforms can shed light on independent voices that often go unheard. These platforms need to build strategic marketing plans informed by data and focus on consistency, collaboration, and high-quality storytelling to make a lasting impact.

You juggle multiple ventures across music, media, and agriculture. How do you stay ahead of industry trends while maintaining creative and business longevity?

I stay ahead by immersing myself in various sectors, always on the lookout for emerging trends and innovative ideas. At the same time, I anchor myself to core principles—ownership, authenticity, and long-term impact. Balancing creativity with business strategy is challenging, but it’s the foundation that enables me to build sustainable ventures that can adapt to evolving industry landscapes.

Wow—you’re celebrating your birthday in Lagos with both a celebration and a party, and you’re in Africa, the motherland. That’s a powerful full-circle moment. How does that feel for you on a personal and professional level? Looking back, what’s been the biggest turning point in your career?

Celebrating my birthday in Lagos is indeed a full-circle moment—it feels like a tribute to where I come from and how far I’ve come. The biggest turning point for me was realizing that success is not just about money; it’s about making a meaningful impact and leaving a legacy that uplifts our community. I’m excited to reconnect with a mentee of mine in Lagos, an artist I’ve been mentoring for years. It’s rewarding to finally meet in person and see the growth he’s made.

When people hear the name ‘J. Sims,’ what legacy do you want them to associate with your brand—beyond business, as a cultural visionary?

I want the name J. Sims to be synonymous with empowerment, innovation, and cultural reinvention. Beyond business, I hope to be remembered as someone who bridged diverse worlds, uplifted communities, and created platforms where authentic voices could thrive. My goal is to be a catalyst for change, blending creativity with strategic action to inspire future generations. I’m also excited that my family is launching our charity, Sustainable Impact Through Meals and Service (S.I.M.S), this year to extend our legacy of giving back.

After this tour, what’s next? Should we expect any major music, media, or business moves on the horizon?

After the CEO Talk Empowers Africa Tour, I’m diving into writing my book, Blue Print and Cheat Sheet to Success. I’m also launching the CEO Talk Campus Link Tour, focused on U.S. colleges, in partnership with KIPP Forward Atlanta. On the business front, I’m continuing to diversify my portfolio, expanding into new ventures in media, agriculture, and global business development. With exciting initiatives underway at CEO Talk, Sims Global Enterprises, and The Sims Farms, I’m eager to continue pushing boundaries and forging new paths in multiple industries.

Stay connected with him

Instagram: @theCEOtalk

Twitter: @thejsims

Facebook: /CEOsims

Tiktok: @jsimsongo