My name is Tyrone Williams and I work in Promotions (Fields Operation Coordinator) for Hot 97 and WBLS. My father is Tyrone “Fly Ty” Williams who’s prominent for producing the first Hip Hop radio show (The Mr. Magic Rap Attack show).
I was definitely an industry baby and grew up on tour. There were always Hip- Hop stars in my house such as Big Daddy Kane to LL Cool J. It seemed as though my house was the hub or gathering place for the music industry legends and game changers. Little did I know that Uncle Russell and Uncle Lyor were Russell Simmons and Lyor Cohen. What was so unique about my father was that he started his own record label, “Cold Chillin’” and produced his own radio show. Being at the radio station (WBLS) at 5 years old seeing people like Fred Buggs, Gary Byrd, and Dr. Bob Lee. I didn’t realize at the time but it was shaping my future.
I landed my first job working in record promotions for Capitol Records. From there I managed groups and went on to be the road manager for comedian Mike Epps and rap duo Salt N Pepa. On the Salt N Pepa tour, I learned that my dad was a legend in the music industry. As soon as anyone found out I was his son, they would tell me his history and what he did for them. Naturally they became on the road guardians of me.
There wasn’t a defining moment that led me to the music industry because it was life. At this moment, I want to be an On-Air personality. Combined with what I’ve learned over the years, one day I want to take ownership. The biggest changes I’ve noticed in the music industry is in the music itself, and the lack of passion. It seems that people expect overnight success; no one wants to work. You can now sell your product worldwide with a touch of one button.
One song that inspired me on this journey is Erykah Badu “Tyrone”. Follow me @princedollars on Instagram
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