We recently had the chance to connect with Anthony “King” Blackman and have shared our conversation below.
Hi King, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I am walking a path. My journey has not always been straight, but it has always had purpose. Years ago, I was wandering—searching for meaning, caught in cycles of addiction and hopelessness. But today, through recovery, faith, and community service, I know I am on a path that God designed for me.
This path allows me to serve others at the Warrior Center Memphis as the Community Director to build creative platforms through Blackman Music Group, and to use my story as proof that transformation is possible. I’m not wandering anymore—I’m walking intentionally toward impact, freedom, and hope for others.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Anthony Blackman, and I serve as the Community Director at the Warrior Center in Memphis, TN—a faith-based recovery and reentry program that has been transforming lives since 1999. I am also the founder of Blackman Music Group, Inc., where we use music, media, and content creation to inspire, educate, and give voice to communities often overlooked.
What makes my journey unique is that I’ve lived both sides of the story. I overcame years of addiction and incarceration, and now I get to stand on the other side—helping others find recovery, purpose, and creative outlets for their voices. Right now, I’m working on expanding both our recovery efforts and our creative media platforms so that people not only experience freedom, but also have tools to build sustainable futures.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
What often breaks the bonds between people is sin—things like pride, selfishness, betrayal, or unforgiveness. These create division and distance. Scripture reminds us, “For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there” (James 3:16). When we live from a place of pride or hurt, relationships suffer.
What restores those bonds is love and forgiveness. The Bible says, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8). Love and forgiveness invite healing, reconciliation, and unity. I’ve seen it firsthand—when people surrender to God’s grace, what was once broken can be restored stronger than before.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would simply be: “I love you.” Those three words would have changed everything. I would remind him that his value isn’t defined by mistakes, addiction, or pain—but by God’s purpose for his life. Love heals, and I would want my younger self to know he was always loved, even in the darkest moments.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in the music industry is that success equals fame and money. Too often, artists are told their worth depends on record sales, social media followers, or image. The truth is, many of the most impactful songs never hit the charts but touch hearts and change lives.
Another lie is that you have to compromise your values or identity to “make it.” I’ve learned that authenticity lasts longer than trends. For me, music is ministry—it’s about healing, hope, and purpose. When we stop chasing lies and start creating with integrity, the industry becomes a platform for transformation instead of exploitation.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
What I understand deeply is that I am not from earth. My true citizenship is in heaven, and my real country cannot be seen with natural eyes. As Scripture says, “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20).
This truth changes how I live. I know I’m just passing through here, and my purpose isn’t limited to earthly success—it’s about eternal impact. That perspective keeps me grounded, focused, and full of hope, even when the world looks dark.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.blackmanmusicgroup.com www.warriorscenter.org
- Instagram: blackmanmusicgroup
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-blackman-2725091b0
- Facebook: blackmanmusicgroup
- Youtube: Blackman Music Group
Image Credits
Anthony J Blackman
Warriors Center Memphis
