Today we’d like to introduce you to Madison Inman
Hi Madison, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I always like to credit my 18-year-old self for a lot of my success. I attended Middle College High School where I took college classes, joined the debate team, and wrote a few fashion articles for the student-run, city-wide newspaper – Teen Appeal. I didn’t think I was smart enough at the time to be a lawyer, so I decided to pursue a more creative route.
I ended up attending the University of Memphis – Go Tigers Go! Majoring in marketing and journalism with a concentration in advertising, I figured my creative aspirations would align eventually within those fields. During my senior year, I was selected for the MAIP program ( multicultural advertising internship program, a fellowship that connects interns with advertising agencies all across the country). After a summer in Chicago, I gained more clarity about the creative opportunities that awaited me after graduation.
Currently, I am a full-time, marketing professional, part-time DJ, and event curator with hopes of becoming a content creator. It’s officially been 5 years in the marketing space, 1 year in event curation, and 5 months DJing. I’ve landed some pretty cool gigs, like True Colors in Dallas and a Red Bull Brand and Swish activation in Memphis for the Dance Your Style Competition. I’m also looking forward to DJing this year’s University of Memphis Black Alumni Tailgate at Tiger Lane.
As far as event curation goes, I am working on establishing my business officially and focusing on curating events that create unique experiences for the black and brown community.
Though I live in Dallas, I don’t let anyone forget I am always a Memphis girl at the end of the day.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Life is always filled with ups and downs. The biggest struggle I’ve faced was losing my job during the pandemic. I graduated from the University of Memphis December 2018, and I struggled to find a job. It took me 6 months to get my first role, and almost 10 months later I was furloughed. I had no idea what to do, I applied for unemployment and had very little co-curricular job options. So this is when I decided to move to Dallas, and I’ve been here for 4 years.
Aside from my employment struggles, I personally struggle with expecting things to be perfect. Everyone has to start from somewhere, and that start is not always what you initially envision. Personally, if I can’t do something to the level I envision, it discourages me from doing anything at all. However, I have learned that being consistent is best way to make progress with whatever you’re pursing. Rather that’s content creation, throwing an event, or DJing, the best thing you can do is actively pursue your goals – even if it isn’t perfect. Some progress is better than no progress.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I started DJing 5 months ago. My DJ name is DJ MRI ( which are my initials ). I love DJing non-mainstream music along with R&B, Hiphop, and Afrobeats.
DJing the Red Bull Brand and Swish activation was a big deal for me. It was my first gig in Memphis and my first brand activation. It opened my eyes to the possibilities of what I can actually do. I would love to do more brand activations in the future.
I think what sets me apart from others is my ear for music. Though a lot of DJs cater their song selection to what is popular and what the crowd wants to hear, I think I’ve decided to focus more on mixing things together that are a bit unorthodox and non-mainstream. There are so many underrated artists and songs that more people should give a chance. However, I do think it is the DJs job to figure out how to throw in curveballs and keep the overall vibe flowing.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My parents – Taurus Deberry & John Inman. My parents are very supportive and love me very much. I’ve made a lot of mistakes along the way, but I think they couldn’t be happier with my accomplishments thanks to their sacrifices.
Fred Griffin – The founder of Swish and a good friend. Fred has been an amazing help in my journey from giving me advice, giving me inspiration to figure out my DJ name, and connecting me with multiple big brand opportunities. He has made it easier to realize that I can do whatever I put my mind to, especially with the help of someone who has your back.
Honestly, I take inspiration from everywhere. There are so many people that have helped and inspired me along the way, it’s hard to compile everyone into a list. Everything that has happened to me has happened for a reason from the ups to the downs, it’s all greatly appreciated.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealsneakbella/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bbC6gwOYt8
