Meet Anthony Keys | Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Anthony Keys and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anthony, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
As the CEO of a budding record label and someone in the process of opening a radio station, my work-life balance has certainly been a dynamic journey, especially as a father of seven. The evolution of my balance has been a reflection of both necessity and strategic planning. Early on, I embraced the challenge of wearing multiple hats within the entertainment industry, driven by passion and ambition. However, I quickly realized the toll it was taking on me personally and professionally.

Acknowledging that I couldn’t do it all was a pivotal moment. It wasn’t just about the time and energy; it was about ensuring that every aspect of my life and business received the attention and care it deserved. This realization led me to start building a team—a decision that has been instrumental in my journey. Delegating responsibilities allowed me to focus on the areas where I could contribute the most value while ensuring the business could grow and thrive.

Being a father of seven has undeniably influenced this evolution. The responsibilities and joys of parenthood have taught me the importance of presence and the value of time. As my children have grown, their evolving needs and increased independence have allowed me to gradually recalibrate the time and energy I dedicate to my businesses. This shift has not only helped in moving my ventures forward but has also enhanced my personal life, allowing me to cherish and enjoy moments that are fleeting.

In thinking about work-life balance, I’ve come to understand it as a fluid concept rather than a static goal. It’s about making conscious choices and adjustments to ensure that both my family and my businesses not only coexist but thrive. It’s about recognizing that at different stages, the scale may tip more heavily towards one side, and that’s okay. The key is to be mindful, adaptable, and willing to embrace support, whether through building a team or leaning on family.

In summary, my journey towards achieving a work-life balance has been one of learning, adapting, and accepting that doing it all isn’t a feasible or healthy endeavor. It’s a balance that continues to evolve, and I’m committed to navigating this journey with the flexibility and resilience it demands.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey in the music industry and the essence of our record label are deeply intertwined, reflecting a shared narrative of growth, resilience, and the power of community. At the core of our art and operations is a commitment to authenticity, quality, and fostering opportunities within the music ecosystem. What sets us apart is not just the music we produce but the values we embody and the culture we nurture—a culture of humility, collaboration, and innovation.

I am most proud of the environment we’ve created, one that champions emerging talents and provides them with a platform to shine. Our label stands as a testament to the belief that great music, genuine connections, and meaningful opportunities can coexist and elevate the industry standard. This ethos is what I am most excited about; it’s a dynamic and evolving force that drives us to explore, create, and redefine the boundaries of our art.

Getting to where we are today was far from easy. The path was lined with challenges, from the steep learning curves of the business to the personal sacrifices required to keep the dream alive. Building a team was a crucial step in this journey—a decision born out of the realization that to achieve our vision, we needed a collective of diverse talents and perspectives. This team has become the backbone of our operations, enabling us to grow in ways I could never have achieved on my own.

The lessons learned along the way are numerous, but among the most significant is the importance of adaptability and perseverance. The music industry is ever-changing, and success requires an ability to pivot and evolve without losing sight of your core values. Another key lesson is the power of humility. It’s easy to get caught up in the successes, but staying grounded and focused on the bigger picture—the music, the artists, and the community we’re building—is what sustains long-term growth and impact.

What I want the world to know about our brand and story is that we are here to make a difference. Our mission extends beyond creating music; it’s about creating a movement. A movement that celebrates diversity, encourages creativity, and fosters a sense of belonging among artists, fans, and everyone in between. We are here to break barriers, to build bridges, and to light the way for the next generation of music makers and lovers.

In essence, our art and our brand are reflections of a journey marked by challenges, learning, and an unwavering commitment to our community. We are proud of where we are but even more excited about where we are headed, together.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

Starting our adventure with a potent Cuban coffee at LM Tacos in Uptown would set the tone for a week filled with vibrant culture and flavors. We’d definitely hit the beach, where my buddy Travis would guide us to the hidden gem, Almarosa, for an unforgettable dining experience. Our days would be a mix of soaking up the local arts scene, enjoying the laid-back beach vibes, and exploring the culinary diversity, from rooftop dinners to street food gems. We’d also make time for a bit of nightlife, experiencing the local music and club scene. In essence, the week would be an eclectic mix of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence in the best our area has to offer, all while making memories to last a lifetime.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Samantha (Dj Volume) Richard (Dj Rich)
Bowie
Carbo
Rave Daddy Robby
My Children’s Mothers
Kelly Nunn

Website: Humblehouseradio.com

Instagram: @djkeytone

Facebook: @djkeytone

Youtube: @humblehouserec

Other: https://www.beatport.com/label/humble-house-records/104637

Image Credits
@andrew_sytek @djvolume