Kareem”Biggs” Burke is a music mogul that we must absolutely give flowers too. When speaking about Roc-A-Fella Records and the immense talent that spurred from the record label, the average music industry novice may neglect to acknowledge the major role Biggs played. However, if you’ve followed JAY-Z’s career, you’ve likely seen just how important Biggs was to the Roc and how important he continues to be today.
In 1996, Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, Damon “Dame” Dash and Kareem “Biggs” Burke founded Roc-A-Fella Records. The label started with just Jay-Z, as a means of releasing his music when other labels weren’t giving them an opportunity. However, in no time Memphis Bleek, Beanie Sigel, Amil, Cam’Ron, and Freeway were all part of the Roc family.
In 2005, Roc-A-Fella came to an end when it was revealed Burke, Dash and Carter sold their 50% interest in Roc-A-Fella to Island Def Jam. However, Jay Z, as president, retained control of the Roc and his masters.
Last week, Kareem Burke allowed MSNBC’s Your Business to follow him around and give us an insider look at his life. It was not only inspirational but quite educational. Here are 3 things we learned from his interview.
When In Doubt, Biggs Gives It To God
Need that morning inspiration? Biggs has it and then some.
“There’s never really too much doubt when I decide to get into a business but any time I find myself in a hard place, what I do is just pray. You know, I give it all to the Lord and I’m just really confident that he’s gonna give me what I ask for. So that’s what helps me through the day, day in and day out.”
Flip through for more things we learned from Kareem “Biggs” Burke.
The Money Is In The Influence
Source: WENN
How did Rocawear and other brands end up doing so well? It was all about the influence. Biggs played a big part in convincing Jay-Z to always name drop their brands, and other luxury brands, in his music. This played a huge role in the amount of money Roc-A-Fella would bring in. It’s something that Jay-Z still keeps with him today.
It’s All About The People
Though his times with Roc-A-Fella and Rocawear are long gone, Biggs has still managed to make millions by just by just being in tune with what the everyday person is into. He deals with merchants who seek to new markets and helps keep them up to date on the hottest trends.
“I go to the ground level and I want to figure out what’s happening with the everyday people. What are they wearing? What are they talking about? What are they drinking? What are they listening to? Then you can figure out what’s happening in the marketplace.”
