Welcome to Episode 33 of the Gent’s Talk podcast! We sat down with Jason Harrow, known to many as Kardinal Offishall. The newly appointed Global A&R for Def Jam Recordings discussed the shift in the entertainment industry, purposeful living, and performing in front of Nelson Mandela during his stay.
The Best/Worst Place To Exist
The entertainment industry is unforgiving, and Kardinal stressed the importance of being able to navigate through it. He said artists must stay self-motivated and have the ability to reinvent themselves if they plan for longevity in the business. Focusing on simple wording can tremendously impact your life. Kardinal also noted that switching “I have to” with “I have the opportunity to” will help an ordinary day become the most incredible day.
Not Just About Streams
A significant takeaway from this episode was Kardinal Offishall’s behind-the-scenes look into streaming services. It appears that the relationship between listener and artist is becoming diluted. It used to be an entire process to listen to a song. The journey that one had to take to go to a physical store to purchase a CD (or vinyl) provided a unique relationship to the user that is now lost with the ability to access music with a simple click. Please take a listen as he breaks down streams versus radio play. He also dives into why artists are again finding themselves in an uphill battle.
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See Also: Gent’s Talk: Ep 32 – A Sit-Down w/ Brett Kissel
Be Brave
When Kardinal said, “it feels like the doors’ just opening,” it was intense and challenging to the imagination, given the laundry list of accolades and accomplishments already under his belt. This only speaks volumes about his dedication as an artist and a man. Kardinal then spoke on his recent shift to start living with purpose. He now lives in a constant state of gratitude and ensures he is always very clear about his intentions.
“Purposeful living is exponentially more gratifying than just chasing a cheque.”
Kardinal Offishall on living with purpose
Def Jam Recordings
Whether flying over Europe, dropping by a studio in New York, or filming a TV show, no two days are the same for “Mr. International.” As Kardinal adapts to his dream job at Def Jam Recordings, this new role has him working internationally with CEO Tunji Balogun and Executive Vice President LaTrice Burnett. He will have both hands full with the mentoring, developing, and signing of new artists across the globe, but Offishall continues to make sure he “increases the give back” whenever he can.
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Please tune into Episode 33 for the entire conversation with Kardinal Offishall as he recalls the first time he realized he was becoming famous and why we may never see another absolute superstar again!
About Gent’s Talk
Gent’s Talk is available for streaming on Youtube, Spotify, Goodpods, iHeartRadio, Apple and Google Podcasts! Episode 33 of Gent’s Talk is presented by Bulova Canada and supported by Ride Rude. It is filmed at StartWell Studios in Toronto. You can now catch all of Season 1 on all Air Canada flights! Your continued support throughout this journey is appreciated. Thank you!
