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Jamar Chess
Founder, Sunflower Entertainment | Wahoo Music Fund One
Professional Background
Jamar Chess is a dynamic and innovative music executive with deep roots in the industry, being a third-generation member of the renowned Chess family. His grandfather, Leonard Chess, founded the iconic Chess Records in 1950, forever changing the landscape of music and establishing a legacy that continues to inspire generations. Building on this legacy, Jamar has made a name for himself as a significant player in the evolution of contemporary music, particularly in the burgeoning Latin music scene.
Together with his partner, Juan Carlos Barguil, Jamar co-founded the Sunflower Entertainment Group, a boutique publishing and distribution company that specializes in Latin music. This initiative stemmed from Jamar's keen insight into an underreported genre that has seen unprecedented growth in recent years. Under his leadership, Sunflower Entertainment has effectively bridged the cultural gap, bringing independent and classic Latin recordings into the mainstream, showcasing his commitment to discovering and promoting deserving talent.
Jamar's expertise in music licensing has also allowed him to create new revenue streams for artists and catalogs alike. He has significantly broadened the reach of previously undiscovered artists and reimagined older songs through their use in film, television, and advertising. His contributions to various projects have not gone unnoticed, earning him a spot in Billboard's prestigious "30 Under 30 Power Players" list, a recognition bestowed upon young influencers in the music business.
In addition to his work with Sunflower Entertainment, Jamar has played a critical role in producing music for the popular Netflix series "Narcos." Over the last four seasons of the series, he has been instrumental in licensing over 150 songs that hail from Colombia’s most celebrated music catalogs. His ability to curate music that complements visual storytelling has made him a sought-after figure within the industry, showcasing not only his passion for music but also his understanding of its potential impact across different mediums.
Education and Achievements
Jamar Chess’s educational journey began at Onteora High School, where he laid the groundwork for his future in the music industry. He then pursued further studies at Manhattanville University, where he continued to sharpen his skills and knowledge in music and business. His educational background provided him with the necessary insights and tools to navigate the complexities of the music industry and effectively promote Latin music on a larger scale.
His career began to take shape with various positions at respected music companies, allowing him to cultivate his expertise. Notably, Jamar served as a Director at Mautoglade Music Ltd, where he was involved in several important music publishing endeavors. His passion and vision for Latin music led him to co-found Spirit Music Latino, which aimed at highlighting Latin music's rich diversity. As co-founder and COO at Sunflower Entertainment Co., Inc., he strategically led efforts to elevate Latin music and connect it with a broader audience.
His previous experience also includes owning Classik Administration LLC, co-founding Revolution Songs, and working in a creative and international capacity with Arc Music Group. Each role has enriched his understanding of the global music landscape and solidified his position as a leader in the industry.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his illustrious career, Jamar Chess has achieved numerous milestones that underscore his influence in the music industry:
- Navigating Cultural Landscapes: By focusing on Latin music at Sunflower Entertainment, Jamar has successfully introduced undiscovered talent to new audiences, effectively broadening the scope of the genre beyond its traditional boundaries.
- Impactful Collaborations: His work on Netflix's "Narcos" not only enhanced the series's authenticity but also showcased his remarkable ability to assess and curate music that resonates with viewers, thereby expanding the reach of Latin music in mainstream entertainment.
- Billing Board Recognition: Being named among Billboard's "30 Under 30 Power Players" reflects his significant contributions to the industry and highlights his potential for future impact.
- Licensing Success: Jamar's success in licensing over 150 songs emphasizes his acumen in recognizing valuable music properties and utilizing them in various platforms, creating profitable opportunities for artists.
In summary, Jamar Chess is a vibrant force in the music industry who continues to carry forward a rich family legacy while blazing new trails in the field of Latin music. His passion, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit are propelling the genre into new realms, showcasing his dedication to artists and their narratives. As he navigates the evolving music landscape, Jamar’s future endeavors promise to further enhance the visibility and appreciation of Latin music on a global stage. His work exemplifies what it means to be a modern music executive, adept at blending tradition with innovation to create lasting change.
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