We Speak Business
“Pioneering the Future of Entertainment: Kamal Balogun and UPD’s Innovative Approach”
In the ever-evolving world of music and film distribution, Kamal Balogun stands as a beacon of innovation and support for independent artists. As the COO of UPD and one of the driving force behind the Navigator platform, Balogun’s journey through the entertainment industry is a testament to his dedication and foresight. With over two and a half decades of experience, Balogun’s narrative weaves through the vibrant club scene of 1997 to the strategic partnership formed in 2006 with a college teammate Chieva Lee at Georgia Institute Of Technology, marking the inception of UPD in Atlanta, Georgia, under the aegis of Sony Orchard.
Born in the United Kingdom and raised in the United States, Balogun’s transatlantic upbringing has endowed him with a unique perspective on the global entertainment landscape. His early foray into the club business laid the groundwork for an illustrious career that would eventually pivot towards empowering independent artists through comprehensive distribution and resource services.
UPD, under Balogun and Lee’s stewardship, transcends the traditional confines of a distribution company. It positions itself as a pivotal resource firm committed to leveling the playing field for independent artists. By offering access to the same high-caliber tools utilized by major labels, UPD ensures that its clientele is equipped to navigate the complexities of the music and film industry with confidence and autonomy.
The introduction of The Prodigi TV Network, accessible on Roku TV and Amazon Fire TV, signifies UPD’s commitment to embracing digital innovation. This streaming network is a cornerstone of UPD’s strategy to provide a holistic platform for independent artists, encompassing not just distribution but also content monetization through strategic partnerships with over 600 Digital Service Providers (DSPs) worldwide.
One of the most groundbreaking offerings from UPD is its creative financing option. This initiative is designed to democratize access to essential funding, ensuring that artists at any career stage can realize their projects without the constraints of traditional financial barriers.
As the music industry continues to shift and evolve, UPD is poised to introduce a new program for independent artists in the second quarter of 2024. This initiative, details of which are eagerly anticipated, promises to equip artists with the requisite tools for success in a rapidly changing landscape.
Balogun’s vision for the future is clear: to empower independent artists to take charge of their careers with the backing of UPD’s resources, expertise, and expansive network. His invitation to artists seeking guidance and support is a reflection of his and UPD’s inclusive philosophy. By reaching out to [email protected], artists are taking the first step towards a partnership that values their independence and growth.
Kamal Balogun’s journey and the ethos of UPD embody a forward-thinking approach to music and film distribution. By prioritizing the needs and aspirations of independent artists, Balogun and UPD are not just navigating the future of entertainment; they are actively shaping it.
We Speak Business
Dare for more. Do things differently this year in order to receive more- Moses Bliss inspires the youth at Dominate 2025
Dominate 2025, a youth empowerment program, organized by Gift Africa, with Mrs Slyvia Akwaboah as the Covernor, had great speakers and panelists who spoke on various issues that are relevant to shape and improve the youths of today.
Moses Bliss, the Guest Minister for the event, made a keynote address to all and sundry on the topic, “Dare for More”. His insightful presentation covered aspects that include, “how to dare for more, things to put in place if you want to do more and things to do differently this year in order to receive more.”
He shared stories of how he began as an upcoming Gospel artiste, but with persistency, consistency, availability, and his eagerness to learn and yearn for more, he is now recognized globally. In view of this, Moses bliss admonished all Gospel singers to always minister their own songs at events, regardless.
In order to dare for more, Moses gave out some pertinent points and facts to note. Firstly, one needs to know exactly who he or she wants to be and who he or she doesn’t want to be. There is no one more important than who you are becoming, therefore be focused on who you are becoming and what you are becoming. Focus brings resilience.
Moses further moved on to talk about the things to put in place if one wants to do more. He elaborates, “have an unquenchable desire for success, be really good or exceptional in the field you want to become, have a change in your daily routine, increase in wisdom, and then give yourself to training.
Finally, he made emphasis on some things to do differently this year in order to receive more. He states, “align with God, speak word into your future (align your steps), stay under the cloud of God, make a mark in all areas and lastly, spend time to read and invest in the word of God”.
A prayer was shared by Moses Bliss to climax his informative presentation.
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