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TALENT MANAGER SONJA NORWOOD JOINS THE LOS ANGELES FILM SCHOOL FACULTY

Published

8 years ago

March 29, 2018

umeektv

The Los Angeles Film School appointed veteran talent manager, television producer, entrepreneur, and author of motivational text “Change Starts with ME!,” Sonja Norwood, to its faculty, effective immediately. Norwood brings her more than 20 years of talent management experience with Grammy Award winner, actress, daughter Brandyand Platinum recording artist, actor, son,Ray J, to the school. She will lend her industry expertise to The Los Angeles Film School and its students as an adjunct professor of artist management in the entertainment business department.

The artist management course explores the career path of the music manager. This position plays a significant role in the music business community and in the career of an artist/band. Sonja will lead classes on how to leverage the artist-manager relationship, what tools are needed when launching an artist’s career and understanding the complexities of management contracts. She will also be responsible for equipping students with the skills they need to coordinate and liaise career path management.

“Sonja’s passion for music and entertainment coupled with her wealth of experience and industry knowledge will be invaluable to our students,” said Hal Lieberman, entertainment business program director, The Los Angeles Film School. “We are thrilled to have her join The Los Angeles Film School and add her to our team of incredible full-time faculty and esteemed adjunct professors.”

Norwood has over 20 years of experience in talent management as the CEO of Norwood & Norwood Inc. She was the guiding force behind the launch of her daughter Brandy’s multiplatinum music career with Atlantic Records, which included a Grammy-nominated album titled “Brandy,” ten “Top 10” singles, five albums, and more than 40 million records sold worldwide. She also helped facilitate Brandy’s success through consulting on the TV series “Moesha,” through television and film roles, including the 1997 TV remake of the iconic Disney princess tale “Cinderella,” staring Whitney Houston, and endorsement deals that included international brands such as CoverGirl, DKNY and Candies.

“I’m very passionate about the role and responsibilities of the artist manager,” said Norwood. “Teaching artist management at The Los Angeles Film School has been a goal of mine for more than two years. It’s rewarding to know that sharing my vast knowledge and experiences with students will have a lasting impact on their career and the careers of aspiring artists. It’s going to be fun, exciting and real!”

Sonja was also instrumental in the careers of multi-platinum artists such as Ma$e, 702, Silk, BeBe Winans and gospel group Trinitee 5:7, for which Norwood has received a host of platinum and gold plaques. She also consults singer-songwriter Tameka “Tiny” Harris, actors, up-and-coming artists, new and seasoned managers, and independent record labels. In 2009, she expanded her television portfolio by entering the realm of reality television alongside her son Ray J. She established herself as an executive producer through reality shows like “For the Love of Ray J,” and “Brandy & Ray J: A Family Business.” In 2016, she took her expertise of consulting online, creating “The Bizness®,” an online portal that offers members entertainment-centered workshops, webinars, and training sessions.

ABOUT THE LOS ANGELES FILM SCHOOL

The Los Angeles Film School, located in the heart of Hollywood, has been serving the community and its students since 1999. This accredited, VA-approved institution offers Bachelor and Associate of Science degrees in Entertainment Business, Animation, Graphic Design, Music Production, Audio Production and Film. Its facilities include the historic RCA Building at 6363 Sunset Boulevard and offers access to exceptional industry-standard equipment to its students. The school’s faculty of industry professionals have earned credits on a number of major motion pictures, video games and music recordings. Numerous graduates have received awards at Film Festivals worldwide, engineered multi-platinum albums, and some credits include GRAMMY® and Oscar® nominations and awards. For more information about The Los Angeles Film School, please visit: www.lafilm.edu or call 323.860.0789.

FOLLOW SONJA NORWOOD ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Facebook: @ThaBizness

Twitter: @SonjaNorwood

Web: SonjaNorwood.com

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Bria Cheri Nominated for Vocalist of the Year – R&B Soul at the 12th Annual Josie Music Awards

Published

5 days ago

July 28, 2026

Jimmy Star

Queens R&B Artist to Be Honored September 20 at the Grand Ole Opry House

Rising R&B and soul artist Bria Cheri has been officially nominated for Vocalist of the Year – R&B Soul at the 12th Annual Josie Music Awards, set to take place on September 20 at the world-famous Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee.

Widely recognized as the largest independent music awards show in the world, the Josie Music Awards celebrate exceptional talent across every genre of independent music. Receiving a nomination places Bria Cheri among an elite group of artists whose dedication, artistry, and passion continue to elevate the independent music community.

Known for her soulful vocals, heartfelt performances, and authentic connection with audiences, Bria Cheri has steadily built a reputation as one of today’s exciting voices in contemporary R&B and soul. Her music blends powerful storytelling with emotional depth, creating songs that resonate with listeners while showcasing her remarkable vocal ability.

Born and raised on the Southside of Jamaica, Queens, New York, Bria Cheri is a singer-songwriter, musician, dancer, and aspiring actress whose love for music began at age three, when her mother introduced her to piano. She writes her own material, drawing on influences that include Aaliyah and Chaka Khan, and her catalog includes the albums and EPs Before the Music, Silent Siren Vol. 1, and Phoenix, along with her recent single “Boy Toy.”

“This nomination is an incredible honor,” said Bria Cheri. “To be recognized by the Josie Music Awards alongside so many talented independent artists is truly humbling. I’m grateful to everyone who has supported my journey and believed in my music.”

Bria Cheri’s Vocalist of the Year – R&B Soul nomination stands as a well-earned milestone in a career built on artistry, authenticity, and an unmistakable voice – and September 20 at the Grand Ole Opry House will be a night to watch.

Follow Bria Cheri on the web:

https://www.instagram.com/briacheri_?igsh=MWtjM2J1Z2NuOGVqNA==

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