In Regards to Black Cards
Just a few minutes ago, I posted a status update “…just got his Visa Black Card, advertised as only available to 1% of Americans. Good credit is valuable! Pay your bills on time!” and a received a flurried polarized reaction to it on my Facebook profile. I’m posting this to explain my position on credit and why it’s important:
As a young college student, I was uneducated about fiscal responsibility and I buried myself in debt buying clothes, CDs and stereo/music equipment on an AmEx Gold Card that I received via a student program. My parents, being officers in the Salvation Army, began to receive the collection notices in the mail and were in no financial position to rescue me. Furthermore, they were very adamant about me accepting responsibility for my spending. My bank account was overdrawn and eventually closed. Though I was very nice to the collection agents that called my phone (which eventually was turned off due to late payment), my credit was severely damaged. All of my cards accounts were closed. Over time, I eventually paid off some accounts and settled others.
What I didn’t realize at the time was that bad credit follows you and stays on your record for 7 years. This made it nearly impossible to even get a new bank account, and certainly made me dependent on others to have my own apartment or get approved for a car loan! In 2001, I decided to face my credit score head on and take matters into my own hands. I applied for a secured card through Bank of America and slowly but surely began to rebuild my credit by paying my bill on time.
In 2003, I began working with my business manager to write letters to all of the credit agencies to clean up my record, and about a two years later I was approved for the entry level American Express Gold charge card. I emphasize that it took me nearly nine years to get back into the good graces of American Express after I had irresponsibly abused their trust.
I have my parents to thank for my burning desire to be an overachiever (I went to Harvard out of my junior year of high school). Once I was accepted back into the AmEx family, I vowed that I would be responsible enough as I grew my business to be worthy of their highest level of service – the Centurion card. It was a milestone in my life when that envelope came. It meant that I had earned the respect of that financial institution, and I had done so via determination and careful attention to my finances.
As crazy as this may seem, not everyone accepts American Express – not even the the Centurion card. Just as I’d been shut down one too many times, I ran across an advertisement for the Visa Black Card. It read: “The Black Card is not for everyone. In fact, it is limited to only 1% of U.S. residents to ensure the highest caliber of personal service is provided to every Cardmember.” As a test of the credit record I had spent so much time rebuilding, I applied.
My site update was an announcement of Barclays Bank’s decision to grant me a card. I made this post because I feel very strongly about credit and how much it matters in America. The American Dream of starting one’s own business in many instances is built on loans from banks or yes – maxing out credit cards so that you can get started. In order to be a successful entrepreneur, this was a lesson I had to learn the hard way. This election symbolizes the opportunity that this country affords us to achieve any dream in spite of our racial background or financial history. I hope this post encourages you to teach someone to about the value of financial responsibility, even if it means teaching yourself. For me, good credit provides a gateway to the capital necessary to build my vision for NextSelection into a tangible enterprise.
God bless…and here’s a favorite video illustrating my AmEx Centurion in action:
Great blog post Ryan. I agree – having good credit is extremely important! I’ve been getting mines right…hopefully in the near future I will have a Black Card!
I’m spectical about credit cards. Many people spend too much and then get broke. I don’t wanna have one of those… I know I’d buy stuff I don’t need. I’m weak
For people like me it’s better to have a fixed income every month and to not be able to spend more. You can calculate what you will have to spend within a month and if there is a rest you can buy something nice or save the rest.
oh…and btw Congrats on the Visa Black Card bro!
This blog needs to be read by every young person in America. I’m currently in the process of rebuilding my credit and wish I knew in my early 20s what I know now.
Check out this groupp…don’t know if u know this but u r pretty Big in stockholm..u got alotta fan and ppl that really enjoy ur music so now we stockholm folks r tryin 2 get that talented ass of your’s 2 sweden!!! lol
Check this out!
http://www.facebook.com/groups.php?id=588423763&gv=12#/group.php?gid=41856312810
the Group goes by the name Get Ryan Leslie 2 Stockholm
Much luv & hope 2 c u in action soon R.Les Mr. Talent :0)
Ryan 2 Stockholm!!!!!
Check out this groupp…don’t know if u know this but u r pretty Big in stockholm..u got alotta fans and ppl that really enjoy ur music so now we stockholm folks r tryin 2 get that talented ass of your’s 2 sweden!!! lol
Check this out!
http://www.facebook.com/groups.php?id=588423763&gv=12#/group.php?gid=41856312810
the Group goes by the name Get Ryan Leslie 2 Stockholm
Much luv & hope 2 c u in action soon R.Les Mr. Talent :0)
Ryan 2 Stockholm!!!!!
Check out this groupp…don’t know if u know this but u r pretty Big in stockholm..u got alotta fans and ppl that really enjoy ur music so now we stockholm folks r tryin 2 get that talented ass of your’s 2 sweden!!! lol
Check this out!
http://www.facebook.com/groups.php?id=588423763&gv=12#/group.php?gid=41856312810
the Group goes by the name Get Ryan Leslie 2 Stockholm
Much luv & hope 2 c u in action soon R.Les Mr. Talent :0)
Good Blog post Mr.Leslie, Credit is so important and as a college student I’m glad not to over do my spending.
the debts people gather nowadays are rarely based on essential purchases…buying and living beyond your economical capability is lying to yourself and you can never get out of the economical hole by digging deeper…Paying your bills and repaying your debts compares to keeping your word..
Its sad that in our time,we seem to think that the label of our clothes and shoes are far more important then importance of keeping our word, at the end of the day..when its all said and done…and the materialistic things aside, what is a man without his word?
I wish everyone would read this post. I am a college student and got 2 cards straight out of high school and my dad had to bail me out. Never again!
Hi Ryan!
My comment is not really directed at this specific post, but I might aswell take a dive into this too.
I see truth in all your words and I can’t help to feel sorrow that an entire nation fell into this trap and dragged the whole world down in it’s economic fall (talking about the credit crisis in American banks that partially sparked the economic downfall that we are in now). It’s amazing how such a big economic responsibility is dealt to pretty much any man or woman, when it is indeed much more than just a plastic card in your pocket.
Anyhow I want to give you my deepest respects. Even though I am in no way involved in the same business as you (music) I still have the same mind-set about how to live everyday life and how to tackle all the happenings in it. You are truly an inspiration to a young man making his way up in life.
Give me a call anytime you come to Sweden so we can hang out and I’ll show you the real Stockholm.
Peace and love,
Mo
i dig this. and the song is hott! :]
K Gray.
[www.kierragray.com]
[www.myspace.com/kierragray]
I love that video too, shows how truely talented you are! Good Luck with everything…
Great Post. R.LES for Prez
How does one become your friend on facebook. I know its probably private for close friends and family. But i wanna be connected with the R.les movement.]
Also cant wait for your performance next month in CT. Foxwoods.
I loved reading this blog. And I must admit I should take your advice. As many of Americans my age I too am in debt. Only one credit card is part of my debt but I do understand how much it can mess up your credit. It’s too bad that debt prevention and credit card issues are not classes taught to seniors in high school. It would be a class that would actually get them ready for the real world. Cause to be honest I never use my Calculus skills lol.
oh yeah i forgot to add.. that video is one of my favorites.. truly talented and what an inspiration u are to aspiring musicians (me included)
i read ur post ryan ,very interesting and i totalitly on ur side
did u know than the federal bank of america is a private bank ??? if u know that u gonna understand why credit is a problm in usa for the people and why theres a crisis…..
I really believe that credit cards are one of the reasons why banks are in so much troubles these days.. People spend money they don’t have…and can’t pay it back to the banks.
Anyyywayss.. I love it that you do more than just making music.. You’re sharing your knowledgs with others and that makes you, to me.. a great person!
Love Saadia, from Holland!!xx.
i think that haveing good credit is cool too…
I really like that instrumental that you were makeing sounded really nice.
That beat is still one of the best I’ve ever heard…the first time I saw you make it I was literally in shock. By the way, Kanye posted your “I Know What You Like” video on his blog, so hopefully more people will figure out how much of a genius you are after checking that post out. You’ve waited too long to blow up in the mainstream market…09 is your year!
Being a college senior, I completely understand! Once good credit is granted back to an individual who lost it, it is something that is treated like a new born child because thats exactly what it represents…a new beginning.
By the way this is one of my favorite videos. That live trumpet and “money shaker” was on point! “I…get’s…money”
Best success in ‘09 and keep doing you and being a positive inspiration! !!!!!
~Ms. Instrumental~
WOW. so true. I actually am doing the same thing. I just got a secured Platinum credit card in the mail yesterday. It was advised of me to do that because I buying a house and they said I need active credit. And I thought paying my cell phone bill for 3 years stright would be enough.
and I love this video. I think it is saved as a favorite on my youtube channel. Thanks Ryan for the jewel.
man.. i understand this fully… ive maxed out personal and business cards to get my equipment… now im working to get in the industry to for one.. do what i love and maybe be able to fix my finances in the process.. do tell how u pulled this off.. check me out at http://www.myspace.com/jrjlynchmusic and http://www.myspace.com/internalbeatzproductionz
Id have to agree with Denise, Im not a big fan of loans, well atleast for now, I believe in saving and getting what you want instead of taking loans and being haunted by monthly-installments.
check out this blog on personal finance and entreprenuership… there are some really great tips/advice and tools on this site: http://www.iwillteachyoutoberich.com, best thing about it is that its a blog and therefor FREE.99
imma college student so i dont do credit cards. i jus use my bank card n keep it moving.
if da money aint there…it aint there, aint not spending n then paying it back. cuz who wants to pay any1 back.
im already tryna find a way 2 stay n school longer so i can push back on having ta pay my student loans.
***sorry 4 da essay. lls.
I totally agree wit mah homie ryan… many it all started back in 2004 when i was in college… I had to drive 1hours to school so I took out a credit card…. Of course the first things I did was get my gear in line… but failed to realize what was really going on… Little by little the card value was drying up.. So I went and got another card… did the same and applied for another… Now I understand the value of credit… I have applied for loans to open my resturant but have been declined… I have one more card to pay off… But will be making it my duty to pay it off by December 2009…. So I can get my resturant up and running… BLACK PEOPLE.. NO YOUNG PEOPLE WE CAN DO BETTER…
man this is big on the real you dont hear to many artist if any talk about the importance of credit and being financially responsible as we speak im goin through a **tiff**with trying to get my credit back in good standings cant get a loan for 5 dollars lol my mother would always say dont mess your credit up but i did not fully understand credit i just realized this year that everytime you inquire about department store cards bestbuy so on and so forth and you dont get it it lower your scores im like whaaatttt so slowly but surely im in a program helping me pay off one the other 3 things what litte i make at my job i pinch and step out on faith and pay and pray for some type of finacial blessing but i really appreciate this blog i was on myspace and i read the bulletin but all and all BIG UP TO YOU AND NEXT SELECTION cant wait for the album 1
this information Mr. Ryan Leslie is very very good to know. I am a freshman in college and I’ll make sure I keep your story in mind next time I decide to go shopping or whatever. BUt I am in a state where I am 18 and don’t have any credit at all. I just have a ATM card to my savings account lol but Im scared to get credit it seems….complicated. Please explain it to me!
I love being able to see the process. Awesome! Thanks.
Ryan this has made me think twice about how I pay my bills, i’m currently in University and have like 2 credit cards maxed out and 1 is overdue and I’ve actually just payed some of it off online after reading you message.
You always say you make music or do things to inspire people, well you did to day so be happy and I can’t wait on the album i’ll be buying that with my own money not on my credit card lol.
Thanks
R-Les
Wow.
I am totally blown away by your honesty.
Most “stars” wouldn’t admit to having bad credit and working so hard to get it fixed.
I thought you were kinda sadiddy, nose in the air, “I’m perfect” and better than everyone, type of guy, but this article totally proved me wrong.
Thanks for writing this.
You have encouraged me.
So glad I have supported you and bought all your singles.
Your album will definitely be in my collection on February 10th too.
Good luck to you!
Even though Ryan may come off as an obnoxious elitist sometimes, it is only to inspire others, so don’t take offense. My credit score is at 730 thanks to him!
For all of you who’d like to try and get approved for the Visa Black Card also. Visit this link:
http://www.bendyourknees.com
i def remember this video…i had to go tell me all my friends about this…producers jus dont have instruments shipped to them instantly like that. U are a true musician kid
Your insight in to the whole bad credit/credit rating scenario is valuable, as someone before me has said you haven’t stuck your nose in the air and acted like you became successful overnight. As in all you entries you come across as a very sincere person which is why you have such a vast fan base!
What most people don’t realise especially students is that bad credit wont just follow you for the seven years but may continue further, things like getting a mortgage or buying a car on finance will be impossible. Students are encouraged to start applying fro loans and offered cards straight away, at that age credit ratings are the last thing you think about!! I have friends and family who are still paying student loans, I was lucky enough not to fall in to the trap………..my advice to anyone…………don’t apply for a credit card………with the way the economy is at the moment things will get worse before they get better.
And moving from that subject totally, Ryan you are a very talented artist who deserves more recognition from the industry.
x
What’s up R-Les? You are trully an inspiration to all of us young people wanting to make something for ourselves. You continue to bring us quality music and not only are succeeding in the music industry, but you have a real connection with your audience almost like we know you personally. I also do music I am an up and coming hip hop artist/producer from Fayetteville, NC and it is crazy just to be apart of your growth within the music industry. I could get on here promoting myself like any other artist would do, but I’m not. I just want to let you know that we are watching you grind daily to achieve greatness. Thank you for that Ryan.
About the credit card blog, I can definitely relate because it took me over a year to get my credit right so I could buy my 1st car on my own in my name. I’m 23 years of age and I am happy to say that I own a new car and it is in my name (make and model not important). I’m not saying this to boast about having a nice car, but having good credit (and faith in God and myself) is what enabled me to be able to step into the arena of buying big purchases. We live in a society to where we cannot doing anything with bad credit, and cannot do anything without having enough good credit. Schools need to emphasize more on the importance of managing money the correct way in order to stay afloat in this society. It is hard enough as it is getting by with the economy the way it is. The last thing someone needs is a bank or a creditor telling them “no” you aren’t qualified to buy or to borrow money. Young people (and older) I urge you to read material before you sign your name on a dotted line and always ask questions. NEVER make purchases that you cannot keep up with it. Be reasonable with your choices when it comes to buying because as the blog stated “only 1 percent of Americans” can afford to buy anything they want. Everybody else is pretty much middle class. Keep it real with yourself and your wallet. -Foster Holmes-
I wish I had 50 Grand for a beat I just trying to purchase I mortgage first..lol I love the video blogging keep us all informed your gonna sell 2 million on the first day of your release …. For real ….. God Bless
hey ryan.. that was a great post… i remember that vid as well that was amazing… i don’t own a credit card myself in fact i shun them but i believe its important to pay the bills , any bill actually on time. That was very responsible of you to pay back your credit card bills and get back in the good graces of amex but not everyone can handle credit cards responsibly.. if you know what ur doing it can be a good thing.
I can’t even begin to fathom your thought process. I love how you mix live sounds with synth. It makes a really interesting futuristc quality to your music. Can’t wait for the album to drop. When are you coming to Texas?
You can add this video and the rest of Ryan’s videos to your myspace page. I just found this app called “The Best youtube playlist ever” :
http://profile.myspace.com/Modules/Applications/Pages/Canvas.aspx?appId=103331&appvers=live
It’s dope i added ryanleslietv as the username and I get all his uploads.
That last comment was for you too Ryan. I saw you had all those youtube vids on your myspace. Know you can put them in a dope playlist.
http://profile.myspace.com/Modules/Applications/Pages/Canvas.aspx?appId=103331&appvers=live
I’m totally taking your advice and am going to get a secured card! Currently on the 7 year plan, I most definitely wish I had known then what I do now in regards to credit. Not even being able to get a store credit card is awful.
You’re uber talented and an inspiration to boot- keep doing what you’re doing…you’ve just made a new fan!
damn it you’re crazy !!!that’s why i love your music!!!much respect God bless!!!can’t help but wait for the 10th of feb!!!!!next selection baby!!!
I dont know what it’s like in the US but here in the UK we get credit card leaflets pretty much everyday in the post telling us how fabulous we would be if we had the newest car or the best clothes. It’s no wonder so many people are in debt, the crdit card companies encourage people to spend, spend, spend then BAM huge intrest rates that they cant afford. Thankfully i havnt had that problem and educated myself about the credit cards, loans and mortgages, people need to know how much damage it can cause being in debt. I’ll be telling afew of my friends to read this, good post. Oh and keep up the good work with the music and i still believe i was your first uk fan lol.
peace
Ive been in the situation. trying to start my own business now..realizing the importance of fiscal responsibility. such a big thing..black people and debt? hoping we change.
but you see the thing is..its not about having the black card. It’s the responsibility that comes with it..I dont think we realize how huge it is.
that is what runs us into debt
You are so right! We need to go back to a simpler time when we only purchase what we need. The “see it, gotta have it now, can’t afford it, still gotta have it now” mentality is a thing of the past. Its a new day!
From a business owner who grew a business from NOTHING to SOMETHING – with no debt. We live in transition period right now – the term “qualified buyer” is being re-defined, and it’s happening in a pretty painful way for many.
Debt can be a “double edged sword” – At this point in the US economy, if you’re starting a business, my opinion is that you need to do it with as little debt, or no debt as possible. Being a good business owner is all about two things – Being a good RISK manager, and a good MONEY manager. Success at these two things will make your business flourish. Not focusing on these two things can make being in business for yourself a real drag. Some may say, “There’s no way to start my business without taking on some debt.” Or, “I can’t afford to start my business without taking on some debt.” – I say, replace those statements with this – “How could I start my business without debt?” and “How can I afford to start my business without debt?” – Making some small word changes in your thoughts can cause creative juices to flow instead of letting yourself be beat down. Look for this book – “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” by Robert Kyosaki. (Audio version is available also.)
Hope this helps all who read!!
hey ryan i must say you are a massive inspiration to all of us! not only are u a musical genius but a “LEGEND” that it down to earth and inspiring many around you keep it up! i have already organized a RYAN LESLIE ALBUM BUYING SYNDICATE in Australia using iTunes so release it for us! peace
Thank you for posting this, unfortunately we are taught everything about being in the real world but fiances. Thank you for sharing this wisdom to us. And can that song be a bonus track for the album. I am currently a college student close to the edge, but thank goodness I have been on top of my bill and will have it paid by may. Like you said its not about not having it, its just being aware of the long term decisions we make with them. Definitely Sharing this post with my friends.
It’s crazy because when I saw your photo up for American Express, it kinda inspired me to try to get my credit situation together. You talked about how you were finally getting your credit situation together after stuff you did in college. I’m in the situation now. I’m a 21 year old college student and I needed a credit card to purchase my laptop, books, and other necessities. I’ll be honest, I bounce back and forth on payments sometimes skipping months. But I realize now that I need to try to get that right before it all goes wrong.
But you’re right, if you don’t have the means to start up your dream business, then credit cards and loans become a valuable outlet. A bittersweet outlet but it allows you the opportunity to succeed in something you really want. And knowing that you have to pay those start up funds back, should give anyone the extra initiative to want to break even and strive beyond.
I was definitely helped by this post.
Peace,
Roe
I say beware of credit cards, it’s basically killed the UK, most people here are spending more then they can afford due to lax lending and so many credit card companies around offering free balance transfers and 0% interest on purchases. it’s all ridiculous, stick to what you can spend and not what you want to spend.
In times like these people need to think about their needs rather then their wants!
yeah good credit keeps u on top of everything and u were young and learned from your mistake. well look at u now u had to go through bad credit to where u are at now. making it in business and i heard puffy is a harsh man to be working with but a good man. now thats wuz up keep doing what ur doing. Big ups to all his haters
Ryan i’m just like you… i’m burnin’ my credit card very single day!!!
Check This Out … http://www.kanyeuniversecity.com/blog/?em3106=220833_-1__0_~0_-1_5_2008_0_0&em3161=&em3281=
When I stumpled onto your youtube page ( after seeing a video of you play a kanye west song live) This was the first video I watched and thought the beat was DOPE!!!!! I hope the song is on the album…. oh and the usage of the the african american express made me sick to my stomach (in a good way) bc i told the customer service rep when i got my silver amex card that I wanted the centurion card next so I def understand being in the good graces of financial companies
Sooooo proud of u Ryan!!!!!!
i hope you instantly went out and bought like 12 new synths after getting that card! that my friend is the american dream. all the oscillators, filters and envelopes that money can buy.
Openlabs.com! that’s the first place I’d go if I had that kind of credit. I had the exact same thing happen to me in college, convinced myself that I would be responsible but didn’t have the full understanding of how much credit impacts your life. I’m in year 5 so I hope it doesn’t take 9 years for me to clean mine up but… we’ll see.
great vid
great post…..
my credit goona be spot on…just 6 months left to go baby
That was hot. You are very creative. I like to watch the creative process of making a song. From the music and beats and to the singing and rhymes. Your music is great. Keep on making great music. Peace!!!!!
Hey R-Les… I have been listening to your personal stuff since last June… and have eagerly awaited your albums release. After mutiple delays… I am soo pumped to see your album drop. I will have your music featured at all my upcoming parties, in fact I had them up on youtube for the last couple. You got mad talent and can’t wait to see you end up on top. Much Love R-Les.
I dont think that its fair for you to apologize for your success, you’ve worked hard. Don’t worry haters are always gonna hate.. well done, you’re setting a really good example. You’ve put the bar “that” high for us young people.
all the best
That was HOT!
I’ve always been tempted but ws raised to know better than to mess up my credit from my stern parents to a more humorous Katt Williams (Reference Pimp Chronicles). I Love how you put that beat together that was NICE!! Love your approach where you actually communicate with fans this is hot <3
This is very important information, Mr. Leslie. I appreciate the fact that you are willing to expose your slip-ups in life to help others get a grip on what’s real. Honestly, never knew that it takes seven years before your slate can be clean again, prior to reading your blog. I was always told by my mother that good credit is important but I had no idea how much of an impact it can really make on a persons life. Once again, thank you for this very valuable piece of information and congrats on your new black card. You have definitely given me a new goal to achieve (a black card of my own).
So Cold, What a magnificent man!!!
I’ve been living on this great green earth this whole time and it took 19 years for me to discover Ryan Leslie(known from now on as the best producer living today!!) I can’t believe what I just saw, It was so overwhelming and exciting I got goosebumps when he got on the keyboard. Man I can truly say Ryan if your reading this you are a big inspiration to me now and I look forward to purchasing your albums and listening for more crazy productions like this keep doing what your doing man Peace
JrA
i had a feeling who u was but i wsnt sure till i started really listening that new single you got out is banana’z n u inspired me 2 go in tryin to put ma mind n focuse more so i started makin beats lol its crazy how ur imagination works when u actually focus n relax
that was inspiring for some reason I thought you were always rich and was born into money
This was a very good post Ryan, good looking out on the younger generation!! We appreciate that so much!
Did you get any of my voicemails?
Let me know please, we really want to get you into The Institute of Production and Recording in downtown Minneapolis for a lecture!
~Ty
http://www.tycody.com
validchoice@gmail.com
Good stuff man…good stuff. And the vid is one of my favorites. You killed that synth at 2:41…whew!
its very simple….
next selection….
Inspiration~_~2*pi*R
Hi Ryan, I think its wonderful that you touched on this subject….the importance of having and keeping a credit card and the huge responsibility of maintaining it. I love how you are reaching out and sharing your personal experiences with us. I’m so very proud of you – continue to be well and successful in pursuing your dreams and of sharing them with us all
I just want to say that, I love your work sooo much. I appreciate the energy and talent that God has blessed you with. I wish you much and grand success in your future endeavors. Continue to be humble. Also, I don’t see where I can vote for your video on 106&park!!!!
this recently happened to me about 3 weeks ago. and i just turned 18.. i learned the hard way as well..
Very well put. I’m working on my credit right now, but only for necessities. I have a fear of unnecessary debt that I can’t repay.
Thankz 4 the info Ur a smart dude
Great info!! Credit is for sure a valuable thing and it should be treated with make respect in order to make it where you are. Im loving the vidoes I am a producer myself http://www.myspace.com/othellosp
I’m just making any kind of move I can each and every day to achieve my sucess in this music game… Can’t wait for the album to drop.. -Othello
Wow, you continue to be such an awesome role model and mentor to so many. Thank you for this! What an awesome platform to take to teach financial responsibility and not the carefree live for the moment mindset may entertainers recommend. Thank you!
Wow this message was such a blessing to me. I’m in this situation right now but the fact that you went through this and got out is hope for me. Thanks so much!
Ryan, you are right….credit is key now-a-days. I am setting a goal to clear my most of debts by the end of this year. I want to get a newer model car and I eventually want to buy a house by the time I’m around 30 (I’m 26 now) so I am going to key into repairing my credit score. I feel that parents should also take the lead in letting their college-age children know the dangers. If they can, they should/could also step and help out just so that when their son/daughter graduates, life in the real world is a little bit easier. Good advice, Ryan!
~Ife S. Ekpenuma
… credit is something I’ve truly been trying to work on. It’s tackled me a bit but I’m overcoming the stress of it all. My name is Trecia Roberts and I’m an aspiring singer. Please listen to my rendition of Ordinary People by John Legend. (always looking for a hand to help me get my foot in the door) Thank you
my youtube is katchini2289 enjoy**
or you can look up Trecia on youtube Thank You so much.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lz5YzOEfZwc&feature=channel_page
This is my link to me singing TheQuestions by Musiq Soulchild. Please enjoy. Your an inspiration that with hard work and dedication .. what seems impossible .. is attainable.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FABuzicePW0&feature=channel
wats up much respect you inspired me to produce my own music ima thank you throughout my life b-e-z ‘Peace..Teshaw Robinson
Credit is really important in the real world and my mother knew that so when I became a freshmen in college she got me my first credit card. I always thank her for making that happen because having good credit can get you what you want… whether it being a house, car, or cell phone.
SO TALENTED!!!
The Black Card story was such an inspiration cause ain’t nobody know how to jack up some credit right outta high school like me so you let me know that there is a silver lining on the cloud of bad credit lol…by the way i could watch u make music all day…
I could never agree more. I’m actually going through a very similar situation right now. It’s very inspiring to see that even Ryan Leslie had to battle credit card debt. Sometimes it takes a mistake to learn about the right way to go about doing certain things. Aside from the credit, the beat is so ridiculous. My favorite part about the video is Yamill’s cameo. haha.
This song is (in my opinion) the best song Ryan ever produced…
PS: Love the KORG M3!!!
I admire the way that you use your life as a brand to influence others. This blog is a big deal and this issue is such a huge deal to everyone in the country. As a black male it is especially hard to find peers using their mistakes and triumphs as an example to influence and give back to those that don’t understand that they are stifling their own dreams. I want to be able to invest into my music and dreams in the same way. However, between spending thousands on studio equipment in college (some that was not needed) and clothes and whatever else came to mind I now find myself in a similar hole. I have two kids to nurture and raise now so it’s twice as hard but twice as important to turn things around. I’m going to commit myself to setting some goals on how to fix my situation and post every now and then to let everyone know how its going. Keep it up RLes, if your ever in the Orlando area hit me up.
Wow. That made me feel so much better about my debt. Im not that far in debt but that makes me want to get my self situated and get right. My parents died at a young age and my family wasnt there for me so i had to learn everything on my own. Im also in the same situation with my music career with equipment & etc. Thanx for reaching out and letting everyone know your life stories and etc. Your inspiration to us all from music to life itsself. All Love. God Bless
One.
Mastermind Music
Contact Me: (Email)Mastermindmusic07@yahoo.com
Stuntin! Good look alllez…
yoo ryan u did a good job yesterday at the emerald square mall…me ad my boys were the ones wildin out to the right of u..and were the ones that started to clap for u when u walked out of that door….u need to put another album out cause ur music is real and banging..keep the good work up too man
So amazing! Thanks for the advice! I am too learning the hard way…no one really taught me about Finances & I had to learn myself through my major! Which is Finance, lol. I am bookmarking this page!
so true…so many people are afraid of credit without doing the proper research on how and why it should be used.
heart it.
when will this be a song that i can buy?
i need a black card!! lol
twitter.com/followblack
myspace.com/blackheartadonis
thx for posting this.
Dope I have west indian parents also so I know what you mean…
Thanks for this post. As an aspiring entrepreneur I find this useful. IO have always been careful with my finances and never got myself into any sort of unwanted spending. I am working at building a stronger credit for an opportunity to be able to make my dreams come true.
A Real Talk though Ryan is the best R&B artist out right now and I would say The- Dream then Neyo Top 3 R&B artist
Stay blessed!
Inspiration
I would say that I am impressed, but I always have been. I wouldn’t have accepted anything less from a brilliant mind. Thanks.
Good Stuff