Rodney Jerkins: Strive For Perfection And Be Beyond Prepared | E54

Rodney Jerkins is one of the most successful music producers of all time – he has worked with some of the greatest artists of our time, including Michael Jackson, Rihanna, Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, and many more.

He has been nominated for 18 Grammy Awards and has won 2 – for the Record of the Year and Best R&B song. He is also an incredible songwriter and musician. His journey to excellence is incredible so tune in to hear more!

(00:00) Working with Michael Jackson
Teddy Reilly promised him to meet Michael Jackson (Teddy organized a trip to NY with Michael)
Several years later Rodney received a call to work with Michael Jackson
Jumped into the plane and waited in the hotel
His dream literally came true

(07:50) Importance of work ethics for our success
Working with Michael was a unique experience (Michael was a perfectionist)
One of the greatest experiences of his life
Rodney saved Michael's life on a four wheeler
Michael being accused of molestation
Michael was a kind and giving person caring for children and humanity

(17:18) Extreme preparation
Extreme preparation is essential (Michael was BEYOND prepared)
The goal is to take the client to the next level
Study and know everything about the client
Deliver the best version of yourself to the client
Show that you are extremely prepared
Success is inevitable

(23:26) The work ethic of Beyoncé and Lady Gaga
Beyoncé is similar to Michael Jackson – she strives for perfection
The secret is extreme preparation
Kobe Bryant and Michael Jackson story
Practice ONE THING until you master it
Killer instinct – the ability to overwork anybody
What’s Lady Gaga like?
Outstanding and special
Working together before she was famous
She believed she became great

(32:10) The influence of faith
One of the nicest guys in the business
Known to be a man of faith
Proud of his songs (hates derogatory songs)
Artists are humans and go through troubling times
There is always a bright light at the end of the tunnel
Made himself available to people

(36:28) Achieving success and paying it forward
50 billion streams of the songs he produced
Finding talent and nurturing talent
Performing Big Daddy Kane at the school talent show
Rodney's favorite song is Bee Gees “How Deep is Your Love” Rodney’s favorite song?
Money as a factor in life and career (money should not be an idol)
If you’re great at what you do, the money will come

(44:32) Fill in the blank to excellence
Rodney's biggest lesson learned
Rodney's top professional goal
Rodney's top personal goal
Rodney's biggest regret
Rodney's biggest dream
Rodney's advice for his 21-year-old self