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Kelvin “GP Radio” Santiago is Making an Impact and Letting the Wins Outshine

Kelvin “GP Radio” Santiago

They say it is difficult to find industry executives that are equated with integrity, sincerity, drive, and loyalty, but over the past 15 years Kelvin “GP Radio” Santiago has developed a reputation for just that. The Dominican rooted, New York-raised, Miami-based Santiago has amassed an amazing roster of clients and successful projects that have effectively distinguished the promoter and talent broker from his peers.

Growing up in Long Island listening to artists like Biggie, Snoop, Dr. Dre, 50 Cent was the beginning of his love for Hip Hop, eventually turning his music passion into becoming one of the most respected radio promoters in the urban market. He says, “Money comes and goes but relationships last forever.”

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With some pretty notable accomplishments and a solid track record to his credit, Santiago is utilizing his experience to benefit an array of Grammy award-winning and multi-platinum artists. Now he’s hoping to forge a multi-faceted entertainment company that encompasses music management, production, and promotion. Whether he’s booking his clients on Power 105’s The Breakfast Club, Hot 97’s Ebro in the Morning, or rubbing shoulders with CEOs at Sirius XM and iheart Radio Santiago is constantly pushing the envelope and finding new ways to break records and expand his artist’s presence.

Santiago’s career in the music business began when he partnered with New York rapper and former high school classmate Mims for the 2007 smash hit “This Is Why I’m Hot.” The song charted number one on Billboard’s Hot 100, eventually went Platinum, then soared in the overseas market — and while Santiago’s vision as a young industry executive yielded almost immediate results, his influence in the radio and promotions world was just heating up.

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“That first record I worked (Mims, Hot) generated $18 million dollars and went #1 on almost every chart you can think of. After that, they hired me on retainer at Universal then other labels started calling for me to work their records,” Santiago says of his earlier days. “The first time I went on the road with Mims and Method Man, I learned how to build relationships with DJs. I never thought it was a job but then it all just kind of fell in my lap.”

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As far as definitions go, Santiago’s titles are flaunting. Director of radio, booking agent, artist manager, and overall conduit between DJs and the music. He’s responsible for breaking records and monitoring how they’re landing. When you’re working with artists who make major headlines, there are subsidiary roles that don’t fall under a technical repertoire. His client roster includes a behemoth of heavy hitters— Roc Nation’s DJ Bodega Flee, Afro-Latina singer/rapper Melii whose song “Icey” was used in Beyonce’s Ivy Park commercial and is often saluted by Cardi B and Rihanna. He also boasts clients including Rapper/Boxer Jake Paul who balances distinguishable music and athletic career as well as Roc Nation DJ “Bodega” Flee who boasts cosigns from 50 Cent and The Heavy Hitters. He has broken over 10 records for award-winning artist Tory Lanez between 2017 and 2021 including hits like “Talk To Me,” “Broke In a Minute” and “Jerry Sprunger.” Santiago also runs a three-tier label slash management marriage—Break Records, Next Level, and InAvAtor/Umbrella.

Though the industry has evolved, become digital, and essentially more impersonal, Santiago’s success strategy remains rooted in one thing—relationship building. From flyer distribution to simply showing up and having conversations with DJs, program directors, and streaming platform execs, he’s done it all. During the pandemic, his clients were still hitting major milestones and finding innovative and creative ways to stay relevant. Santiago came up with the idea and facilitated Tory Lanez sending more than one thousand drops to radio DJs personally, and Santiago has managed to keep his rotation steady.

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“Even though Tory manages himself, I work every record he drops. I handle all of his bookings, and I help him run the label every day,” he states. “I have to fight for the artists sometimes when the public has negative opinions of them and try to convince these platforms to give the music a chance. I’m here for all of the highs and the lows.”

Through victories and controversy, to Santiago, it’s all a part of the process. He’s a full-time dad to his son, and some might say to the artists as well. He’s focused on the development of one of his most prominent artists, Melii. The Harlem bred vocalist’s latest release “Big Tipper” alongside Lil Wayne under Tory Lanez’s imprint Umbrella, made serious noise. He’s wrangling music for Jake Paul, tackling day-to-day for Tory’s label, and organizing three music festivals, post-pandemic. Juggling creative personalities that are behind the world’s most acclaimed and often notorious superstars can be arduous. For Santiago, it’s routine. But not always as easy as he makes it look. Still, it’s a task he prefers to shoulder alone.

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“People always say I should get an assistant or some help,” he laughs. “But trust is a major factor. I’m the oldest one here and I feel responsible for making sure things get done right. If anything goes wrong at the hands of someone else, then that would be on me.”

Some of his highlights include facilitating Tory Lanez inclusion on Drake’s 2019 “Assassination Vacation” which sold out globally. “Tory and Drake had a really successful three-month overseas tour” he recalls. “Moments like those make all the work worth it. But to this day, I’m still learning. Still building relationships every day. It never stops.”

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Santiago was vital in the early stages of R&B singer Jason Derulo’s career, as well as reggaeton artist J Álvarez and even financed Latin Trap artist Anuel’s first record ” Coronamos” featuring Lito Kirino which now boasts over 36 million views on Youtube.

So what’s next on the horizon for Santiago? “I would like to open a one-stop shop studio in Miami which will offer video editing, recording studios, green rooms but with a different vibe to each and every room.”

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Santiago has earned the proper street credence and industry respect. Of all the accolades he has accrued, he wants to be acknowledged and respected for his dexterity in structuring a company that’s not based solely upon financial overkill and greed. For now, he’s making an impact and letting the wins outshine the non-glamorous side of the grind.

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Natalie is a journalism major with a focus on Entertainment and Music who aspires to become a Content Creator For Honk Magazine. Eventually, she wants to be the Publisher or Editor-in-Chief of a major Publishing House. She loves helping people find their voice and passion for writing and journalism, and she can always be found with coffee in hand, editing another article.

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Music

At-Mos delivers a melancholic vibe with its new single, “Time Must Have a Stop”

At-Mos

At-Mos, the Parisian quartet unveils a soul-stirring narrative with their latest single, “Time Must Have a Stop.” Fusing trip-hop with psychedelic rock and pop, the band crafts a mesmerizing sonic adventure that resonates deeply with introspective audiences.

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From the melancholic vocals of Nikita Guedj to the introspective rap verses of Franz Dervis, Samuel Solaro, and Simon Solaro, “Time Must Have a Stop” immerses the audience in a poignant exploration of existential themes. The haunting blend of acoustic guitars, flutes, and vintage keys creates a smoky groove that envelops the listener in its embrace long after the final note fades away.

Crafted in isolation by the sea, this self-produced gem is a testament to At-Mos’ commitment to authenticity and meaningful storytelling. Delving into loneliness, purposelessness, and mental health struggles, the song offers a raw and introspective glimpse into the human condition. With its compelling beats and profound lyricism, “Time Must Have a Stop” is a must-listen for alternative hip-hop fans.

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CLICK HERE TO STREAM At-Mos’ Time Must Have a Stop on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH At-Mos | Instagram | Facebook |

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Music

MICK J. CLARK stirs a symphony of heartbreak with his new single, “It’s Over”

MICK J. CLARK

MICK J. CLARK brings a wealth of talent and passion to the airwaves with his latest single, “It’s Over.” With his signature wit and charm as a songwriter and guitarist, Clark explores the bittersweet memories of a love gone wrong. The song wrapped in his catchy rock-pop album Notes One,’ is a delightful romp that presents a tongue-in-cheek take on love’s twists and turns.

Clark hails from the musical hotbed of Croydon, United Kingdom, and his musical prowess is on full display from the moment the first chords of “It’s Over” strike. His velvety vocals soar over the invigorating instrumentals, creating a symphony of impossible sounds to resist. Listeners are drawn deeper into the humorous narrative with each verse, feeling every pang of heartache and every moment of levity.

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Recorded and produced in Bexhill, East Sussex, by the skilled hands of Nelson King, “It’s Over” boasts a polished sound that perfectly complements its infectious melody. Clark’s dedication to his craft is evident in his polished and professional production, allowing his contagious energy to shine.

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What sets “It’s Over” apart is its unique blend of sincerity. Clark doesn’t shy away from the pain of lost love but approaches it with a refreshing and endearing sense of levity. The lyrics playfully recount the rollercoaster of emotions from the night they met to the bitter end of their romance, reminiscing about the initial spark and eventual breakup.

It’s Over” is a must-listen for any music lover. It will resonate with audiences of all backgrounds who crave a delightful exploration of the intricacies of relationships. Its catchy hooks, relatable lyrics, and irresistible charm make it a welcome addition to MICK J. CLARK’s impressive discography. So do yourself a favor and give it a spin; you won’t be disappointed.

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For more information about MICK J. CLARK, please visit [website]. 
CLICK HERE TO STREAM MICK J. CLARK’s It’s Over on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH MICK J. CLARK | Instagram | Twitter

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