The LZ Granderson Show

Craig King: The BoykinZ, Ray Charles, and Breaking Music Industry Formulas | The LZ Granderson Show

Episode Summary

In this episode of The LZ Granderson Show, legendary producer and music executive Craig King sits down with LZ for a wide-ranging and unfiltered conversation about the state of the music industry, the rise of The BoykinZ, and what it really takes to build a lasting career today. 🎤 Topics Covered: How Craig King got involved with rising stars The BoykinZ and his approach to managing their explosive trajectory His unforgettable story involving Waylon Jennings The crucial distinction between being an artist vs. an influencer in today’s landscape Craig’s personal formula for success in the music business — from legacy acts to viral stars The growing influence of the algorithm, gatekeeping, and how platforms are changing music discovery The corporate trap many artists fall into — and how to avoid it The launch of Rap Plug Academy and why education is changing in the industry The eternal question: Is college still worth it for creatives? Craig’s breakout moment working with the legendary Ray Charles And what’s next for The BoykinZ, including their latest single "Step Right Up" 🔥 Whether you're an aspiring artist, seasoned industry vet, or just love a good story — this is a must-watch. 📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into culture, creativity, and power. #TheLZGrandersonShow #CraigKing #TheBoykinZ #RapPlugAcademy #RayCharles #StepRightUp #WaylonJennings #BlackCountryMusic

Episode Notes

In this episode of The LZ Granderson Show, legendary producer and music executive Craig King sits down with LZ for a wide-ranging and unfiltered conversation about the state of the music industry, the rise of The BoykinZ, and what it really takes to build a lasting career today.

🎤 Topics Covered:

How Craig King got involved with rising stars The BoykinZ and his approach to managing their explosive trajectory

His unforgettable story involving Waylon Jennings

The crucial distinction between being an artist vs. an influencer in today’s landscape

Craig’s personal formula for success in the music business — from legacy acts to viral stars

The growing influence of the algorithm, gatekeeping, and how platforms are changing music discovery

The corporate trap many artists fall into — and how to avoid it

The launch of Rap Plug Academy and why education is changing in the industry

The eternal question: Is college still worth it for creatives?

Craig’s breakout moment working with the legendary Ray Charles

And what’s next for The BoykinZ, including their latest single "Step Right Up"

🔥 Whether you're an aspiring artist, seasoned industry vet, or just love a good story — this is a must-watch.

📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into culture, creativity, and power.

#TheLZGrandersonShow #CraigKing #TheBoykinZ #RapPlugAcademy #RayCharles #StepRightUp #WaylonJennings #BlackCountryMusic