BMA alumna finds her beat in music industry

04/17/2013 9:20 AM

By Kelsey Budd ’14

Shortly after graduating, Vannesia Darby ’12 began working in marketing and promotions for one of the most unique and competitive industries out there: the music industry.

In March, Darby relocated to Cincinnati, Ohio, where she now works at I Hear Music, Inc., a promotions and marketing firm for gospel musicians and artists. There, she customizes and executes marketing plans for the firm’s client roster.

Darby said Bradley provided her with the necessary skills for the job and has helped her far beyond that.

“My experiences at Bradley helped me to build relationships, not just network, and for that I am grateful,” Darby said. “I truly believe that as a Bradley Brave, I am prepared to go out and accomplish my dreams.”

From a young age, Darby knew she had a passion for music. She played piano at her church, joined the Bradley Gospel Choir and eventually landed an internship at gospel record label EMI Gospel in Nashville, Tenn.

When Darby realized she wanted to work in the industry, she began contacting different music companies and used social media to network with people in the industry. Social media may have been the key to unlocking the door to her new job.

A label group she follows on Twitter re-tweeted a digital copy of a gospel magazine that she proceeded to read. While reading, she stumbled upon an article about I Hear Music Inc., and decided to contact the CEO.

“I sent the CEO an email just asking for advice and happened to attach my resume. She never responded about the advice but informed me that she was hiring and offered me a phone interview,” Darby said.

Dr. Jennifer Robin, professor of business management and administration, said Darby was known for her passion, motivation and leadership campus. This and more guaranteed her successful in the classroom and have propelled her into the music industry.

“The thing that stands out about Vannesia is that she is really passionate,” Robin said. “It’s not just the label or the status she wants, she wants this career because it means something to her.”

Robin said Darby’s career path shows how robust the job placement route is at Bradley. Regardless of the interest of the student, Bradley makes sure they are prepared.