PAYING HOMAGE: Brenda Juliet & Giovanna Mae | Founders of MYBLAQBOOK

We're back with the latest edition of our series 'Paying Homage'. So, last time round we payed homage to one off the most talented directors and videographers in the game, ReadTheTitle. As we continue to pay our dues and shine a light on some of the movers and shakers in the industry, this time round we decided to catch up with the founders of boutique creative agency, MYBLAQBOOK.

It is none other than Brenda Juliet and Giovanna Mae. The entrepreneurial and passionate duo have become music and communications specialists over the course of their career, and made the bold move to launch their agency back in 2021. With a strong focus on music, culture and lifestyle, they help bridge the gap between UK and global markets working with the likes of NSG, Capella Grey, M24, Odeal, Prettyboy DO and more.

Taking a slightly different format to the last edition, we were lucky enough to catch up with Brenda and Gio as they talk us through their journey, career highlights and what led them to becoming the entrepreneurial powerhouses that they are today. Take a read below, and familiarise yourself with their incredible work as we shine a light on their successes.

If you had to pick out two career highlights or achievements since launching MYBLAQBOOK, what would they be?

1. Being able to still be around and thriving two years into launching the agency

2. Being recognised in our first year of business for Young Music Boss Awards 2021

Can you both give us a bit of insight into what your careers looked like prior to launching the agency?

G: Keeping it short and sweet I freelanced as a writer for a while, ended up at BBC 1 Xtra by luck then was handed a temporary role at Polydor Records (thanks to Rebecca Muttu). Had my fair share of work experience and jobs at consumer, fashion and music PR agencies and then decided that it was time to do my own thing.

B: I actually started out as a writer for Link Up TV back in 2010 [laughs], showing my age here! But yeah, I started off as a writer and navigated my way around the space, connecting with people and building relationships. I also studied Media and PR at Uni, so I had a little idea that this was the direction I was headed in. After leaving Uni, I ended up in Tech PR then decided after 3-4 years, it’s time to head back into the industry I preferred to be in.

What inspired you both to pursue a career as in the music and creative industries?

G: Never really have an answer for this one because it just came naturally. It’s just a way of life.

B: I just loved the idea of being able to help musicians get the exposure and recognition they deserve, and where I am naturally someone who loves to connect with new people, getting into PR was a no brainer. Working with your favourite artists, cherry on top. I’m such a people person, I’m naturally shy, but definitely able to connect with others authentically. This is another reason why I started my other brand Girls In Power UK - to meet new people, and help connect the dots for those who also want to break into the music/creative industry.

So, what was it that made you both want to launch the agency?

G: Every entrepreneur has their fair share of trial and errors, I’ve had two companies before this one haha. However MYBLAQBOOK was built out of frustration for me, I was tired of working for people that didn’t quite get it.

B: Same, it wasn’t even a decision thought out in depth but it just made sense. I personally hate people talking down to me, especially when I know what I'm doing or what I bring to the table. I’ve experienced that a lot in the past working in corporate spaces, so enough was enough. Also, I’ve had experience working freelance, so it was a decision that came easily.

Tell us a little bit more about some of the artists that you've worked with and who's currently on the roster?

G: The list is a very long one so I’ll name some of my faves from the past: Fivio Foreign, Backroad Gee, Capella Grey. Currently looking after some great talent including South London R&B artist, Mya K and Toronto based R&B artist Dylan Sinclair.

B: Similar to Gio, there’s literally been loads! Our roster naturally changes - the music industry is so fast paced that there’s always change even when we don’t anticipate it. To name a few, I’ve loved working on campaigns for KwolleM, Gabzy and NSG in the past. Right now, I’m having some fun with Dankie Sounds, Odeal and Summer Banton just to keep it short and cute.

To wrap things up, can you tell us what's next for the agency? What does the future look like for Brenda & Gio?

G: A great entrepreneur never shares their next move. But definitely expect growth, do what you will with that information.

B: Growth 100%. For me, I want to just continue working with amazing talent and teams, all while challenging myself in order to reach new heights.

The team here at CGuk are truly honoured to have the opportunity to get some insight into the journeys and mindset of two incredibly hard working industry professionals, and we would like to take this opportunity to say...we appreciate you and the amazing work you do. Stay creative!