Why the music industry is rigged and how you can BUY a Grammy: Trevor Jackson explains all

Author: Ourselves
Published: Fri 09 May 2025
Episode Link: https://ourselves.podbean.com/e/trevor-jackson-explains-why-the-music-industry-is-rigged-and-the-easiest-way-to-win-a-grammy/

Trevor Jackson is no stranger to the spotlight — but in this episode, he opens up like never before. From starring in *Grown-ish* and *Superfly* to dropping his most personal album yet, Trevor has seen every side of the industry. He shares how the machine behind music and film is built on money, influence, and perception — and why not having that machine can leave even the most talented artists overlooked. After going through a painful breakup and tearing his Achilles, Trevor found himself at his lowest — and wrote an entire album in just two weeks. He talks about being told he was "too clean" to be marketable, walking away from major labels, building his own company (Born Art), and reclaiming his freedom as an artist. This conversation dives deep into mental health, validation, self-love, creativity, and the hard truth about how things really work behind the scenes in Hollywood. If you’re a creative, an artist, or someone chasing something bigger — this episode will hit home. Trevor Jackson is creating on his own terms now, and he’s not holding back. This is the most honest, unfiltered, and inspiring version of him the world has seen.

00:00 Intro

01:39 Creative Collaborations and Directing

03:49 The Art of Music Videos

04:48 Creating the Greatest Breakup Album

07:39 The Creative Process and Challenges

19:34 The Shit List

24:26 The Journey and Inspirations

30:34 The Decline of Traditional Musicianship

31:21 The Art of Performance

31:40 The Drive for Excellence

33:06 Current Acting Projects and Future Plans

34:55 The Impact of Technology on Human Interaction

39:14 The Role of AI in Creativity

42:06 Personal Growth and Self-Reflection

54:30 The Importance of Therapy

56:51 The Power of Positive Self-Talk

01:00:35 The Power of Art and Creativity

01:01:19 Learning Through Video Games

01:01:36 Navigating the Music Industry

01:01:52 Signing with Atlantic Records

01:03:46 Challenges in the Music Industry

01:08:15 Born Art

01:09:55 Financial Realities of Acting and Music

01:18:09 Touring and Fan Experiences

01:21:17 Personal Goals and Legacy