Cristy Barber

What catches your attention first when you’re evaluating a new artist - talent, songwriting, work ethic, vision, or something else entirely?

Talent first and foremost. And if they inspire me.

In today’s music landscape, what do you think separates artists who have a moment from artists who build lasting careers?

Talent and the ability to always think outside the box and ahead of the game.

How has A&R evolved in the streaming and social media era - and what fundamentals still haven’t changed?

It is kinda depressing to me as my 2 favorite things I do in the industry is A&R and produce. Not just because they are my favorite, but because that is the talent I have. The ability to spot new talent or a great song. When I started in the industry over 34 years ago you had to have the skills and more importantly the ear to spot a great artist. Now they A&R from social media and I feel with using this method you are not only cheating the process, but with so much music out there in the music space I feel so much great talent is being cheated as well as they get overlooked.

What role should a record label play today in helping artists succeed - and where do you see the greatest opportunity for labels to add value?

Any way they can, but realistically the talent and their teams need to be experts in what the labels CAN and will REALLY offer and be open to ALL the opportunities the labels can bring to the table.

Can you share a moment in the studio or in your career when you knew: “this is special”?

I have worked for almost 30 years with one of the most creative minds in the music industry, Stephen Marley and I have seen many magical moments over the years working in the studio with him. But my favorite would have to be seeing his long-awaited debut solo album Mind Control (which I A&R'd) come to life. It's a TRUE masterpiece!

What are a few of your favorite projects you ever worked on as a producer?

Def Jamaica (which I was Grammy Nominated for) and Reggae's Gone Country

As you look ahead, what excites you most about the future of artist development and the music business?

I LOVE the fact that the talent is forced to be 100% educated in the business of music in order to succeed. I love nothing more than an educated artist :-)

What makes a great partnership between an artist and a label?

Equal commitment and the ability to understand each other's strengths and weaknesses and support both.

What advice would you give to emerging artists trying to get on a label’s radar?

Don't! Focus on you and your craft! And if it's meant to be, you will attract the right partnerships. 

You’ve spent your career helping shape reggae on a global scale -what do you think the world still misunderstands about reggae music and its influence? 

That it has given birth to some of the MOST influential music genres in the last 50 years. Hip-Hop and Reggaeton, just to name a few. And it's not just summertime, feel good music. It is the biggest genre in the world when you think about it. In all 4 corners of the world, people know Bob Marley more than any other artist in history. His music and message are the gift that keeps on giving generation after generation

You’ve worked with legendary artists and helped develop new voices - what separates artists who make great records from artists who build lasting cultural impact?

Talent and being true to one's craft and conviction. 

From VP Records to global artist campaigns, you’ve seen how records are broken internationally - what does reggae need more of right now: infrastructure, education, collaboration, or bold new storytelling?

I understand that music changes and sometimes evolves throughout generations but it is imperative that Reggae stays true to its core as that is what attracted fans and continues to engage them to this day.

You’ve been one of reggae’s fiercest champions - what keeps you fighting for this music? 

As I mentioned before, it's the most influential music in the world. It inspires movements and its foundation has given birth to so many things. Its creators are some of the most talented people I have had the honor to share space with. It's the least I could do! 

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