Hip hop has more than just artists and it is most definitely more than just being an artist. Artists can also have multiple sources of income from multiple avenues and talents that they possess and bring to the limelight and forefront. Moguls like Diddy, Jay-Z, Russell Simmons, Master P and much more have been perfect examples of businessmen who have worked to being the success that they are today. Although mainstream hip hop is where these men shine the most, when it comes to the independent and underground scene, there are most definitely up and coming people who are most definitely doing their thing and much more too. The next generation most definitely need their faces to be familiar with so they can know that they too can do it and put in the work to becoming just as successful and important in their fields as well. Speaking of hard work, hustle is everything this man represents. I met this man through mutual business partners and very close friends. His tall, muscular frame but a very charismatic funny man who can brighten up the room with his machismo but goofy personality, a very dope individual who handles his business, he goes by the name of Dameon Akeem James aka C.E.L.L.Beatz or just simply Celli. Born on May 12th, 1990, a true Brooklyn native from the East Flatbush and Canarsie area, growing up he was a kid who imitated what he saw happening in his environment. He says, “Growing up, believe it or not, I was very shy and quiet. I was always an observer and often imitated things that caught my attention. Activities from playing basketball at the park, playing manhut in my neighborhood pitch black with my friends, waiting for the ice cream truck to get the goods etc. I’ve been through both public & private schools and I learned from both worlds, and it helped me get through college; mentally and socially.” Sounds like the typical day as a kid growing up in the NYC. The good old days but of course, a kid has their dreams and goals as well. Music is James’ dreams. Musically, he gives credit to Dr. Dre, Timbaland, DJ Quik, Nas, Tupac, Biggie and much more. Personally, it’s his late great mother, father, and sister. He continues on about his musical roots and inspiration. “I wanted to get into music as a whole way back for as long as I can remember. As a kid listening to sonically well produced records such as “Life After Death”, “All Eyez On Me”, “Doggystyle”, etc. I always payed attention to the instruments, specifically the percs, pianos, drums, and I remembered being so enamored and curious as to how those sounds were able to talk to teach other and how crisp and clear it sounded. Each genre fed me everything I needed to start my journey with music, Rapping and producing.” It’s definitely amazing how much a kid can learn, interpret, and pick up from what they hear. Like sponges, they can soak up just about anything and work on whatever it is they hear just get some sort of result of what they learned. Now comes the music. The man of the music. James then talks about his work. “Currently I have my solo album “Equator” out now on all streaming platforms as well as my instrumental album. My latest project, which is a compilation album with various artists all produced by me, “Cinematic Eardrum, Volume 1”, will be available on Friday, September 25th on all streaming platforms. Check out all of my music videos such as a crowd favorite “Taylor Port” , “Jigsaw”, “The Strip”, etc. On my YouTube.” I had the pleasure of seeing and remembering “Taylor Port.” James’ Song dedicated to the wine is an upbeat, fun, part record that gets everyone in the place up and dancing, hype, in the mood to drink some Taylor Port. I personally love it mixed with Ginger Ale or Sprite. LOL! Anyways, back to the topic of things. With so much on his plate and so much he has accomplished, James’ revisits his early days. He says, “My only regrets was not believeing in myself in my early years which could’ve catapulted me faster in music, but things happen for a reason. I would have definitely took my piano lessons more seriously, but all in all, no deep regrets because I wouldn’t be the person I am today.” No truer and greater words have been spoken by this entrepreneur. He continues, “Years from now, I see me having my brand in multiple markets, film, video games, wine, and spirits, media such as podcasting, an expansion of the C.E.L.L.BEATZ brand with more merch. Multiple sources of income, homeowner etc.” Dopeness and greatness destined for this man! A whole lot. If you want to keep up with this genius, you can follow him on Instagram @Cellmilli, Facebook – Dameon James/Cellbeatz Productions, Twitter – Cellbeatz25, and his Snapchat – Cellbeatz25.
Written by Jalen Hemphill