We had the good fortune of connecting with Johnny Arson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Johnny, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I wanted to start Crystal Mountain Records because when I started creating music it was a difficult process. Back then we didn’t have social media platforms like Tik-Tok, Instagram, or other promotional outlets like Distrokid and Tunecore to aid in promotion. So I wanted to provide a better option for new and upcoming artists who don’t have a lot of money or knowledge in the music Industry to further express and share their art. Here at Crystal Mountain Records, we don’t just record and produce music: we also provide insight and explain how they can get started with creating content for themselves. We offer affordable rates for those who can’t pay at an hourly cost to record their music. Creating music takes time and effort; we don’t want the artists to feel rushed. So instead, we charge by the project and set specific time frames around the project so that they can get more out of their time. We also advise them how to share their music on all platforms, and even refer them to videographers and can supply graphic designs for cover art and merchandising. I wanted to give others an opportunity that otherwise they may not have had elsewhere.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a musician that creates a broad range of music, so it’s kind of hard to define it as a specific genre. If I were to consider what I create mostly, then I would have to say hiphop/rap, and metal. Sometimes infusing multiple genres together to create a unique sound. I’m most proud of the growth I’ve seen in other artists that I work with, and I’m always excited about the new ideas that we create in the studio. I love performing live and really enjoy being a part of something that moves a crowd. I got where I am professionally through hard work, patience, and dedication. There’s been plenty of bumps a long the way, but I’ve always learned to overcome and surpass the obstacles laid out in front of me, only to reach a goal that’s always been rewarding. The best way that I’ve overcome these challenges have been through perseverance and focus. Keeping my eyes on the prize and not letting anything bother me. I set the goal and I keep the pace. If there is anything that I want the world to know about me and my brand, is that no matter where you are, or how you got there, just know, that “you” did it. Don’t ever let corruption and toxicity from those around you distract you from your goals. You have places to be and only you can make it there.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Bisbee, definitely Bisbee! I love that place, I go there often and I enjoy the time with my friends out there. There is always something exciting to do in Bisbee. As far as Tucson goes, a good place to take people is at my weekend job at “Bookmans”. That place is great for just about everything from instruments, books, movies, antiques, etc. It’s kind of like a neat little pawn mall. There’s something for everyone. I’d also highly recommend eating at The Baja Cafe for breakfast (they have the best benedicts in town), and for dinner I’d recommend The Parish (A fine dining Cajun restaurant). It’s a little pricy, but it’s worth it. Then there’s always Mt. Lemmon. A place with a wonderful panoramic view of the city, camping, and cabin getaways in Summer Haven.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have a few people that have helped me along the way in my process to build Crystal Mountain Records. First and foremost I wanna shoutout Tony Kujo. He was my personal DJ and great friend who helped the creative environment that I currently reside in now. Unfortunately, he passed away this last year but he still deserves the recognition for his time and effort in the studio. I’d like to shout out a ton of people, but I only have room for a few. So shoutout to Cassio Abree for helping me vocal coach some of the artists, and a huge shoutout to DJ Looney of Dopeshop Records for coming in and filling a position that I honestly don’t think could’ve been filled by anyone else.

Website: https://linktr.ee/johnnyarson

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnnyarsonofficial/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArsonJohnny/status/1304175237639139328

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeremy.poovey/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUm8SA7js1qmMN2I8zeIc4A

Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0FKgbFjvofzPrfH4VrDRX5?si=QMrj_5vSQdeKsErrjeGdew&nd=1

Image Credits
Epidemic Media, April Poovey

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