Ricky Smith’s Commitment to Supporting Local Artists at Deep Pockets Entertainment
Miami record labels are making strides in supporting local artists, and Ricky Smith, CEO of Deep Pockets Entertainment, is leading the way. He believes his label stands out for its genuine support of its artists. “We hustlers, man! I learned you could want it bad, but if the team doesn’t want it, it’s not going to work,” Smith says. He emphasizes how his label is very hands-on with its artists, taking on more of a family-like approach. “We basically adopted more kids,” he explains. Smith’s dedication extends to working closely with the youth, signing a 16-year-old artist in an effort to guide him away from potential trouble. “If I could save a kid’s life from going to prison, my job is done,” Smith adds. His commitment is not just about music but about shaping young lives and providing opportunities in a community where such support is often lacking.
Ricky Smith, CEO of Deep Pockets Entertainment.
Fostering Youth and Passion for Music Beyond Greed
That’s what makes Deep Pockets different. If you look in the studio, everybody is young. Guys or girls, it’s business. We’re not selfish or greedy.”Smith started off playing instruments like the piano, trumpet, and drums when he was young.
As he grew older he got into djing. “I always liked music. My Grandmother raised me and always had these records. I just gravitate towards music, even tried Djing but that wasn’t for me. I played the trumpet and drums. My Grandmother saw a vision before I did. She bought a piano and wanted me to take lessons. My bigger brother was on the corner and they’d see me and start laughing. So I started ducking the lady [piano teacher],” Smith said.
His Grandfather also made an early effort to place him around professionals relating to his aspirations, “After school, right here in Miami by the old studio center, my Grandpa used to work there. My Grandad told the owner that I loved music. He said ok we’ll let him sit in the studio every day. I started learning, but then the streets gravitated towards me.”
From the Streets to Music: Ricky Smith’s Journey and His Family Rise in Rap
Hardship hit when he turned to hustle in the streets. He caught a prison bid of 10 years and 9 months. By the time he got out his son’s went from playing football to rapping. “I only knew music so much. I saw big brother out on the streets with Cadillacs, I didn’t want to wait because I didn’t know music like that [at the time]. So I get in the streets. I started hustling. I ended up catching a prison bid. I was there for about 10 years and 9 months. I came back out and my sons went from playing football to rapping,” Smith said. Both of Smith’s sons are rapping now and one is in college, In4millz & Yung Rellz.
Together they’ve been on this journey for 10 years. Deep Pockets recently signed a distribution deal with Sony Digital. Inspiration comes from prayer, good friends, building a team together. He’s even booked shows for Cardi B and A Boogie. He used the booking to have his signed artist open for some of the bigger performers. Some of those artists include Im4lly, Young really, 6kfly. Smith makes an emphasis on opening doors and taking care of their artist, “What we’re trying to do is not only make ourselves wealthy, we’re trying to make everyone with us wealthy”, emphasized Smith.
Ricky Smith’s Vision: Expanding Opportunities for Artists
Ricky Smith has big plans for the future, aiming to expand Deep Pockets Entertainment into areas like apparel, television, movies, and real estate. He is dedicated to teaching his artists not only the art of music but also the importance of financial literacy, encouraging them to invest in property and save wisely. Having experienced the highs and lows of street money, Smith understands the temptation for young artists to splurge on flashy jewelry, but he views these material things as stepping stones. His ultimate goal is to build a lasting support system for local artists, one that nurtures their growth both professionally and personally. By educating and treating his artists like family, Smith is focused on creating a culture that goes beyond just music.
By: Joshua Saunders
