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

Hi Al, what are you inspired by?
The children and my friends from my inner city project “Nickerson Gardens”. I mentor there, seeing them changing as a person for a better life is a inspiration all in its self. All I know is how to win at everything I set my mind to so I inspire my people around to think the same way like a champ!

Artist like J cole, Kendrick Lamar & Lil Wayne inspired me very much growing up.

I am inspired by the business mind of Prince. He opened our eyes to the business and doors for us to walk through as independents as equals with the majors. Clarence Avant has been the greatest inspiration, he accomplished things at a time when it should have been impossible. He also became a mentor and advisor for some of the biggest names and brands in the entertainment industry. He is who I emulate!

What should our readers know about your business?
We are excited about the ability to educate artist. So many have no idea about the next steps after recording a song.

We started as one record label and publisher with a dream to release music and make a lot of money in 2014. 2016 comes around and there is still no money. So, we had to change the strategy, streaming music was not the royalty jackpot. We had to diversify our efforts to gain exposure for our catalog and derive compensation for our efforts.

We purchased CD duplication machines, printers and manufacturer our own albums. We spent numerous days calling radio stations for on air interviews, selling copies hand to hand, driving to live performances to gain traction for our releases. We needed marketing help.

Then a light bulb turned on so bright, “why out source when we can be the out source? We spent a year building relationships with bloggers, podcasters, publications, radio stations and DJs. We built a extensive direct submission contact list for music and videos to the various formats mentioned above.

We are a family of record labels and recording artist spread out across the country. We provide the tools for growth and expansion of your potential royalties via marketing, promotions and licensing of music.

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?
Universal Studios, Roscoe Chicken & Waffle, Hollywood Stars, Compton Swap Meet, Mel’s Diner, Venice Beach, The Garment District

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?
Spider Loc – Baymacc RECORDS Red Jacket Music Group

Website: www.aoirdistribution.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/aoirdistribution

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoir-distribution

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AOIRDISTRIBUTION

Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-conley https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvin-pipkin-ii https://ffm.bio/papiwthawork

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.