Meet Ali Hussainy | Founder, Alpha Plus Entertainment

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

Hi Ali, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
It was quite the evolution when it came to starting my own business, I quickly became very aware of how bold the decision was. I was thriving as a Creative Executive at Sony Music, where I had been for almost eight years. I was directing campaigns, styling music videos, developing tv shows – it was the best education I could have asked for. But whenever you grow up in one place, you naturally want to see what else is out there and as my contract was coming up I knew it was time. I gave my notice, got my LLC, went out on my own and then the world shut down. It was a time of so many unknowns but having that year to sit and really be sure on what I wanted was invaluable. Launching my media company Alpha Plus, has come with the renewed thought process that every film, tv show, and music act I launch must come with intention.

What should our readers know about your business?
Alpha Plus was created to bridge the gap between music, fashion, and entertainment. Most importantly we develop and produce films, tv shows, and music acts that reflect the taste and intelligence of today’s youth. Often the content made for a younger demographic can be uninspiring or insulting to their intelligence, and I wanted to change that. To be a fan of any given musician today means that you understand their artistic references, you know who photographed their single art, and probably already follow their stylist. And yet with all that knowledge, many production companies still choose to dial down the creativity of the content directed at this audience. That simply doesn’t work for me, and I plan on being that change.

The most important lesson I’ve learned along the way, is to follow your gut – it’s cliche but true. As a creative you know when something is working or not working, and as a consumer you know when you’re being pandered to. Follow those instincts and seek out more from life.

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?
The East Side is my favorite part of town and my stomping grounds, there are endless options to choose from. I’d ideally start my day with a friend at Courage Bagels, the only place in Los Angeles where I will gladly stand in line. In the afternoon, a hike at Griffith Observatory is the best way to burn off any bagel guilt you may have. It’s my favorite view of my favorite city. As the sun goes down you can’t go wrong with drinks at Bar Stella ever. Plopping down into one of the deep sofas in the dim lighting always sets the mood for a fun night of adventure.

One of the most exciting things to happen in the city as of recently was the Shattered Glass exhibit at the Jeffrey Deitch gallery. I had the pleasure of meeting the co-curator AJ Girard right before the exhibition ended, and he was so kind and I can’t wait to see what his next show entails.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would be nowhere without the mentorship I received throughout my career. I was extremely fortunate in that my mentor from the age of 15 was Simon Cowell, he gave me a first hand masterclass on how to run an entertainment company. From how to create and executive produce global tv shows, to discovering unsigned talent and helping shine a light on them. Via his mentorship and eventually becoming my boss, there were many executives, editors, and producers who all shared their wisdom with me along the way and for that I will forever be grateful.

Website: thealphaplus.com

Instagram: Personal: @alihussainy | Company: @alpha____plus

Image Credits
Photography Timothy Vo Campaign Stills, Directed by Ali Hussainy