Adrian Miller: Steering Anderson .Paak and Innovating the Music Industry in 2025
Blogwallet: Originally published Nov 23, 2016 — Adrian L. Miller is a trailblazing Black entrepreneur and music executive, CEO and Managing Partner of OBE, and owner of the agency Xyion. Raised between St. Louis and Los Angeles, Miller’s career launched in urban radio during his University of Tulsa days. He quickly climbed through roles at PMP Promotions, HITS Magazine, Loud Records, Immortal Records, and Warner Brothers Records.
Fast forward to 2025, Miller stands as a visionary music manager and executive producer, best known for guiding Grammy-winning artist Anderson .Paak. His three-decade career uniquely blends traditional industry savvy with cutting-edge AI-driven music supervision, digital strategy, and creator economy insights. Miller’s portfolio now includes nurturing emerging talent, expanding OBE’s footprint, and pioneering new business models that leverage automation and blockchain for rights management.
Having known Adrian for over 20 years, it’s inspiring to see his relentless creativity and hustle. Despite the nonstop demands of global touring with Anderson .Paak, Miller remains passionate about sharing his evolving perspective on industry disruption, legacy building, and future opportunities with the Radio Facts community.
“Honesty about my passions and understanding my value have been foundational to my success.”
KevRoss: You’ve balanced corporate music roles and entrepreneurship for years. How do you manage that duality in 2025?
Adrian Miller: Both worlds sharpen different skills. Corporate taught me discipline, logistics, and governance—still essential even for startups. But today’s music industry demands agility and innovation. AI tools now power everything from production to fan engagement, and blockchain is revolutionizing rights management. I stay adaptable by blending lessons from both sides and embracing new tech to stay ahead.
KR: You rose to leadership early. What helped you get there?
AM: Mentorship was key—Glenda Joyce encouraged me to be authentic and know my worth. I learned to speak confidently about what I know and listen carefully to what I don’t. Being observant rather than a “know-it-all” built trust and credibility.
KR: How many hours do you work daily in 2025?
AM: Around 10-12 hours, though my team pushes me to rest. Managing Anderson .Paak means coordinating AI-enhanced studio sessions, global tours, and digital marketing campaigns 24/7.
KR: What advice do you have for Black entrepreneurs in music today?
AM: Be hands-on and embrace rapid change. AI, blockchain, and new streaming models are transforming how we create and monetize music. Stay curious, adaptable, and build infrastructure that can scale with technology.
KR: When scouting talent, what traits matter most?
AM: Talent and work ethic go hand in hand. I want artists with a strong voice and clear vision who are willing to outwork me. I also rely heavily on data analytics and audience feedback alongside instinct to evaluate potential.
KR: Congrats on your success with Anderson .Paak. How did you first connect?
AM: I kept hearing his name through mutual collaborators. People sent me demos, and I recognized something special. That intuition led me to invest deeply in his career.
KR: You reportedly sold your house to fund Anderson’s early projects. Can you share that story?
AM: Yes, I downsized and sold my home to finance Anderson’s career when many doubted his potential. It was a bold move, but I believed in his talent and vision. The music business demands sacrifices and deep involvement—studio time, travel, meetings—all require commitment.
KR: Anderson says many don’t truly understand him until they see him perform or work with him. Was that your experience?
AM: Absolutely. Working with Anderson is like a masterclass in creativity. He rarely produces anything subpar. Having been in rooms with legends like Dr. Dre, Prince, and Stevie Wonder, I can say Anderson’s artistry and precision are exceptional.
“Living with purpose places us exactly where we need to be at the right time.”
