Amani "Burt Blackarach" Smith

Principal, Salamani Music

Music Supervisor, Composer, Music  Producer 

Amani "Burt Blackarach" Smith, DJ, music producer, composer and also music supervisor for projects like Roger Ross Williams' and Mara Brock-Akil's "Stamped From the Beginning" (Netflix), is a bona fide music expert, in all of its facets.

Known for his music supervision work for ABC's 2021/2022 re-imagining of "The Wonder Years" with Saladin Patterson, Burt is currently working with Gina Prince-Bythewood and Reggie Rock Bythewood on Brian Grazer and Ron Howard's award-winning "Genius: MLK/X", the Disney+ anthology series from National Geographic, while also wrapping up "Playground L.A." with The Pussycat Dolls' Robin Antin.

Burt has had a 20+ year writing partnership with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Public Enemy and front man Chuck D. Burt and Chuck D have written music for Public Enemy albums as well as theme songs and original music for television and film projects for ESPN, MTV, FOX, and most recently for LeBron James' "Shut Up and Dribble" on Showtime.

While rare in the business, Burt is known for holding double duties as both music supervisor and composer on film and TV projects. Examples include Showtime's 2021 "Passion Play: Russell Westbrook" and Vice TV's "Running While Black" in conjunction with adidas and Religion of Sports released in 2022 (including Main Title creator with Chuck D).

Burt's composing contributions have been featured in major projects for clients like James Cameron's "Dark Angel", Brian Grazer's "Local Boys", Will Gluck's "Luis", and Ryan Murphy's "Popular". As a producer, Burt has worked with iconic artists like Aerosmith, Method Man and Andre 3000. As an authentic turntablist, Burt has spun all over the world, opening for acts like Jay Z, Nas, and Jurassic 5. His masterful scratching skills can be heard on countless albums for artists like Kelly Clarkson and Public Enemy as well as movie soundtracks and national commercials.

Burt owns and manages publishing catalog, Salamani Music. Founded by his songwriting parents in 1971, Salamani Music was one of the first Black-owned publishing companies of its time. Original music from the catalog has been sampled and/or covered by hundreds of artists including DJ Premier, J Dilla, D'Angelo, A$AP Rocky, Dionne Warwick, Maurice White, Chaka Khan, and Etta James.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Burt also holds a Canadian dual citizenship. His credits can be found on IMDB and Discogs. A full list can be requested. 

Dr. Patricia Grizzle-Huling

Co-Founder, Salamani Music

Dr. Patricia Grizzle is a descendant of escaped slaves, born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, and now residing near Los Angeles. As a proud member of the Holland/Howard Family group, she traces her lineage back to a time before the existence of Canada and the United States.

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Before transitioning to higher education, Dr. Grizzle enjoyed a vibrant career as a vocalist, performing on stage, television, and in theater, as well as serving as a background singer in recording sessions. She began her musical journey in Toronto, performing solo and with bands on various musical television programs. Alongside her late husband, William "Smitty" Smith, she co-founded and administered two publishing companies, Salamani Music and Patramani Music, which supported her decades-long career in the music industry.

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Under the mentorship of Nathan Smith and Dr. Luis Leobardo Arroyo, Dr. Grizzle pursued higher education, earning an MA and PhD. Her academic journey led to a fulfilling career in teaching Cultural Studies, Pan African Studies, and Sociology. Dr. Grizzle's life reflects resilience, transformation, and dedication, showcasing the many facets of her remarkable story.

Tyler J. Smith

Composer

Biography forthcoming.

Rashad Richardson

Music Supervisor

Rashad comes from a strong background in the music publishing industry. He worked at Universal Music Publishing for nearly 5 years while licensing music for Film/TV. After his tenure at UMPG, Rashad founded Madden Flow Entertainment. 

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Madden Flow Entertainment is an independent music licensing agency that represents music from a diverse range of talented creators. Rashad does creative music searches, music clearance, and music supervision. Rashad has secured partnerships with labels such as Slip N Slide Records, which control the Masters rights to Rick Ross' early catalogue of music. He also has partnerships in place with creative teams and music publishers in 5+ countries. He has pitched and licensed music that has landed in projects seen on Amazon Prime, Hulu (FX), ABC, CBS, Netflix, and more

Kerith Elizabeth Henderson

MARKETING DIRECTOR

As an expert in public relations and marketing, Kerith Elizabeth Henderson uses her wisdom and intuition to help clients achieve their goals in a way that is both creative and authentic. Her empathetic approach to understanding the needs of her clients has made her a trusted partner in their journey towards manifestation and success. Henderson's unwavering passion for her work and her clients' accomplishments is a testament to her dedication and professionalism. Her firm, Quintessential PR, has been thriving in the industry for over 20 years, setting an example for aspiring professionals and entrepreneurs everywhere.

Demonte Posey

COMPOSER

DeMonté Posey is a highly accomplished music producer, songwriter, and composer whose work has left a lasting impact on the R&B genre. With four Grammy nominations and a NAACP Image Award to his name, he has earned recognition as a creative force in the industry.

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Throughout his career, Posey has collaborated with some of the most celebrated artists in music, including After 7, Tori Kelly, The Temptations, Toni Braxton, Najee, and Eric Benét. His ability to seamlessly transition between producer, composer, and songwriter has solidified his reputation as a versatile and in-demand talent.

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In addition to his contributions to albums, Posey’s work extends to major film soundtracks, showcasing his ability to craft music that resonates both in the studio and on the big screen. His artistry blends classic soul with contemporary production, creating timeless sounds that continue to shape the music landscape.

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Beyond his professional achievements, Posey actively shares his journey and creative process with his audience, offering a behind-the-scenes look into his life as a musician. His passion for music, dedication to excellence, and ability to adapt to an evolving industry make him a standout figure in modern R&B and beyond.

 Neea Pyne-Howard 

Music COORDINATOR

Since starting her career in music supervision, Neea has worked for some of the most respected and successful music/media companies in the industry. 

Most recently, Neea worked as a Coordinator in the Creative Marketing Film and TV department at Sony Music Publishing. During her term, she gained experience in clearance and licensing handling some of your favorite shows and films like  NBC’s That’s My Jam, Love Island, Jennifer Lopez’s , This Is Me Now, and much more!

Prior to SMP, Neea interned for Paramount Pictures Film Music Team creatively assisting the SVP covering all musical aspects on a number films, and also worked with one the industry’s most reputable music supervision firms, Neophonic. 

Going in her 4th year within the field, with a thorough understanding of music publishing and supervision in film and television, Neea has joined team Salamani to pursue her passion in becoming a music supervisor.