Amani "Burt Blackarach" Smith

Principal, Salamani Music

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Music Supervisor |Composer|

Music  Producer | DJ | Music EXPERT 

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

Founder, Salamani Music

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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

Sr. Director, Salamani Music

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SONGWRITER| Author | Music Industry Professional

Tyler J. Smith is an accomplished songwriter, published author, marketing communications specialist, and music business professor with a passion for storytelling—both in words and in music. With a career spanning songwriting, artist development, and brand strategy, she has worked alongside respected talents in the industry, helping to shape compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.

A Songwriter with Industry Legends
As a songwriter, Tyler has collaborated with Grammy-winning producer Michael J. Powell (Anita Baker, Aretha Franklin, Patti LaBelle, Tyrese, Aaliyah), Canadian country icon Michelle Wright, and legendary vocalist Oleta Adams. She has also co-written songs with Stephan Moccio (Wrecking Ball – Miley Cyrus, A New Day Has Come – Celine Dion), Naoise David Sheridan (Kenny Chesney, Pam Tillis, Kenny Rogers, Ricky Skaggs), and jazz legend Eddie Bullen.

Her writing seamlessly blends deep emotion, rich storytelling, and commercial appeal, making her an ideal creative partner in multiple genres, from R&B and soul to country, jazz, and pop.

Her ability to connect artists with their true voice extends beyond songwriting—she understands the music business inside and out, helping both emerging and established artists refine their message, expand their reach, and craft music that stands the test of time.

An Industry Expert & Educator
Beyond songwriting, Tyler is a respected music business professor and marketing communications specialist, known for bridging the gap between creativity and commerce. With a background working with global brands like Starbucks, Food Network, and Ziploc, she brings a strategic edge to the music industry, guiding artists and professionals in branding, audience engagement, and career sustainability.
As a published author, her work includes a collaboration with Food Network on Grilled to Perfection: Recipes from License to Grill, as well as resources like Your Success Guide, designed to help creatives and entrepreneurs build habits for long-term achievement. Whether through music, mentorship, or marketing, Tyler’s mission is to help artists and industry professionals thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

A Passion for Music & Mentorship
Tyler J. Smith’s career is a testament to the power of creativity, business acumen, and passion. Whether writing songs, shaping artist brands, or educating the next generation of music professionals, she remains dedicated to helping others find their voice and make a lasting impact.

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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.

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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.

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Demonte Posey

COMPOSER| Songwriter| MUSIC PRODUCER

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

Neea has quickly made a name for herself in the world of music supervision, working with some of the industry’s most respected and successful music and media companies.

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Most recently, she was part of the Creative Marketing Film & TV team at Sony Music Publishing, where she honed her skills in clearance and licensing for major projects, including NBC’s That’s My Jam, Love Island, and Jennifer Lopez’s This Is Me… Now, among many others.

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Before her time at SMP, Neea interned with Paramount Pictures’ Film Music Team, assisting the SVP in overseeing the musical landscape of multiple films. She also worked with Neophonic, one of the industry’s leading music supervision firms, gaining hands-on experience in shaping the sound of film and television.

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Now entering her fifth year in the field, Neea brings a deep understanding of music publishing, licensing, and creative supervision to Salamani Music, where she is dedicated to furthering her passion for music supervision and curating unforgettable soundtracks for film and TV.