Music Mogul: L.A. Reid

In this episode of How I Built This, L.A. Reid, a prominent music executive and founder of LaFace Records, recounts his upbringing in Cincinnati and early aspirations in music. He reveals how a chance encounter led him to form a band with Kenny 'Babyface' Edmonds, leading to their early success and the formation of LaFace Records in Atlanta. Reid highlights the importance of talent, both in creating hits and in running a label.

He details the struggles of his first signings and the pivotal moment that turned it around: producing the soundtrack for the movie 'Boomerang,' which helped launch the careers of artists like TLC and Toni Braxton. Reid explains his philosophy of talent management and how his childhood experiences shaped his ability to spot potential in others.

The conversation touches on the challenges of acquiring and nurturing talent, the decision to sell LaFace to Arista Records, and the subsequent transition to becoming the president of Arista. He discusses the success stories he oversaw, including Pink and Usher, and reflects on the trials he faced after his firing from Arista, which ultimately led to a new position at Universal Music. Throughout the episode, Reid emphasizes the balance of luck and talent in his career and his deep connection to music.