Today we’d like to introduce you to Lamonte Mclemore.
Hi Lamonte, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, with roots that extend into Nashville, Tennessee, my story is really a blend of two worlds. I’ve always carried that city-boy mentality — the ambition, the style, the culture, and the hunger to create — while embracing the Southern influence that helped shape the person I’ve become. Growing up, I knew I wanted to be part of the entertainment industry. Music and performing arts were always at the center of my interests, while fashion and self-expression gave me another outlet to communicate who I was without having to say a word. Today, I get to bring all those elements together through my artistry, creativity, and personal journey. For me, it’s about more than entertainment; it’s about bringing my story to life, inspiring others, and turning my experiences into something people can connect with.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Smooth? Not even close. This industry will test your patience, your confidence, and sometimes even your belief in yourself. You can have the look, the talent, the personality, and still hear “no” ten times before someone gives you a chance. That’s part of the game. But one thing I’ve come to understand is that talent alone doesn’t guarantee longevity. Everybody has some level of talent, but not everybody has the discipline, resilience, business mindset, or willingness to make the sacrifices required to turn that talent into something sustainable. I’ve had to learn that success isn’t always about being the most talented person in the room; sometimes it’s about being the most prepared, the most consistent, and the person who refuses to let temporary setbacks define the bigger picture. I’m still evolving, still learning, and gaining a greater appreciation for the work that happens behind the scenes. The goal isn’t just to get in the room anymore — it’s to be undeniable once I get there.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’d describe myself as an artist, songwriter, music executive, fashion enthusiast, and entrepreneur in the making. I’ve always had that hustler mentality—I’m naturally curious, quick on my feet, and comfortable creating from scratch. Whether I’m freestyling, writing, developing an artist, putting together a rollout, building a brand, or figuring out the next move, I enjoy the process of turning an idea into something people can actually experience.
I’m also inspired by the bigger picture of what artists can become. I admire the entrepreneurial mindset that Nipsey Hussle brought to his community and brand, and the way Jay-Z and Kanye were able to expand their creative identities into businesses and cultural movements. But I’m not interested in being the next anybody. I want to take that same spirit of ownership and innovation and build it in a way that’s completely original to me. My influences can inspire the mindset, but the blueprint has to be mine.
And honestly, I haven’t had my proudest moment yet. I appreciate everything I’ve accomplished, but I believe there’s still a lot more in me. As for what separates me from everybody else, I think that’s something the audience gets to decide. I just know who I am, I know what I bring, and I’m going to keep building until the work makes the introduction for me.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
The biggest thing I’d tell anybody starting out is: don’t confuse being seen with actually building something. Social media can make it look like everybody is winning overnight, but you don’t see the years of work, mistakes, investments, sacrifices, and closed doors that came before the moment you see online.
I wish I had understood earlier how important it is to learn the business behind your talent. Learn your contracts. Learn your publishing. Learn your intellectual property. Understand your brand. Understand your audience. Understand how you’re making money and, just as importantly, how you’re protecting what you’ve created.
And don’t chase every opportunity just because it has a big name attached to it. Sometimes the best thing you can do is slow down, ask questions, and make sure the opportunity actually makes sense for where you’re trying to go. Build your own identity, stay consistent, and let your results speak. Everybody wants the spotlight, but the real work happens before the lights come on.
Pricing:
- Private creative consultation $60 per hour One-on-one discussion covering music, branding, artist development, or social media.
- Extended strategy session $85 90 minutes More in-depth discussion, brainstorming, feedback, and actionable next steps.
- Three-session consulting package $165 Three 60-minute sessions · $55 per session For developing artists or creators who need continued guidance.
- Artist / brand assessment $125–$175 One-time project fee Review of an artist’s brand, social presence, positioning, and creative direction, with written recommendations.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realyunggutta
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yungmclemore
- Twitter: https://x.com/REALYUNGGUTTA
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3_b_XVeT2_4Uj5Be1f1ZoQ
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/realyunggutta
