MINKS

Just.Make.Good.Music (J.M.G.M.) - a slogan that sums up the drive and talent of the St. Louis native, Los Angeles residing hip-hop artist Minks, who has quickly made a name for himself. From the streets to the industry his unique style and grace has caught the attention of many. Music consultant and A&R specialist Gian Fiero describes Minks as, "A star in the making and I get the feeling that he's well aware of it." Minks has an upbeat, mainstream feel of the Midwest mixed with a unique blend of wittiness and lyricism.



Minks worked closely with the late Ray Cham, a multi-platinum selling producer who tragically died in a motorcycle accident March 4th, 2007. Ray introduced him to industry heavyweights and honed his skills as an artist. Ray saw the talent, promise, and dedication in Minks and took him under his wing. From there he would land writing credits for Disney, Geffen/Interscope, and Warner Music.



Minks buzz continued to grow and soon caught the attention from major producers such as The Bakery (Huey- Pop, Lock, and Drop It), John the XVI (Day 26, Charlie Wilson, Michelle Williams, Danity Kane), and Donald “XL” Robertson (Master P, Juvenile, Choppa). Minks also caught the eye of managers, song writers, and other industry insiders such as Jeremy Harding (Sean Paul manager), and Amilcar “Pro” Welton (Creative Manager - Urban Network/Provizion Music Architecture/ CREATE.Management Firm).



Not to be confused as a “one-minded” artist, Minks has already established himself as a talented song writer as well. In 2008, Minks received his first RIAA Certified Gold Record for his writing contributions on the Disney soundtrack “Jump In!” (Song --“Gotta Lotta” – Performed by Geffen recording artist Prima J).



Minks comes from a musical background. His father was a big DJ in the city and also a talented musician. Minks' older brother, Mike Burton, is a music producer that has worked for LaFace Records, Warner Brothers Records, and platinum selling artist Sisqo's management company, The Firm. Minks credits his involvement in music to his family because, "it was all I knew growing up".



While attending Cal State University, Northridge Minks met his soon to be producer and business partner, Aaron "DJ Ref" Brown. DJ Ref, who is a talented producer and DJ, took interest in Minks and together they formed their own company, 717 Entertainment. Together they would take the music industry by storm. Foucsing on all aspects of the entertainment industry, Minks and DJ Ref are credited for composing the hip-hop music for the 2008 movie “Crash & Burn” (Spike TV), contributing to the movie and soundtrack of the Disney Channel feature, “Jump In!” (Disney), and composing the music for the 2006 season of “Comic View” (BET) just to name a few.



Besides being a talented writer and artist Minks live performance is something to see. Minks has toured around the nation hitting venues in California, New York, Texas, Chicago, and St Louis to name a few. This young artist impressed Los Angeles on-air personalities "The Goodfellas" (93.5 The Beat) during a live performance so much that they played one of his singles on air during their "Hate it or Love it" segment the next day. He received an 80% "Love It" rating from the listeners that called in.



Follow his journey from the bottom all the way to the top at his Official MySpace Page.