TEAM
KENT ANDERSON
Kent Anderson is a music industry consultant and educator with decades of hands-on experience across music marketing, artist development, digital media strategy, and music business education. Based in Chicago, Kent works at the intersection of artistry and strategy, helping artists, and organizations build sustainable, modern careers in the music industry.
Kent’s passion for music began early, studying piano and trumpet before finding his voice as a bassist. That lifelong commitment to music led to a multifaceted career as a music marketing consultant, producer, published author, and professor.
His professional journey began managing record stores for Trans World Music Corp., the nation’s largest music retailer, where he gained deep insight into consumer behavior, retail marketing, and artist promotion. This experience launched a career that would span multiple cities, major labels, and evolving music industry models.
Kent later joined GRP Records, working directly with legendary producer Tommy LiPuma. As Midwest Regional Sales Manager and later overseeing sales and marketing from New York, he helped guide the label during a period of national growth and critical acclaim. Kent later joined N2K, Inc. as Vice President, working under the mentorship of Phil Ramone during a pivotal moment in music and technology.
This foundation in label operations, sales strategy, and marketing continues to inform his work today as a music industry strategist and consultant, advising artists and creative professionals navigating today’s digital-first landscape.
In addition to consulting, Kent is an Adjunct Professor of Instruction at Columbia College Chicago, where he instructs courses in the Business of Music, Entertainment Marketing, Digital Media Strategies, and Music Business: Decision Making.
As a music business professor and educator, Kent emphasizes practical, career-ready skills—bridging theory with real-world application. His coursework covers digital marketing analytics, branding, SEO strategy, monetization models, and the evolving role of AI in creative industries.
Kent is the author of It’s All About The Music Marketing Stupid (Second Edition), a widely referenced curriculum focused on helping artists understand marketing fundamentals, audience development, and sustainable growth. As a music marketing author and educator, he regularly speaks, writes, and consults on the future of the music business.
Through his consulting practice, Kent works closely with artists, songwriters, and creative teams to develop clear strategies for branding, releases, touring, and digital presence. His approach blends decades of experience with modern tools—helping clients make informed decisions in a constantly changing industry.
Whether advising independent artists, mentoring students, or collaborating with industry professionals, Kent Anderson remains committed to empowering creatives through knowledge, strategy, and execution.
Kent holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from the University of Northern Iowa, with additional studies at the University of Iowa, a member of The Recording Academy, and is an Eagle Scout. A professional bassist for over a decade, he has performed on upright and electric bass with jazz ensembles, big bands, pit orchestras, rock bands, and R&B groups.
For consulting, speaking engagements, or educational collaborations, Kent welcomes opportunities to work with artists and organizations seeking clarity, growth, and long-term success in the music industry.
GEREY JOHNSON
Gerey Johnson is a music producer, guitarist, and music director with more than two decades of success across contemporary jazz, R&B, and artist development. Based in Chicago, Gerey brings a rare blend of musicianship, business acumen, and leadership to every project—shaped by an unconventional path that spans finance, touring, production, and record label management.
Before dedicating himself fully to music, Gerey earned a degree in political science from Northwestern University and built a successful career in investment banking. Rising to Assistant Vice President, he managed IRAs and retirement plans for corporate clients on Chicago’s North Shore. He later became a licensed money manager, working for national and boutique investment firms as well as family-owned investment companies.
While maintaining a demanding career in finance, Gerey continued to gig, write music, and perform as a guitarist—never abandoning his creative drive. A pivotal personal moment ultimately reshaped his life’s direction, leading him to step away from banking and pursue music full-time. That decision marked the beginning of an extraordinary career in the music industry.
Raised on Chicago’s South Side, Gerey was immersed in music from an early age. Surrounded by jazz and R&B records at home, he began playing drums and keyboards before discovering his true voice on the guitar. Influenced by R&B music and jazz fusion innovators, Gerey developed a distinctive style that blends technical precision with emotional depth.
As his career progressed, he became a regular presence on the Chicago music scene, performing extensively and refining his sound. His vintage ’72 Thinline Fender Telecaster—still part of his collection—became a defining instrument in his musical journey.
As the leader of his fusion band Cool World, Gerey emerged as both a performer and entrepreneur. He began booking national acts for Chicago venues while continuing to perform, eventually becoming a minority partner in one of the clubs he helped build. His ability to connect musicians, venues, and audiences contributed to Chicago’s growing profile in contemporary jazz.
Gerey’s career expanded into roles such as studio manager and A&R representative, where he sharpened his skills in artist development, composition, and music direction. He also found success as a music producer and songwriter, working with R&B artists and composing music for advertising agencies.
A major turning point came when Gerey joined a national tour with a leading contemporary jazz artist. Over the following years, he recorded and performed with some of the most respected names in jazz, funk, and R&B, while also producing and writing music released on major record labels.
This period cemented Gerey’s reputation as a versatile guitarist, trusted music director, and seasoned producer, capable of moving seamlessly between studio work, live performance, and strategic leadership.
Today, Gerey Johnson is a highly sought-after music director, and guitarist performing at jazz festivals, concerts, and cruise engagements while serving as MD for long-running smooth jazz series in multiple U.S. cities.
With over 20 years of experience as a musician, songwriter, producer, artist manager, and record label executive, Gerey brings deep industry knowledge and an expansive professional network to every collaboration. His work is guided by a commitment to artistic excellence, strategic thinking, and helping artists build sustainable, meaningful careers in music.
ANDRES CORREA
Andres Correa joins C Sharp Consulting, LLC with a deep-rooted passion for the music industry and a strong foundation in recording and music publishing. A graduate of Columbia College Chicago, Andres has developed his expertise through a series of high-impact internships with respected music and media organizations.
His experience includes work with Thirty Tigers in Nashville and Musicbed in Fort Worth, where he represented the brand during SXSW, as well as a recent remote residency with TwoOHsix Music in Los Angeles. These roles provided hands-on exposure to artist services, booking operations, and the broader mechanics of today’s music business.
Originally from Colombia, Andres brings a global perspective and a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to his work. In addition to his role as Booking Agent & Digital Outreach Coordinator, he supports artists through playlist pitching, blogger outreach, and influencer submissions, helping connect new releases with the right platforms, tastemakers, and audiences. His focus is on bridging the gap between talent and opportunity—both on stage and online.
