Juanita Stephens - Publicity
Former Vice President of Publicity MCA Records, Bad Boy & Polygram Records
Juanita Stephens brings with her a wide dimension of experience in entertainment and corporate relations. Stephens, a veteran of the music business, is no new comer to the challenges of the business. Prior to launching her New York and Atlanta based media and public relations firm, JS Media Relations, she served as Vice President of Publicity and Artist Development at some of the most prominent record labels in the music industry. Her vast achievements include stints at the helm of MCA, Warner Bros., Polygram Records and Bad Boy Worldwide.
She is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in cultivating viable relationships with media personnel, increasing the media visibility of both established and emerging artists, and preparing them in the areas of media protocol, conduct and presentation.
My problems are as light as a feather because God holds them for me
More about Juanita Stephens
Stephens first major venture into the world of public relations began at MCA Records as an assistant to the Director of Publicity. In spite of not having prior record company experience, or a desire to work in music, she was compelled to accept the position because of her inner- determination to challenge new experiences. Her introduction in the PR field began with her organizing national and international campaigns for a roster of rock & roll, heavy metal and country music icons like Elton John, Dolly Parton and The Kinks --- an unlikely pairing for an African- American publicist, at that time.
Under the leadership of a strong mentor, she was appointed the first African-American female Vice President of Publicity and Artist Development at MCA, in less than 4 years with the company. Thus, began her journey as a visionary trailblazer - piloting innovative ideas for the company’s high profile roster of R&B, hip-hop, alternative, jazz, gospel, reggae and mainstream acts.
AWARD CEREMONIES AND INDUSTRY EVENTS
BET Music Awards
BMI Publishing Urban Showcase
Boston Music Awards
British Music Awards
Divas Simply Singing
Essence Annual Music Festival
Hampton Music Festival
Macy’s Music Festival
People’s Choice Awards
Soul Train Awards
American Music Awards
Grammy Awards
Next Pop Icon 2011 Music Showcase
Tom Joyner Annual Music Cruise
Trumpet Awards
VH1 Music Awards
Shriners Hospitals for Children
Otis Redding 70th Birthday Tribute
NATIONAL CONCERT TOURS
Charlie Wilson
R. Kelly Featuring Keisha Cole and Neo
Bobby Brown
Stephanie Mills
Patti LaBelle