Today we’d like to introduce you to Executive Class Productions Raymond Clayton
Hi Executive Class Productions, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My love of music started early. The first album I ever knew by heart was Ludacris’ Chicken & Beer—and yes, I think I just aged myself. Growing up, I used karaoke machines to record over whatever beats they offered, singing along and experimenting. Before long, I started creating my own songs, and that’s when the spark ignited into a true passion.
Over the years, I’ve written hundreds of songs, performed at countless shows, and immersed myself in the joy of living in the moment. But as my ambitions grew, so did the cost of pursuing them. Like many artists, I wasn’t making much money in the beginning, so I decided to take control of my craft. I learned to record my own music, produce my own instrumentals, and ultimately became self-sufficient.
My journey led me to Minneapolis, where I studied at the Institute of Production and Recording (IPR), and later, I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Full Sail University. After graduating, I moved to Phoenix, where I worked in several studios, including the iconic Saltmine Studios in Mesa, AZ. I also branched out into live sound, further expanding my skills and experience in the music world.
Today, I’m proud to call myself an artist, producer, and songwriter. While I’ve come a long way, there’s still a long road ahead—one I’m excited to travel as I continue to grow and evolve in this journey.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been smooth, but it’s been a fun and rewarding journey. Money is a topic that always comes up in entertainment, and I’ve found that many people starting out in this industry face financial struggles. It’s a balancing act—doing whatever you can to get by while still pursuing your passion for creating music.
Another challenge has been building a buzz or a fan base. That becomes especially tricky when you relocate. Back home, people might know who you are and what you’re capable of, but when you’re starting fresh in a new place, that history doesn’t carry the same weight. It’s all about proving yourself again and again.
Along the way, I’ve made it a point to learn, grow, and soak up every experience. It’s been about creating memories and rolling with whatever life throws my way. Honestly, if I hadn’t made the moves I did, I wouldn’t have met the love of my life or gotten to be a proud dad to my second beautiful baby girl. Big shoutout to Aunika and Imani Rae—they’re my world.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m an artist who primarily creates hip-hop music, but it’s not the typical sound you hear all the time. I take pride in being a storyteller, pouring a lot of passion into my tracks. Along with being an artist, I’m also an audio engineer by trade, which is something I studied after initially going to school for business management.
Right now, my main focus is producing instrumentals for artists across all genres, as well as creating music for podcasts. I’m also looking to branch out into TV, film, and sync licensing, expanding my reach and opportunities.
Currently, I’m doing a 365-day beat challenge to showcase my versatility. Every day, I release something new and different to demonstrate the range of what I can create. It’s a challenge that pushes me to grow and think outside the box, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
First and foremost, I want to thank God. There were times when I felt like giving up, when it seemed like I had nothing left. But somehow, I found the strength to keep going, and that strength came from my faith and the support of my family—especially my mother, who’s always been there for me in every way she could.
I can’t forget the small town of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, either. I spent a lot of time there during my youth, and that place helped shape me into the person I am today. It also played a huge role in influencing the sound I create. I may be from the West Coast, but the Midwest will always have a piece of me.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/executiveclassproductions/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExecutiveClassProductions/
- Twitter: https://x.com/ExecClassProd
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@executiveclassproductions
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/executiveclassproduction
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/raymondclayton21/
