Craig King: The BoykinZ, Ray Charles, and Breaking Music Industry Formulas | The LZ Granderson Show

In this episode of The LZ Granderson Show, legendary producer and music executive Craig King sits down with LZ for a wide-ranging and unfiltered conversation about the state of the music industry, the rise of The BoykinZ, and what it really takes to build a lasting career today.🎤 Topics Covered:How Craig King got involved with rising stars The BoykinZ and his approach to managing their explosive trajectoryHis unforgettable story involving Waylon JenningsThe crucial distinction between being an artist vs. an influencer in today’s landscapeCraig’s personal formula for success in the music business — from legacy acts to viral starsThe growing influence of the algorithm, gatekeeping, and how platforms are changing music discoveryThe corporate trap many artists fall into — and how to avoid itThe launch of Rap Plug Academy and why education is changing in the industryThe eternal question: Is college still worth it for creatives?Craig’s breakout moment working with the legendary Ray CharlesAnd what’s next for The BoykinZ, including their latest single "Step Right Up"🔥 Whether you're an aspiring artist, seasoned industry vet, or just love a good story — this is a must-watch.📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into culture, creativity, and power.#TheLZGrandersonShow #CraigKing #TheBoykinZ #RapPlugAcademy #RayCharles #StepRightUp #WaylonJennings #BlackCountryMusic From ESPN and CNN to ABC.and The L.A. Times, LZ Granderson hosts bold conversations that meet the beating pulse of entertainment, sports, pop culture, and beyond. Each week, LZ sits down with a compelling guest—from athletes and artists to activists and icons—for unfiltered, thought-provoking dialogue about the stories shaping our world. Emmy award-winning journalist and cultural commentator LZ Granderson is insightful, witty, and always real. This is the podcast where culture gets a conscience and nothing is off-limits. For more about LZ and his work check out: http://lzgrandersonshow.org/ Connect on Social MediaTwitter/X: https://x.com/lzgranderson?lang=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lzgranderson/?hl=enThreads: https://www.threads.com/@lzgranderson?invite=4Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@1lzgrandersonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/LZ-Granderson-100057700284324/