By Street Money Staff
In the fast-paced world of independent music, few have the foresight to pivot before the tide turns. From the airwaves of 102 Jams to the executive offices of a growing distribution empire, Kuntry’s journey is a blueprint for the modern “Artist-CEO.”
From Roll Calls to “Blue Hundreds”
Kuntry’s story didn’t start in a high-end studio; it started on the ground. He first caught the public’s ear through local platforms like 940 Roll Call and 102 Jams. Back then, it was all about the freestyle—the raw energy of the moment. However, a stint of incarceration changed his perspective, providing the stillness needed to evolve from a freestyler into a songwriter.
It was during this time that he penned “Blue Hundreds,” his first official track. Upon his release, a partnership with Chop House helped him bring that vision to life, marking his transition into professional recording.
The “Stairs” Over the “Elevator”
While many artists chase a viral moment or a quick “elevator” ride to the top, Kuntry chose the stairs. He spent years mastering every facet of the industry, from recording his own vocals to shooting and editing his own videos.
“I wanted to learn every aspect of the business before seeking external deals,” Kuntry explained. “Doing it independently helps you understand the value of your work.”
That relentless work ethic eventually caught the eye of heavy hitters like Empire, but by the time they came knocking, Brandon wasn’t just looking for a deal—he was looking to build an empire of his own.
The Death of Streaming? Why the Future is Direct-to-Consumer
Perhaps the most provocative part of the conversation was Brandon’s outlook on the industry’s future. He predicts a significant decline in streaming dominance within the next four to five years. His solution? The Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) model.
Kuntry argues that the real money—and the real connection—lies in physical media and high-end merchandise.
- Physical Media: Bringing back vinyl, CDs, and even branded cassette tapes (complete with custom players).
- Direct Sales: Utilizing platforms like Bandcamp to put money directly into the artists’ pockets.
- The Shift: Viewing streams as the “back end” or marketing tool, while physical sales and merch become the primary revenue stream.
“You see the greats like J. Cole and Cardi B doing it,” Kuntry noted. “It’s about giving the fans something they can actually hold.”
Building the Global Hub: Untamed Music Group
Kuntry is currently transforming Untamed Music Group into a one-stop-shop distribution powerhouse. Based in the Carolinas but expanding rapidly into Detroit, the goal is global. He’s taking the lessons he learned the hard way and teaching his roster how to generate income through showcases, tours, and smart marketing.
On the Radar: Upcoming Untamed Projects
- Country: His highly anticipated album, Critical Situation, is slated for a summer release.
- Manolo: Heating up the streets right now with the hit single “Bag Talk.”
- Goon Gei: The North Carolina standout to watch.
- Detroit Expansion: Keep an eye out for a new wave of talent coming from the Motor City branch of the label.
The Final Word
To the casual observer, Kuntry looks like a workaholic. To him, he’s just laying the foundation. “People see the move, but they don’t see the work that went into aligning the team before the move was made,” he said. With a solid team and a vision that looks past the digital era, Untamed Music Group is positioned to be a major player in the new independent landscape.
Want to stay ahead of the curve? Keep your eyes on Untamed Music Group and listen to Manolo’s “Bag Talk” on all platforms now
