Jay Shields is the Owner and CEO of SCM Entertainment (Southern Coalition Movement), a record label rooted in Memphis, TN, where his journey into the music scene began. Growing up in a city with a deep musical heritage spanning Rap, Hip-Hop, Blues, and Rock, Jay couldn’t help but be influenced by the sounds of Memphis. He started his career as a hype man for local rappers, which led to him performing and later rapping his own material. With an extensive vocabulary and an understanding of English grammar from an early age, he naturally gravitated toward writing songs and performing on stage, eventually releasing several mixtapes and a full album.
Jay Shields realized that despite his natural musical talent, his understanding of the business side of the music industry needed improvement. Driven by the desire to succeed, he put down the microphone and committed himself to self-education. He immersed himself in learning music engineering, business management, and the intricacies of the industry. Setting up his own recording studio, Jay registered his label as a small business in Memphis and gained knowledge about royalties and organizations like ASCAP, BMI, and SoundExchange. This dedication to self-education laid the groundwork for the creation of Southern Coalition Movement (SCM), a networking platform designed to connect talented individuals with industry professionals.
From the roots of SCM, Jay Shields expanded his vision, founding SCM Entertainment as a multifaceted entertainment company. What began as a networking tool has evolved into a full-service operation, going far beyond a traditional record label. Under Jay’s leadership, SCM Entertainment now encompasses a diverse range of services, including music production, photography, graphic design, DJing, and artist management. The company collaborates with producers, photographers, designers, and DJs, offering a holistic approach to creativity that supports the growth of every individual involved. This dynamic model allows SCM Entertainment to push the boundaries of hip-hop and create an inclusive, thriving creative space.
Based in the heart of Memphis, the Southern Coalition Movement is a movement that embraces the essence of hip-hop while redefining the boundaries of creativity. With a commitment to pushing limits, the label creates unforgettable music that resonates far and wide, showcasing authentic talent and a laid-back vibe.
Jay Shields has also played a key role in the release of major projects, such as the 2024 album Streets on Lock V3, hosted by himself, DJ Ms. Hypnotique, and Bigga Rankin. This album further cemented his place in the music industry, showcasing the evolving talent of his label while expanding his reach. Jay’s vision for SCM Entertainment extends far beyond music production. With an innovative approach to both the business and creative sides of the industry, he has transformed SCM into a multifaceted entity that includes radio stations, a nationwide magazine, an annual awards show, and charity events benefiting local communities.
Jay Shields has earned numerous accolades and recognitions for his contributions to the music industry. He has been nominated twice for Power Player of the Year and has helped artists achieve gold and platinum status through his promotional work. Notably, Jay has received a platinum plaque for his promotion efforts—an honor that is rare and highly respected in the industry. His charity events have also earned him features in local news and newspapers. Additionally, Jay Shields is a member of the Recording Academy, reinforcing his prominence in the music world. He currently serves as the President of Memphis Recording Label Raw Quality Sounds, the head A&R for Palm Tree Entertainment, and is business partners with renowned herbalist Dr. Yah’ki Rapha Elohim (Yah’ki Awakened), further expanding his influence in both music and wellness.
At SCM Entertainment, Jay Shields is driven by a clear mission: to create experiences that not only move the culture forward but also inspire listeners worldwide. His work transcends traditional music boundaries, constantly pushing the envelope through creative collaborations and impactful projects. With his extensive background in promotion and business, Jay is dedicated to elevating the hip-hop industry to new heights. His leadership ensures that SCM’s legacy will be one of influence, impact, and undeniable relevance. As a visionary leader, Jay Shields is committed to filling hip-hop with not only raw talent but also real stories and positive change that will resonate for generations to come.
