Make It Happen - by Kevin Liles (Paperback)

About the Book

Liles draws on his success in the music industry to deliver an inspirational career guide for today's aspiring movers and shakers.

Book Synopsis

Kevin Liles' meteoric climb from street kid to unpaid intern at Def Jam Records to executive vice president of the Warner Music Group is far more than a rags-to-riches story. It is a tribute to Liles' work ethic, discipline and confidence in doing his thing his way -- the hip-hop way.

In Make It Happen, Liles -- named one of America's Most Powerful Players Under 40 by Black Enterprise -- offers his ten rules of business success, which range from "Find Your Will" to "Don't Let Cash Rule" and "Play Your Position." As he outlines these and other strategies for success, Liles shares his own hard-won wisdom about his journey to the top, along with career advice from the various music artists, industry professionals, mentors and friends he has known along the way. No matter what version of the American Dream you choose to explore, this book will help you to empower yourself and Make It Happen.

Review Quotes

"[Liles'] words teem with confidence, faith, conviction and wisdom." -- The Dallas Morning News

"As an African-American business leader, a man like Kevin represents to me everything that is right in the African-American entrepreneurship -- visionary, hard working, entrepreneurial and smart. . . . I encourage everyone to read his book and follow his advice." -- Bob Johnson, founder, Black Entertainment Television

"Inspirational, touching and powerful." -- Gayle King, O: The Oprah Magazine

"Kevin is the face of struggle.... This book is a glimpse into his vision, humility and toughness." - Russell Simmons, founder of Def Jam Records

"Liles [is] hard at work spreading the message...[of] the importance of illuminating new routes out of urban American poverty...[by] drawing heavily from the world of hip hop for examples of triumph and success." -- The New York Times

About the Author

Kevin Liles is the executive vice president of the Warner Music Group. He works in New York City.

Samantha Marshall is a senior staff reporter for Crain's New York Business.