Troy Carter on Q&A and Blackout Tuesday with Guy Raz | How I Built This | NPR | Summary and Q&A

Summary

In this video, Troy Carter discusses the current events happening in the world, including the health crisis, political crisis, economic crisis, and the racial injustice crisis. He talks about the impact these crises have had on people's lives and the need for individuals and businesses to address these issues. He also touches on topics such as how to talk to children about these events, the role of music in times of crisis, the future of the entertainment industry, and the importance of authenticity in contributing to the conversation through art.

Questions & Answers

Q: How are the current global crises impacting people's lives?

The global health crisis, political crisis, economic crisis, and racial injustice crisis have had a significant impact on people's lives. The mental and emotional toll of these events is immense, and people are struggling to readjust their lives and businesses. The recent events and protests surrounding racial injustice have highlighted the long-standing crisis of racial inequality in America. African Americans, in particular, face everyday challenges due to systemic racism.

Q: How are parents discussing the current events with their children?

Parents are having difficult conversations with their children about the current events. Troy Carter shares his personal experience of his daughter attending protests and his son being in a neighborhood with protests. He emphasizes the importance of allowing their children to express their feelings and exercise their rights as American citizens. He also acknowledges the fear and concerns that come with being black in America and the need to ensure their physical safety.

Q: How did Troy Carter experience racism during a trip to Mexico City?

During a trip a few months ago, Troy Carter experienced racism when he was physically attacked by security at a hotel in Mexico City. He was the only black person in his group, and this incident highlighted the biases and discrimination that still exist in society.

Q: How is Troy Carter dealing with the current crises as an entrepreneur?

Troy Carter discusses his experience as an entrepreneur during these challenging times. He mentions that he has started several companies during crises and that there are opportunities for those willing to take risks. He talks about his latest venture, a music and technology company called QA, and how they are building workflow systems for the music industry. He also mentions the challenges faced by the music industry, particularly in the live event sector.

Q: How is the music industry coping with the COVID-19 pandemic?

The music industry is facing challenges due to the pandemic, primarily in the live event sector. Concerts, tours, and live performances are significantly impacted. However, the record side of the industry, which is mostly digital, is less affected. The industry is exploring alternative options such as live streaming and virtual concerts to adapt to the new normal.

Q: How can content creators contribute to the conversation on racial injustice through their art?

Content creators have the opportunity to contribute to the conversation on racial injustice through their art. Troy Carter emphasizes the importance of authenticity and honesty in expressing one's thoughts and feelings. He cites an example of Billie Eilish's message to her fans, which was authentic and resonated with many people. It is crucial not to be silent and use one's platform to address these issues, even if one is unsure of what to say.

Q: How is Troy Carter communicating with his team during the pandemic?

Troy Carter's team was already accustomed to remote work, so the transition to remote communication was relatively smooth. They utilize video conferencing tools like Google Meet for regular meetings and maintain open lines of communication. However, Troy mentions being a little tired of video calls and hopes for a reinvention of the video conferencing format in the future.

Q: Is the music industry suffering due to the current crises?

Yes, the music industry is facing challenges due to the current crises. The pandemic has impacted the live event sector, including concerts and tours. On the other hand, the racial crisis has highlighted the biases and imbalance of power within the industry. It is crucial to address these issues and strive for equal opportunities for all musicians, regardless of their background.

Q: Can this moment of crisis bring about significant change?

Troy Carter expresses optimism that this moment can bring about significant change, particularly for the younger generation. He believes that the economic divide, which impacts people across race, gender, religion, etc., can unite individuals in seeking change. Empathy and awareness are crucial in understanding and addressing the issues at hand. He hopes that this moment is not just a blip in history but a catalyst for lasting change.

Q: How can individuals contribute to the conversation on racial injustice through their art?

Individuals can contribute to the conversation on racial injustice through their art by being authentic and true to their emotions. Troy Carter emphasizes the importance of artists expressing what is in their hearts and not being afraid to alienate certain fan groups. Art is about being a voice for the voiceless and addressing the issues of the moment. It is crucial to speak up and not be silent, even if one does not have all the answers.

Q: How can businesses contribute to addressing racial injustice and inequality?

Businesses can contribute to addressing racial injustice and inequality by acknowledging the biases and imbalances within their own structures. Troy Carter mentions the lack of black executives in the music industry and the need for change. Providing equal opportunities and access to resources and support for all individuals, regardless of their background, can make a significant impact. It is essential for businesses to be aware of their role in perpetuating systemic racism and take steps to rectify it.

Takeaways

The current global crises, including the health crisis, political crisis, economic crisis, and racial injustice crisis, have had a profound impact on people's lives. It is a challenging moment, but also an opportunity for individuals and businesses to address these issues and work towards lasting change. Troy Carter emphasizes the importance of empathy, authenticity, and open dialogue in addressing racial injustice and inequality. He believes that technology and virtual experiences can provide new avenues for connection and creativity in the entertainment industry.