Chicago native Terry Henderson, Founder and Artist Manager at TwelveThirty Entertainment  is a creative, educator, and producer — and he is just getting started. With an impressive background in opera, composition, and teaching, Henderson also holds a Master of Science in Entertainment Business from Full Sail University,giving him qualities that make the perfect recipe for an artist manager. He currently manages acts including Issadora Ava, Boy Maj, iToldLexi, and Lex Cole through his company.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Terry about the impossible task of choosing a favorite song, the 411 on TwelveThirty Entertainment, and more.

Full Q&A below.

Are you able to choose a favorite song of all time? Or would you label this an impossible task? If yes, what’s the song? If no, what’s your current Top 3?

This is undoubtedly an impossible task! For me, my favorite songs come in waves, or artists, for that matter. Right now, I think Cuff it by Beyonce is one of my top three, especially with the remixes that are coming out. Another song I’ve been listening to is “How Deep Is Your Love,” PJ Morton’s cover of the Bee Gees classic; it’s just a feel-good song! Lastly, I love what SZA is doing now; I love Persuasive by Doechii with Sza. So much good music is coming out right now, and it’s fun discovering it all. 

Tell us about TwelveThirty Entertainment. What’s the mission?

The story behind TwelveThirty’s birth touches the hearts of many. On December 30th, 2006, Terry’s brother, Johnny “Chadd,” was in a terrible car crash that took his life. Driving through an awful storm, the steering wheel gave way to wet pavement and took his life far before his time. But, struck by the loss of his best friend and role model, thirteen-year-old Terry channeled that energy. He began composing beautiful music as a means of composing himself. And in those moments between the notes, an idea was born, and thus started TwelveThirty Entertainment. 

Our primary mission is to support and put artists first; I have heard many stories about artists being exploited and lost. I also had a terrible experience early in my career, so I just wanted to be a breath of fresh air. We care deeply about our artists and consider everyone on our roster family. Yes, it’s business, but building a relationship and making our artists feel safe and comfortable is at the core of our work. 

What does your day to day look like? What primary responsibilities are you handling for your roster?

We handle anything from day-to-day inquiries that come to the artists to submitting them for live shows and chatting with agents in booking and sync. We are also the primary contact for working with labels and distribution companies. Our main job and goal is supporting the artists and bringing them to the next level. 

Tell us what makes an ideal prospective artist. What do you look for when deciding who to work with?

I love this question; I take adding to our roster very seriously. We have several conversations with the prospective artist and try to catch a vibe. We look for a few things: talent, social presence, work ethic, and drive. Also, we consider how they will fit with the rest of our roster. All of our clients are at different stages; it’s a collective elevation we are going for, but sometimes, it’s just not a good fit for the artist or us, and that’s okay. 

What’s the biggest challenge independent artists face in 2023?

I think it is becoming relevant and staying relevant but also getting above “the weeds” there is a lot of music coming out, some great, some not so great. So I think it’s hard for artists to see that and feel like they will never “make it” whatever make means to them.

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

I am most active on Instagram at Terrymarc_ please connect with me there. 

I appreciate Your time. Want to say or plug any other projects before we part ways?

Our latest project at TwelveThirty is a Youtube podcast called “Unrelated with Maj & Vince, hosted by two great friends and collaborators where I am the producer and creative director. It’s pop culture, music, and a good time with friends! Please check it out on Youtube.