Carlos Mohammad, founder of TrendLuxury.com, a website and online magazine devoted to the most decadent of styles of living talks to us about music, trends, luxury and following your dreams.
Now in this mad age of post-modernism and economic instability, it's very unvogue to be a job for life kind of person. With cutbacks in public resources and education, lets all shed a tear for the librarians of this world, now utterly bereft of any purpose in the employment market. But some people aren't just about not putting all their eggs in one basket but are rather as enthused by the world of opportunities as a child in a sweet shop. Carlos is such a man.
Born and raised in Illinois it was his dream and hearts desire to pursue a musical path as a singer/songwriter and began making this a reality as any young whippersnapper would by performing at local and school talent shows. However, he soon found that despite his ardency for the industry, it wasn't the spotlight he craved but rather to be a pivotal figure behind the scenes.
Nurturing his creativity and talent for songwriting, he formed a catalogue of over 300 unpublished songs and combined with his extensive knowledge of the music industry, he was inspired to start his own music publishing company, "May Peace Be Upon You Music". With all the valuable knowledge he was holding, he opened up another vision, to help unsigned Artists, Bands, Songwriters, and Producers to perfect their craft and make a mark in the music industry.
With so many endless opportunities, he felt it was time to evolve with the formulation of a music brokerage and artist management company, "Egyptian man Entertainment Group" and Egyptian artist Management ". This was the starting focal point to helping upcoming talent secure a record or publishing deal. Success finally hit when he landed a music placement for several producers around the country for MTV, on the highly syndicated show "PIMP MY RIDE". Taking a 3 year leave from the music industry to pursue a career in Real Estate was a true learning experience. Curiosity opened his eyes to Entrepreneurship, which resulted in starting a Luxury Lifestyle/Shopping destination "PremiereShoppers.com" in 2008, which a year later resulted into changing to "TrendLuxury.com". So lets take inspiration from the following chat with Carlos.
So tell us a little about Trend Luxury?
Carlos: TrendLuxury.com is an online magazine/blog that mixes lifestyle trends with all the flavors of opulence. From interactive videos to exclusive interviews on cutting edge fashion and pampering lifestyle “must haves”, TrendLuxury.com provides a much needed comprehensive guide to high-style and luxury.
Describe how the idea came about?
Carlos: The journey started with the idea of an online shopping mall. After realizing affiliate marketing was not for me, I wanted to re-build the concept more around trends and the luxury lifestyle. After going through a few names I instantly knew that “TrendLuxury” was the epitome of my vision.
What has been the highlight of starting this enterprise thus far and the best aspect of your job?
Carlos: I would say that the highlight in all of this is seeing something you created really come to life. Discovering new things is exciting because you feel like your the first to watch a premiering movie everyday. Interviewing celebrities or just iconic spirited people is one of the best parts along with trying the best kept secret products.
Carlos: The worst job for me was working in retail. I have nothing against the retail industry but when your working long shifts at the mall life can seem bitter sweet at times. We all had to start somewhere so everything was really just a learning experience for me.
Describe your personal style and what is says about you?
Carlos: Well I’m big on color but in good taste. I definitely like to incorporate a sophisticated but classic look to my style. When it's time to be casual a nice polo and jeans is a must. For a more debonair look, a mandarin collar or double breasted suit will do. My personal style really reflects my outgoing and strong headed personality.
Whose taste of fashion do you admire and why?
Carlos: I would have to say Kenneth Cole. His designs embodies a unmatched sophistication that everyman should experience. I would love to do a print model campaign for him if the opportunity was offered to me.
Can't live without clothing item?
Carlos: If it’s not fashionable I won’t wear it.
Now going back to your musical background, tell us why you changed from wanting to be a performer to an industry person and why?
Carlos: Music has always been my passion every since I was growing up as a child. I think I was in love with the idea of being a singer but never took the time out to know what it really entails. Stage fright has always gotten the best of me so I had to figure out how can I still be a part of the music industry without being on the stage. I remember sitting there listening to music and all of a sudden lyrics would just come to my mind. It may sound hard to believe but I feel we all have hidden talents that are yet to be discovered.
You departed from it and then returned?
Carlos: I wanted to explore other opportunities and spend more time with my family. Opening up a new chapter in Real Estate was a challenge but never felt as good as Entrepreneurship. Starting something you can say is your own was the ultimate dream and since music has always been my passion, going back felt right.
In relation to the current musical scene- what type of music do you like to listen to?
Carlos: Well I like to listen to Pop, Pop/Rock, R&B, Pop/R&B, Jazz, Dance Pop, Country/Pop, Gospel and a little Hip-Hop with a positive message of course. Artists like Usher, Black Eyed Peas, Elton John, Beyonce,Mary J. Blige,Trey Songz,Alicia Keys, Whitney Houston (R.I.P), Joe, Lionel Richie, Be Be & Ce Ce Winans , Akon, Robin Thicke, Kenny G, Mariah Carey, Marvin Gaye, Quincy Jones, Avant, Michael Mcdonald, Christina Aguilera, Mint Condition, Maxwell, Kool & the Gang, Toni Braxton, The Brothers Johnson etc.
Which musician do you admire the most, and why?
Carlos: The musician that I admire the most is Prince which I followed his career since the beginning during 1979. He is really before his time and is a Great, Great entertainer and artist. Not only he’s a phenomenal Songwriter but a very down to earth person.
Favorite Bands?
Carlos: My favorite bands are the Isley Brothers, Earth, Wind and Fire, The Gap Band, Switch, After 7, Toto, Atlantic Starr, The Jacksons - the list goes on.
Favorite song?
Carlos: “Pray for the Children” is a positive song dedicated to todays generation. You see all the things going on with drugs, crime, rape and killing with our youth and the world in general. I wrote this song about this worldwide crisis to spread a message of hope, prosperity and equality for all.
Who would you most like to have the opportunity to work with?
Carlos: I would love to work with Babyface, Brian Mcknight, Charlie Wilson, Prince and many other great icons.
Who has been most influential in shaping your career?
Carlos: I grew with all the popular 70‘s groups so it played a big influence on how I looked at music. Michael Jackson (R.I.P) would have to be the one artist who I wanted to pattern my career after especially from a songwriters point of view.
What inspires you to work as hard as you do?
Carlos: God and my family inspire me to continue to pursue my goals and continue to enjoy life. I know that I wouldn’t have made it this far with my businesses if I fed into the negativity of others.
What do you do in your your spare time?
Carlos: I’m a huge movie buff and enjoy reading and keeping fit and staying healthy.
What is the best thing in your life?
Carlos: My love for God, Family and Friends.
What could you not live without?
Carlos: Family, believing in God and music. These are the 3 main things I couldn’t live without. Of course we all need money to survive but that shouldn’t be your main purpose for living.
Describe your idea of a perfect day?
Carlos: Taking a staycation at the Montelucia Resort & Spa and a dining experience at True Food Kitchen.
Summarise yourself in three words
Carlos: Determination, Dedication and Perseverance.
What does luxury mean to you?
Carlos: Beautiful things and exotic places around the world along with exclusive items made for elites.
Your motto?
Carlos: “It’s the long run that counts when trying to make it up the corporate ladder”. Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do the impossible. Don’t let anyone steal your dreams!
