Meet Jake Niles | Player 1 Productions CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jake Niles and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jake, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The concept for the Player 1 Project/Player 1 Productions is derived from a deep passion for the culture and community of Electronic Dance Music and to highlight the talents of the southeast. The idea and mission of Player 1 is to instill through our work is that everyone as an individual can take control of their reality and carve the path they want in life, we hope by providing unique expressive experiences people find this in themselves and strive to become the best version of themselves. I started in 2018 with the brand idea after going to my first music festival and falling in love with videogame sound design and scratching/ turntablism, Sound systems physics, and the idea of running a company. We hope to provide education on sound system culture and how sound systems work, push the talented artist on our roster in the south east, and continue fostering our brand and the community we serve by continuing to work with clients of all walks of life and provide the highest quality produced events and experiences in the Carolinas. We’ve partnered with major festivals such as, Sound Haven, Hidden City, St. Pats in 5 pts. and artists like, Daily Bread, the Widdler. I have learned that you must always be kind and do what is right. Do not let egos get in the way continuously find new mentors and know when your goldfish has out grown its bowel. The future hold new partnerships with Ever On Event productions, and Kouch Kollective, building and designing new and innovative sound systems for the public, education for the youth and community events while also acquiring CNC machines and printing shop capabilities to streamline company operations and productivity.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets me and my team apart is our relentless drive and determination, coupled with a deep understanding that collaboration is key to achieving shared
goals. We thrive on combining our strengths and perspectives to reach our goals.

I’m immensely proud of the trust we’ve earned from respected agencies like Kouch Kollective and the opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders such as Dave Veller and IGG Live. These relationships are built on a foundation of mutual respect and a shared commitment to our community

I’m most excited about our growth trajectory, expanding collaborations with other companies, and our involvement in more music festivals. We’re dedicated to producing high-quality shows at a fraction of the usual cost, gaining recognition and momentum in the industry. We’re determined to drive positive change in our field.

My journey has been fueled by a thirst for knowledge, a willingness to roll up my sleeves and dive in, and unwavering support from friends, family, and believers in the impact we’re making within the local EDM community. Overcoming challenges has taught me the value of kindness in business, the power of networking, and the importance of identifying mentors.

I’ve learned that practicing kindness yields the best results. Networking and seeking guidance from mentors have been instrumental in navigating challenges. I firmly believe that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve their goals with determination and effort. As the saying goes, ‘The magic you’re seeking is often found in the work you’re avoiding. Become Player 1 of your reality.’ Embracing this mindset has been pivotal in my journey.

Our brand stands as a testament to the belief that hard work and passion can lead to unimaginable growth.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We might start by inviting everyone to explore the serene Saluda River, a true gem of Columbia where guests can immerse themselves in nature’s tranquility and cool off on a hot day. Next, we’d head over to the Hallow for dinner. It’s a local hotspot known for its fantastic ambiance and delicious food. We’d cap off the night by heading over to Bang Back Pinball Lounge, a favorite spot where we host EDM nights every Wednesday.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I owe a tremendous amount of gratitude to several individuals and organizations who have been instrumental in my journey. Firstly, Zack Poe and Spears Moose deserve special recognition for their unwavering belief in my dream.

Fred Richardson, the owner of Bang Back Pinball, has been another key figure. His mentorship and partnership have not only enriched our events but also helped us grow in the community. I’d also like to acknowledge Louis Piotti of After Shock for his guidance and collaboration, which have been invaluable in expanding our reach and impact.

In addition to these individuals, I’ve been fortunate to have outstanding mentors in the audio industry. Tiz Laney of Phase 11 Sound and Albert Nunez of Kink Audio have been influential mentors who have generously shared their expertise and insights, helping me hone my craft and navigate challenges in sound production. Their collective support has been fundamental in achieving milestones and pushing boundaries in my career. I am truly grateful for their belief in me and their contributions to my journey.

Website: https://www.player1productionsllc.com/

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