One of the pillars of the music industry are its videographers. These creatives are the "eye" of the music world. They envision what goes into a music video, documenting performances, and more. They bring musician's ideas to life! An impressive and exuberant example is Forest Hipp! We had the chance to interview this young entrepreneur about his experience in the music industry as a videographer, artist manager, record label owner, and more! Check it out!
ACE: Tell us about Lucky Dice Entertainment.
Forest: Lucky Dice is an entertainment company based out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin that specializes in video production, artist management, and events. We aim to shoot the best music videos and concert recaps for your favorite artists while at the same time building up and promoting the artists we represent. We also host many events, such as concerts, artist showcases, and meet and greets.
ACE: How young were you when you became involved in the music industry?
Forest: I became interested in the music industry at a very young age, but became involved at the age of 14 when I started following the local Milwaukee music scene. I flew out to Maryland to shoot my first music video at age 16 and signed my first group of artists at age 17. It's been a crazy ride. Managing artists, shooting music videos, and running a business started to take most of my attention away from ‘normal’ high school kid activities, but I never doubted my vision for a second. I solidified the belief in myself when I found myself on stage with Polo G in late summer of 2021. Just a few months later, the same situation occurred with Kevin Gates. I never looked back.
ACE: Who are some of your role models? Who inspires you?
Forest: I have a lot of role models, the foremost being my father. His work ethic is unlike anyone I have ever met. He is a full time teacher and runs numerous businesses outside of school. He wakes up early and doesn't stop working until about 9 or 10 at night. That hustle and work ethic fueled my entrepreneurial side. Conversely, I draw my creative inspiration from video director and CEO of Lyrical Lemonade, Cole Bennett. I love to watch Cole Bennett’s videos because everytime I click on one, it is completely different from the one he directed before. His creativity is limitless. His ‘come up’ story is also very inspiring.
ACE: What can you tell us about the artists that are involved with Lucky Dice Entertainment?
Forest: I’ll sum them up in two words: Huge. Potential. We manage a diverse roster of artists ranging from hip-hip to alternative rock. Some of our artists, Like SBE KP, have already proven themselves, breaking hundreds of thousands of streams consistently. Others have not had their opportunity in the spotlight yet. However, I can speak on behalf of their talent and strongly believe that they will be household names in the next couple of years.
ACE: How many shows have you been involved with?
Forest: I have been involved in many shows, but Polo G and Kevin Gates have been my biggest opportunities thus far. I really enjoy concert work. Sold out arenas, roaring crowds and flashing cameras have become a regular part of my life. Recently, I have been shooting shows weekly and have been coordinating our own events behind the scenes. We are set to have some headlining performances coming up this winter.
ACE: Who are some artists that you have done work for?
Forest: I have done work for Polo G, Kevin Gates, DDG, SBE KP, Half-Off, and many more. I’ve been blessed enough to build relationships with my clients and have created some life long memories along the way. It does not even feel like work, as I wake up everyday excited about what I have going on. Everything involved in my life brings me joy, including working with new clients, filming new projects, and meeting some of my supporters. I have so much gratitude for everybody who has reached out or has given me an opportunity to work. I'm blessed to be in this position.
ACE: How can an artist get in contact with you?
Forest: Artists can contact me via instagram (@xoforest) or email (forest@itsluckydice.com)
ACE: What goes into filming and editing? Can you tell us about the equipment you use?
Forest: There's a lot of things that go into filming and editing. However, I think that your own creativity is the most important part. You have to create a vision in your mind and then bring it to life through the camera. The hardest part for me in the editing process is choosing my favorite clips. I can be very indecisive. My favorite cameras that I use at the moment are the Black Magic Pocket Cinema Camera and Sony A7siii. The frames and resolution they get are incredible. I also use many DJI products including gimbals and drones.
ACE: What are your future plans or goals?
Forest: Some of my long term goals include collaborating with either Cole Bennett, Jerry Production, Keemotion, or Colin Tilley. They are some of my favorite video directors. In terms of business aspirations, I plan to roll out some big headline concerts in 2022, and shoot some even bigger production videos with some of rap's hottest artists.
ACE: Is there anyone specific you want to work with?
Forest: For some reason, I think Wiz Khalifa and I would be really good friends. So probably Wiz Khalifa. I watch a lot of his vlog style videos and he seems like a really fun guy to be around. Aside from that, I would also love to work with Lil Uzi Vert, Moneybagg Yo, Lil Baby, and the Migos.
We will definitely be keeping an eye on Forest, Lucky Dice, and his artists! We are extremely excited for him. Forest is an inspiration to many young people who wish to enter the music industry. Follow your dreams and never give up! Check out his website:
https://www.itsluckydice.com
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