That Time When New Black Film and TV Agents Open Shop in Atlanta

Significant strides are being made by African Americans in the TV and film industry, with noteworthy contributions from individuals like Tay Smith and Christopher Young. Two of The South’s leading African TV/Film Agents, Tay Smith and Christopher Young, continue to make waves at the J Pervis Talent Agency, affirming their status as the dynamic duo of talent representation.

Atlanta, often referred to as the new Black Hollywood due to its vibrant hip-hop music scene, the presence of Tyler Perry’s production studio, and the abundance of reality shows, is also home to a thriving film industry. Among the key players in this industry are talent agents Christopher Young and Tay Smith, who are making a name for themselves as the hardest-working, African TV/film agents in the entire southeastern region.

Rising Stars at J Pervis Talent Agency

Working under the banner of the J Pervis Talent Agency, Smith and Young have created a synergy that continues to fuel theatrical bookings with innovative flair and fresh faces. The duo, both of whom have backgrounds in creative management, career direction, and music production, are dedicated to enhancing the agency’s brand.

Christopher Young: Industry Veteran

Christopher Young, a Trenton, NJ native, is an industry veteran with over two decades of experience. He is credited with discovering and developing Grammy -winning , Johnta’ Austin, and renowned producer Garrett Hamler, better known as Sean Garrett. Young’s career has seen him serve as the general manager for NBA star Tyrone Hill’s All Net Records and as a product manager and A&;R executive at Pastor Creflo and Taffi Dollar’s Arrow Records.

Tay Smith: The “P-Diddy” of His Town

Tay Smith, on the other hand, founded and headed his own music production company, Yungsta Entertainment, in North Carolina. His company quickly gained traction, especially with lead recording artist T-LyriQ, positioning Smith as a major player in the music scene.

Moving Into Television and Film

In 2012, Young and Smith decided to transition into television and film. They joined the J Pervis Talent Agency team in 2013, and within a year, they had established their unique approach to signing talent. Their new signings include actor Columbus Short (“Scandal”), WWE wrestler, David Otunga, hip-hop music artist/actor Zane “Lil Zane” Copeland, T.I.’s son Messiah Harris, and “R&;B Divas” reality star LaTavia Roberson.

Looking Beyond Just Bookings

Smith and Young’s work extends beyond just booking gigs; they also focus on honing and crafting careers. Their unique approach, driven by their experience working closely with talent on the management side, enables them to understand the needs and concerns of their clients, creating career longevity and brand building.

To follow their journey, you can reach Tay Smith and Chris Young at the J Pervis Talent Agency at chris@jpervistalent.com and tay@jpervistalent.com. Also, be sure to follow them on Twitter and Instagram: Chris is @ceomgmt and Tay is @taysmithent.

#MusicIndustry #TalentManagement #FilmIndustry #Atlanta #BlackHollywood