Johnnie Walker

A Woman with Integrity

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m a small town girl with big city dreams who never let rejection or opinions stop her from achieving her goals.

Who is Ms. Johnnie Walker?

She’s a dreamer, an achiever… a woman who believes in the power of women.

What motivates you?

Things that I’m told I can’t do or things that most people believe won’t happen. I am also motivated by young people… I love their energy and tenacity.

What your strengths might be?

I’m a planner… I’m passionate, disciplined, focused and I deliver.

What is NABFEME?

The National Association of Black Female Executives in Music & Entertainment, Inc… a nonprofit, networking, empowerment and resource base for women in the business of music and entertainment. The organization was formed in 1999 and introduced to the industry in 2000… with members in 20 active Networks across the USA, Canada and Africa.

Also tell us about “Women Who Jam”?

Women Who Jam! (always with an exclamation point) is the music arm of NABFEME… it is a multi-cultural, multi-genre unique gathering place and visibility network designed to highlight groundbreaking women in music. We currently run an all-female radio show on 20 stations and produce live showcases around the country. Because of COVID-19, our showcases have become virtual, however they continue to excite audiences everywhere.

You led the Black Music Division of DreamWorks Records and holds the distinction of being named the first female Sr. Vice President of Promotion for Def Jam Recordings in 2005? Explain how that came about?

I started at Def Jam as a field rep and quickly advanced through the company because I brought a radio background into the operation. I was able to respond to radio in their language and navigate through our primary customer’s backyard.

What year did you join def jam recording?

1989

Name some of the artists you have worked with under the Def Jam umbrella.

LL Cool J, Montell Jordan, Sisqo & Dru Hill, Ludacris, Public Enemy, DMX, Ashanti, Kelly Price, and JaRule.

What interests you personally and professionally?

The advancement of the female agenda of empowerment, education, equality and inclusion.

Select an idea, activity, hobby, or skill you are gen- uinely passionate about?

Helping others.

Explain why you are passionate about it. Give us examples of how you have pursued this passion.

I do it everyday though my work at NABFEME, I am doing it right now at 2 in the morning answering these questions.

What do you do during a typical day?

Monitor the activities of our 20 networks, manage our websites, social media, appear in various virtual workshops, encourage and uplift our members, spend time with sponsors or potential sponsors. Listen to music, Manage the day-to-day operation of NABFEME and Women Who Jam!

What do you do when you are outside the office?

I walk 2-3 miles a day.

What are you most proud of regarding the company?

The women involved in our organization. They keep the wheels turning, they give of their time, energy and skill sets that benefit the growth and sustainability of the organization.

Why did you start or join this company?

Because of the lack of visibility of Black women in the music and entertainment industries. I wanted to create a place where Black women had a voice in an industry where they contributed greatly, yet were largely silent.

What is most important to your organization— mission, vision, or values?

While those three components are important, the most important factor to our organization is our membership. Our Members are our most important asset and our highest point of value.

How is your success measured?

By my accomplishments.

What is the ONE business challenge you can solve that would make the single biggest impact on the people around you?

Increased visibility for Black women in entertainment.

Do you have social media or a website?

All social media, nabfeme… www.NABFEME.org