A WOMAN’S GUIDE TO CLIMBING THE LADDER OF
SUCCESS IN THE ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS
 
 LETTER # 1

Hi Shanti,

"I read your book over the weekend and loved it.  You did a great job outlining a realistic and tangible blueprint for success in the entertainment business, or really any profession for that matter.  I think a lot of women will find great encouragement from the insight
you give into your journey and how it took an immense amount of faith and diligence to make it to the top.  When I first decided to move to New York, I went to the bookstore in search of a biography about someone who chased a dream and saw it come true to encourage me in my decision.  I ended up reading the Alchemist and loved it but your book
is exactly what I was looking for at that time.  Thanks for sharing your story!."

- SHAKYNA

 
 
 LETTER # 3

"Shanti Das has written a conversational yet compelling narrative for students and young aspiring Urban Music professionals which I will call virtual mentoring. Shanti does a nice job of keeping the reader engaged while providing enough tangible examples about her career trajectory and work ethic to drive her overarching points of tenacity, character, integrity, true self, resolve, commitment, and sacrifice. With short, motivational chapters, Shanti's book is a fast read but one that students can refer to quickly for a boost of confidence or for a sharp reality check.

While slanted toward a female audience, this book is appropriate for all. Perhaps one of the most compelling chapters includes an expansive list of several of the women in the seat of power in media. I thought that this chapter in particular will speak to young women who are unclear about their true career options. However, the book may also send a strong message to young men - respectful treatment of women is key because they may be YOUR boss. I do also appreciate that Shanti took the approach of celebrating male artists and executives that shine and whose character and professionalism, and mentorship, is so valued.

As a music business consultant and educator, I would love to see Shanti write a lengthier, more detailed version of her story, filled with some of play by play behind the success of her brand and business acumen. That said, my desire to read more from Shanti speaks to how well she provides a snapshot of her career path, encourages the value of mentorship and education, warns against falling into the woodwork or feeling entitled, and more. This book is about hustle and humility. And students would be well served to take note of all the people who she names in the book. These are key industry figures and students should have immediate recognition. Props to Shanti Das for helping facilitate that awareness.

- DARCIE-NICOLE WICKNICK
"...ASK DARCIE" MUSIC BUSINESS CONSULTING
THE BOSTON HIP-HOP ALLIANCE

 
 LETTER # 4

"Just wanted to let you know that I sat down today and read your book straight through. All I can say is thank you. I feel so relieved to know that you have experienced some of the exact same things as myself. It is comforting to know that the way I think and carry myself as an aspiring business woman, isn't something unsual. 

For the first time, I feel like I have met a woman who is real, successful and above all tangible.  Being raised in the "hood" of Tampa, FL in a middle class family and the youngest of six, I have never been exposed to business women of your caliber. For that reason, I don't think I can thank you enough for your encouragement and now guidance. Since graduating from Howard in May, I felt like I was at a transition point, not sure what the next step would be and not having anyone I felt understood me, to turn to... but through this book I am feeling pretty confident and enthused to continue to broaden my network and seek opportunities. And as you mentioned in your book, I have way more male mentors than women, so I will also be doing my research on many of the women listed throughout your book in efforts to reach out.

So again, the book was a great read and I am definitely going to be passing this book around for my girls to read! Smile

- Sincerely,
JEANETTE HORDGE

 
 LETTER # 5

Hey, whats up!?

I read your book...it was very inspiring and motivational. I just want let you know that I was very impressed by your work ethic and your will to succeed - No wonder why you have been so successful. Great Work!


- Bob Sanders of the Indianapolis Colts NFL Football Team

 
 LETTER # 6

Shanti..

i am soooooooo  proud of you!!
loved the book!!!.  great advice. and so needed!!  your words renewed me.. to execute many things on my TO DO LIST. to continue to grow and stretch myself..
You are an exceptional ,elegant, brilliant and beautiful Black Woman!!
i give thanks  . .for YOU!!!
GOD and the ancestors are very very proud !
thanks for allowing me to be apart of your life!

love you dearly
ROCK ON!
angela robinson
syracuse alum - the newhouse school

 
 LETTER # 7

"I know this is from a woman's point of view, but I have been telling my son "Eric" for years what you're saying. I thank you for writing this book. I am making him read this and telling him this is how it's done in any field he wants to get in."

Eric Alvarado!
Senior Colorist at Prime Focus