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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Howard Hewett.

Legendary R&B vocalist and former frontman of Shalamar—joins Rushion McDonald to reflect on his early career, his rise through the music industry, and the philosophy that fueled his longevity. Hewett recounts growing up in Akron, Ohio, his early professional singing experiences, and ultimately his path to Los Angeles where he worked in show groups before joining Shalamar.

A large portion of the discussion focuses on preparation, visualization, integrity, and being ready when opportunities show up. Hewett reveals the remarkable story of how he joined Shalamar: a surprise phone call during a tense meeting at the Motown building, followed by an audition the next day, a flight to meet the group, and a TV performance within 72 hours.

The interview blends career storytelling, business lessons, and personal philosophy—making it valuable for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone pursuing long-term success.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

Rushion McDonald brings Hewett on to:

Share real-world lessons from a 40+ year entertainment career.
Highlight professional preparation, mindset, and integrity as keys to sustained success.
Inspire listeners to embrace vision, self-belief, and business readiness—especially small business owners and creatives.
Pull back the curtain on the origin story of Shalamar's most iconic lineup and Hewett’s personal development journey.

This episode is crafted as both an inspirational masterclass and a historical narrative.

💡 Key Takeaways

1. Preparation is the difference-maker

Hewett emphasizes that being in the right place is useless unless you’re prepared. His decades of singing before Shalamar prepared him for the moment he had to sing on the spot for Dick Griffey.

Lesson: Preparation turns chance into opportunity.

2. Visualization is a powerful tool

After moving to California, Hewett meditated and visualized every day by the pool—imagining performing for audiences of thousands and negotiating high-paying gigs.

Lesson: Vision boards and mental rehearsal help create your future.

3. Integrity is a non-negotiable asset

Even when offered the biggest opportunity of his life (joining Shalamar), Hewett insisted on giving Motown a chance to fix their mistake because he gave them his word.

Lesson: Integrity strengthens your reputation more than any contract.

4. Career breakthroughs come fast—when you’re ready

Within three days:

Friday: received offer from Shalamar
Saturday: auditioned for Dick Griffey
Sunday: rehearsed
Monday: filmed a TV performance

Lesson: Momentum happens suddenly, but only to the prepared.

5. Value of small beginnings

From gospel singing at 10 to small clubs, to overseas show groups—every stage built foundation and resilience.

Lesson: Don’t despise early stages; they prepare you for later success.

6. The music industry requires adaptability & consistency

Hewett’s story shows how artists must navigate gigs, shaky contracts, and unreliable companies—but maintain professionalism.

Lesson: Talent opens the door; discipline keeps you in the room.

🗣️ Notable Quotes (From the Transcript)

On professionalism:

“You're professional when you can sustain yourself… when this is how you pay your bills.”

On visualization:

“Every day… I would go down to the pool and just visualize what I wanted to do.”
“I visualize singing in front of thousands of people.”

On preparation:

“Right place, right time is important. But people forget the most important part—be prepared.”

On integrity:

“Your word is worth more than any piece of paper you could ever sign.”

On the Shalamar turning point:

“That changed my whole life.”
“If I wasn’t what they needed right then, they already had another cat in mind.”

On life purpose:

“All those things… were preparing me for that moment.”

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

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