Kristina Rogic took her undying love of music and entertainment and turned it into a career. In 2016, Rogic opened the doors to Lock & Key Entertainment, and since then, she has spent the time constantly building her company and exposing clients to wider audiences.
Knowing just how difficult and cutthroat the entertainment industry can be, Rogic set up Lock & Key as a one-stop shop for clients. From recording and producing music to branding, Lock & Key works with a variety of artists and entertainers to develop their careers to move to the next level.
Lock & Key has achieved tremendous success in just a short time and Rogic knows it is due to her dedication and 24-hours a day work ethic. Recently, Rogic took some time off to speak with Totalprestige Magazine about the company and what it can do for musicians and entertainers looking to fulfil their dreams.
Kristina, Lock & Key Entertainment has a combination of services for clients. Can you explain just what Lock & Key is all about and its variety of amazing products?
Lock & Key Entertainment is a one-stop shop for anything entertainment. The hardest thing in the industry is to figure out what your next step is, or in some cases, how to get there. I decided to make it easier for everyone. Why not come to one location where your entire career can be taken care of? The entertainment industry has a vast array of talents, so I managed to separate them into organized entities. We also represent and brand the person and/or product to their full potential, guiding every necessary action for all challenges ahead.
How did you get into the music and entertainment industry and what drew you to it?
Through the power of words and sound. My mom was a great influence on me and always made sure music surrounded us. Whether it was purchasing her girls a radio, or playing her favorite cassettes, she always made it fun. It broadened my interest and I wanted to know more. When I first picked up a microphone at the age of 16 and said a few words in front of a crowd that left them speechless. It was then that I truly understood how powerful words and sounds are.
You have worked with a variety of individuals in entertainment. What is it like working with new clients and helping them build their careers?
I have never felt so helpful in my life as I do now. My sole purpose for starting this company was to help people network and launch their careers. It’s tough out there, but regardless of each outcome, the journey is always a learning experience. Knowing that each client is happy is all I strive for.
As the Lock & Key website states, music is very important to you, and that is why you started a record label. Firstly, can you tell us about the record label? What are some of the difficulties with running a music label in 2019?
Music will always be important to everyone, including Lock & Key. It heals, it motivates, it guides. Yet, it can be discouraging when creating it. I’d say the most difficult time for a label is when the artist feels discouraged because of how much time the process can take. It’s normal to want things to happen right away, but without proper structure or timing, the artist will have trouble advancing their career. We started this label not to charge our service and walk away, but rather to guide clients and set them on a proper path so they can become independent. The music industry is one of the hardest industries to break into, but it’s also one of the most fulfilling once all projects are completed.
Lock & Key will enter its third year of existence in May 2019. Can you tell us about the company’s growth over the last few years and how it has reached this point?
In the beginning, the structure was what took the longest to set up. Being a one-stop shop for the entertainment industry takes a lot of research, time and sleepless nights. Three years later, it’s still the same amount of work! But we now have official sponsorship from the Divine 9 company, who has been critical in guiding our expansion. We have established a DJ and Events department, Music Production department, Video Production Department, and started our very own radio station, L & K Radio.
As a Canadian company do you see differences in individuals getting into the entertainment industry in Canada compared to other countries?
It’s tough everywhere. Period. Working internationally, however, you do notice how each country has its own guidelines and cultural differences, so it’s important to adapt and respect each place as if they were a part of your own family. As long as respect is given, you’ll usually get it back, and in this industry, respect must always be first.
In terms of management and representation for artists, what are the key reasons entertainers should partner with a management company?
One of the most important reasons is guidance. It ties into respect, loyalty and love for anyone who’s trying to move forward.
Branding is one of the services offered by Lock & Key. In the modern age with YouTube, social media, and other online outlets, how important is branding to an entertainer?
With the high competition that social media creates in almost every market, proper branding is not only important but has now become mandatory for every entertainer. Regardless of the person’s talent, I ensure that each client understands how important it is that they brand themselves. From colors to structure, and consistency on social media on a daily basis, branding is now a determining factor for how clients move forward in their careers.
What goals are the company looking to achieve in 2019?
The current goals we are working towards are launching our radio station, opening our first location with top producers in Canada, and shooting our first TV show. We are also working on launching a lot more international events with top entertainers. By the end of the year, my Acting and Casting Department should be up and running, along with a dance studio aimed to prepare choreographies for artists of different genres.
What advice can you give aspiring musicians, singers, and other entertainers looking to break into the industry?
I’ve seen a few situations where patience was needed and, like most people, the stress would get to them. The last thing anyone should feel is discouraged when it comes to their passion. Remaining humble and having respect and love for your team is always the best way to go.
Kristina, what is a day in your life like?
I wish there was enough room for this question. To summarize, I constantly work. I can’t remember the last time I’ve taken the day off to do absolutely nothing. But I’m not complaining. I love what I do and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
I tend to read people before they know I’m doing it. I find out their true values and what makes them passionate, without even knowing I’m putting them on the path they desire. I absolutely love hearing about people doing greater things in life, especially the things they were meant to do, and if one conversation helps, then I’m all ears.
What makes you smile?
My mom’s love and her comedic ways are something I can always rely on to make me smile. Without her and my sisters being there for me, I would have trouble seeing the positive in the darkest of times. Writing music is another thing that makes me extremely happy. And music itself will definitely put a smile on my face.
What scares you?
Heights and, believe it or not, horror movies. The sound always gets to me and makes me jump at the littlest things!
Do you have any hobbies?
I’m a huge gamer! I love testing or playing video games whenever I get a chance. It’s been rare lately, but when I do find some time, I will always enjoy a video game and their newly developed storylines or graphics.
Which historical figure do you most admire?
Tupac Shakur was always someone I looked up too musically. His flow and lyrical messages were powerful and still influence the entire world to this day. For the business side of me, I’m stuck between Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos. They are both amazing entrepreneurs and I strive to emulate their work ethic and passion for business.
Can you share your two favorite quotes with us?
“How people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours.” – Dr. Wayne Dyer
“Experience is a brutal teacher, but you learn. My God, do you learn.” – C.S. Lewis
If you had the power to change just one thing in the world, what would it be?
I cannot believe that there are people out there that go hungry. I would love to abolish hunger in any way possible, from charities to fundraising events, and give back to all communities.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
If I can say one thing to everyone who feels like giving up, please don’t. Every morning when you wake up is a blessing, and every night is another step towards the journey you desire. Keep smiling.
For more information on Kristina Rogic and Lock & Key Entertainment, please visit https://lockandkeyent.com.
