Southern Legacy Presents

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A series of practical, focused sessions designed to help artists navigate the business and creative side of their careers. Led by industry professionals and experienced creatives, each Mini Masterclass tackles a specific challenge artists face and provides actionable insight, tools, and strategies they can put to work immediately.

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Building a Better Live Show

The Music Director’s Approach

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Music Direction for Summer Walker & EJ Jones

A great live show takes more than talent. From music direction and rehearsal preparation to communication and collaboration, this session explores what it takes to build a stronger live performance. Led by music director and producer Darnell Stoxstell, the class offers artists, aspiring MDs, and working musicians practical insight into bringing an artist’s vision to life on stage.

This is a FREE mini masterclass via Zoom

Date: Monday, October 26, 2026

Time: 7:00PM EDT

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    • Understand what makes an effective music director

    • Use practical tools to plan and build a stronger live show

    • Strengthen communication between artists, MDs, and musicians

    • Prepare for rehearsals and navigate the demands of live performance

  • Darnell Stoxstell (Southside Da’ro) is a professional musician, music director, producer, and artist with two Grammy nominations for his work in music production and bass. He has served as music director for Summer Walker and EJ Jones, toured with Lloyd, Blackstreet, and Teddy Riley, and played in live bands supporting performances by Ari Lennox and Justin Bieber.

    Beyond the stage, his production credits include “Gas Station Love” by EJ Jones, as well as his own project, “Honda 7.0.” His experience across live performance, touring, and music production has given him firsthand insight on the creative and technical demands of bringing an artist’s vision to life.

    In this session, he’ll share practical insight into the role of a music director, what artists should look for in an MD, and how effective leadership, preparation, and communication can help artists and musicians build a better live show.