Many people reflect back on their college years as a whirlwind of activity and discovery. For Bryan-Michael Cox, those years spawned much more, and now he is taking the world by storm. Recognized as Billboard Magazine's #1 Music Producer, the 26 year old Houston native has worked with such artists as Usher, Alicia Keys, Jessica Simpson and Maxwell. For four years, Bryan has been designated SESAC's Songwriter of the Year. He is also the only music producer to shatter the Beatles record for The Most Consecutive #1 Hits on the Billboard Hot 100. Bryan Michael Cox is undeniably the man to have behind the scenes for an artist who wants to leave a lasting impression with both their lyrics and music.
While attending The Performing Arts High School in Houston Bryan began to develop his musical talents and had the opportunity to work with then classmate, Beyonce on the future demo for Destiny's Child. After beginning his college career at home he decided to make a change and in 1997 voyaged to Atlanta, where he enrolled in Clark Atlanta University (CAU) as a Music major.
When asked what prompted the move to Atlanta Bryan says, "I came to Atlanta to get on. Didn't know how I was going to do it, but that's why I came."
While at CAU Bryan took the initiative to seek out ground floor opportunities in the music industry to improve and mold his talents. It wasn't until he picked up a flyer on campus that led him to Noontime Productions that he finally got the chance to get his feet wet. During his internship he did whatever needed to be done, because he wanted the experience.
"I was just hustlin'. It was very valuable for me to get in and work." He says.
Bryan's talents did not go unnoticed and Noontime eventually signed him. Working with Jagged Edge led to a meeting with Jermaine Dupri and his career took flight. As a part of So So Def he worked with the likes of Lil Bow Wow, Da Brat and Monica.
At that time, Bryan says, "The scheduling was out of control."
Bryan has things under control now, but his schedule is just a packed as ever. He spends the majority of his time in Atlanta, but you might also spot him in Houston, LA, or New York.
Everyone always wants to know how songwriters come up with lyrics.
"I pull on the life experiences of the artists." He goes on to explain how one of the songs he recently authored, "Bad Habit" was inspired by a conversation he had with group member Kelly Rowland. He also confirms that many of the songs on Usher's album are based loosely on the singer's experiences. Bryan weaves snippets of his own life into the writing process. "Whatever is going on with you emotionally, you write it." He concludes.
In the immediate future Bryan is working on new projects with Mariah Carey and American Idol Fantasia. He is also focused on the development of his new R&B act, Dirty Rose.
During the AUC Homecoming season its only natural to think about the bonds and connections made during those years on the yard. Bryan is thankful for those experiences and acknowledges their impact.
"There are a lot of people in the industry. There is so much of an AUC connection. We break bread with each other and make it happen." He says.
Homecoming is definitely a time we can all network and reminisce, but like Bryan, even after we go our separate ways, let's continue to "make it happen."
