True Youngblood: Balancing Studies and a Budding Music Row Career

The third-year student navigates music business studies with a newly minted publishing deal

At 21, True Youngblood isn't your typical Belmont University junior. While most of his peers are focused on their studies and internships, Youngblood is juggling a full music business course load with a newly inked publishing deal on Music Row. 

The Hiawassee, Georgia, native chose Belmont for its proximity to Nashville's country music scene. "It's in Nashville, it's on the country music home court," Youngblood said. "I thought that was the coolest thing ever." 

Youngblood's talent caught the attention of industry professionals during his sophomore year, leading to a publishing deal with MV2 Entertainment and an artist development deal with New Lost City Records. His break came through a series of serendipitous events that Youngblood calls "the butterfly effect." A chance performance at Café Coco, where he played Tyler Childers' unreleased song "Jersey Giant," was posted to his Instagram story. This clip found its way to executives at MV2 Entertainment and the rest is history. Youngblood recently released his debut single, "If I Were a Cowboy," marking a significant milestone in his budding career. 

This early success, however, hasn't deterred him from his studies. As a music business major specializing in production, Youngblood finds his coursework directly applicable to his emerging career. "It's given me such a good understanding of how the technical side of the industry works," he said. "I love knowing how to turn knobs [for audio]. I don't want to do that for a living, but I like knowing what I'm doing on it." 

Youngblood's Belmont experience has been shaped by influential professors who have shown genuine care for his success. Brad Wilson's dedication was evident in his willingness to share his personal cell phone number with students despite implementing a strict no-technology policy in class. Professor Valerie Quarles also played a pivotal role in Youngblood's academic journey before his publishing deal. Her frank discussions about his grades and belief in his potential motivated him to improve his studies significantly. Following her class, Youngblood committed to turning his grades around, demonstrating the lasting impact of faculty support on his educational journey. 

Maintaining both academic and professional commitments requires careful planning. Youngblood typically dedicates one day a week to completing assignments, freeing up time for songwriting and performances later in the week. A typical Monday sees him attending morning classes and then heading home for a practice session with his band. Some days include a stop at the MV2 office on Music Row to workshop new songs. Over weekends, he’s typically on the road playing shows in Georgia.  

Despite his early success, Youngblood's commitment to his education remains unwavering. His dedication stems from a desire to prove that he can excel academically while pursuing his music career. "It's something I know I can do, so it's just about proving it to myself, really." 

As Youngblood prepares to release new music, he carries practical insights from his studies. "You have to understand it's business," he notes. "Yes, it's creative, but it's also a business." He emphasizes the importance of his education, adding, "This industry can be full of sharks. Belmont has taught me what to look out for and given me a good foundation to build on."  

Nestled blocks from historic Music Row, Belmont offers students unparalleled access to the music industry. While attending classes, Youngblood is simultaneously navigating record deals, preparing for releases and dreaming of future tours. "In five years, I hope to be out on the road, maybe even play the Opry," he said. While attending classes, he can step out of a lecture and be at the MV2 offices in minutes, allowing him to blend his studies and professional life seamlessly.