Today we’d like to introduce you to Zalika “Zstar” Thomas.
Zalika, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My professional journey began to blossom at the age of 23 as a runway model and an actor. I was introduced to modeling by a casting director who strongly suggested I get into modeling. I encountered the casting director at a print/copy store in Dallas. However, she was not the only one who often asked if I was a model. I finally pursued a career and quickly got an agent and a year later I started acting class and worked on many projects such as Prison Break, Walking Tall: The Payback, Howlers and currently Just Between Us Girls. I have trained with Theresa Bell, Daniel Foster, Michele Condrey, Ken Farmer, Lee Peterson and attended KD Studios. Since then I’ve worked with various companies such as, JcPenney, Neiman Marcus, TIGI Hair Show, Aveda Hair Show, D.I.F.F.A., Fashion Week and many more.
Modeling allowed me to network and venture into other areas and eventually led me into acting. I started acting classes at Kim Dawson Studios and started training with acting coaches such as, Theresa Bell, Daniel Foster, Michele Condrey, Ken Farmer and Lee Peterson. I have acted in several Independent films such as Walking Tall: The Payback, Killing Holly, Howlers and currently Just Between Us Girls. In doing that I really fell in love with the behind the scenes aspect of film and expanded my interests by helping out as stand-in, camera operator, stunts, production assistant, shows like Prison Break, reality shows, etc. This ultimately led to directing and producing tv shows/music videos
With this experience under my belt coupled with my love for music since I was a kid, I ventured into the world of Music Management. I managed recording artists, 46 & Clark, an extremely talented duo from Dallas/Atlanta. I had no formal training when it came to the music industry but I welcomed the challenge! This not only led me to learning more about the music business and how it actually works but I started to see how I could use my previous talents of film making and modeling in my managing style. Being an all around creative I wanted to offer my team and other clients I consult with additional services so I included directing and producing music videos along with hosting casting calls for actors and models to be featured in those videos. I had the opportunity to work with Tay Money (Geffen/Interscope), Yella Beezy (Hitco), Erica Banks (Warner), Yung Nation, Mike Jones, C Struggs, 52 Savage. Funny how that all worked out.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Working in this industry can surely be fun however there are struggles. I found it difficult being a woman working in the music business, in particular. I take pride in my work and I like results. Unfortunately, some people may want treats, if you know what I mean, and I am not here for that. I have a lot of self-reverence. On the other hand, working with recording artists can be a challenge as well. This doesn’t apply to everyone but some artists require a lot of attention, to say the least. However, guiding these artists through their music career is so rewarding, especially watching them perform. As I work with artists I develop their stage presence, give them media training and help them discover other talents they embody, and bring them to life. I also help them set up their music career as a business and teach them about royalties. Although the music business generates a lot of income, you don’t start off making the big bucks, certainly not from an artist management standpoint. Surrounding yourself around people who have good intentions is key. It will not happen overnight. I have been working in this business for 10 years and it has had its fair shares of struggles and success.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am currently operating in my three talent areas of Filmmaking, Modeling, and Music as a Consultant/Brand Manager/Producer/Director. I still scratch my creative itch by offering filmmaking services and hosting events. I am also the co-host of an award winning podcast called Da Realist Radio Show with George Lopez, the founder of T-Town Music and manager of Legendary Dallas Rap Group, DSR. During the pandemic I really felt it was time to create my own space to not only work in but make available to other creatives in the DFW area as well, so I opened my new studio called Zstarrock Productions located in Downtown Dallas. It caters to photographs and videographers with different set designs and even has a recording booth for those who want to craft music. It really is a proud moment for me to have my own studio and I’m beyond thankful for my amazing team Lindsay, Nitzia, Kyra and Shavoia for assisting me in the launch and continual growth of Zstarrock Productions. It’s exciting to have your own space to create in. I would say my bravery sets me apart from others. No matter what the job may be or how big the project is I will take it on with the best team and execute effectively.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was a tomboy growing up. I enjoyed playing outside and using my imagination. I remember playing with dirt, leaves, and rocks and creating my own store. I always wanted my own business. I was bossy and the leader most of the time. I became an athlete in track and field at the age of 8 years old and that led to basketball, soccer, and volleyball. I was very competitive! I attended Business & Management Magnet School and that is where I discovered my love for accounting. I was a part of almost every club at my school such as The YearBook Club (Photographer), Close-Up Club (D.C. Trip about Politics), Business Professionals of America (Public Speaker), The Library Club (Photographer), Folklorico (Dancer). Growing up in Dallas was fun! I have a lot of family and friends here. I always dreamed of being in front of bright lights with movie stars. I watched a lot of music videos to learn the dance routines. I would walk around listening to various genres of music which led me to write my first screenplay at the age of 14 years old. I can honestly say, I am doing the things I imagined as a child.
Pricing:
- $50/hour (Video/Photo Studio)
- $50/hour (Audio Booth)
- $250 Brand Consultation (2 hours)
Contact Info:
- Website: shorturl.at/epyDK
- Instagram: shorturl.at/qPQ07
- Facebook: shorturl.at/jqrKS
- Twitter: shorturl.at/lELO0
- Youtube:shorturl.at/ipGNZ
- Yelp: shorturl.at/fntxJ
- Other: shorturl.at/btwKR
