Legendary NJ Music Executive Shares Incredible Life Story

By Anthony Orlando
NJ Urban News

Raised in Hackensack, New Jersey, like most kids, Mark Green was in love with music. But for him, it was more of a passion, realizing in 8th grade that he wanted to do something in music, beginning his journey as one of the industry’s most influential agents and executives.

Throughout his childhood, Green always fought for what he wanted, refusing to give up on his dream. For instance, when a mysterious illness supposedly left him paralyzed and in a wheelchair when he was 11, Green never gave up on himself and made a full recovery six months later. 

Green even went on to become a record-breaking track star and had considered pursuing an athletic career. However, when he was forced to choose between sports and music, Green picked the latter and continued to pursue his passion.

“I wanted to be a performer, but I think I realized later on that I had limited talent,” said Green. “It was during the time around [1975] when we had a band… My friend Freddy Williams and I created this band called Black Pearl, and by 1976… we disbanded because of that time frame. The DJs were becoming more popular, and the disco era was coming in, so everyone wanted to become a DJ.”

Green tried to be a DJ with his first gig at Hackensack High School. Eventually, he DJ’d at the Hackensack Rec Center, and a promoter offered him a place in the Battle of the DJs in the Bronx. It was there, when Green was in 11th grade, that he heard people rapping for the first time. 

After taking what he learned about rap and performing back in Hackensack, Green was approached by Guy O’Brien, a.k.a. Master Gee of the Sugarhill Gang, whom the former inspired to become a rapper. Later, when Green was in college, Joe Robinson, the co-owner of Sugar Hill Records, offered him the chance to intern at Sugar Hill Records.”

Eventually, Green attained a full-time job at Hush Productions, where he reportedly worked with music legends like Freddie Jackson, Missy Elliot, Dru Hill, Al B. Sure!, Grandmaster Flash, Usher, and Prince. 

Later on, while working at Associated Booking Corp, Green discovered renowned artists like Salt-N-Pepa, Roxanne Shante, Kid & Play, and DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince (Will Smith).

Green then became the Director of Marketing at EMI/Capitol Records, publishing hit tracks like Eric Gable’s “Remember the First Time” and Lady Spice MC’s “Midnight Hour.” After a year of working in independent marketing and promotions consulting, Green became the General Manager of Northstar Distribution, where he started distributing music for Prince’s independent label. 

Green soon launched a Celebrity Talent Agency, representing various actors and artists worldwide for tours, festivals, and commercials. Green now serves as the Chairman of Artist Relations at the Hip Hop Museum in New York City and the Associate Director/General Manager of the Lehman Performing Arts Center in the Bronx.

His work was challenging, and the landscape of the music industry has changed since he began his career. However, Green is grateful for the opportunities he has had to be a leading figure in the industry.

“I give my praises to God for allowing me to still be in this business for 40 years plus,” said Green. “It’s just a matter of passion, being able to reinvent yourself, and staying focused on your goals.”

In his autobiography, Green shares the many important lessons he’s learned throughout his illustrious but tumultuous music career, which he calls his “Commandments.” 

With his book, Green hopes to inspire others with the lessons and stories he has to share and guide them with his celebration of perseverance, passion, and the transformative power of music.

“Listen, I tell everybody, first and foremost, find your passion,” said Green. “Just don’t do it for the money. Just don’t do it for the fame … If you find what you enjoy doing, you’ll do it for the rest of your life, and it [will] never seem like work.”