Meet The Team
Lil Smizzy Chief Executive Officer
Lil Smizzy: legacy, reinvention, declaration. Being a product of Queens and North Jersey, he’s proof that life's rawest experiences can be sculpted into something extraordinary. The "Lil Smizzy" moniker, a nod to his older brother AJ, evolved through stages – from Money Mike to its final form at 14 – solidifying an identity built on respect and family.
What drives Lil Smizzy? It's the beauty he found in his own story, the lessons learned from witnessing others stumble, and a relentless belief in the power of perspective. He's the type to see a "failure" and find the spark of motivation within it.
His philosophy is simple: laser focus meets open-mindedness. "If you can vividly depict what you’re working towards, then you need to see it through." The studio is his canvas, and he encourages artists to paint their vision without hesitation. He understands that not everyone will "get it," but they'll listen. As he puts it, echoing Eazy-E, "they had to buy it before they burned it."
Loyalty, respect, and a "No Kizzy in Smizzy" mentality are his core values. He believes in hard work, teamwork, and lifting up those around him. For Lil Smizzy, it’s about building an empire together.
His expertise? "Being the boss," he'll tell you with a grin. But it's more than that. He's a master of artist development, shaping talent with a direct, no-nonsense communication style. He speaks his vision into reality, turning words into tangible results.
Lil Smizzy's mission is clear: to propel No Mercy Empire into a globally recognized brand. He's building more than a label; he's building a movement. And he's doing it with the same authenticity and drive that shaped him from day one.
Anthony “King AJ” Smith Chief Operations Officer
Anthony Jerome Smith, better known as King AJ, isn't just a name; it's a testament to a life lived steeped in rhythm and riven by unshakable loyalty. Born and bred in the heart of Queens, AJ's story is a blend of grit, passion, and a relentless pursuit of "what's next."
Music? It's in his DNA. As a seed planted in fertile soil, his musical inclinations took root from a young age. Surrounded by the rhythmic energy of DJs and emcees, AJ has always been tuned in. Whether he's behind the board, on the mic, or simply immersing himself in the vibe, music is the constant soundtrack to AJ’s life.
But AJ's story isn't just about the beat, it's built on a foundation of morals and principles. "Brother's keeper" isn't just a phrase; it's a way of life, especially when it comes to his younger brother and No Mercy Empire CEO, Lil Smizzy.
Honesty, kindness, and a relentless drive to seize the day—even when there's no "day" to seize—are just a few of his core values. And, let's be real, he's always on the hunt for the next big thing.
Beyond the studio, AJ's journey is decorated by remarkable achievements. He placed in the top 50 as a track and field athlete in New Jersey, demonstrating a competitive spirit that translates to all aspects of his life. Even after enduring third-degree burns as a child, he later went on to serve as a volunteer firefighter for several years—a chapter that provided him with indispensable medical insight and solidified his focus on achieving his goals.
Now, as COO of No Mercy Empire, AJ is laser-focused on turning potential into reality. He's the guy who prioritizes, enforces, and keeps everyone on the same page. He's Lil Smizzy’s right-hand man, known for his direct communication style and unwavering dedication. His passion for arbitrating brings a unique and necessary edge to the company. "Endless possibilities" is his mantra, and he's confident that, within five years, No Mercy Empire will be a force to be reckoned with.
Ultimately, AJ wants one thing: for his name to be synonymous with No Mercy Empire. "When you hear my name, I want you to think of NME," he says with a passionate intensity. That's the legacy he's building, one beat, one deal, and one partnership at a time.