I recently went one-on-one with singer, songwriter, producer, and entrepreneur Jeff Timmons, best known as the founding member of the multi-platinum pop group 98 Degrees. Jeff is the co-founder of Wiggle Room Entertainment, an entertainment company that fuses immersive storytelling with live performance.
Adam: Thanks again for taking the time to share your advice. First things first, though, what is something about you that your fans don’t know?
Jeff: Despite always being out and about promoting and performing in public, I really enjoy being at home and with my family.
Adam: What is the most surprising thing about the music industry and life in it?
Jeff: I think that what most artists and fans overlook is that the music industry is very much a business. Unfortunately, it’s less about talent and art and more about monetizing IP, which can at times be frustrating and disappointing, but the rewards of mastering that side of things can be like nothing else you could ever experience.
Adam: How did you get here?
Jeff: I started the group in 1994, pre-social media, so we had to drive to L.A., where the music scene was, with hopes of getting discovered. We snuck backstage at a Boyz II Men concert (our idols) and got discovered by who would later become our manager, and soon after, got signed to Motown Records, also our dream label.
Adam: What experiences, failures, setbacks, or challenges have been most instrumental to your development and success?
Jeff: The journey has been a long and wild one, with very high highs and low lows. We almost got dropped, at times had terrible representation, label partners, inner turmoil—you name it. But ultimately, our love for making music, each other, and our work ethic helped us to persevere enough that we’re still around 30 years later.
Adam: In your experience, beyond natural talent, what are the common qualities among those who have been able to enjoy success as performing artists?
Jeff: I think hard work, self-belief, humility, and determination are common traits among the most successful artists I’ve come across.
Adam: What are the keys to managing and performing under pressure?
Jeff: The pressure and nerves are a good thing. Those are often catalysts for peak performance. I think ultimately you have to remind yourself of the hard work you’ve put in, while keeping in mind how blessed and fortunate you are to be there.
Adam: Who are the best leaders you have been around, and what have you learned from them?
Jeff: My father was a great person and leader. He was instrumental in inspiring me to be the way I am today. Outside of that, nobody really in the business. Books by Tony Robbins, Napoleon Hill, Wallace D. Wattles, and William Walker Atkinson—their books inspired me most.
Adam: What do you believe are the defining qualities of an effective leader?
Jeff: One thing that is often overlooked when it comes to leadership is being a good listener. As important as it is to be confident and self-assured, more people are likely to follow your lead when they believe you care and listen to how they feel.
Adam: How can leaders and aspiring leaders take their leadership skills to the next level?
Jeff: You have to always be willing to learn. Take in information. Read books, listen to podcasts, be open-minded and flexible with your thoughts, beliefs, and decision-making.
Adam: What are your three best tips applicable to entrepreneurs, executives, and civic leaders?
Jeff:
- Be different. Think outside of the box.
- Be willing to change. If something isn’t working, don’t be stubborn. Be willing to start over from scratch.
- Work smarter and harder than everyone else.
Adam: What is the single best piece of advice you have ever received?
Jeff: Never let someone take away your self-confidence.
Adam: Is there anything else you would like to share?
Jeff: I just wanted to express my thanks and gratitude to everyone out there who supports me and my group, 98 Degrees. We are truly thankful to you all for allowing us to live a dream.
