John Morton is this issue’s HYPE GUY. From working at a grocery store to a marketing firm, he talks about his journey into entrepreneurship and how he was influenced to start his own music management company, FluidArt.
How does it feel to be such a young Entrepreneur?
I am 20 years old and it feels good. It feels good because you know exactly where you’re going. It’s comforting to know that at a young age. I know too many people that don’t know what they want, too many people that are spending thousands of dollars on school, and don’t even know what they’re doing.
What do friends, family say? What about other people?
My friends are great, and my family’s all for it. You know, I’ve got a very talented family, full of artists. A lot of them help me within different areas and use their own skills to help me develop and learn for myself. A quick example would be my Mom, she helps me become a class A writer.
Being the leader of a company takes a lot of patients, time, and
devotion. What do you think is the hardest challenge and why?
Money. It’s hard because a lot people underestimate how much it actually takes to start something… Whether it’s fashion, music, or any other industry – you always have to overshoot how much money you’ll need to start new ventures.
How did you get the concept for the company’s name of FluidArt?
I’ve always said that if I ever owned my own company, I would want it to be fluid like water; always moving, constantly changing. We live in an economy where change is always imminent, especially in the music business. Naturally, your business needs to adapt; it’s common sense. I am also a fan of Japanese calligraphy. I think it’s beautiful and elegant, which is why I chose the Japanese Kanji symbol for water.
What’s your favorite quote?
“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace”
- Jimmy Hendrix
What was the one event or opportunity that you took that you think was the stepping stone. What was the one thing that happened, that you were like “Shit, this is definitely going to go somewhere!”?
I’ll tell you. One of the most talented people I know, Roddy MacIsaac, is where this story starts. We went for a run at 3AM in the morning. He was telling me about how far he wants to go with his music and life. We
were exchanging the vibe and passion of our goals. It felt very powerful at the time. It turned from a run to a 3 hour long walk. It was about life, and how much opportunity there was in the world. He was sharing his
dream and I was sharing mine. Then I said: “Let’s do this; I’m going to be your manager.” He became my first client. That was the most pivotal moment.
What tips or advice would you tell young entrepreneurs that are starting up just like you?
Follow your gut. All you need to do in life is know where you’re going, and what you want. Follow that decision to the end of the earth with confidence, optimism, and passion. No one will even stand in your way. You have my guarantee. It surprises me sometimes how many people lack this intuition. 
Upcoming news, updates, and possible events for 2009?
In terms of FluidArt, we were thinking of having a website release party that might, or might not happen. On the other hand, it looks like Adam will be finishing a record soon. There will of course be a record release party whenever it’s done. I also hate organizing events, It’s something I need to work on.
HYPE is such a board word… What does HYPE mean to you?
HYPE is something that moves. Hype is everything inside your body that sends a shock through you. It’s something that makes you feel that you need to change the world. Hype is where ambition comes from. That’s hype to me.
Check out FluidArt Management at: http://www.fluidart.ca/
Photography by: Nico Mak