ABOUT VAUGHN JEFFERSON

Irony defined is an outcome of events contrary to what was, or might have been, expected.  Vaughn Jefferson (aka Von Jeff) Bedford Stuyvesant’s native son, artist, entrepreneur, humanitarian, and visionary is the tribute to that classification.  Raised in a single parent home with a tough loving Correction Officer mother, his dual life experiences of moral principles and community decay raised conflict in his actions. Like most inner-city youths, the absence of a father, street life, and outdoor activities shaped the character of the man we know today. 

No stranger to the school of hard knocks and hard work Vaughn took life lessons from the two most influential males in his life: Uncle Mark and Boys & Girls HS Principal Dr. Frank Mickens. These two men different in lifestyles but one in temperament instilled wisdom, drive, purpose, loyalty, passion and paying it forward. These qualities fueled him toward notarization as the most likely to succeed, attending college, working for the Department of Homeless Services and as Director of A&R for MTV networks. Through these and endless other occupations he was able to open and incorporate Indie City Industry Talent and Entertainment company in his Bedford Stuyvesant community. 

Although he may have been pigeonholed as the average youth with two arrests and not going straight to college, Vaughn redirected his path and begun to tap into his destiny. With the lessons learned from his street life experiences and his mentor Dr. Mickens he realized what direction his life’s journey would undergo. The hustle and grind toward stepping into his future allowed him to generate opportunities to tour 44 states, the UK, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas. These experiences coupled with the reality of his community breed a leader.  

Consistently encouraging and empowering people to dream big and think bigger, year 2000 he produced and directed a documentary for Boys & Girls Alumni. Subsequently procuring work with other artists like International P., Maino and currently holding the position of photographer/videographer for the Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation. Parallel to these experiences he also tapped into his voice: music. As Von Jeff he was able to create, inspire, uplift, celebrate, and embrace his community in a different facet. His music is relatable, ageless, and thought provoking. His aim is to bridge the gap between his music and all ages, races, and social status. There is truly a “message in his music”. In his music, you will hear the four focal lessons he learned in his life:

• Always stay consistent and complete ANY idea or vision
• Be your own BOSS. Even if you have a 9-5, earn income from YOUR own work efforts until that overrides your steady income.
• There is NO LOYALTY in the streets. People do not want to see you do better.
• Stay HUMBLE and keep your FAITH!

When asked the question “when people look back at your life, how do you want to be remembered?”  Vaughn responded, “I want to be remembered as a successful entrepreneur that created opportunity for his community to be self sufficient and unified. Basically, the person that help other people fulfill their dreams and become wealthy.”