Inspiring Conversations with Stephen Counts of Down By Law Management LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephen Counts.

Hi Stephen, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I go by Stephen Counts Jr., also known as DJ Universe. My journey started back in Ohio, where I grew up surrounded by music and culture that shaped me into who I am today. Music was always my escape and my passion, and over time it became my purpose.

In 2014, I moved to Florida to build a new life and expand my opportunities, but I never lost that connection to Ohio. Fast forward to last year, I took things to the next level and officially launched my management company. My goal has always been to create platforms and opportunities for artists who deserve to be heard, and I’m proud to say I’ve signed two Ohio artists to my roster already. Even though I’m based in Florida, I stay tied to Ohio – not only because of my business, but also because my daughter lives there, so I make sure I’m back at least once a year.

My path hasn’t been overnight success – it’s been about consistency, networking, and keeping faith through the ups and downs. Today, I’m focused on building a legacy that empowers artists and makes an impact both in Florida, Ohio, and beyond.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road at all. One of the toughest struggles I went through was during the pandemic. My daughter tested positive for Covid, and instead of receiving the protection that was supposed to come with the CARES Act, I was wrongfully evicted. I had already been approved for rental assistance that should’ve covered five months of rent, but instead of relief, I got an eviction notice.

That situation flipped my whole life upside down. I went from hotel rooms to staying with family, trying to hold it together for my kids. Eventually, I took the pandemic relief money I did receive and decided to flip the negative into a blessing. I bought a used RV, gutted the slide-out, and turned it into a studio and DJ setup. That little space became the foundation of everything I’m building now.

A couple of years later, when my son inherited my father’s property, we transferred the studio from the RV into the house, creating a home base where we could really grow. What looked like the end back then actually became the start of a whole new chapter for me. It taught me how to turn struggle into strategy and how to keep moving forward no matter what.

We’ve been impressed with Down By Law Management LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business is all about creating platforms and opportunities for artists who deserve to be seen and heard. I launched my management company to help independent artists not only navigate the music industry but also build sustainable careers. We focus on artist development, branding, marketing, and connecting talent with the right resources to grow.

What sets me apart is that I’ve lived both sides of this – as a DJ, creative, and entrepreneur, I understand the struggles of trying to get your art out there while balancing life, bills, and responsibilities. I’m not just managing from a business perspective – I’m mentoring and guiding from real experience. I’ve been through setbacks and know how to turn them into setups for success, and that’s the energy I bring to my team.

I’m most proud of building something from the ground up with no shortcuts. From an RV studio during the pandemic to a full home studio today, I’ve shown my kids, my artists, and my community that you can create something meaningful even when the odds are against you.

At its core, my brand is about legacy. I’m not chasing quick hype; I’m focused on long-term impact. Whether it’s management, DJ services, or building a creative hub for artists, I want readers to know that my mission is to inspire and empower others to keep pushing, keep creating, and keep building something that lasts.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
People can work with me in a few different ways. As a manager, I’m always looking to connect with serious, dedicated artists who want to take their careers to the next level and are ready to put in the work. I’m also open to collaborations with creatives, DJs, and entrepreneurs who want to build meaningful projects, events, or partnerships.

The best way to connect with me is through my website: downbybylawmanagementllc.com. On there, you’ll find my digital business card where we can exchange contacts, and you can join my email list for my newsletter DBLM News.

Supporters can also check out my tour page, where you can:
• Buy my custom designer shoes The Soul Legacy
• Grab merch from my online store
• Invest in my crowdfunding campaign, which is less about “donating” and more about being part of a movement.

Every contribution is a community investment into the bigger vision — helping independent artists get platforms, creating opportunities that last, and pushing a culture forward. That’s why we set up merch tiers for all supporters, so every person who invests is not just giving, they’re receiving something tangible while helping fuel the mission. For those who prefer a personal touch, I also welcome direct messages to collaborate, connect, or support in different ways.

At the end of the day, this brand isn’t just mine — it’s a movement for everybody who believes in legacy over hype. Every stream, share, purchase, or investment helps us build something real, and I’m truly grateful for anyone who wants to be part of that journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.downbylawmanagementllc.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dj.universe
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DVnKLZenS/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-counts-jr-101275172
• Twitter: https://x.com/stephencountsj1
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@everlastingimpressionzstud493
• Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/9LM2nMr9mO5p1vhqWR
• Other: https://smartcards.pro/blZApF