In 2008, Walter began interning for Tyscot Records who works with gospel artists such as: NU Tradition, Bishop Larry Trotter, The Anointed Pace Sisters, Rance Allen, and Deitrick Haddon   At Tyscott, he was put in charge of managing street teams to promote projects and artists on the label. In October of that year, Walter was given the assignment to promote Tyscot’s annual Harmony Conference, it was at that conference, Walter found himself talking with Jazzy Jordan, President of Verity Records, who noticed Walter’s determination, and asked if he would head the street teams. Walter accepted and currently hold the position of National Director for both label’s (Tyscot and Verity) street team outlets. He manages six markets in various cities of: Georgia, Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Illinois. Normally, two different record labels would not agree on sharing interns, however, being that Verity is a division of Sony Music Entertainment that deals with secular music and Tyscot is strictly gospel, the two do not conflict.

Because Thomas have experience the two worlds of music, his opinion of the subject was given.  I feel that secular music moves at a really fast pace, and they don’t have a specific or constant message that they want to get across,” said Thomas. Artists of secular music can freely change images and messages as they please. “This environment teaches me how to be open-minded, which I can bring to help out in my involvement in the gospel aspects of the industry.” Walter discussed another difference between the two genres of music is the age of the artist and fan base. “In secular music, you have younger entertainers who have an audience of their peers and together they find who they are through their music.” In gospel music you have artists who have already established who they are and their fans are already self-identified.” Thomas further explained the generation gap between the music genres, “Anybody born after 1989 is apart of what I call the ‘Souljia Boi Era.’ The lyrics themselves don’t have to necessarily make sense, but if the beat is great… WHO CARES? “Gospel is based on the Word of God, which never changes. It always makes sense,” Thomas said.  “To me, as far as mechanics, the secular and gospel industries are not that different, the same expectations apply with people constant watch waiting for me to prove myself, said Thomas. He also expressed that he realize (on the outside looking in) it appears he is straddling the fence of things of and not of God.  However, grounded in his faith in and knowledge of God, he does not feel unevenly yoked. “This is what I prayed for, that God will keep me in music and that he will keep me current” said Thomas.

When asked, what a day in the life of a record label intern is, he began the rundown of his schedule; waking around 9:30 a.m. with prayer and then right into the work day.  “I never eat breakfast, “Walter said as he discuss how the majority of his day is spent on his laptop, where daily appointments and notes from previous meetings and conference calls from the day are stored and updated. He communicates daily with VP of Marketing Melanie Scott and Jazzy Jordan over the phone, which all can go on until midevening. By that time, Walter is on conference calls with his Co-Director in both companies Jamel Gardner. Together, they keep the transactions and business between markets organized. Walter is normally done with his day around 11:00 p.m. every night that is if he does not have to work his normal 9- 5!

Though his days are filled with business, Walter Thomas always makes sure to keep himself grounded by doing the same hobbies and hanging with the same people he always has. Walter also mentioned he still hang out with the same four friends he grew up with when he was a child. Though things have changed individually in all their lives, they still have their friendship from childhood. “I am the only one who isn’t married yet!” Walter discussed with a big laugh. In no hurry to jump the broom, Walter is just as content with hanging with his friends and their families as he is with his own. Not to mention the bond Walter has with his church family of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church (under the guidance of Pastor Charles Jenkins.) There under the guidance of his pastor, Walter began to put in effect what he has learned from the beginning ages of serving in his home church, New Evangelical Bible, which is the true meaning of ministry. “Ministry is being able to serve in any and every capacity, regardless of where you are, from the church to block,” said Thomas.

Walter was born in Oak Park, IL and moved to the inner-city West Side of Chicago at the age of four where he was raided. Thomas described his neighborhood as a rough area but “not too bad.” Thanks to a strong support from his family and a close –knit group of friends, Walter managed to stay out of trouble during his childhood and teenage years. Having a life grounded in a good relationship with God has not only helped Walter from where he has come from, but where he sees himself going.

In ten, years, Walter sees himself more established, both in business and the music industry. “I’d like to have my own record label or at least marketing firm, with a sound enthusiasm in his voice. He explained how all he has gone through to be all where he is today was definitely not in vain. “This industry teaches PATIENCE! Make sure you put that in ALL CAPS, because it is TRUE!” Walter said with a chuckle as he continued discussion on his life lessons. “I have learned to adapt quickly!” I have also learned how to be flexible, spontaneous, and adjust to life as it comes.” Walter discusses how grateful he is to have a mentor to guide him through these lessons. “Charlie Tubbs have always inspired me to keep going and not give up.”

Though Walter seemed to be submerged in his world of music and business, he is definitely not of it, his humility and dedication has shine through all he has accomplished. As the lessons learned throughout Thomas life are not only valuable to every obstacles he has overcome in the industry, but also incredibly valuable to every step in his walk with God.