Leonard J. Thompson III has been in the music ministry for over 25 years, first as a musician and later as a promoter and manager. Mr. Thompson’s love for music was birthed while growing up in the church. His passion for music with lyrics that had a positive, and life-changing message fueled his vision to think outside the box of the music industry’s norm for Christian artists and their unique style of music.

As a successful businessman, educator and preacher, Mr. Thompson holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Management, Masters Degree in Education and an Ordination as an Elder in the Church of God In Christ. In 1995 Mr. Thompson took a step of faith in founding M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records, a Christian-owned and operated recording company. Since that time, M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records Inc. has grown from a small home-based business to one of Southern California’s premiere record labels. Although considered a grassroots label, the company has made a tremendous impact on the Christian music industry in representing Southern California and the city of San Diego.

While under his direction, M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records is recognized for successfully producing, managing and promoting The San Diego Praise Fest, San Diego County Fair Gospel Fest, Street Scene Gospel Slamm, The Fishhook, The G.R.I.D.I.R.O.N. Tour, The Genesis Tour, The Sisters For Souls Tour, Rock the Block Tour and many other concert style events that were designed to mobilize to neighboring communities, cities and states. The record label is also instrumental in bringing 24-hour gospel radio programming to the city of San Diego. With over 20 recording projects to its credit, M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records has remained an artist friendly company not only to its own artists but also those seeking an independent career in music. M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records recently underwent restructuring in order to better serve their artists in the area of growth and development and in preparing them for worldwide ministry through music. With so much more on the horizon for the label and their artists it’s only right to say the best is yet to come so keep an ear out for upcoming events and new projects.

Michelle R. Thompson, Vice President, A & R

Michelle R. Thompson has been in the music industry for over 18 years.  Her tenure in the industry began as a songwriter/producer and expanded to recording artist, radio personality and label owner. Ms. Thompson has an excellent eye for talent and the skill set to develop them to the next level. Her heart’s desire is to take all of her experiences and nurture new artists to minister under the anointing of God. Michelle believes that artists must be committed to learn their craft and position themselves spiritually to be used by God.

Faatima Harley, VP of Communications

Harley began her career as an Arts and Entertainment reporter, covering San Diego's music, theatre, and art scenes. She has worked as a public relations professional for 15 years. Her extensive background includes marketing communications in the healthcare, real estate and wireless communications industries. Harley is an accomplished media spokesperson and special events manager. She attended San Diego State University and received a B. A. in Journalism with an emphasis in Public Relations.

Elvert Waltower, Jr., Senior Producer

Waltower is a multitalented producer, songwriter and artist who captures  the essence of urban contemporary gospel music. He has performed with Kirk Franklin, Adrian Ewings and Steps of Praise and many other gospel greats. His exceptional ear for music and fresh approach has given him national attention and has industry insiders calling him “someone worth looking out for.” Waltower is currently in the studio working on several M.A.N.D.A.T.E. projects while also grooming his new group “Elvert Waltower and Nu ViZion.”

Wendy Bauer, Director of Operations

Specializing in business development, Ms. Bauer has extensive experience in financial management, program development, organizational structuring and grant writing. Her ability to multitask allows her to function in several areas of the company including: Staff Development, Human Resources, Fundraising, Legal Document Interpretation, Event Coordination and Project Management. As Director of Operations, Ms. Bauer is positioned to have a major impact in the future growth of the M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records brand.

Rama Harvey, Executive Manager

A M.A.N.D.A.T.E. team member since 1999, Ms. Harvey has over eleven years experience in the music industry. Her diverse background in training, finance and artist relations make her a valuable member of the team. Ms. Harvey is passionate about music and desires to help spread the message of the Gospel through music. Harvey's organizational and communication skills are a valued asset in her position as Executive Manager and as a company liaison to the President & CEO.

Sena Williams, Brand Marketing Manager

With over 10 years in the Marketing Industry, Ms. Williams comes with a wealth of knowledge on brand development.  Her unique sense of style, trends and product forecasting keeps her on the cutting edge of the industry. Ms. William’s sole objective is to expand the M.A.N.D.A.T.E  Records brand to the national and international consumer markets with products from music and tours to fashion and design. 

Rodney Jones, Producer

Mr. Rodney Jones is a veteran producer, composer and music director with over 20 years’ experience in the industry. Rodney brings the “WOW” effect as a producer and music director to the gospel sound and show that is M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records. His extensive music career has taken him all over the world crafting the musical presentations of many artists. Mr. Jones is online to impact the future of gospel music at M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records Inc. and beyond.

Kierra L. Thompson, Artist Relations

Ms. Thompson is a well-rounded music industry professional. A graduate of the San Diego School of Creative & Performing Arts, Ms Thompson has worked in the music industry in some capacity for over ten years. She is an accomplished performer and stylist who also has a solid understanding of music production and promotions.

Kristyna Bush, Production Assistant

A new comer to the music industry, Ms. Bush is becoming a valuable asset to the M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records team. Her outgoing personality and flexibility enables her to assist in many areas of the company. As Ms. Bush expands on her prior knowledge and experience in the arts community, she will become a force in the entertainment industry.

Trevor Jacobs, Sales & Promotions

As a top sales rep for several years, Mr. Jacobs is establishing a name for himself in the music industry. From event photography and street team promotions to direct point of sales and retail distribution, Jacobs' self-determination and strong work ethic has made him a tremendous asset to the M.A.N.D.A.T.E Records Team.

Raven Scott, Sales & Promotions

Scott is an outgoing, results-oriented member of the Sales and Promotions team. She is dedicated to the artists at M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records, their success and the success of the company.

Ms. Cook is the visual historian of M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records. Her eye for detail has made her a much sought after artistic photographer. Ms. Cook's experience in marketing and promotion campaigns has elevated her demand in the industry. Her work appears in many print, internet publications and ads.

Shan Brown is a talented video editor and motion graphic artist who captures the excitement in people. With over 5 years professional video editing experience, Mr. Brown has produced short film projects, movie trailers, event promotions, video announcements, and music videos. Shan has an ambitious and enthusiastic imagination with no limits to his creativity. He is currently working with M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records to further the brand through video productions and motion graphics.

Kingsley Jackson, “Jack of All of Trades”, Graduate of Full Sail University. Recording Arts and Music Business Bachelor's Degrees. A Musician, Singer and Graphic Designer. Desire to push levels of creativity have lead him to develop his skills as a graphic artist in the fields of web, video, print and digital media. Opportunities to work with a large variety of clients from large to small have given him a diverse mindset allowing him to attack any task with a unique sense of creativity and inspiration!

Devonte J. Glover, Photographer & Motion Graphic Artist Intern

Devonte J. Glover comes to M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records as an intern with fresh new ideas in digital media. His unique visual styles in photography, motion graphics, and videography will be a tremendous asset to the M.A.N.D.A.T.E. brand. A San Diego native, Devonte is currently enrolled at The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and is pursing a degree in Digital Media

Robert L. Williams III, aka RL has been in the music industry for over ten years. Owner of RL3 music production company and member of the Virginia Gospel Announcers Guild, RL is a certified Protools engineer, Producer and Balanced Beat-Maker. Holding degrees and certifications from Andersonville Theological Seminary, Strayer University and Berklee College, RL is equipped to help spread the gospel through the ministry of music.