Once a star outfielder in Major League Baseball, Crawford has since reinvented himself as a music executive, building Houston’s 1501 Certified Entertainment into a successful record label.
With an eye for talent and a passion for music, Crawford has played a pivotal role in the success of some of the biggest names in hip-hop.
Born and raised in Houston’s Fifth Ward, Crawford made a name for himself on the baseball diamond, spending 15 seasons in the MLB with the Tampa Bay Rays, Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers. Known for his speed and agility, he earned four All-Star selections before retiring in 2016.
But rather than step away from the spotlight, Crawford dove headfirst into the music industry. “Music has always been in me,” he said. “I just needed the time to pursue it fully.”
Crawford’s inspiration for making a name beyond sports dates back to his childhood when he saw boxing legend George Foreman, another Houston native, successfully transition from sports into business.
“Seeing George Foreman go from boxing to building his own brand stuck with me,” he recalled. “It made me believe I could do the same in my own way.”
Credit: Jimmie Aggison
With guidance from Houston rap mogul J. Prince—Crawford founded 1501 Certified Entertainment, a label designed to uplift and amplify raw talent. The name 1501 holds special meaning for him, as it comes from the address of his childhood home.
“That number reminds me of where I come from and the grind that got me here,” he said. “There are so many talented people in Houston who just need the right platform.”
Crawford’s first major discovery was Megan Thee Stallion, who joined 1501 in 2018. Her breakout hit, “Big Ole Freak,” catapulted her to fame, making her one of the hottest new acts in hip-hop. However, their relationship soured in 2020 when Megan publicly accused 1501 of restricting her music releases.
A legal battle ensued, putting Crawford at odds with his biggest star. In 2023, Crawford confirmed that he and Megan had resolved their legal differences, saying, “Both parties have agreed to amicably part ways.”
Despite the fallout with Megan, Crawford’s keen eye for talent remained sharp. In 2021, he struck gold again with Erica Banks, whose single “Buss It” became a viral sensation thanks to the #BussItChallenge. The success of Banks reaffirmed Crawford’s belief in his label’s ability to produce stars.
“We could do it again,” he said as he held his music plaques. “It’s about finding the right talent and giving them the right push.”
Crawford acknowledges that the music business is vastly different from professional sports.
“In baseball, you have a contract, you play your game, and everything is structured,” he said. “In music, it’s a whole different world—egos, emotions, and creativity are involved.”
He also believes many misconceptions about record labels exist, particularly regarding artist development.
Carl Crawford’s first major discovery was Megan Thee Stallion, who joined 1501 in 2018. Credit: Jimmie Aggison
As a label head, Crawford is committed to A&R and artist development, ensuring that up-and-coming talent is given the tools they need to succeed. He’s working with rising rap artists like Lil’CEO from Mississippi, the label’s first Mexican artist FNF Chxpo, and Country artist, Skeatur Jones.
A lot of people think labels just take advantage of artists, but they don’t see the work that goes into building someone from the ground up. It takes time, resources, and commitment.
Carl Crawford
“I take my role in this seriously. It’s not just about signing an artist and putting out music—it’s about mentoring them, helping them navigate the industry, and making sure they have longevity,” he said. “I want them to be the best versions of themselves,” he said.
Beyond music, Crawford remains dedicated to uplifting his community in Houston. He regularly invests in local initiatives, provides opportunities for aspiring artists, and mentors young talent. “I never forget where I came from,” he said. “Houston made me who I am, and I want to give back in any way I can.”
Looking ahead, Crawford is focused on expanding his roster and continuing to put Houston on the map. “I love this city. Everything I do is for the culture,” he said. “Houston has always had a rich music history, and we’re just adding to it.”
