Despite arriving in the US with minimal resources, Macedonian entrepreneur Nikola Tefov was driven to create a meaningful life. He channeled his experiences—watching his family leave for the UK while he remained in the United States, both having fled Macedonia due to threats, corruption, and injustice—into fuel for his ambitions. Despite the painful reality of being separated from his loved ones for over eight years, he turned these hardships into motivation to keep pushing forward.
This is a story of how, even when the path is steep and lonely, doing everything out of love and goodness, and refusing to give up, can still lead to greatness. It might be harder this way, but I had no other choice—and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
His immigrant story to the US is both new and as old as time. It includes building Just Get Known from the ground up and pursuing his passion for being a music producer under Beats by NT, NT Records, and Sound Art Entertainment. His significant early project, a cover of “Next to You,” still holds personal importance to the young musician and entrepreneur.
Immigrant business success didn’t come easily for Tefov. Starting over in a foreign country with limited funds and no support network presented significant challenges. When Tefov first immigrated to the United States, one of the first places he found an affordable apartment was in North Jersey—an area marked by high crime and poverty. He quickly learned what it meant to live in the hood and experience the ghetto firsthand.
Despite these harsh conditions, Tefov chose resilience over resignation. He focused on self-improvement through fitness, music, and business studies, determined to create his own opportunities for a better future. His journey underscores a simple truth: where you are mentally matters far more than your physical surroundings.
Tefov admits that his unique perspective is shaped by both his firsthand experiences with oppression and his deep understanding of business and creative storytelling. He has combined his survival instincts with his expertise in branding and content creation.
Having produced music for artists like Chris Brown and Big Sean, as well as supporting numerous indie artists through beat sales and leases, Tefov admits to operating without a safety net. He is entirely driven by his results-oriented approach. He understands the power of integrating branding, content, music, and genuine emotion.
Besides having founded and grown Just Get Known, Tefov has created and directed several music and video projects under Artworks By NT/ NT Media, produced a live music concert of Macedonian Ethno Music, led several media campaigns on major platforms, collaborated with multicultural artists, and built a reputation as a trusted marketing and content consultant.
“I’m not speaking theory—I’ve lived it,” he explains. “I’ve helped companies grow through my company, Just Get Known, while healing myself through every music piece I’ve made and every strategy I’ve built.”
Tefov recalls the constant sirens and violence of living in his New Jersey neighborhood and how it reinforced his determination to rise above his circumstances. He found connection and inspiration in the resilience depicted in the 90s and early 2000s hip-hop, with artists like 2Pac and 50 Cent fueling his drive to overcome adversity.
He rejects the narrative that your environment dictates destiny, emphasizing instead that discipline and hard work can pave the way for change.
Tefov has plans to release his debut album as a reflection of his life experiences. “It’s not just music—it’s a personal time capsule of everything I’ve been through.” He also aims to expand Just Get Known globally, partnering with companies focused on ethical growth.
NT Records will continue to support diverse voices, he explains. Tefov seeks to be an inspiration for those who feel marginalized by using his business, music, and advocacy as tools for positive change.
Ultimately, Nikola Tefov seeks to share his powerful story of perseverance, truth, and purpose in hopes of inspiring others by demonstrating that it is possible to overcome significant obstacles. Tefov’s Macedonian heritage is vitally important to his identity, “I believe in our ancestors like Alexander The Great; his blood still runs through our veins.” and he remains a vocal advocate against the political corruption he witnessed in his home country and the US standing firm on principles of truth and integrity.
Get to know Tefov better by following him on Facebook and Instagram. Also, follow his companies, Beats by NT and Just Get Known, on Instagram.