True statement.

There are sooo many talented rappers and singers out there – but what truly sets you apart is ‘everything you have outside of your talent’. Think: Networking - letting people know who you are. You have to promote in different channels - just posting to your social media page isn’t enough. Bigger minds go bigger places. Step out of your normal circles - which means stepping out of your comfort zone, and connect with people you don’t know IN-PERSON. Think: DJs, A&Rs, and attend some music seminars and showcases, so you can grow your brand.

A young guy said to me this week, “I’m waiting on my big break.” My immediate response was, “waiting?!... okay so while you wait, what are you doing – or are you really just… waiting?” He said, “well, no I record at the house and I get my sh*t out there, posting online …and yeah WAITING.”

I propose this: Learn the business side of music in the meantime. This gentleman doesn’t know how to read contracts, doesn’t know the ins/outs of how everyone gets their cut >>> how to pay the producer, give copyright credit, or promote himself. There are up and coming artists out here working; they’re being featured on local magazines, being highlighted in music industry blogs, and being heard on local radio waves. I think they got that far by simply GRINDING. Do this type of work too, so when opportunity presents itself, you’re prepared. Luck only goes so far.

Now – let me add, I am not in the music industry. But I do know there is education around any and everything in life. Understanding the business behind any art form will protect you.

I was telling my husband about the conversation I had with the gentleman, and he said this,

“It’s rappers in every city can rap just as good as Jay-Z (if not better), but they not educating themselves to make sure their funds don’t get stolen when they do ‘make it’. " <<< THIS.

There’s probably a rapper reading this and it’s hitting home or maybe it’s a hard reality and they won’t read all the way down. This separates the true artists from those that are just 'talking' about it.

For any passion, career interest, and job hunt – you got to get out and grind. If there is a trade you want to get, start today, so you’ll be done sooner. I asked a client during our consultation last month, “are there degrees or certifications, and/or trades that I can list on your resume.” Her response: “I wish”.

It’s never too late. Colleges and Trade Programs accept any age. And if you’re thinking – COST. Yes, it can be very pricey, BUT many of the local community colleges, online schools, and 1-year trade programs are super affordable and your ROI (return-on-investment) can be worth it. Take 25 minutes from your “social media scrolling time” to research how you can get to the next step in your career without breaking the bank.

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If this is your first time reading one of my blog posts, I encourage you to like/comment/share and check out my other articles. My blog seeks to inspire anyone experiencing a roadblock in their career. This week was no different.

What are your thoughts? If anyone has resources (links to networking groups, platforms to sell music, producers with hottt beats, upcoming showcases etc.) to help local artists thrive, please share in the comments. I heard this was a good website to check out: www.aandrnetwork.com.

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“Death is not the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss is what dies inside while still alive. Never surrender.” – Tupac Shakur