In the demanding world of the rap game, knowing how to hold on correctly is a question that challenges every artist. When do you let go, and what does true commitment constitute when many nights you wake up just to write a verse that will never sound the same if saved for morning?
Time and mastery go hand in hand. Just as a painter matures with every stroke, a rapper/poet gets more ideas with every song recorded/line perfected. To push beyond the norm is to first attain quality by regular standards. As you grow so should your music, delivery, topics and mode of connecting to listeners. The music should be able to feed you in your 30’s and if not, you should be having an alternative source of income just as good or even better.
Hip Hop is grown up now. We have a little something for everyone and the avenues constitute more than just television and radio. Without a legitimate appointment, catch me dead at a radio station waiting in line next to a kid on the come-up doing trying to teach me the dougie. As much as I’m grown folk now, I also have to leave something on the plate for the kids a la Trick Daddy “…Love the Kids!”
So, Yes I spend time in the studio instead of shooting pool or watching soccer. Yes I watch music videos and discuss them when the opportunity presents itself…Hell I’ll be shooting some for some jerking or stanky leg young’un soon. I’d have loved to have the same support back when I was a seed. Hell yes I’ll do a show on the weekends after the slaving away at work all week, for a fee or maybe not, depending. So for all who want to make a brother say I quit, think about what I’m supposed to do with all the nights I wake up and write, days I spend organizing poetry events so some kids can shine, and then do something with your life because Hip Hop grew up a long time ago.
These thoughts occurred to me and led to my songs Forward March and War Inside (Play them on www.reverbnation.com/solodified).
Much love to the ones who grew up before me… Master Ace, Didier Awadi, Bahamadia, Nas, Dj. Premo, Reggie Rockstone, Proverb, Will Smith, Kabelo, Mos Def, Mode 9, KRS 1 Outkast, Mandoza, Jay Z Black thought and many more who I have failed to mention. Look them up and grow some more. Peace and a Fist.
A Hip Hop artist, writer and poet. I partner with Project Heshima, an Organization that brings together poets and bands in different forums to promote the culture of Hip Hop, Rhythm and Blues, Neo Soul and African Music. We envision the collection to include causes supporting development in Africa and spread hope as far wide as we can. I work as a coummunity development officer in Kenya.
Article from articlesbase.com
It’s about understanding the rhythm of the city, from the studios of Atlanta to your own notepad, and how to hold on correctly to your authentic voice.
Many artists burn out, but those who learn to hold on correctly often find their efforts eventually pay off in unexpected ways.
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