What Does “It” Mean?
Rapping has never been more popular than it is today and with new aspiring rappers constantly emerging you may wonder how come most rappers
never make it? Well first, let’s establish what does “making it” really means to you? Maybe you think “making it” means getting a record deal or being famous. But honestly, neither of those equates to financial stability, and here’s why.
Don’t Believe The Hype
Anyone can sign you to a record deal. Basically, a record deal is an agreement between two parties on what they expect from each other. It’s very similar to the contracts you sign when you start a new job. The artist is like an employee and the record label is like the employer.
You can also think of the record label as banks that provide some of the worst kinds of loans to their employees. Most record labels will give you some money upfront known as an “advance” which is simply a loan that you have to pay back before you ever make one red cent from any passive income such as album sales, music placements, and streams.
Every expense the label incurs for its signed artist, the artist actually has to pay back. And very few artists ever fully pay the labels back so they’re always in debt to the label while awaiting the next advance. This is also where many record labels finesse the artists by billing themselves exorbitant amounts of money for things like studio time which the artist has to pay back.
For example in 2002 The popular rap group “Dirty” was signed to universal records but was dead broke and couldn’t even pay their monthly bills. The second most popular female rap group “TLC” sold over 65 million records worldwide but allegedly only brought home an estimated $15,000 a piece per year and eventually had to file for bankruptcy.
Leverage
The main takeaway here is this, if you’re waiting for someone else to “put you on” you’re already in a losing position because you don’t have any leverage. You need to first “put yourself on” and build a real fanbase and then you will have more leverage to negotiate a better record deal if you decide to go that route.
And when I say a “real” fanbase I’m now talking crazy numbers either.
If you only had 1,000 die-hard fans that purchased everything you came out with, and you release $100 worth of product each year you would make $100,000.00
Let’s cut that in half, If you only had 500 fans you could make $50,000.00
If you only had 250 fans you could make $25,000 each year.Â
Now that we’ve dispelled the myth that making it means getting a record deal and being famous let’s establish what “making it” really means. Making it simply means that you’re doing something you love and are able to make a good enough living from it to support yourself and your family.
Now that we have that established, let’s get back to the main question at hand and discuss the top reasons that most rappers will never make it.
1. Talent Isn’t Enough
A lot of rappers think that if they can just rap really good then everything will magically fall into their lap. This causes them to be very prideful which gives them a false sense of entitlement. They feel like they are owed success because they are skilled. This is often the foreshadowing of bitterness once they realize things aren’t panning out like they thought they should. These type of rappers are often lazy because they feel like they don’t have to work hard in order to be successful.
The music industry is not a talent show, it’s a business. It doesn’t matter how dope your music is or how professional your music video looks if you’re not putting in the work to make sure everyone knows about it. There are about 60,000 songs released on Spotify every single day and very few of them ever get any significant views for this very reason.
2. They’re Only Artists
If you are wanting to be a successful rapper you can’t only be an artist. You also need to be business-minded and financially literate “the ability to read and understand numbers”. You need to understand investing and R.O.I “Return On Investment” AKA profit which means you need to learn how to make your projects profitable so you can quit asking your producers, mixing engineers, and videographers for the struggling artist, homeboy hook-up prices which is causing them to lose money.
Think of other ways that you can monetize your craft such as creating merchandise, doing shows and guest appearances, charging for features, artists development and songwriting for other artists. Also, you can start trying to earn passive income by getting your music published in movies, video games, and commercials.
3. Aren’t Willing To Invest
Many rappers are not willing to pay for quality work and rather jump at the cheapest prices for music production, mixing, album artwork, & music videos. Having a cheap product will convey to others that you don’t care and take pride in your music so why should anyone else? And if you can’t afford to pay someone else to do these things for you then maybe you should consider learning to do these things for yourself.
And many rappers develop what I like to refer to as the I can’t afford mindset. They say they would like to do things on a larger scale but just can’t afford it. This type of limiting thinking rules out any possibilities. Instead, a slight mental shift to “How can I afford” will show you possibilities you may have never seen or considered before.
Maybe instead of trying to do a whole album cheaply, you could focus on doing 1 or 2 songs with excellence and actually spend money promoting it so a lot of people can listen to it. Maybe you can sell stuff around the house, ask for money for Christmas and birthdays, cut your neighbor’s grass, stop buying everything brand new like video games and get them used. Stop eating out as much and learn to cook cheaper and healthier meals at home.
4. No Promotion or Marketing
If all you are thinking about is creating the product but are putting little to no effort thought, or investment on delivering the product to the market you are doing yourself, your potential fans, and everyone else involved with the project a huge disservice. Promotion and marketing should be something your thinking about and budgeting for before you start spending all of your money on creating your project. Sadly this is most often an afterthought if it’s a thought at all. Once all the budget has been spent on creating the project very few people will ever hear it leaving the rapper further in the hole financially with very little fan base growth.
5. Don’t Care About People
I’m amazed to see rappers who want to be successful but don’t care about people. I will never understand why someone doesn’t care about the very people who could be potential supporters of their music. This mindset usually derives from pride as if fans are some type of underlings that are supposed to bow down and worship at their feet. These types of rappers will ignore your comments & e-mails.
And I’m not talking about the really famous rappers who are getting tens of thousands of comments on a single post, I can understand that not being possible. I’m talking about the ones who don’t have a large following and who are simply ignoring potential fans. People typically won’t care about you until they see that you sincerely care about them. Respect is earned when respect is given.
6. Are Insecure
Some of the most insecure people mascarade their insecurities by being boastful which is how they get their needed supply to feed their insecurities. If you are offended when someone gives you advice or constructive criticism don’t take it personally. Even though being corrected can be uncomfortable it’s essential for your growth not just in your music career but in life in general.
7. Short-Sighted
Some rappers simply aren’t truly passionate about rapping. Once things don’t seem to be happening quickly they get burnt out and fade into the sunset. If you want to “make it” as a rapper then you need to truly love the craft. This means that you don’t have to be making money to be happy doing it. Truly loving this craft will give you the endurance to keep moving forward regardless of the circumstances and that’s how real results are obtained. Trees don’t grow 10 feet overnight but they do grow a little bit every single day.
Eminem, Dr. Dre and Jay-Z are still making music till this day and they clearly don’t need the money at this stage in their careers which reveals that their true motive for making music is much deeper than money.
Final ThoughtsÂ
The bottom line is this, talent can only take you so far. But having realistic goals with a strategy to achieve them coupled with a strong work ethic, good character, and the desire to always learn can open doors for you that skill alone can not. If you want to be successful in anything in life you can with the right amount of determination, knowledge, and execution.
I’m speaking from experience as someone who has turned my passion into a career. It hasn’t been easy, I’ve worked extremely hard to get where I’m at and I still have much more growing to do but I’m so grateful to do what I love for a living. When you’re living your life being your authentic self you no longer feel like you’re swimming against the current of life.
And I truly hope that every one of you gets to experience that same level of freedom and purpose in your lives because to me that’s the real definition of “making it”.
If you’re wanting to dig a little deeper into how you can grow your fanbase and start monetizing your music be sure to check out this awesome Quick Guide that I created that shares my favorite tips that I’ve used to gain millions of views and most importantly a real following which has allowed me to do what I love for a living. It’s only 25 pages long, no robots, no SPAM, no BS! Just straight-to-the-point practical advice on how you can legitimately start gaining the attention and support that your music deserves! Click here to check it out.
Good article, you drived it amazingly
Will look for more content around, good job!
Wow thanks so much! I greatly appreciate you checking it out and am glad that you enjoyed it! I was a little concerned with the length of it. Did you feel that it was a little to long?
yeah ur rite about the record deals. but me id rather sign to a real record company where u dont have to kiss butt but keep the music real like tupac did
Yeah I feel you man but did you know than 2 pac was leaving death row because they owed him tens of millions of dollars? He was in the process of starting is own record label when he was killed.
2pac Record label Still Popping im his New Artist 2pac My producer n road manager 2pac is Hip Hop 2pac the Jordan of Hip hop 2PAC THE MELCOM X MARTIN LUTHER KING ? OF HIP HOP 2PAC
Thanks for reading! I love 2pac as well! Much love and respect! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Very well written and it wasn’t long. You managed to put across a lot of info with very few words and yet managed to not rob us of any important information.
One more this I liked a lot is that you follow everything you preach which inspires me (and hopefully others) to do the same. Like, I’ve seen that you make time to reply to each and every comment on facebook, twitter, intsa, your website, youtube etc..
Very inspiring..
Love from India!
Thanks so much for all of your kind words Curran! I’m really glad that you enjoyed my article and found it to be helpful! I try my best to respond back to everyone tho it get’s more difficult with the more exposure you get which is a good problem lol! Thanks again for the love and support! Wishing you the best! Much respect! 🙂 – Cole Mize
It’s takes you a lotta time reading all these tips. But the motivated ones are always interested in it. Thanks for the good job. yungnastie is my IG username.
the length was perfect. I know that because I read all of it 🙂
Thanks Matt! You’re feedback means a lot! I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Is there anything in particular that you would be interested in reading more about in the future?
I think you should do an article focusing on the concepts that certain artist portray, like ASAP ROCKYs dark goth style or Drakes romantic ladies man style or even GEazy with his vintage cool kid style.
Hey Rxxm, that’s a good suggestion. I have added it to my to do list. Thanks for the feedback! I really appreciate it! 🙂
Hi Cole,
I’m a small business owner from Australia and I have to confess to you that as a woman who was traditionally educated and is *mumble mumble* years old, rap is not my preferred musical genre.
I found your insightfully-written article because someone shared it on G+, and I found the title intruiguing enough to come have a read.
It’s wonderful to read a piece by a young person who understands that there are no shortcuts to success. Sure, every once in a while someone just ‘gets lucky’ but most of us have a lot of grunt work to do. I wish more people (and it’s not just the very young) understood that true success comes after years of sacrifice, not years of conspicuous consumption.
Going to go ‘like’ your Facebook page now, and wishing you every success.
Hello Aleta,
Thanks so much for not only taking the time to read my article but also follow it up with a hefty comment. It’s always a pleasure to hear back from those who my articles have reached. You are exactly right about success. It’s much hard work mixed with patience and determination. I wrote an encouraging blog a while back that talks a little more on my perspective of success. It’s called “Effort Trumps Talent”. If you wish you can check it out here.
Thanks again for your kind words of encouragement, they go a long way! And I am wishing you nothing but the best of success to you and your business! Thanks for liking my facebook page as well! You rock! 🙂 Until next time, take care and keep up the great work! Much love from the states!
It did look a little too long at first glance, but I read it anyway and everything in it is good to keep in mind.
Hey Mike, I appreciate your feedback. Yeah it was a little longer than I would have liked but at the same time I had a lot of information that I wanted to share. lol the struggle of a blogger. There was actually a lot more I wanted to get into but I figured it was already long enough. I’ll just cover some of my other thoughts in another post. Is there any topics in particular that you may be interested in me writing about in the future? I would love to know. I am always striving to deliver the most helpful content to you guys. Until next time take care!
This is great stuff man. I rap as a form of self expression so I feel fulfilled just by writing. But I am working my way on getting my stuff recorded so people can hear it freely. My only concern is theft. Since this IS self expression, the worse thing that could happen is someone stealing your work AND making money off of it. So I refrain from posting what I HAVE done on the internet as a result.
But enough about me, great article, helps outline the basics to, at the very least, trying to be successful and in my opinion, putting your heart and soul into getting heard is always a great effort in its own.
Hey Paul thanks so much for reading this article! I am glad that you enjoyed it! I totally agree about making music should be about your heart, soul and love for it. I always tell people, never pursue anything primarily based on making money because you will most likely end up burned out and unsatisfied. Instead I tell them if there was one thing that you could do that makes you happy and you find purpose in what would it be? Then secondly find out how to use that passion to help others and solve a problem and then most likely you will begin to have the financial support to do it full time if you invest a lot of time and energy into it.
And I feel you on the theft thing as well. Anything that is on the internet is able to be downloaded. If it can be streamed it can be downloaded. So I think it’s wise that you are keeping your stuff off the net if that is a concern for you. I would recommend getting your music copy written before placing it on the net. But still a copy write doesn’t prevent others from stealing it just is a sheet of paper that states that you own it. Plus law suites are very expensive and most won’t take it to court unless the thieving party is making a substantial amount of money off it.
But thanks again Paul for your comment and support. I am wishing you the best with your music! Is there anything in particular that you may be interested in me covering in the future? Until next time, take care!
This was a good article. The length was perfect. If people are really wondering why they can’t make it this is a must read for them. They can learn a lot from you with all your experience, I know I am. Man keep it going. I’m with you, making it is when you can support your family. Just because people don’t know your name does not mean you didn’t make it in life not doing what you love and supporting your family to me is the true meaning of being successful.
Thanks Nsane! I am glad to hear that you enjoyed this article and thanks so much for all the great feedback. I was kinda concerned with it’s length but also felt that it was packed with valuable information.
You and I both share the same meaning of success. Thanks so much for taking the time to read this article and comment as well. I will keep them coming and you keep up the great work as well!
Hey Cole.
Nice article. Not too long, no. Good, short and straight to the point. Things in this article are explained good. Nothing needs to be explained more. However, I do have a question. When you mention ‘How can I afford’, I say, I’m trying to do the best for what I have, but do you have any good ideas for how to divide a not too big amount for making 1 song great, if I have written the song, without a beat? Percent wise..
Hey Artur, I’m glad that you enjoyed the article and thanks so much for the feedback! As far as trying to record a song on a budget I would recommend either leasing a song which can be usually done for 30.00 USD or less or you can look for free instrumentals that producers may be giving away. Then you can either record it yourself if you have a decent recording studio setup or you can search for people with studios in your area and see what their prices are. Let me know if that helps and if you have any further questions.
hi cole, how do you make your own record label thing?
Now that’s a huge question! That requires a ton of explanation 🙂 I would suggest to search google for “how to start a record label” and you will come across tons of information. Wishing you the best in all your endeavors! 🙂
As a rapper trying to get into the game I found this article to be very informative. Thank you for providing a good source of useful information.
Hey Chris, I’m glad to hear that you found this article helpful. If you would like to read more articles I’ve written about the music industry you can check them out here Thanks for taking the time to comment and let me know you found my article helpful. Wishing you the best! and if you have any questions let me know! Take care.
I Love it! You hit the nail on the head!
Hey Calvin! I’m glad you enjoyed this article! Thanks for reading and commenting!
Thanks man. This article was amazing. I love it.
Thanks for reading and commenting G. I’m glad that you enjoyed it!
Good article. Very informative. I would have liked if you had more examples of rappers going through what you were describing to better get your points across, but besides that you brought down key points that many “aspiring rappers” ignore. Well done.
Hey Bryan, thanks so much for the feedback and I’m glad you enjoyed this article! I’ll keep your feedback in mind for future posts. Thanks again and take care! 🙂
hey Cole I loved the article! I am a Rapper/Producer from a small town of India. I’m am the only rapper of my city that can rap good in English but as hip-hop now is global how can I project myself to hip-hop fans around the world?
check me out https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZiNikGa4gBI
Hey Shine, I’m glad that you enjoyed this article. And a big shout out to India! Thanks for sharing your music video with me. I really enjoyed it 🙂 The question you asked me is a loaded one that requires a lot of explanation! If you want the long detailed version we should spend some time together via my 1 on 1 coaching at http://colemizestudios.com/coaching
The short answer is to continue to perfect your craft and release as high quality music as possible. Use platforms such as Youtube & soundcloud to host your music and start devoting time week in and week out to using the internet to connect with people all around the world in a sincere and meaningful way and also share you’re music with them but don’t force it on them. Again there’s so many things to discuss on this topic there’s no way I can do it justice in a comment. I hope this helps and I’m wishing you the best on your musical journey! 🙂
k…let’s just say…you do feel as though you’re A lot better than most of the rappers in the industry and you can prove it….Do you think there is a way to get someone to invest…maybe if I get heard or something….I know for a fact I can do this….and I have so much love for my craft…. it’s just i’m in an area where no one really makes it!! lol
Well in order for someone to invest in you you first need to show and prove to them that you can return them a profit on their investment. The music industry isn’t a talent show as you already mentioned lol but I would encourage you to look into doing everything yourself and start growing your following off the internet. Check out my article I wrote on the 1,000 fan theory you can make more money as an independent artist than most rappers signed to record labels and still have full creative control. 🙂 Also make sure you check out my hangout I did where I taught about signing yourself to a record label it’s good stuff!! I hope this helps 🙂
Excellent article. I am a middle school science teacher who grew up on hip hop and i encourage my students to pursue it for the the love of the art form not the cash. In this era of downloading music and many venues not having large hip hop concerts are artists actually able to make money? I feel like the business model for hip hop is rapidly changing.
Hey Kelvin, I’m glad that you enjoyed my article! I think it’s awesome that you are encouraging your students to pursue music for the right reasons! You are exactly right! The business model for music in general has changed a lot of the high speed internet and home recording digital audio era. But all the tools needed for artists to make a really good living is now in their hands. I think you would enjoy my article explaining the 1,000 fan theory. If you get a chance to check it out let me know what you think. Thanks again for reading and commenting with such positive feedback! 🙂
Great article. So many good insights and I liked the way you debunked the myths about “making it” as it looks from the outside
Thanks so much for reading and commenting with such positive feedback! I’m really glad you enjoyed it! Much love and respect! 🙂
i just started raping and i need coaching and a studio to rap in and i live in minneapolis minnesota
Hey lil jay I can’t help you with the studio but you should be able to find one near you just by doing some google searching online in your area. I can help you out tons with coaching and offer my coaching service here on my website.
yo bro im a rapper and i live in minnesota. i got u bro
Hello Cole,
As an up and coming artist, I think you hit right on the head. A lot of guys, record raggedy singles, or albums. And just throw it out there, hoping an ANR, or Jay z hear it and sign them. the craft is an investment for all things! Financial, time wise, effort wise…I think most rappers, are too lazy to get a job, stay on long enough to invest in them selves. And romanticize with the idea, cause what they see on T.V, they really don’t know how hard it is now days. and that’s with any thing one wish to pursue. Really enjoyed the article, big ups man!!!!
Thanks for reading and commenting Ben! I’m glad that you enjoyed this article and I couldn’t agree with you more! Wishing you the best in all that you do and feel free to stop by anytime and check out more of my articles. Much respect! 🙂
Good article bro, you sound like you have experience with everything you have wrote in this article. Do you rap too and have these things happened to you in the past?
Hey Carlos, thanks for reading! Yes I’ve been rapping for around 20 years. No these things haven’t happened to me per say but I’ve witness them happen to many others. Thanks for the positive feedback! I’m glad you enjoyed my article. 🙂
Great article overall. You cant have a negative mindset in this business. Check my Soundcloud out!https://soundcloud.com/ty-no-ly
Thanks for the positive feedback Tagir. I’m glad that you enjoyed this article and I’ll make sure to check out your Soundcloud. Thanks for reading and commenting! 🙂
Very informative,you really nailed it bro!
Thanks Esskilaro, I’m really glad that you enjoyed this article! Thanks for reading and commenting with your positive feedback! 🙂
I did feel the article was a bit long, even so, I read it all and was very happy to do so, since you’re constantly on point. I think you’re initial thought of it being long came through to me and that’s why I felt that. Anyways, thanks for the great advices!
I’m glad you enjoyed the article Mikee and thanks for the feedback! When I began writing this article I wasn’t anticipating it being as long as it is but I kept thinking of more points to make so I kept adding them lol Thanks for reading and commenting back I really do appreciate it! 🙂
Hey I’m c-lo I find this article informative its good to know a rap career doesn’t rely on Facebook likes even as a youngster i always though getting signed was it . I can see now it falls more on the individuals drive and goals . I think I have what it takes. Just take make one hit and I would love doing it I’m past The era of patiently waiting and not being heard being seperated from society and having mad time go by a lot of hip hop I hear these days seems plain sometimes I think I wasted time but I can’t stop writing cause life is real!!!!
Hey C-lo, thanks for the feedback! I’m really glad to hear that you enjoyed reading my article! Life is certainly real and working your creative muscle especially through music is very therapeutic. Keep up the hard work and if you keep doing what you love it will love you back! Much respect! 🙂
Awesome bro, its like very good advice!!
Thanks AD I’m really glad you enjoyed this article! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Hey Cole thanks for what you have deen doing for us…… Most people charge money for some of these things that you post free for us. May God continuing to give you more knowledge and underesting for. All the good works your doing this one cool. The article being too long don’t really matter, what matters is that you just have to do it for those who want to learn and be able to make it…
Thanks for your kind words Davidson. I’m really glad that you are finding my content to be valuable and I’m wishing you the best in all you do as well! Much respect! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Wonderful article, Mr Cole. I really appreciate your efforts and time taken to raise great men. I wanna know, is it better to remain independent like Chance the Rapper and what are the benefits and pitfalls of being independent?
Hey Fejiro Thanks for your positive words! I really do appreciate it! In short yes it’s best to remain independent because you have full control over your music and you also make a much larger percentage of the total income your music generates. However it’s much hard work and requires you to not just be an artist but a business person as well. So honestly the only pitfall I would say if you don’t educate yourself on the business aspect of things you could waste a lot of time and money and make unwise business moves. I hope this helps 🙂 – Cole Mize
Cole I loved it. Length was perfect man, I read the whole thing and never got bored. Well done, keep it up!
I think it’s brilliant advice and imma make sure it’s a checklist I keep checked throughout my come up
Thanks for the feedback Aidan! I’m really glad that you enjoyed this article and found it to be helpful! Keep up the great work! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Awesome!!! Very helpful 🙂 I did notice a typo, on one of the sub headings. It says “Talent is enough”, when judging by what your saying its ment to be “talent isn’t enough”. THanks again.
Thanks for pointing that out Angel. I just corrected it. I’m glad you enjoyed this article and thanks for the feedback! 🙂
I started researching what makes rappers become famous, what gives you “it”, what does the audience love? What makes a rapper relevant. Is it image? Not anymore apparently, people like lil yatchy and most of the xxl freshman list look kind of lame and eccentric. Is it lyrics? Nope, for obvious reasons. Is it skill? There’s another no. What makes people really take off? I’ve come to the conclusion that being a rapper in this day and age is like being an entrepreneur. You need something unique, something that will set you apart from the others. You need a target audience that you listen to, and can predict the trends of. To become famous now a days, you need to have something that will get played at clubs, your target audience needs to be females. They are the true factor deciding if you get played or not. You need to be ready to invest, studio time, visuals, branding, image. These all cost money. You need a backup plan. Not everyone will make it. No matter what you do, you just might never get seen. What you can do at that point is have something still related to the industry, for me, I’m working on rapping, producing, visuals, and multiple other things that I can fall back on if I need to cool down on the rapping to let a new wave sweep the nation. You also need to make some good connections.
Hey Jay, thanks so much for your comment! You shares lots of great advice! Thanks for reading and commenting. I’m wishing you the best in all you’re endeavors. Much respect! 🙂 – Cole Mize
it was really helpful and will make me a better rapper thanks man
Awesome! My pleasure Scar I’m really glad to hear that my content is helping you out! Keep up the hard work and I’ll do the same! 🙂 -Cole Mize
Hey Cole! absolutely love your advice, website and what you do for everyone, keep it up.
This article was really great and insightful even though it was only short and sweet, you addressed many often overlooked factors and things I hadn’t even considered, thanks 😀
Hey Erin thanks so much for all of your positive words I really do appreciate it and I’m glad that you enjoyed my article! I’m glad that you found this article to be short because some people thought it was too long. lol Thanks for reading and commenting I sincerely appreciate it! Much respect! – Cole Mize
Lmfao if anyone complains about the length then they should just leave the article tbh because if you don’t even have the drive to read about rap success for five minutes than you sure as hell don’t have the drive to achieve it
Thanks Teddy lol I’m glad you enjoyed the article! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Good well written article .. . I will forward to my son!
From a mother who’s son refuses to go to college to pursue a rap career.
Thanks Idnam, I’m really glad that you enjoyed my article and I hope your son enjoys it as well! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Should write about how to sing but was good information on what i was looking for and it wasn’t long it was perfect
Thanks for the feedback TJ I’m glad that you enjoyed my article. Rapping is my specialty and I’m not much of a singer tho I like to think I can hold a few notes. I may touch on that topic some in the future tho for sure. Thanks for reading and commenting! You rock! 🙂 – Cole Mize
This is the truth.
Thanks Ivy I’m glad you enjoyed my article! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Man seriously i wish i was your neighbour i could learn more everyday, this is straight forward points most of us have to consider.
But i have a question: u find that someone point out something in your work but he/she doesnt know how it can be fixed, again you hear the point raised but you cant identify the solution how do u deal with such problem? Please if i dont see your comment or reply i will be happy to receive it on my email, kingsamnovela@gmail.com thank alot .
Thanks for your positive words KS90 I really do appreciate it man! In response to your question, your best bet would be to get feedback from someone such as myself who not only understands the intricacies of rapping but can also explain and articulate in a way that you can understand. I work privately with my students on their songs via my 1 on 1 coaching service on a weekly basis. Check out Spoony-B’s project I worked on his entire project from start to finish. If coaching doesn’t work for you getting a Music Review is your next best option. If you have any more questions please let me know. Thanks! 🙂 – Cole Mize
CHRISTOPHER ADRIAN
DEAR Mr,Cole
Your article was straight to the point and i enjoy it very much. Keep these coming for sure, for sure
Thanks for the positive feedback Chris! I’m really glad you enjoyed this article. I’ll be sure to keep it up! 🙂 – Cole Mize
This article was perfect! Have me lots of insight into things I should be paying attention to. Like social media. I’ve only been a Facebook user up until now. But after reading this article I plant to promote my music on as many platforms as possible!! Thanks again Cole your amazing! One day I hope to have you feature on one of my songs! Nothing would make me happier at the moment lol. Good stuff man!!
Thanks so much for your abundance of positive feedback Bobby! I really do appreciate it and I’m happy to hear that you got a lot out of this article. Keep up the hard work and I’ll do the same! Who knows what the future may hold! 🙂 – Cole Mize
I would say this is one of the best articles about what it means to be a succesful rapper, or a musician in general. You did an amazing job here!
My question – is it a good idea to learn from doing covers? I mean, what worked for the original author will likely not work for me. Or is it better to try to find my own voice from the beginning? Thanks~
Thanks so much for your positive feedback Josephine! I’m really happy to hear that you enjoyed this article so much! Good question! I would highly recommend that you learn other rappers and singers songs. Your vocals is an instrument and just like any other instrument learning to play songs with your instrument will serve as a great way to practice. You will likely find your voice is a combination of bits and pieces of all of your greatest influences. You may enjoy reading my article on how to create a unique rap style as well as How to study your favorite rappers and my video lesson on creating cadences I hope this helps you out! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Thanks Bro.. I enjoyed the article.
Thumbs up from jawzblaze.. NB Canada..
Thanks Jawblaze I really do appreciate it! Much love as well from The States! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Loved this article
Good points
Thanks! I’m glad you enjoyed it! 🙂 – Cole Mize
This article is an handful of corn. Thanks coach
lol I’ve never heard that phrase before but I assume a handful of corn is a good thing lol! Thanks, Jupiter! 🙂 – Cole
this was very helpful for me and I will share this with the other two memebrs of my group cause we want to be a great rap group soon and this helped motivate me and try and get out there.
I’m glad this was helpful for you Lit Crew and thanks for sharing this with your fellow members. I’m wishing yall the best on your musical journey! 🙂 – Cole Mize
I used to be in sales for over 20 years and your attitude is the best I read in many sales books about being good to your customers and valuing them. I remember going door to door in many bad areas when I first started with no awareness I could be shot or killed but I was so nice at 17 working a gang related area people respected that I would try to sell newspapers in their area with no fear and total respect for them I collected bottles in those days for my commission and turned them in at the 7eleven. Being a doorknocker I had a lot of unique experiences that my wife is encouraging me to rap about my life and opinions and now with your help I can have achance of getting paid too, thank you cole for not being selfish with what you know.
Wow, thanks so much Jimmy for your kind words! I’m humbled and honored by them! And I’m really happy to hear that my content has been helpful to you. That’s what it’s all about right there! Thanks for sharing some of your story with me and I’m wishing you the best in all that you do! Much love and respect! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Great article, thank you for all the advice in it
My pleasure Katayon! I’m glad you enjoyed my article and I appreciate your positive feedback. Take care! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Great read
You touched on a lot of concepts but I think the most important one is approaching the game with some degree of a business mindset.
The allure of fame and a lavish lifestyle can divert focus away from the ultimate goal: making enough money to do what you love full time.
Thanks for breaking it down…looking forward to more content like this
Hey Michael, Thanks so much for your positive feedback, I’m really glad that you enjoyed my article! And you hit the nail on the head! I couldn’t agree with you more! Much respect! 🙂 – Cole Mize
I haven’t started my journey yet
Because I stink a lot
But hopefully after reading this
Article I have learned a lot
Thank you so much
for understanding our problems
My pleasure Willix, I’m glad this article was helpful. Hang in there and keep up the hard work! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Any advice for me? I’m a new starting rapper
Hey Psykx, if you’re just starting out I wouldn’t worry too much about trying to build a fanbase just yet. Focus on learning how to rap and perfecting your craft. A good place to start is by following my 5 step guide to learning how to rap Always feel free to reach out with any questions that you have along the way and I’ll do my best to help you out! 🙂 – Cole Mize
This info has been helpful. Its so helpful that I dont need medication in order to feed my crafty thoughts. Well at least others dont think so. I got mad skills and never undermind my flow. However finding the audience that’ll listen ans actually apply real honest feed back. Hey maybe this is the media hype I’d establish myself. Any feed back for a starving artist is appreciated.
Hey D. Mosley, I’m glad to hear that you enjoyed my article. When you get a chance check out my article on the 1,000 true fan theory I think it will give you a lot to think about. Also, check out my article on getting booked for shows
And if you ever want real helpful and detailed feedback check out my music review service
I hope this helps! 🙂 – Cole mize
hey cole,
im 14 and am looking to be apart of the grime scene.
(Im sure you would have an idea of what grime is but basically)
grime is a subgenre of rapfrom the uk that has its own tempo and slang and it has been blowing up as i turned from a kid into a teen.
im from australia and im really keen to get into the scene and i think i can do this as people have told me im talented? im good at poetry and people have liked what i have written.
im looking to gaiin a following off youtube ( also then making a website and looking for otherways to expand)
there is a following for grime in my country so i will be found on youtube its all about how they judge after they find me.
i will be waiting a few years and then releasing my stuff onto the website as usually 14 year olds are really cringe and have shit rhymes and shit flows.
Is there anything i should know?
Your article was really thought provoking and helpful so thank you.
im fourteen, too. My flows aren’t that bad it’s not that hard. What race are you? this matters, if you’re pure white, and your voice goin deep, you can prolly find a perfect tone for black’s voice to rap. Listen to every rappers’ songs and you would find yourself easy to find your style of hip hop and style. reply if the first sentences i said was wrong. good luck
Hey Jacob, Thanks for your comment and sharing a little bit about yourself with me. Yes I’m very much familiar with grime. I’ve had the pleasure of working first hand with quite a few up and coming rappers from the UK. My best advice to you would be to focus on perfecting your craft as a Grime Rapper. My website and Youtube channel is an excellent resource for you to learn a lot of knowledge and techniques that you could apply to your artist development. In addition to that, also begin studying up on how to market yourself as an artist. One great resource is the Wendy Day’s Youtube Channel
She’s really awesome and she knows her stuff!! You can always reach out to her with any music industry related questions and you can always reach out to me with any rapping relation questions. I’m wishing you the best on your musical journey and if you need any help along the way please let me know! Much love and respect! 🙂 – Cole Mize
Thanks, this was very helpful, educational and reassuring what I say to an artist that I help in launching a career.
My pleasure! Thank you as well for reading and commenting! I’m glad my article was helpful to you! 🙂 – Cole Mize
i disagree one of the paragraphs sayin shit like, rappers don’t care, there are a lot of rappers who DO, when was this, prolly somewhere after 2016 cuz the memes and shit. Like xxxtentacion care his fans and wants to grow them by being a good person, and you writing bullshit down here m8. Sorry for cussing and cursing but, not my fault.
Hey Yul Kwon, thanks for chiming in. I never said “ALL” rappers don’t care. This article is listing some of the things that prevent SOME rappers from ever catching traction. This is a great article for rappers to read who are trying to avoid making mistakes that will hold them back. There are many rappers who care soo much that they sacrifice everything they have to make it. Whatever you love you will make sacrifices for. I hope this helps. Thanks for reading and commenting! 🙂 – Cole Mize
not ruin your article or anything but, when you truly want to become a rapper, and you succeed is done. Me? I dont give a damn if i go broke or anything is happening to me, just suceeding is a thing to me. Because being an hip hop artist is my dream. very sorry but, telling some other people like me that they should know this, if they don’t, not there passion, yet.
Hey Yul, there are two types of rappers. The hobbyist and the professional. The article is speaking specifically to rappers who are striving to be professional rappers. If you wish to learn more about the difference between the too make sure you check out this article I hope this helps 🙂 – Cole Mize
Big help and I love the fact that your articles are lucid…
Thank you so much for this don’t even know how i got to it but its is a great help and i’m a rapper same time a student and i also work at a Cyber I’m 21 i’m in the University .. I have always had a passion for rap music and i don’t rest i get inspired by everything … Thank you so much once again GOD BLESS YOU
Amazing for real, gives good hope. Unlike complex lol
Very insightful and detailed
Great advice I needed this for my road to greatness
Great article! Just want to let you know someone stole your article word for word and posted it on their site with their name on it as the writer. Here’s the link!
https://raptology.com/why-most-rappers-never-make-it/
Just came across the article 6years ago 33 now 38 am I too old to crack into game?
This has really been helpful Cole. Thanks for this stuff. I have not started it profesionaly but I will need it one day. Thanks mate. Cheers.
Just when I was feeling like it was enough said, bam! U wrapped it up. Nice job. Part of wisdom is sharing the knowledge, and that you do my friend. Thanks. Will continue to follow up with the Real Talk?
I wish you were speaking from experience and the things your speaking on was from your mistakes/ and or success…..but even so i read it all and I should be a motivational speaker oe something but speak on yr experiences because they will stand out more
Hey Cole. Nice write up, you really passed a big message with this. And it feels like you are talking to me directly. I will keep checking on each and every one of your articles. Thank you so much for this.
very helpfull. thank you for this, it was a reminder that i need to do more