More Research

This week's progress consisted of more general research research on musicians in the industry and their methods of entering into the business. On a side-note, I have yet to hear back from the fan-mail address that I emailed two weeks ago, perhaps it would be wise to send a follow-up email sometime sometime within the next two weeks. Expect an update on that in the next post. 

Above is a video of rapper Big Sean explaining how he was able to get signed by meeting Kanye West at a radio station which allowed him to begin his career with a label. While obviously it's unlikely for this to be a common case for most rappers, it brings up interesting points about making connections within music. Take caution with the video though, as there is some explicit content. 

While this video may not say much about the college route, it presents both ideas about the importance of connections and the radio. Big Sean explains that he was given free reign around the different rooms of the radio station, and that's how he was able to meet Kanye. This only happened because he and his friend knew the owner of the station. So while connections with other musicians and labels are obviously beneficial, this goes to show that making connections with anyone who works in music could also provide someone with the opportunity to catch a break.

Finally, this video demonstrates the importance of radio when it comes to music. Even if one isn't getting their music played on big stations, talking for or getting music played by local stations can provide a route to getting discovered.

Furthermore, famous rapper and businessman Jay-Z never even graduated high school. However, he has still managed to be a success not only with music but with other professional pursuits. Though this is just one case, it does debunk the myth that rappers must go to college in order to avoid being professionally reliant on a label's business and marketing.