No Imitators Allowed!

So you’re on you’re grind. You have your CDs pressed up, your flyers are hot off the printing table, and your Myspace page is fresh to def! You have done everything indicated by the professional panels and music industry books for your career but still no one is feeling you! Now what?!

Well, you could second guess yourself and jump on the next industry band wagon by creating an imitation of the most popular sound and dance. OR you can not sell yourself out and stand your ground. These days you have to give folks reasons to feel you. Do you may think that Soulja Boy thought that writing his name in bubble ink on a pair of white shades was kinda crazy at first? Probably… Hopefully. (Bad Juice) But if he was going to have every 13 year old girl doing the same thing he had to believe that it was too flyy.

Last week, I attended the “Man Behind the Man” panel at one of the ATL Record Pool’s events. (Shout out to P.Brown!) The panel was a stellar cast of managers who’re responsible for bringing some of today’s biggest music stars to the forefront. One point that all the panelists’ agreed on was that there was a time when folks were just not diggin their artists. Kanye West will be the first to tell you he was considered whack by all the label big wigs and now he’s one of the Kings in the game.

Now I’m not tryna get all mushy with the “don’t give up” spiel, but since you’re possibly sitting alone at your computer reading this, I’m hoping that you’d open up a little since it’s just you and me. The point I’m trying to make here is that YOU have to be your biggest fan. You have to trust that your sound, look, skills, verses, etc is like no other. No. People won’t get you right away (I believe this is referred to as “Hating”) it’s on you to make them. Quit cutting corners and stay true to you. Remember that self-preservation is key and don’t stop until you get what you want for YOU!!!

Reasons to stay true:

1. You will have longevity because you're genuine.

2. Respect.

3. Folks will remember you - not the movement you copied.

4. It's just easier to be yourself!

P.S. There is a chance that you’re sound…ummm….just might not be what’s up. If so, tweak it until it is. However, do not throw that which makes you unique out the window simply because one person doesn’t understand it. In this business, the werk never stops and neither should you.

-Always with love, Miss Juice