The Truth About “Killing It” in the Music Industry

Everybody’s talking about how this artist is “killing it” and that artist is “blowing up,” but let’s be real most of them ain’t killing nothing. What does “killing it” even mean? Do you really understand the entertainment business? It’s one of the hardest industries to maintain success in because if you’re not built for it, it’s a straight one-way ticket to burnout and depression. Not trying to sound harsh, but do your research look at the careers of legendary artists and see what they really went through.

Yeah, yeah, I get it, music is your passion, you love it, and you wanna make it. But passion alone won’t position you properly in this game. You gotta understand the rules if you wanna move right. Me? I just call it how I see it. Most people can’t because they don’t see beyond their own nose. The industry doesn’t wait for you to figure it out,,,, it controls the ones who don’t know how to control themselves.

The Money Talk

Let’s break it all the way down,,, how much is an artist really making? Because at the end of the day, that’s what a career comes down to. Everybody starts off saying, “I don’t care about the money, I just love music,” but let’s be honest,,,, with no money, there is no career. Think about it.

When you plan six months or even a year ahead, yeah, you can create a perception that you’re “killing it.” And sure, to those who can’t see the game, you’ll look like you’re winning. But the real ones? They see right through it. You can’t outplay the players who lead this, and even the ones who lead? They’re being led by something bigger.

The Harsh Reality

You’ve heard about labels dropping artists. You’ve seen groups come together, making noise, getting a little success, then what? A few years down the line, they’re right back at square one. Maybe they made a little money, maybe they just broke even, or maybe they ended up in debt. That’s the cycle. That’s the game for the lost one’s.

So play your cards right. Always think long-term because, hate to say it, but everyone is looking out for themselves,,,, that’s just how it is. The deeper you get, the more you’ll realise. This industry doesn’t care about you unless you understand how to move.

The Game Within the Game

If you really understand how the game works, the best way to play is simple,,,, don’t chase it, let it chase you. Don’t be a hungry, desperate artist, because that’s exactly what makes you a target. The ones at the top can spot greed from a mile away, and once they see you moving without a plan, they’ll use you like a puppet,,,, real talk.

Look, if your music is good, it will connect. That’s the bottom line. Marketing is important, yeah, but it’s not more important than the music itself. When music touches the soul, it moves the world,,,, that’s real power. And power? That’s what the major players in this game are really watching.

But here’s the dark side,,,, many who gain that power end up surrounded by the wrong people. Because once you reach a certain level, the higher-ups start seeing you as a threat. That’s when things get real. They’ll do whatever it takes to keep you out the game, sometimes that means getting you locked up, sometimes it means something worse. We’ve seen it happen too many times.

I ain’t saying this to scare you,,,, I’m saying it because most people don’t understand what really goes on. If you’re serious about this, you need to know the business, study the history, and move smart.

How to Really Move in This Game

So really, nobody is killing shit. More likely, they’re just living with more pressure and have lost touch with what really matters. The hype is loud, but behind the scenes? Most of these artists are struggling to keep up, losing control of their own careers.

So how do you move differently? Simple,,,, build the platform on your own rules. Create the momentum around you so you call the shots. That’s how you gain control. At the end of the day, it’s all about power. And music? That’s the most powerful weapon you’ve been given. If you know how to use it, you control everything.

Forget chasing clout. Forget the hype. Enjoy the art and focus on the real power that comes from knowing how to move in this game.

Killing It

So here’s the thing,,,, killing it is very simple. Have your product ready before you even think about dropping a song. Don’t just throw it out there like you’re trying to blow up. Instead, get your product line together before you drop. Make sure you have everything set and positioned for the long run.

And don’t worry about reaching out to people. If you’re good, they’ll find you. The real ones know how to spot real talent, and when you’ve got it, they’ll come to you. Don’t chase the game. Let it chase you. Just be prepared for the ride but make sure your in the driver seat,,, not the back seat.

Final Word

Just wanted to drop this blog so you know, but always be learning and keep an open mind. See things from every angle so you can make the right moves instead of getting stuck later. Play smart, keep your eye on the game, and don’t get lost.

The last thing you want is a headache at the end of the journey, so create a great journey, because it’s all in your hands.

One Last Thing

Look, if you just want a bit of fun, yeah, do your thing,,,, but if you’re serious, seriously serious, then study this properly. This kind of info ain’t out there for everyone. What you see online? Just the good bits. They don’t show you the struggle, the pressure, and the reality behind the scenes. So take your time, learn the game, and move smart.

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From Hustle to Success: Understanding the Music Game and Playing It Right

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The Reality of Making Music a Full-Time Career