Image courtesy of the author
Many artists, and even athletes, are always screaming the classic line, "I am not a role model." Boy, how I wish that were true. The moment you decided you were going to make music and try to get it to the masses is the moment you became someone's role model.
As an artist, I truly believe that we can use our platforms and voices to do some great things in the world. The beautiful thing is that it doesn’t have to be finding the cure for cancer. It can be something as simple as using your social media voice to bring awareness to issues in your community. I have had the opportunity and privilege to use my voice and platform for good numerous times. From benefit concerts to scholarship funds to op-eds, there are endless ways artists can help out. My favorite thing to say is, "You don't have to be rich to give back." Here are a few things you as an artist can do to use your platform for good.
1. Visit your old school (high school, middle school, or elementary school)
You'll be surprised at the impact a simple visit to your old stomping grounds can make on the younger generation. Yes, this may be a little hard with the rapidly changing K-12 school environment, but stay consistent and let the new leadership know that you're an alum and you want to reach the babies. Once you get your day, make sure you tell the students that you were once in their very seats. Bring some free stuff – lil' kids love free stuff (hell, I do, too).
2. Throw a benefit concert
This is one of my favorite ways to use the platform as an artist for good. Artists are always looking for a reason to throw a show, so instead of adding another typical artist showcase to your local scene, why not have shows for a good cause? The trick is not just calling something a benefit show to bring bodies – you have to do the research on an issue. Connect with local nonprofits and find out where to send donations or cash. If you plan far enough ahead, you can even get some sponsors for your event.
[The Big Give Back: How to Work With a Charity (The Right Way)]
3. Write an op-ed on an issue close to you
This one takes a bit more skill and thoughtfulness, but once you're done, you'll reap all the benefits. Writing an op-ed piece allows people who may not have heard of your music to see and read your thoughts on an issue. Op-ed pieces with larger platforms can get a lot of traction, which can in turn mean new fans. There may be some constraints depending on which publication you're writing for, but for the most part, you can speak freely on issues that you care about.
4. Write songs that speak on deeper issues
This might seem like the simplest one, but in this turbulent time of "chasing the radio hits," many artists choose simple club songs over the songs with substance. This one is not for everyone; some artists have found their niche, and they most likely don't want to deviate from that. (No one wants to hear a "heal the world" song from Juicy J.) However, if you're an indie artist, you have the free range to write a song about whatever you want. If you're upset about homophobia, don't rant about it on your Twitter; write a song about it.
There are always new ways to talk about an age-old issue – never forget that. As artist in the 21st century, our music can spread across the globe in seconds, so why not have a few of those songs speak to people beyond the club?
5. Join conversations on Twitter
This may be the easiest one to try out. The news is literally happening on Twitter. Any time something major happens, you can head to your news feed and watch it play out. But as an artist, instead of watching it, you can join the conversations and get some truly inspiring engagement (if you're not trolling people like a dick). From my personal experience, I've gotten hundreds of retweets and likes for joining the conversation on issues that matter to me. Don't just use your Twitter to sell crap like a spammer. Get active, and talk (tweet)!
6. Donate proceeds of an album or show to charity
Consider donating a percentage of your proceeds to a charity of your choice. It doesn't have to be a million dollars; it's really the thought that counts. I'm not saying give away all your show money to Little Johnny; just simply add an extra $2 on the admission price, and send those proceeds to whoever you'd like to support.
[3 Fulfilling Ways to Give Back as a Musician]
7. Punch Donald Trump in the face when you see him
This is self-explanatory... just don't tell him I told you to do it.
Marco Pavé is an activist and rapper, who has worked with Grammy-winning producers and opened for artists like Skewby, Haystak, and Waka Flocka. He is also involved in a number of community improvement initiatives, from literacy campaigns to calls for neighborhood investment.
