Sy Ari Da Kid. (Image via respectthenext.com)
Making it in hip-hop ain't easy. When everyone in the industry is clamoring for attention, it seems like the best thing to do is post your mixes on SoundCloud for free and just hope for the best. But there's a lot more you can do to get noticed, play the shows you want to play, and make meaningful connections.
Hip-hop artist Sy Ari Da Kid built his music career through festivals A3C in Atlanta, which creates a huge platform for artists, academics, and organizations within the industry to come together to talk about hip-hop's place in music, film, fashion, and our culture as a whole. This year, Sy Ari will be performing at the event once again, showcasing just how far he's come.
In Sonicbids' first-ever Twitter chat on July 1, aspiring artists used the hashtag #SonicbidsChat to ask Sy Ari their burning questions about making it as a hip-hop artist, standing out, and having the right attitude, among many other topics. Check out the great advice he gave below.
What are some basic first steps to getting noticed in the hip-hop industry?
Knowing your brand & havin a unique name is important. If people like what they hear they need 2 be able 2 search it https://t.co/OtXnH6YtZ4
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
What plays the largest factor when artists are selected to perform at festivals?
its the promotion & buzz u build around it. Cuz not everyone will be at your set. So reminding them with promo helps https://t.co/IOHjRWAGCZ
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
What are two things new artists should AVOID doing when building their music career?
Avoid all negativity. Watch what u say and do when u r given an opportunity. & avoid sitting still. STAY ACTIVE! https://t.co/3io1m46HBm
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
What are some good approaches when networking and trying to build connections in the industry?
Go 2 all major city events yearly. Find out who throws them & stalk them. Be active shake hands be PROFESSIONAL!!! https://t.co/nPqrT8gqIm
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
How can artists improve their stage presence?
#SonicBidsChat study the crowd even if u already have your set. Pay attention 2 the people enganged. BREAK RULES!! https://t.co/6Cnmrqv9fU
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
How long was it for you before you got that opportunity to get your foot in the door?
#SonicBidsChat thats the thing. It isnt just one door. And since i started the game has changed as well as I https://t.co/1HaRNWvUvI
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
#SonicBidsChat we all have different timing. Question is. Once u find yourself how long will u last? Have longevity https://t.co/1HaRNWvUvI
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
What makes you respect another artist's work?
#SonicBidsChat just them being themselves & tellin their story. Not bein afraid 2 break rules. I collab with EVERY1 https://t.co/7sDjAZ5uwc
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
Do you have any advice on finding a publicist/manager?
#SonicBidsChat before signing management do your research. If they say they have connections they should be able 2 https://t.co/q0NdtB9CtN
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
#SonicBidsChat pick up the phone or email right there & get an answer. They should know what they can & cant do https://t.co/q0NdtB9CtN
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
Do you think there is a such thing as being too humble or too thirsty when networking?
#SonicBidsChat in my opinion . Being humble should be at heart. Not in action. Because the average eye confuses it https://t.co/5lciXoE6mw
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
#SonicBidsChat "acting" humble only goes so far. I was raised in a humble home. But this game is a jungle. https://t.co/5lciXoE6mw
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
#SonicBidsChat play the game the same way it plays it self. U ever watch a video game play itself. It shows ALOT https://t.co/5lciXoE6mw
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
What is something you need to consider when building a team?
#SonicBidsChat everyone must be on the same page. Everybody cant be the star. AND DO YOUR JOB EVERYDAY . Take risks https://t.co/FBmnxO4v3J
— Sy Ari Da Kid (@SyAriDaKid) July 1, 2015
If you want the opportunity to perform alongside Sy Ari Da Kid and other talented hip-hop artists, apply now for A3C! Submissions are totally free through August 31, 2015.
