Published: Friday - July 4, 2008
Words by Donny Goines
Donny Goines (Photo: Don Michaels)
Most artists are extremely cocky and arrogant. It's nothing wrong with that if the energy's channeled the right way, but most of them are so stuck on themselves that they can't recognize other talented artists out there. I think it's something wrong with that.
When I am performing at a show, or attending an event with other artists, I watch and listen to their music. I try to check out as many songs as I can on the net and really keep an eye and an ear out for emerging talent. Reason being is because I never wanted to be an artist initially, but I was ALWAYS an avid listener. There are so many people out there that are extremely talented and for me it's fun to watch other artists do their thing. Like when I saw Kidz In The Hall hit "TRL," found out Mickey Factz and A.Pinks got their videos on MTV2, or saw Remo Da Rapstar and Torae in the Show & Prove article off XXL magazine -- these things really made me feel proud to be a fan. Although the people I named are my peers, they are also great artists in their own right and I enjoy seeing the success of others. There are so many people out there I could name, but suffice it to say I am a true fan of talent and of hip-hop as a whole.
There's nothing wrong with being a fan people. Artists are some of the most sensitive beings on the planet though and their personal feelings get offended quickly. Some are ashamed to admit they like another artists, or just afraid to give others accolades. Truthfully, I think that is some corny shhh. When you were growing up, you were a fan then, so what happened now? Because you're an artist you can't appreciate other MCs doing their thing? If you think like that, not only are you ignorant, but you're also very naive. You can learn a lot by being a fan and it can actually HELP you improve your craft if you are smart. Not to say you should bite what others are doing, but sometimes you can learn a thing or two from watching and listening to others. That's the problem with many people though, they NEVER listen. Then they wonder why certain people are where they're at while they're still stuck in position. The bottom line to this blog is simple. Don't be a hater. Embrace others for what they do and if you like it, say so. It doesn't make you less of an artist to admit something is dope and believe it or not, sometimes you need to step out of artist mode and just be a fan once and a while. It will balance you out.
When another artists compliment me or my music, I feel humbled. It's great to know that there are some artists out there that like what I'm doing because I like what a lot of artists are doing. Great minds think alike I suppose. Much love.
Side note: I've been nominated for an Underground Music Award. Please take a second and vote for me, by clicking here.
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