Rap Artist Jay-Z, Music Business Entrepreneur Dame Dash Each Releasing Biography

With his highly anticipated studio album Blue Print 3 soon to be released, rap artist Jay-Z just can't stop the hustle. The music business mogul has just signed a deal to release a new autobiography. Sean Carter's new tell all book, which is currently Untitled with no date of publication, but is sure to see the one of the richest rapper in the game collect yet another pay check.

This biography is said to include everything from Jay-Z's life and times on the streets of Brooklyn NY, to his rise as a rapper to a music business entrepreneur, to his relationships with R&B icon Beyonce, and other music industry celebs. His time at Roc-A-Fella, Def Jam and everything up to the newly formed Roc Nation imprint. The bio, which will probably going be a really interesting read, is still a work in progress.

On the other end of the music biz spectrum, mogul Dame Dash is also spilling the beans with his tell-all literary adventure which is set to be released 4th quarter 2009. It is speculated that Dame Dash will be "airing out" any details and grievances he has with his former Roc-A-Fella Records partner Sean Carter.

Dash's biography is supposed to be his rendition of his time in the music industry working with artists such as Jigga, Memphis Bleek, Beanie Siegel, M.O.P. among many others. Also it should chronicle his journey after Roc-A-Fella to the creation of his Dame Dash Music Group.

It has been widely reported that Dame Dash has hit some financial woes (damned recession), could this be the motive for his new book publishing venture ? What about Jay-Z ? I mean he's already valued at well over $300 million net worth, does he really need to publish a book ? Maybe, maybe not. Maybe the music fans want more from this artist and this former music business mogul.

Independent Hip Hop Business Models At Work - Tech N9ne Case Study

Whats Good All ?

I was honestly thinking about making a case study post about the successful music marketing and business strategies implemented by independent hip hop artist Tech N9ne, but to no surprise a professor from the Berklee College of Music made this post before I did. Eric Beall, a professor of Music Publishing 101 at Berklee Music, and is the author of a Berkleemusic.com blog that I frequent as well as a book that has inspired me to pursue a career in the music publishing business ("Make Music Make Money") made an excellent post about this. He actually nailed it, so I thought I would just share his post with all of you today.

Tech N9ne is said to have one of the most elaborate, creative and impressive stage performances out of any hip hop artist. This is quite amazing considering the artist is independently releasing his own records and managing his own music business. Here is the good case study from the Berklee Music Publishing Blog

Also peep this sick joint by Tech N9ne, Chino XL and Crooked I.

Chris Brown Gets Some Help From YouTube Video

It's funny, some one asked me the other day, "Do you think Chris Brown will put out a new record?". Being the smart ass that I am, I replied "Not another record for teenage girls,". Well it turns out that, despite my rude jokes, Chris Brown is still receiving some love out there.

This "love" comes in the form of some added plays on YouTube from a newly married couple's wedding day dance, which put Chris Brown back on the chats. The video has earned over 11 million views, a huge boost which earns an increase in sales since the wedding video hit the web. The newly weds were featured on NBC where they re-performed their wedding dance.

Amounting to more record sales and royalty payments from his labels Jive/ Zomba Recordings, this extra exposure through this simple video is a positive note for the singer who has been through some rough tribulations as of late.

Chris Brown has been in the media for his very public assault trial with R&B/Pop sensation Rihanna. Brown, who posted a video apology on YouTube, has been indirectly
featured on a video that spread virally across the net. This video is of two newly weds dancing down the aisle to the singer's smash hit song from last summer, "Forever". The effect that this video has had on this artist in particular is a powerful sign of what YouTube can do to change the career of any artist in the music business.

How do you use YouTube ? Are you taking advantage of the useful ways YouTube helps independent artists market their rap music ?

Looking For A Record Deal, Why ?

Are you looking for a record deal, trying to get signed by a major label ? Why ? What do you expect the label to do for you as a rap artist in the music business ?

Ask yourself, what can a major label do for you that you cannot start to do now, by your self ? The whole catch 22 of getting signed to a label is that labels are only looking to sign an artist that already has his own vision, plans and music marketing strategies in action.

This is what is essential for building a successful venture in the music business. You must prove your worth or value, basically show the labels that you are already selling rap music and doing a damn good job of it. This will indicate that investing in your music is a wise and bankable option for the label.

Most artists will never get recognized by any major label, especially if they have not made it in to the music industry on their own. This usually happens the "hard way", where artists are kicking, screaming and fighting to get in through the music industry back door.

The truth is, if you are just "looking" for a record deal, you might as well be looking to win the lottery or follow the end of the rainbow to a fantasy pot of gold. Real rap artists break through the music industry scene by working hard, staying focused and achieving the goals that they have set for themselves and their music. So stop looking for a record deal, and instead go out there and create your own music business deals from which you can profit with your great music.

Check out the side bar of this blog for books that make excellent resources for learning the ins and outs of the music business (I have also read and recommend these particular books). Books, however, will only lead you to the door way, you must walk through it on your own accord.

"50th Law of Power", Book On Business Philosophies By 50 Cent

Some of you may be familiar with the book "The 48 Laws of Power", which is a an excellent book to read if you are going to get into business of any kind, but especially the music business. It has nothing to do with music or business, but everything to do with social and self philosophies that have been exemplified by people throughout history to wheel and maintain honour, respect and power.

Robert Greene, the author of this book, believes he has found someone who has mastered the 48 laws of power to succeed as an entrepreneur 50 cent has teamed up with Robert Greene for a joint venture in publishing the new book "The 50th Law". While Greene was at first skeptical of meeting and dealing with a celebrity, the project has now unfolded in to a great new literary work.

This book makes perfect sense for 50 cent, an entrepreneur who embodies the hunger of a hustler on the corner. Consider that 50 cent has made his mark on the Forbe Fortune list with a net income valued at over 400 million (US) dollars.

Due to be released in early September, 2009, this book is sure to fly off of the book shelves. An audio book will also be released read by both authors. I'm very interested in picking up a copy of both of these books, the 48 laws and the 50th law. What do you think ? Just another money grab or a great venture that will only increase 50's power and success as a music business mogul ?

Hip Hop Beef Continues To Be An Effective Music Marketing Strategy

Since day one, hip hop has carried with it a creative competitive edge, which makes us all step up and bring out the best of our selves. After all if you are going to rock it, you have got to rock it right. This type of competitive-pride mentality is where I believe hip hop "beef" stems from, challenging all emcee's to be the best.


As a week or so has passed since I made the posts about the music marketing strategies behind Joe Budden/Method Man's beef and the growing feud between Trick Daddy and Rick Ross. I thought I would re-touch on how the massive hype surrounding "rap music beef" is used as a marketing strategy to build a rap artist music brand.

Whether it's coast vs. coast, record labels competing in the same markets, or just straight up lyrical and freestyle battles, there is no doubt that rap music fans every where love their beef ! When it comes to diss tracks, rap artists have us right where they want us, listening closely and paying attention. This can have positive and negative effects on a rappers career in the music business.

Take for example, the most recent beef between The Game and hip hop veteran Jay-Z. Both of these rappers are in the middle of big campaigns for their own projects. The Game, never a stranger to controversy has taken it upon himself to let the world know how he feels about Jay-Z. "I'm So Wavy" was released, The Game taking shots at S. Carter to provoke a reaction from the hip hop audience.


While on tour in the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Spain and Germany among many other parts of Europe, The Game has involved the European audience in chants that denounce the rap mogul Jay-Z, depicting him as an old bitter bastard who is refusing to let the rap game go (in so many words). Also the rapper takes shots at Roc Nation's music, Jay-Z's "criticism" of Auto Tune(with his single "D.O.A.") among other discrepancies that The Game has with Jigga.


Jay-Z, having been in many of these situations before decided it best to leave it at very few words. When asked about The Game's lyrical attacks, Jay-Z has stated "Let him commit career suicide.". Although while this hip hop feud is definitely having a positive effect on The Game's music right now, it is drawing many to question why Jay-Z has not responded with a diss track of his own, giving the fans something new to get immersed in (which could be construed as a negative effect looming on Jay-Z).

Either way, big things are in the works right now for both rappers, who are extremely busy. The Game continues his tour of the eastern hemisphere, building more hype by fueling the media fire, appearing as a guest on radio interviews, and posting video blogs. Every hip hop media outlet right now is getting at this guy for a piece of his mind, which puts him in a valuable position in terms of earning exposure and keeping his name in the eye of the fans world wide.

This definitely builds a big buzz for The Game's upcoming album "The Red Album", which is a work in progress for the rapper, while on tour. Mean while, Jay-Z prepares for his fall release of "Blue Print 3" which is highly anticipated with it's high profile features and big marketing budget. As an entrepreneur, Sean Carter is a smart man, although some would argue that he should make more use of this current "chess move" by The Game. Although I'm sure Jigga has a well thought out marketing plan for his album and his label Roc Nation, which no doubt is currently his primary focus.

As I heard The Game say in radio interview from over seas, "This is hip hop, it's a competition, somebody is always trying to be the best". The Game was also said, about Jay-Z, "He's real slick, and really witty. If he puts out a response diss track, look for that to be on his album [BP3]". Game deserves credit for being a young entrepreneur with that aggressive and and intelligent mentality which surely drives his success.

The rapper also made some comments that I think are worth noting about rap music business. "My fans expect me to react, to have a response". "Hip hop changes faces and you either get with the program or you fall off. To have longevity, you have to change with hip hop, it doesn't change with you.". Words of music business wisdom from a rap artist of the new generation.

Do you find the hip hop beef to be an effective marketing strategy for building an artist brand ?

Tricky Daddy Goes Independent, Starts Dunk Ryders Label and Beefs With Rick Ross

Trick Daddy Dollars has been in the music business since the mid 1990's, so you can bet he knows a thing or two about career perseverance. Since 1997, the rapper has had a strong southern following, national success and Billboard hits, such as "Lets Go" and "I'm A Thug" and "Shut Up".

Originally one of the first rap artists signed to Slip-N-Slide Records, Trick Daddy left the label in 2000 to sign with the major label Atlantic Records. Now, free at last from the clutches of his old record deal, Trick Daddy is back and ready to launch his own indie rap label, Dunk Ryders Records.

"Finally Famous" is 8th studio album and first project for the new record label, it will to be released on September 15th of this year. What is Trick up to these days to spark some interest ?

A beef with fellow Miami rapper Rick Ross for one, while I'll save you the details I will point out that it is not coincidental timing in the slightest. This is a great strategical move by Trick Daddy to market his music. Releasing diss tracks is the artist's way of attracting old fans back again and new fans for the first time.

This "beef" with Rick Ross is just a tactic to hype the arrival of Trick's new album. Perhaps this makes both of these rap artists more relevant ? Then again, maybe not. Either way Trick, real name Maurice Young, is a natural born entrepreneur that just happens to make good rap music into a great business.

Rap Legend Rakim Still Grinding, Sets Release Date of "Seventh Seal"

What should you expect when a legendary rap artist decides it's his turn to shine in 2009 ? Believe that he'll be paid in full ! Superstar rapper and hip hop icon Rakim has announced a date for the release of his highly anticipated album "The Seventh Seal".



Originally this album was going to be released years ago through the hip hop giant record label Aftermath, distributed through Inter scope. However, due to creative difference, Rakim left the label to pursue his creative visions for this album.

Rakim has stated that this new album is completely fresh with all new joints. None of the songs from his time at Aftermath have made it onto the album. Although the rap superstar never rules out working out with super producer Dr.Dre in the future. "No doubt, if the timing on the projects are right.".

Now, in 2009 the album is about to finally come to fruition. A joint venture between Rakim's own Ra Records label and Tuscan Villa Entertainment. "The Seven Seals" will be distributed through Fontana/Universal Music Group.

"Holy Are You" is the first single off of the album, which was scheduled to be released on July 28th. To no body's surprise the single leaked way before then. Peep the man, the icon is still on the grind and getting paid. Although the lyrical mastermind is more on the spiritual tip, his music still resonates with fans all over the hip hop world.

Jay-Z's Roc Nation Now Distributed Through Sony-Atlantic

Apologies in advanced, as this is no longer breaking news. Last week Jay-Z's label took another huge step forward as a force in providing popular rap music world wide. Roc Nation recently signed their deal to be distributed by Sony Music, which has the resources to fully support a roster of talented hip hop and R&B artists and music producers.

While music fans anxiously wait on "Blue Print 3", which will be released on September 11th, 2009 by Atlantic Records. Originally the rap artist, real name Shawn Carter had contractual obligations to release one more album through Def Jam, but it has been reported that Jay-Z paid a hefty price to buy him self out of the deal. For now, Jigga is
just trying to expand into new business ventures as a natural born entrepreneur. Hence this deal with his record label, Roc Nation with Sony Music.

The first single reportedly features Drake, although as a sign of stretching his wings, Jay-Z has released the song/video entitled D.O.A. (Death Of Auto tune). The song in it self deals with the much talked about "auto tune" issue in hip hop music. Peep it, if you haven't already...


Here's a dope jigga joint that I've actually bumping lately (in my constant quest of loving the classics while looking to the future ones.)



Also peep Billboard for the article on the Roc Nation deal, they usually on point over there (lol). Jigga is quoted on the Def Jam situation, as well as some other words worth noting. What do you think, can Roc Nation be the urban music powerhouse that Jay-Z in visions ?

HYPE THE HIP HOP BEEF - Music Marketing Strategies That Work

If you're a hip hop head like me, you just can't help but listen to the occasional diss track. From the "Real Roxanne" to the KRS and MC Shan battles, beef has been an element inside of hip hop that the fans have always been excited about watching unfold. In 1996, Tupac's "Hit 'Em Up" took diss tracks to a whole new and exciting level, which changed how diss tracks have evolved to become a competitive edge in music marketing. Thus, the "beef" factor began fueling a mass machine of hype manufacturing for hip hop artists, albums and record labels. However it's 2009 and in the words of the Notorious B.I.G., "Fuck that BEEF shit, that shit is played out".

Although now a days it seems that artists are having to exercise every possible option, pulling out all stops when it comes branding themselves and their music through rigorous and aggressive marketing and promotional efforts.

Take for example the current beef that has caught the music industry's attention, spreading like a bullshit virus through the hip hop music community. The Joe Budden-Method Man beef is being heavily debated by industry cats and avid rap music fans. Basically Joe said some shit about Meth, who is an established vet in the rap music business. Not so coincidentally, Method Man and Redman's highly anticipated Black Out 2 album was released just over a month ago. This little "beef" is keeping Method Man's name publicized in blogs, articles and magazine/ezines

Then on the other end, there is Buddens. Joe is heavily promoting the upcoming Slaughterhouse project that he and fellow super group artists are about to release. There is more then enough hype going into this release already, without Joe Budden having to stir up some shit. Still, it doesn't hurt to to get more publicity and attention.

Other artists in the music industry get involved, sometimes more diss tracks ensue and the fire continues to burn while the gasoline is poured on by both parties as well as fans.

Joe Budden hits up the Ed Lover Morning Radio Show


Meth's Response to Buddens on the Ed Lover Morning Radio Show


At this stage of the "beef", there's so much hype from what these two artists have been saying back and forth on records, in interviews and through lyrical jabs. Regardless, I think Mr. Meth definitely sums it up nicely with this quote:

"It's strictly shows, music, and my acting thing... and I feed my family off that."

Real talk. I got respect for both of these artists, although I obviously don't have to tell you which artist I favour. Either way, both of these artists have received a lot of extra attention by keeping this feud alive. While Buddens prepares for the Slaughterhouse push that will soon follow the album release, Meth stays in the public eye and BlackOut 2 gets more recognition.

What are some of your thoughts on this particular scenario ? Who do you think is right or completely balls wrong ? Does it even matter, I mean we know that they're out for our attention but we as music fans still debate, argue and speculate. Perhaps this music marketing technique is more effective than we even realize.

International Hip Hop Festival Rock The Bells Hits Toronto Canada

What up everyone ! It's ya main man RTiculate here, just thought I'd write a quick blog post about the show I was thinking about catching tonight. Rock the Bells '09 hits my home town of Toronto, Ontario, Canada tonight and I'm one hundred per cent sure it is going to be an amazing show with some HUGE performances lined up.



Rock the Bells is perhaps the largest hip hop festival on the international scene, boasting an all-star studded line up of hip hop artists. This year's hosts will include the legendary KRS-one, Murs, Supernatural and super producer Pete Rock. Some of the notable performers on tonight's bill are Nas, Common, The Roots, Damien Marley, Busta Rhymes, Big Boi (of OutKast), M.O.P., horrorcore rapper Necro, Reflection Eternal (Talib Kweli and innovative producer Hi-Tek). Other performers include iconic producer RZA, GZA, Tech N9ne, with super group Slaughter House (Royce da 5'9, Joell Ortiz, Joe Buddens and Crooked I) and old school rap group House of Pain.



Toronto's own up and coming rap star K'Naan will also be performing in the line up. K'Naan continues to spread his music movement world wide, while gaining alot of acclaim in Canada. The Somolian born emcee continues to turn heads with tracks like "What's Hardcore". Check out K'naan on Myspace and Youtube to get familiar with this sick hip hop artist doing Canada proud.

Drake Signs With Young Money, "Best I Ever Had" Continues Climb

Remember my last post regarding all the major label attention swirling around Drake ? Well the news is out, meaning the war is now over, the bidding war that is.

Hip hop "star in the making" Drizzy Drake Rodgers has finally signed a deal with his affiliated label Young Money Entertainment/Cash Money Records leaving major labels Atlantic and Warner Music in the dust. Although the rap artist did strike a deal for distribution through Universal Republic, which should add some good support to a music business career that is off to a great start.

Drake is very adamant about signing with Young Money Entertainment, keeping his October's Very Own label with the good people that have helped him build his music brand thus far. Of course good management makes an incredible difference, which is provided to Drake by Hip Hop Since 1978 (repping some of the best in the hip hop/rap music business). Although the rap artist has pure Do-It-Yourself spirit, having achieved a great deal of music business success independently.

Currently the emcee from Toronto is doing very well for him self. Having worked with such talented acts as Mary J Blidge, Kanye West, LiL Wayne and Jay-Z (just to name a few). "Best I Ever Had" is Drake's hot single, which right now sits number 1 on R&B/Hip Hop Billboard Charts. At the same time, "Every Girl" is sitting just below in the third slot which is a song by Young Money, a super group that includes the rap artist/singer.

"Best I Ever Had" is number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 Charts, a leap up from the 27th spot. This is a huge airplay gainer in such short time. Lots of radio play, major label attention and industry artist support has helped launched the young actor/rapper/singer to a new level in his music career.

While Drake's mixtape So Far Gone continues to garner hype and recognition, the debut LP Thank Me Later is set to be released 4th quarter 2009 through distribution arm Universal Republic. Drake was quoted by MTV, saying:

"Independent is a funny term. I can go independent but you need distribution, period. You need somebody to distribute the record, you need that army that a record label has to push the record"

With added momentum Drake's career in the music business is about to take off. Study up and see how artists like Drake are leveraging the Internet, social media and good business skills as tools for implementing successful music marketing strategies. Use these examples to learn how hip hop/rap artists are adapting to the new music industry landscape.