Everyone knew that one kid in high school who had dreams of becoming a rapper. Were you that kid? Are you still chasing that dream?
When you were younger, becoming a rapper probably looked easy. Rappers on TV look glamorous, and stringing a few rhymes together can’t be that hard, right?
In reality, succeeding as a rapper isn’t as easy as you think. Anyone can upload music on Soundcloud and call it rap, but how do you get people to notice your work?
Let’s talk about it. Keep reading to learn all about becoming a rap musician.
Rap Is Poetry
Anyone who hated English class isn’t going to want to hear this, but it’s true. Writing lyrics for rap usually involves poetry (and a lot of it).
Good rappers know all about rhymes, alliteration, connotations, word associations, and more. While they may never have studied poetry per se, they understand the rhythm of words and how to make them fit together smoothly.
If you’ve never written a lyric before, it might benefit you to look at poetry alongside other rappers’ lyrics.
You Have to Start Small
No rapper gets big overnight. Many people who have even somewhat successful rap careers started with nothing. Before social media, it was almost impossible to gain an audience right away.
Consider taking your freestyle rap skills to local open mics or music battles. Sure, it’s not as glamorous as being on stage with a full audience, but it will help you get your name out there.
Consider networking with other local rappers so you can all build each other up.
Producing Your Own Beats: Yes or No?
Not all rappers are also instrumentalists. While it’s helpful to know how to make your own beats, beginners often commission music from someone else or work together with local musicians. Making music is secondary to writing your lyrics and learning to rap.
You can buy exclusive rap beats here if you’re not ready to produce your own.
Become a Marketing Master
As a wannabe rapper in 2021, you need to know how to market yourself. Luckily, in the age of social media, it’s easier than ever.
Set up social media accounts on the most popular platforms for independent creators. Your best bets, when you’re first getting started, will be Instagram and TikTok.
Twitter is also helpful, even if it’s not the best place to put your music. After all, Lil Nas X was popular on Twitter before he ever started his successful music career!
Learn some basic marketing skills and apply them to attract an audience.
Becoming a Rapper: Are You Up to The Challenge?
Becoming a rapper is harder than it looks, but if you’re passionate about rap, it’s worth it. Whether you become a popular rapper or stick to small-time gigs, rapping is a great way to express yourself and find a community of like-minded creators.
Start writing your lyrics and planning your beats. Your rap career is on the horizon.
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