Across Cultures: Beats and Rhymes World-Wide @ Kimmel Center, October 22, 2009
Moderator:
Dalton Higgins, Author, Broadcaster, International Music Booker
Speakers:
Fiona Bloom, Founder, Publicist, Promoter
Magee McIlvaine, Filmmaker, Nomadic Wax
MC Melodee, Lyricist, Radio Show Host, Entrepreneur
Matt Sonzala, SXSW Hip-Hop Booker, Music Journalist, Blogger
So, as an artist, how do you break out of your hood? That was the first question posed to the panel of industry speakers who all (very clearly) knew their stuff. A lot of practical advice was offered, with the theoretical refreshingly taking the backseat for these 75 minutes. Once again networking was emphasized as being essential to the scope and success of your game, as was ensuring that you get creative with your hustle.
Matt Sonzala:
“You want to break into that market? You have to go there.”
On Drake: “I’m shocked that so many kids in the hood watched Degrassi – I had no idea.”
“There is an audience out there for almost everybody.”
“As a rapper you’re selling you; your personality.”
“You have to ask yourself – what do you want to be?”
Fiona Bloom:
“Don’t be afraid to ask for things.”
“You gotta ask. If you don’t ask, you’re not gonna get it.”
“You want to leave your attitude at home.”
“Your brand is what you’re selling. And that’s what’s going to bring you revenue.”
Magee McIlvaine:
“America’s not the only option.”
“You have to do more than just perform.”
“It’s only a matter of time because people realize there’s more than just America. There’s a whole world out there.”
On overseas markets: “There’s a lot of opportunity out there. Don’t be scared of Africa.”
MC Melodee:
“You gotta focus in on maybe two countries and go with that.”
“Networking is important.”
“You gotta start from the ground up.”
“Make sure your music is tight. Personality is important. Be humble.”
Dalton Higgins:
“Some of the most interesting raps and stories aren’t coming out of America.”
In reference to producers reaching out overseas: “Hot beats are universal.”
Quote of the session goes to Bloom: “Alcohol’s a great icebreaker.”
- Marisa Aveling
Tags: Panel
