Self Made!

Last night I went to the Macklemore and Ryan Lewis concert. They are amazing! I love Macklemore! Why? Macklemore is a self made artist and that to me is extremely inspirational. Macklemore is not ashamed to admit that he struggled desperately with drugs, and alcohol. He is not ashamed to admit that, until he was clean, he couldn't write the music he so passionately wanted to write. When Macklemore was 25, he moved back into his parent's basement. This was his new beginning. He was clean, humble, and ready to work. He teamed up with Ryan Lewis, who also lived at home, and together they created music that was honest, catchy, brave, and entertaining. Macklemore is self made! He had the chance to sign with a big label once his notoriety started to climb, but he opted to stay independent. He knew that he could do it, and would reap the rewards he deserved. Instead of giving himself over to a label, and making only 12 cents on anything he sold, he now has full control, and gets to keep his earnings. I know how hard it is to be independent. You really have to believe in yourself as you are your own investor. You need to know how to brand, and market yourself, which takes time. However, with social media these days, if you put in the time, money, and effort, you can have a shot at something huge. I have had several meetings with big time managers, and A&Rs, and sometimes I think to myself, do you even know what you are doing? I don't know what the future has in store for me, but the way I see it is, if I don't invest in myself, who else will. I will keep doing what I do best; making and performing music. I know I am on my way! Hopefully, bit by bit, I will catch on to more and more people, and I will be able to say, "YES, I AM SELF MADE!"