Alright, let’s get real for a second. You’ve seen it happen—one minute, an artist is barely making waves, and then boom—they’re everywhere. They’re trending, topping charts, filling up your social media feeds. And you’re left wondering, “How’d they do it?”
The truth is, there’s no magic trick, but there are definitely some patterns. If you’re serious about making it, it’s worth understanding what separates the ones who blow up from those who never quite make it to the spotlight.
1. Timing Is King
Let’s start with timing, because, honestly, timing can make or break you. Imagine dropping a genre-blending track like “Old Town Road” when everyone’s into blending country and hip-hop. That was Lil Nas X’s edge—the right sound at the right moment. Sometimes it’s not just about having a great song; it’s about releasing it when the world is ready for it.
Pay attention to what’s happening in music, in culture, and even on social media. Trends can be your best friend if you’re ready to ride the wave at the right time. This doesn’t mean you should force your music to fit a trend, but if your sound aligns, lean into it.
2. Relationships Run the Industry
They say it’s not what you know, it’s who you know, but here’s the twist: it’s actually about who knows you. Connections matter. The artists who pop are often the ones who’ve been building relationships behind the scenes for years. They know producers, they know promoters, and more importantly, those people know and believe in them.
Real talk: you’ve got to invest in relationships. Show up, support other artists, work with people who inspire you, and build trust. The industry is a lot smaller than it seems, and your reputation is everything. When the right person believes in you, doors open that you didn’t even know existed.
3. Digital Platforms: The Ultimate Stage
These days, it’s not just about playing live gigs. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube are the new stage, and the artists who know how to work them often get ahead. TikTok’s turned into a powerhouse for launching artists—it’s wild how a 15-second clip can change someone’s life.
But going viral isn’t random. The artists who pop online know what works on these platforms. They create content that’s engaging, shareable, and that hits people right in the feels. You don’t have to be a social media wizard, but understanding these platforms and how to connect with your audience there? That’s key.
4. The Power of Hype and Mystery
People love a good mystery—something that makes them want to dig deeper, follow along, and feel like they’re discovering something exclusive. Think of artists like The Weeknd, who kept his identity a mystery when he started out. That mystery pulled people in, made them curious.
If you’re rolling out a project, think about how you can add a layer of intrigue. Give your fans little teasers, hints, and glimpses that make them feel like they’re part of something. Hype doesn’t have to be reserved for big names; even when you’re just starting out, you can create that buzz.
5. Authenticity Shines Through the Noise
This one’s huge. In a world full of trends, gimmicks, and the pressure to fit in, the artists who stand out are the ones who stay true to themselves. Listeners can tell when something’s real versus when it’s just following the formula for what’s popular. If you’re authentic, if you bring your true self to the music, people notice.
Take Billie Eilish. She’s not trying to fit a mold, and that’s exactly why she resonates. People can sense when someone’s genuine, and they’re drawn to it. So, as you build your career, focus on being true to yourself. It’s better to create something unique than to be a copy of what’s already out there.
6. Consistency and Hustle: The “Secret” Ingredient
Here’s the part that rarely makes the headlines: overnight success is usually years in the making. The artists who seem to blow up out of nowhere? They’ve often been grinding for years, consistently releasing music, building their fanbase, and working hard behind the scenes.
If you’re serious about this, consistency has to be your best friend. It’s not about dropping one song and waiting for it to go viral—it’s about showing up, staying committed, and being in it for the long haul. Keep making music, keep pushing forward, and when that moment comes, you’ll be ready.
Why Some Artists Fade After the Hype
Making it is one thing; staying relevant is a whole different game. Some artists explode, but they fade just as fast because they lack a solid foundation. Here’s why that happens:
- Lack of a Clear Brand: Fans connect with a brand as much as they connect with the music. If you’re not clear on who you are as an artist, people can lose interest.
- Failure to Evolve: The industry’s always moving, and artists who don’t evolve with it end up getting left behind. Growing doesn’t mean losing yourself—it means finding new ways to connect with your audience.
- No Real Connection with Fans: Fans want a relationship, not just a song. Artists who treat fans as part of their journey have staying power because they build a community, not just a following.
The Bottom Line: It’s a Mix of Hustle, Timing, and Realness
If you’re in the game for the long run, remember this: there’s no one way to success. It’s a mix of timing, connections, and staying true to who you are. It’s about being ready for your moment when it comes but also putting in the work consistently so you’re prepared when it hits.
Look, I’m building something for those of you who are ready to do this for real—no shortcuts, just the straight-up game plan you need. If you want to be in the loop when I drop what I’m working on, join my list. I’m bringing you the insights, tips, and next-level moves that no one else is talking about. You’ll want to be there.
—Jackiem Joyner