The Importance of Taking Control: Lessons from Ari Lennox and Industry Trends

t’s disheartening to see an artist like Ari Lennox feeling compelled to share a nearly 20-minute video expressing her dissatisfaction with her current label situation. I recently listened to Joe Budden’s commentary on the matter, and while he made some valid points—such as “you knew what you signed up for”—it raises a crucial question for up-and-coming artists: where does this leave you?

Fortunately, the path forward has been illuminated by artists who are taking charge of their careers. Take Kanye West, for instance; he has released his last two albums independently, and it looks like he’s set to continue this trend. Similarly, Tyler, the Creator recently launched his album Chromakopia with a savvy approach, offering preorders for physical media and merchandise. This strategy could potentially make Tyler one of the year’s top-selling artists, especially since he’s one of the few who has consistently seen his albums outpace their predecessors.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re an unsigned or independent artist. This is your opportunity! You don’t have to wait out contracts or meet obligations to seize control of your career. Explore platforms like Bandcamp, consider creating physical products and merchandise, and get creative. Embrace the mindset of an ACTIVE artist—someone who actively seeks to understand the business and grow.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of helping independent artists transform their earnings from just a few dollars a month from streaming into substantial income with each project launch. This success isn’t accidental; it’s all about establishing a solid blueprint for your business and following it diligently.

The landscape is changing, and now is the time to take charge of your artistry. Don’t just wait for opportunities—create them!