Mr Gun on breaking through into the industry as an independent artist
There is no denying that the music space is highly competitive and rapidly evolving however independent artists like Mr Gun (Itumeleng Mosadi) are redefining the landscape with their unique journeys, resilience, and innovative approaches.
In this article, we’ll delve into Mr Gun’s insights and experiences on the highs and lows of being an independent rapper. From establishing his presence within the industry to tackling challenges head-on, his story offers valuable lessons for aspiring artists.
He started as an intern Sound Engineer, where he made his initial connections. These early relationships would prove vital in shaping his career. Attending industry events, functions, and live shows also played a crucial role in building his network.
Securing the bag
Finances are a common challenge for independent artists, and Mr Gun was no exception. However, his strong interpersonal skills and amicable personality helped him navigate this obstacle. Building relationships with people, both inside and outside the industry, became a lifeline in managing his finances and resources.
“Finances are indeed a problem for independent artists, luckily I’ve always been a people person so I think my relationships with people were very vital. Being a nice person helps,” he says.
To build a fanbase and connect with his audience he started by utilising social media platforms to promote his music.
“It also helped that I was on the ground as well, on the scene and performing wherever I got a chance.”
The Power of Collaboration
Mr Gun emphasized the importance of respect when collaborating with artists of different genres and age groups. He shared his fortune in working with artists, both big and small, which broadened his horizons and enriched his music.
Marketing and promotion are indispensable in the music industry. For him, he leveraged platforms like SoundCloud and Facebook to host and promote his music. His commitment to creating appealing artwork and visuals complemented his music, increasing its appeal to a wider audience.
He says music distribution is an important part of the business and that artists need to familiarize themselves with it. There is so much information on the internet to be found on this. After the CD era in music digital started to take over so all musicians were affected. He also had to learn about it and move with the times.
Networking in the Digital Age
Networking has evolved in the digital age, with social media playing a prominent role. Mr Gun emphasized the importance of connecting with professionals, fellow artists, and industry insiders on various platforms. Building relationships, both online and offline, helped him establish a strong presence in the music industry.
Staying motivated is easy for him because of his love for music. He tells Bars n Rhymes that the ever-evolving music industry necessitated artists to evolve along with it. His passion and commitment kept him going, allowing him to adapt to the dynamic industry.
Taking advantage of the power of social media involved creating a video series of freestyles in his car, rapping to instrumentals. These videos gained significant traction and even led to a record deal.
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— Mr Gun (@MrGun_Official) July 24, 2023
The Future of Independent Music
In Mr Gun’s view, independent music is here to stay and will continue to make waves. Independent artists have more control over their work than ever before, thanks to digital platforms. Aspiring artists should focus on proper registration of their works and explore alternative opportunities, such as synchronization deals, to maximize their reach.
“The advice that I can give is, as an independent artist, put your all into your craft, make sure your paperwork is up to date, work on your craft always and always do your research because the music industry/space is constantly changing,” says Mr Gun.
