By KingPaySos
Wassup with it—it’s ya boy KingPaySos, doing the things I like to do in the places I like to do them. If you’re reading this, you’re officially a Sosialite, and I appreciate you for tapping in.
I wrote this because I’ve been in this game for years—from dropping mixtapes at 17, serving in the military, touring Korea, to building my brand Blacc Market and Hustle Pretty. I’ve seen what works, what doesn’t, and what artists need to know beyond just making music.
Music is just the easy part. The business is the real grind.
1. Artist Development: Identity, Voice & Vision
Becoming an artist isn’t just about having bars or melodies. It’s about identity. Who are you? What do you represent? Can someone explain your brand in one sentence?
Artists need to develop:
A unique voice and visual aesthetic Confidence in their message A clear sense of purpose
I learned early on: you can’t sell a mystery. People have to know what you’re about, what you stand for, and what makes you different.
2. Monetizing the Brand: More Than Music
I don’t just rap—I host, create merch, build platforms, and educate. Here’s how I make money with music and beyond:
Streaming on all platforms Curating shows and hosting with Live Mondays Selling merch (sweatsuits, shirts, cups, bonnets, wraps) Writing artist reviews and doing interviews Creating websites and blogs (like this one) Offering workshops through Hustle Pretty for women entrepreneurs Launching new products and slogans with every release
This year’s new streams:
Releasing ebooks (like this one) Booking bigger interviews & media trips Expanding workshops Launching a mission to feed 1,000,000 people with help from artists and small businesses
3. Network Reflects Net Worth
Your circle can hold you down or lift you up. I started with my brother’s label 60 Sec’n Ent, where I learned the power of ownership.
My current team includes:
My girl My best friend & rapper MC Mixson A network full of DJs, producers, studio owners, business folks, politicians, venues, and media outlets
Key people who helped me grow:
Sonny Foster (RIP) – taught me songwriting Crazed – my brother, gave me the blueprint Kammy – always sends opportunities my way Brent Mania – my producer who challenges my sound
But not every connection is good. I’ve missed out by not being prepared—or by trusting the wrong people. Learn to move smart, and surround yourself with passion, authenticity, and God energy.
4. What Artists Should Do at a Show
If you’re not performing with strategy, you’re just wasting your breath.
Here’s my routine:
Build a blended DJ set with performance tracks Rehearse like it’s a real show—movements and mic work Create backup sets for different vibes Lock in an outfit and visual aesthetic Visit the venue beforehand and promo on-site Drop content before the show Show up early for mic check and good energy
At the show:
Interact with the crowd between tracks Announce your social handles Give away merch Film everything Stay after and connect with the crowd and other artists
Biggest mistakes artists make:
No performance track No breath control Not engaging the audience Leaving right after their set
You need to turn fans into followers and then into a community.
Final Word: It’s More Than Music
If you take anything from this post, remember this: You are the brand.
Invest in:
Copyrights Royalties Publishing Visuals Networking
And never forget—it’s gotta be in you, not on you.
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