What 3 things does anyone starting in your industry need to know?
Collaboration and Networking: The music industry thrives on meaningful connections. It’s not just about your talent, but also who you work with and how well you collaborate. Respect and appreciation for everyone’s contributions are essential. If you’re in this solely for money or superficial gains, you’re missing the heart of it. True passion and authenticity are key.
Business Acumen: Music is both art and business. Understand contracts, royalties, licensing, and treat your music as a serious asset. Pay your collaborators fairly and protect your work. While loving your music is important, it must be promoted and handled as a business venture if you want others to invest their time and attention into it.
Persistence and Patience: Success in this industry rarely happens overnight. Setbacks, criticism, and doubt are part of the journey. Stay consistent, evolve, and stand by your work. Your name and word are everything in this life; make them count.
What would you do differently if you were starting in your industry now?
I would focus more on the business side from the start—understanding contracts, branding, and digital marketing would have accelerated my growth and saved me from costly mistakes. I would also be more selective with collaborations, emphasizing quality over quantity and building a team that shares my passion and vision.
Which people or books have had the most influence on your growth and why?
Andy Frisella (The MFCEO): His teachings on discipline, mental fortitude, and doing things for the right reasons resonate deeply with me. His “zero options” mentality and commitment to doing whatever it takes, no matter the cost, inspire me daily to push myself to be the best version of myself.
50 Cent: His evolution from music to becoming a business mogul embodies the hustle, grit, and intelligence needed to thrive as both an artist and entrepreneur. His journey and business-savvy moves showed me how to balance art with enterprise while staying true to who you are.
2Pac: His “Thug Life” mentality, raw storytelling, and fearless approach to addressing real issues made an impact on me. Pac’s authenticity, resilience, and ability to blend social consciousness with art remain a strong influence in my music and message.
What has been your biggest success story? Why do you think it was a success?
My biggest success so far has been my track “Loyalty.” It embodied the collaborative spirit of my creative process and resonated deeply with audiences, achieving significant streaming milestones and positive engagement. Its success was due to genuine teamwork, respect for everyone involved, and staying true to the music’s message and integrity.
What keeps you going when things get tough in the music industry?
Passion for music and the community I’ve built around me keep me moving forward. Knowing that my work has the power to connect, inspire, and heal others pushes me through the challenges. The support of collaborators and fans, and the desire to leave a meaningful mark, fuel my resilience.
What made you pursue being an artist full-time?
Music has always been more than a passion; it’s a calling. I never had a choice—it’s been a part of me since childhood. My upbringing, constantly moving through different cultures, locations, and experiences, shaped me, and music tied it all together. Since the age of 13, I’ve immersed myself in diverse genres, from rock to classical, metal, rap, hip-hop, and more. Music has always driven me to connect, create, and share.
Would you sign to a label?
It depends on the terms. I value creative control, fair distribution of royalties, and freedom to collaborate and explore. If a label aligns with those values and offers genuine opportunities for growth, I’d consider it. However, I’m prepared to stay independent if it means maintaining my artistic vision.
What projects are you working on for the rest of 2024?
I just released “Draw The Line” featuring Keybeaux and B. Griff. It’s a powerful song about the lines drawn between fulfillment and frustration.
I’m also experimenting with new genres and styles, focusing on authentic storytelling and relatable vibes. I have other exciting collaborations lined up to continue evolving my sound and artistry. Eventually, I will step onto the mic, but for now, I want to showcase my abilities as an Executive Producer.
The post Exclusive Interview: Rising Artist Zulonik appeared first on 24Hip-Hop.
