Hip-hop journalism?

I was wondering if anybody here works for a hip-hop magazine? I know people that got their break in the music industry from working in that field.

Do you think this is a good way to get in to the music industry and eventually become a record producer?

The Beat Conductor wrote:Do you think this is a good way to get in to the music industry and eventually become a record producer?

could be, it's so relative...

me myself i prefer to spend time making better music and making contacts for gigs or any kind of promo.

i wish i did

it's never TOO LATE

I'd have to advise against it myself. I'm a writer and have written for music mags (not so much hiphop) and while it's good to meet people, they can see through your motives instantly. Not only that, but it's not an easy gig, so you're going to have to work hard all the time - no editor is gonna be pleased with you trying to peddle your beat tapes all the time. Not to mention the other writers you work with!

By all means take up writing, but don't think it's gonna get your tapes heard any quicker. If anything, it'll just open your eyes to how shady the industry really is. Good luck with it whatever you do!

The Beat Conductor wrote:I was wondering if anybody here works for a hip-hop magazine? I know people that got their break in the music industry from working in that field.

Do you think this is a good way to get in to the music industry and eventually become a record producer?

Yes - working for a hip hop magazine or might I add, any type of media or company that services the industry is a solid way to get in the industry.

I think that hip hop mags are excellent if you're looking to break into the publicist, marketing/promotions, or management fields because most of those areas run hand-in-hand and require the same thought process in most cases.

If you're specifically looking to break in the door as a producer - you should intern at a studio or for a production company or get into engineering.

I will say that working for a hip hop magazine is not the best paying way to get in the door (a lot of hip hop mags are NOTORIOUS for not paying their staff)

Bottom line is relationships rule in the music biz, knowing people would help your chances of getting placements "on the strength" of who you are but still being a producer requires a separate skillset from what's required to be successful in the magazine game.

"you journalists, we journalists too, we can strike back!"