When Murray Elias sparked a fiery debate with his take on Dancehall versus Afrobeats, it was a call to arms for everyone in the music industry. As someone who’s walked the corridors of VP Records shoulder to shoulder with Elias, I offer my unique perspective on the matter. This episode peels back the layers on his claim that Dancehall is stumbling in unity and being outpaced by Afrobeats artists in the international arena. We not only wrestle with the question of Dancehall’s global appeal but also dig into the historic connection between reggae and Black American audiences, pondering if Bob Marley’s vision truly came to fruition. The episode also sheds light on the symbiotic growth of Dancehall and hip hop, their indelible mark on club culture, and the myriad of experiences for West Indian descendants within these musical spaces.
As I navigate the shifting sands of the music industry, you’ll hear firsthand how the once-heralded role of A&R is being eclipsed by the juggernauts of streaming and the influencers of social media. We’ll dissect the intricacies of music contracts through the lens of industry tales like Sean Paul’s, underscoring the critical need for artists to understand their value and the deals they ink. The episode also zooms in on how dance crews are revolutionizing Dancehall’s visual and physical landscape, questioning if this intricate choreography is narrowing or expanding its appeal. Tune in as we tackle the challenges and opportunities presented by social media for artists striving to create content that resonates with brands, and consider the allure of crossover success versus capitalizing on regional markets for those aiming to make their mark without chasing global stardom.
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