I really don’t know where to start or what to say. I don’t even know if anyone would want to read anything I have to say or learn from it, but I have put this off for days—and even weeks now.

I have rummaged through many topics in my head and wondered which would be best to start my first foray into public writing and blogging. The simple truth is that I am in a fix. Call it writer’s block or whatever you choose—the fact remains, I’m in a bind.

Funny enough, there are no deadlines to meet or beat, but the pressure comes from the fact that I want to touch lives, inspire people, and even help build dreams with whatever I write. I want to be able to push someone to do more than they have before—to believe in themselves enough to try harder.

So for now, there won’t be a title for my corner or what I write. Let’s just say we are freestyling until an appropriate name is decided. So please humour me, be kind, and don’t judge too hastily—I am doing this for the very first time.

So here goes…

Everyone who knows me—even a little—can attest to the fact that I love music and show business almost as much as I dislike gossip and rumours.

Most Nigerian artists do not know the difference between having a proper label and a label imprint. These days, everyone forms an imprint and, without proper registration as a limited liability company, they claim to be record label owners.

Also, being a good artist or musician does not automatically make you a good label executive or a certified A&R executive.

Music is my first love, and I believe that for an artist to make good music, there are seven (7) major things required:

• Self-belief
• Perseverance
• Hard work
• Humility
• Loyalty
• Continuous self-reinvention
• Constant reading

SELF BELIEF

Being an artist isn’t easy—whether you are successful or not. One thing is certain: it takes great courage to showcase your work to others.

To be the best at any chosen profession, you must be ready to face criticism—sometimes positive, sometimes harsh—but always insightful.

Take what you need from constructive feedback, ignore the negativity, and keep moving forward like a runaway train.

PERSEVERANCE

We are often told: if you try once and don’t succeed, try again.

Sometimes, the issue isn’t trying—it’s trying differently.

Before embarking on any venture, it is wise to conduct feasibility studies, plan thoroughly, and prepare for multiple outcomes.

The same applies to every artist. While originality is important, sometimes it’s wise to explore different approaches—both proven and unconventional.

For example, if you are an R&B singer, there’s no rule that says you can’t experiment with rap or learn to play an instrument to enhance your music and brand.

By doing so, you expand your reach and attract new audiences.

My definition of perseverance is simple: try everything possible, in every possible way, until you achieve your goal.

As Bob Marley said:

“Where there is a will, there is always a way.”

HUMILITY

Sometimes people mistake humility for weakness or servitude.

True humility is the balance between pride and respect.

As an artist, your greatest asset is humility. But humility does not mean allowing yourself to be taken advantage of.

It means being respectful—to everyone, including the doorman—while still standing your ground and making your voice heard.

There is hierarchy in every industry. There are artists who came before you—respect them. If they didn’t walk, you wouldn’t be running today.

HARD WORK

Hard work never goes out of style. It is the foundation of every success story.

To make good music, you must be willing to put in the work.

Some artists forget that before the lights, fame, and champagne—there is work.

You must:

• Study different music genres
• Research artists who inspire you
• Understand their journey and what they did right

Getting to the top is easy—staying there is the real challenge.

You must be ready to:

• Work late nights
• Wake up early for interviews
• Try new things
• Read new materials
• Listen to different sounds

You don’t always have to write your own songs.

Some of the biggest hits in the world were co-written or written by others. Artists like:

• Michael Jackson
• Beyoncé
• Celine Dion
• Rihanna

…have all had songs written or co-written by others.

So be open to collaboration.

Work with different producers. Sometimes, the less-known producer might be the one most passionate about your sound and willing to help you refine your craft.

Find a producer who understands your style.

Remember:

• Some artists are better performers than recording artists
• Some record in one take
• Others need multiple takes

I could go on and on, but the brain can only absorb so much at once. So let’s pause here and take a breather until the next session… looool 😄

ARTIST TIP OF THE DAY

Always be original. Be yourself at all times.

Be inspired by others—but never try to be them.

Because no one can be you better than you.

All written articles and pieces are original works of Toks Asher Young, except quoted excerpts.