Sunday, March 6, 2011

REGGAE ARTISTS TAKING A “DO IT YOURSELF” APPROACH TOWARDS THEIR CAREER


I did an interview in Quebec recently and the interviewer wanted to know why are artists getting involved in so many things outside of music. I cannot remember how I answered the question then, but reasoning with reggae artist, Iya Ingi, puts it all in perspective.

Iya Ingi explains that because he is a father of four he has a drive to proceed and achieve something in life. Being a father and wanting to provide for his children has led him to acquire a number of skills over the years. He is currently employed at the University of the West Indies as an Office Attendant and simultaneously operates a small juice business. He makes natural juices from fruits and vegetables like, June Plum, Apple, Carrot, and Peanut Punch. He sells to people in his community and surrounding areas. He was clear to say that he is not the type of person that hangs out at studios everyday just waiting for an opportunity, he believes in making things happen for himself. By working as hard as he does outside of music, it gives him that financial leverage to not only provide for his family but to also invest in his musical career.

Iya Ingi is an independent artist who is self promoted. He has toured both Holland and Canada, and continues to work on several shows across the island of Jamaica. Persons can download Iya Ingi’s music absolutely free by clicking on http://www.mediafire.com/?h3azmq1a8x3d673

More and more both reggae and dancehall artists are taking charge of their musical careers as oppose to waiting on producers and record labels. They are booking studio sessions, shooting their own videos and hiring publicists to assist where necessary. The reality is that the business has changed dramatically and record labels are more reluctant to sign and invest in artists, as they are not sure they will recoup monies spent, not to speak of making a profit. With the atmosphere being what it is, it’s not surprising that there are so many independent artists out there.

For more information about Iya Ingi visit: http://www.reverbnation.com/iyaingi

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