Published: Friday - June 6, 2008
Words by Donny Goines
Donny Goines (Photo: Don Hankins)
So last week I get a phone call from XXL notifying me that I was chosen has a finalist for this rap battle they're doing and although I was honored, I thought about declining. Mainly because of a very bad experience I had with The Source magazine doing the EXACT same thing (long story), but after a little convincing I decided to accept. The bottom line is you can't let certain opportunities pass you by.
Many artists in my position wouldn't even put themselves in a situation like this. Mainly because their pride wouldn't allow it. Me on the other hand, I see things much differently then most. For one, I like to rap (if you haven't noticed by now, haha). I actually love it. Anything that involves music I'm usually all for it. Secondly, the prizes involved are something that could benefit my career (an article in the magazine and a chance to write a song for the Scion car company), but basically the truth is I RARELY let opportunity slip between my fingers. It's not often that I decline offers to be heard and if I do, it's usually because the opportunity is something that just doesn't fit me as a person (like doing a reality show or something to that effect). One of the biggest reasons why I have attained this much success thus far is I NEVER ease up or get comfortable with previous victories. I act just as hungry today as I was back in January 2006 and this kind of attitude wont allow me to pass up on opportunities, no matter what happens.
I've been booed at the Apollo, dissed by The Source, performed with only a hand full of people in the room, etc. and I still keep on trucking. I don't care what people think most of the time, to be honest I am an opportunist. If it doesn't work out then hey, there's always next time right? If I don't seize these moments, there might not come a next time. Everyone is different though. You know if something is not for you, and believe me I've turned down my fair share of opportunities (EP deals, reality shows, working with certain artists, etc.), but you have to pick your battles. Personally though I would suggest to never pass up on opportunities if it can't hurt you. Losing a battle, so what? That wouldn't even put dent in my movement and besides the rewards far out measure the risk. Sometimes you have to take leaps of faith in order jump over hurdles and this situation to me is no different. With that being said, my advice to any aspiring artist is to never let opportunity pass you by because you might regret it down the line.
As for this battle, I look forward to it. If not anything else it will show those people over at XXL how serious I am with this music and that nothing, I repeat NOTHING will stop me from achieving my goals. It's just that simple. Much love and God Bless.
Editorials & Columns Hustle Harder: Travel Arrangements Recently I traveled down to Washington D.C. to participate in an event called the "Million DJ March," and I realized ... full story
Digg It
Del.icio.us
