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In a recent prison interview, rapper Tory Lanez spoke on certain music industry practices and showed solidarity with fellow artist Drake during his current controversies. For the unversed, Lanez is serving time for shooting Megan Thee Stallion in the foot in 2020. The rapper candidly discussed the challenges, artists face in navigating industry politics and feuds. During the discussion, he noted;
"There's a lot of dark things going on behind the scenes"
Lanez's remarks have sparked discourse of how artists are treated and power structures in the music industry.
Lanez opens up about behind-the-scenes matters in the music industry
Speaking on a Full Send podcast phone interview, Lanez talked about various challenges artists face in the music industry, including his choice to stay independent. He declared,
"I'm not selling my soul, I'm not doing none of that weird stuff, the rituals and all that stuff that y'all n***as got going on."
This statement reflects his determination to hold on to artistic integrity and eschew compromising positions that he perceives to be rampant in the business. Lanez's remarks suggest a general concern among artists about the pressure to conform to specific industry norms, which can sometimes result in ethical dilemmas and a loss of artistic agency.
Drake's controversies and lawsuits reveal industry dynamics
Drake has been involved in various publicized altercations with other artists, particularly Kendrick Lamar. The feud between the two grew after Lamar dropped the diss song "Not Like Us," in which Drake was mentioned.
The track attracted widespread attention. Drake sued Universal Music Group (UMG) and iHeartMedia claiming they were engaging in immoral promotion of Lamar's song; citing the use of payola and data tampering to exaggerate the song's success.
Lanez shows solidarity with Drake's stand against industry travails
Notwithstanding their chequered past, Lanez showed solidarity with Drake's actions to counteract industry adversities. He lauded Drake for his courage to take on powerful parties in the music industry, saying,
"I'm proud of the position of any artist that stands up against the bulls**t that goes down behind the scenes."
Lanez's comments are symptomatic of a larger mood among artists calling for more transparency and equity in the music industry. This solidarity between artists points to a shared need to reshape industry norms, so that artists are treated fairly and their artistic works are respected.
Tory Lanez's recent interview offers an insightful look at artists' challenges in the music industry. His defense of Drake during ongoing controversies and legal battles highlights the intricacies of working within a complex and frequently combative environment.
As both artists continue to speak out on these matters, their experiences can lead to wider debates regarding reform and openness in the music industry. These discussions can potentially result in positive changes that work for artists and listeners; creating a culture where creativity is encouraged and ethical standards are maintained.
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