Welcome back to E Willz Music folks! The past few weeks I have been busy putting in some time towards the album and it is going to be a great blend of jazz and a variety of genres! Yesterday I had the opportunity to travel with a fellow musician and listen to both new albums from Kanye West and J. Cole. First of all, I must say that I have respect for both artists and what they are bringing to the music industry. However, Kanye has definitely failed to live up to the hype in my opinion so I will give my endorsement to J. Cole's "Born Sinner."
Marketing Situation
As a music critic and aspiring businessman I could not help but take notice to the advertising strategies of both parties in the dates leading to their releases. J. Cole's label took the safe route in marketing his album the old fashion way with pushing lead tracks and participating in many interviews. I will give J. Cole's team a lot of respect for doing something different by charging fans 1 dollar for tickets to his current tour for the album.
Yeezus vs Sinner
The purpose of Mr. West's "Yeezus" was to send a bold message that would have everyone talking for sometime. Kanye has always been known for great hooks accompanied by banging compositions (and I chose the word "composition" for a reason) but this album just seems like he got all of his track ideas from a mediocre beat maker and mixed and mastered it with techno beats. It was hard on my ears to listen to but, then again, that was the point of the album.
So, to conclude, I believe that "Yeezus" is a little overrated and should be reviewed again by real musicians and competent industry personal. Am I the only one that feels this way? I urge you all to go out and listen to both albums and see for yourself and don't forget to find your way back here to leave a comment!
Live the Music
Hi Ellis,
ReplyDeleteThis was a very interesting post. You brought out very good points about both artists. Your analysis of the marketing tactics of both teams was intriguing to me. As someone who also markets artists, I would have to agree with your assessment of the success of J. Cole's approach. That method is tried and true for a reason. Kanye's success, however, is at a point that he can step out of the box in his marketing tactics.
Kanye has always pushed the limits of music and his current album is no different. I think his new album will be more appreciated after the 2nd, 3rd or even 4th listen. It is something that listeners will need to sit and digest to really appreciate. Similar to his album "808s and Heartbreak," people will appreciate its artistic advances later on. Everyone didn't love that album at first listen, but as time passed they began to get the point of the album and appreciate its sound.
J. Cole's album is a very solid release that will help to solidify his place in the hip-hop community. He is actually on the same path that Kanye was on in his first releases. As with any new artist, it is important to build a loyal fan base before taking more risks.