How to Start Building Your Independent Music Career with Lazee

Lazee is an artist, songwriter, and Senior A&R at Amuse. With years of experience both on stage and behind the scenes, he combines his industry expertise and creative insights to help emerging artists grow their careers. From releasing his own chart-topping tracks to guiding the next generation of talent, Lazee is dedicated to empowering independent artists to reach their full potential.

Hey Lazee, great to have you here! Can you start by telling us a bit about your journey in the music industry?

I released my first project, It Is What It Is - The Mixtape, in 2006 and then released my first official single Rock Away when I signed to Sony Music in 2008. Since then I’ve been fortunate to tour the world, release and collaborate with amazing artist. After graduating from UCLA 2015 I got more focused on the business side of things.

What sparked your passion for supporting independent artists?

Being an artist myself I know the struggles independent artists go through. I feel it’s important that we teach others what we know and give them the right tools to further build their careers.

In your view, what’s the biggest challenge that independent artists face when they’re just starting out?

Lack of faith when things don’t go their way or as planned. I think that’s where most artists fall at and where the most successful artists didn’t give up.

What’s the one thing you tell artists to focus on in the early stages of their music career?

I think it’s about content. The way music is translated now is really just based on the content you put out. It’s all about showing the artist’s personality and how vulnerable they can be with the content they put out. Artists are so focused on the songs they release, but you need to have something strong to complement it. We’re all visual people and we’re really keen for storytelling. So for us to really understand you as an artist, and connect with your song, there has to be something to bridge that gap. For me, that’s content. You need something to connect the dots.

What are your top three pieces of advice for young artists looking to build their careers?

1. Have a plan, make goals and execute. Don’t look back, just keep pushing forward.

2. Be consistent! We’re living in a time where there is so much music, content and entertainment being pushed in our face and the best way to break through is being consistent.

3. Learn about the industry you're entering. Take your time to educate yourself about the music business, your rights, different form of income and how it can all interplay to create the best opportunities for you.