In America we have big issues with education - in impoverished communities especially. I work with Teach For All, and so we're encouraging more people to get into teaching.
John LegendRead
Even with G.O.O.D. Music, we have artists that have done very well, and we've had artists that haven't. Being attached to Kanye is only going to get you so far. You've still got to have the records and the talent and the artistry on your own to carry it.
Interpretation
Talent and artistry are essential for success, even when associated with a high-profile brand or individual.
In John Legend's quote, he emphasizes that while being part of a successful label like G.O.O.D. Music can provide initial advantages, it is ultimately the individual's own talent, creativity, and hard work that determines long-term success. This highlights the importance of personal effort and skill in achieving one's goals, rather than relying solely on connections or fame.
In practice
At a music industry conference to discuss the importance of independent talent.
In America we have big issues with education - in impoverished communities especially. I work with Teach For All, and so we're encouraging more people to get into teaching.
Hip-hop is one of the most free art forms there is. There's so many sounds you can use, so many things you can bring in. You never know, man. I bet years ago people would've never said they would hear me with Rick Ross, and we did four classic songs together.
For me as a songwriter, I love when other people cover my songs.
To have the chance to see your music be elevated and to have almost universally positive response to that music, makes me feel better every day. I feel more confident and inspired, and that's fun.
Why wouldn't I help? What good reason do I have as a human being with power and a sense of empathy and morality, why wouldn't I do something?
I wrote the song "Show Me" as a prayer to God asking simple, honest questions about life and death and why there is so much suffering in the world. As I grew with the song I realized I shouldn't limit these questions solely to God; I should ask those questions of others and of myself.
Many people erroneously think they have only one chance to succeed, and if they miss that chance, they are doomed to failure. In fact, most people have several opportunities to succeed.
The ability to concentrate and to use time well is everything.
What have I got? No looks, no money, no education. Just talent.
First gain the victory and then make the best use of it you can.
There are lot of people who speak about superstardom, but I'd like to say that it's not about any individual - it's about the opportunity.
I've had a lot of majors where I didn't play well until the last round. Keep yourself in contention; that's the name of the game. I usually ended up shooting a good round and all of a sudden, somehow, I won.
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