Embracing the Rapper Dream as an Older Woman

Last updated on October 25th, 2023 at 02:03 pm

As I work on my dream of being a rapper, the headline “Snoop Dogg Reaches Out to Mark Zuckerberg About Buying Sports Team” often comes bubbling to the surface of my mind. It’s from a time when Snoop Dogg reached out to Facebook owner Mark Zuckerberg regarding a potential collaboration in the sports industry. The convergence of rappers and billionaires is an intriguing theme in the entertainment world. I can’t help but also think about the movie “The Social Network,” which chronicled Zuck’s rise from obscurity to fame.

Zuckerberg’s dream path resembles a rapper’s in many ways. He had no car, house, or conventional job when he started. He dropped out of college, was known as a hacker, and became a successful CEO. His story is a testament to pursuing one’s passion until the dream is reality.

This principle seems to apply to many endeavors in life. When people ask me why I’m passionate about writing and performing rap, I often find it challenging to put into words. Why do I do what I do? The answer often lies in my unending need to follow my unique path.

Snoop Dogg himself transformed from a troubled past, marked by criminal activities, to become a hugely successful brand. Similarly, Mark Zuckerberg transitioned from creating the controversial Facesmash, a site reminiscent of HotOrNot, to the helm of a household brand. These stories prove that remarkable transformations can indeed occur.

I, too, aspire to transition from being a mother, masseuse, and aerobic instructor to becoming a well-known rapper. In pursuing my dream, I hope that women like myself can offer the world a fresh perspective on startup endeavors. Can we succeed without compromising our relationships with loved ones and forsaking the people who support us along the way? Can we show the world that women can achieve their dreams regardless of age or gender?

In thinking about this, a budding rap is taking shape within me:

Hey, Mark and Snoop, don’t underestimate me,
I’ll see you on TV, just wait and see.”

The American dream is inclusive to all,
So lace up your boots and heed the call.

Take a glance at that Rhythm + Flow,
Even “Geordie Shore,” though brash, is in the know!

Living the dream, and it should be,
Pursue your dreams and set yourself free.

Pursuing a rap career, regardless of age, is a bold and creative endeavor. Here are 12 tips to help you get started:

1. Embrace Your Authenticity:
Your life experiences and unique perspectives are valuable assets in the rap game. Embrace your authenticity, and don’t feel the need to conform to stereotypes or trends. Let your personal story shine through in your lyrics.

2. Study the Craft:
Invest time in studying the art of rap. Listen to various rap music, from old-school classics to contemporary hits. Pay attention to different styles, flows, and lyrical techniques. Analyze your favorite artists to understand what makes their music compelling.

3. Practice Writing:
Start writing rhymes regularly. Keep a journal and jot down thoughts, observations, and emotions. Experiment with wordplay, metaphors, and storytelling in your lyrics. The more you write, the better you’ll become.

4. Develop Your Flow:
Practice rapping your lyrics to various beats. Work on your flow and delivery. Consistency and practice are key to refining your skills. You can find free beats online or collaborate with producers to create original ones.

5. Collaborate and Network:
Connect with other artists, both locally and online. Collaborate with producers, other rappers, and musicians to gain experience and build a network. Collaborations can also expose you to different styles and audiences.

6. Record Your Music:
Invest in quality recording equipment or work with a local studio to record your music. You don’t need a professional studio at the outset, but good audio quality is essential for a polished sound.

7. Promote Your Music:
Use social media platforms, like SoundCloud, YouTube, TicTok, and social networking sites, to share your music and build a fan base. Engage with your audience, respond to comments, and seek feedback to improve your craft.

8. Perform Live:
Look for opportunities to perform at local open mics, concerts, or events. Performing live is crucial to establishing your presence as an artist and connecting with your audience.

9. Invest in Self-Development:
Consider taking vocal lessons or working with a vocal coach to enhance your delivery and stage presence. Personal development is an ongoing process.

10. Stay Resilient:
The music industry can be challenging, and rejection is a part of the journey. Stay resilient, keep pushing forward, and continue refining your skills. Don’t let age or setbacks deter you from pursuing your passion.

11. Learn About the Business Side:
Familiarize yourself with the business aspects of the music industry. Understand contracts, royalties, copyrights, and marketing strategies to protect your work and maximize your potential.

12. Seek Inspiration:
Find inspiration in the stories of artists who started later in life or overcame challenges to succeed in the rap industry. Their journeys can provide motivation and insight.

It’s never too late to pursue your passion. Age should never be a barrier to expressing yourself through music and evolving as an artist. Your unique voice and perspective can significantly impact the world, especially if you are a woman.

Granny Rap at Karen Dunbar’s School of Rap

 

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This narrative has been shared with 8WomenDream as a contribution to our ongoing mission of amplifying the diverse voices and dreams of women from all ages, backgrounds, and socioeconomic statuses.