Sunday, November 17, 2024

The Gun Debate: A Cynical Perspective


The Gun Debate: A Cynical Perspective


You know, I’ve always had mixed opinions about guns. Should they be legal? Illegal? Well, no, you probably shouldn’t be able to walk into Walmart, grab a pack of Oreos, a six-pack of Bud Light, and, oh yeah, an AR-15. But hey, why not?


Back in 2006, some politician said, “If we make guns illegal, only criminals will have them.” And I thought, “Yeah, great point… but also, isn’t that the point of them being criminals?” What’s next, criminals being the only ones who jaywalk?


Then again, you’ve got the other side of the coin—lunatics. Columbine, that guy who shot Reagan, the Joker wannabe from the Batman movie… all just proof that the real background check we need is whether someone thinks their trench coat is a personality.


But here’s the rub: Background checks? Psych evals? Oh, come on. A psychopath is just an Oscar-winning actor with less screen time. You think they’re going to flunk some government multiple-choice test? “What do you do when angry: a) take a walk, b) meditate, c) shoot up a Best Buy.” Yeah, no, they’re not failing that.


And in Puerto Rico, you’ve got to take a class to own a gun. A class! Listen, if someone’s busting into my house at 3 a.m., I’m not whipping out my gun to show them my attendance certificate. “Excuse me, sir, before I shoot you, please note my impressive 98% on the firearm safety quiz. I only missed the one about cleaning.”


But here’s the real kicker: People want guns to feel safe—women walking home, people defending their homes. But if everyone’s armed, it’s like Oprah’s handing them out. “You get a gun! You get a gun!” Before you know it, every argument at Denny’s ends in a shootout over who’s paying for the Moons Over My Hammy.


So yeah, the Second Amendment? It’s still got a purpose. I’m not saying violence is the answer, but it’s a heck of a conversation starter when your mugger sees you’ve got the bigger stick.


But if you’re insane? Maybe just stick to Nerf guns. Nobody’s getting hurt, and honestly, those things are fun as hell.

I mailed the una bomber a month before he died

 Dear Mr. Kaczynski,

I hope this letter finds you well. As a freelance writer with an IQ of 167 as well, so hey, we got something in common, I have long been intrigued by your critique of technological society. Your manifesto, “Industrial Society and Its Future,” offers a compelling analysis of the detrimental effects of technological advancement on human freedom and the environment.


In your manifesto, you argue that the Industrial Revolution has led to widespread psychological suffering and a loss of autonomy. You suggest that technological progress is inherently destabilizing and that a return to a more primitive lifestyle is necessary to reclaim human freedom.r


While I share your concerns about the impact of technology, I question the feasibility of a complete rejection of technological progress. The integration of technology into our daily lives has brought about significant benefits, such as advancements in medicine, communication, and education. Is it possible to find a balance that allows us to harness the benefits of technology while mitigating its negative effects?


Furthermore, your manifesto emphasizes the need for a revolution against the industrial system. However, history has shown that revolutions often lead to unintended consequences and can result in further societal instability. How do you propose we navigate the complexities of dismantling the current system without causing additional harm?


In the age of artificial intelligence, your predictions about the loss of human autonomy are becoming increasingly relevant. AI has the potential to both enhance and undermine human capabilities. How do you envision society adapting to the rapid advancements in AI, and what measures can be taken to ensure that these technologies are developed and implemented ethically?
I appreciate your willingness to engage in this dialogue and look forward to your insights on these matters.
Sincerely,




Not saying my name btw


So just in case he did answer......

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

My Auto Biography (Just in case I Die)

 Just wanna say i have no interest in duing, my beliefa go against suicide but after losing both my parents , you just never know when its gonna happen and why I wanna write this, I wont mention any personal things. Just my careers...


Chapter 1: Early Life and Cultural Roots


Born to a Puerto Rican father and a Norwegian mother, my life has always been a blending of two contrasting cultures. Growing up with these diverse influences, I developed a love for music, technology, and storytelling. My father exposed me to Puerto Rican rhythms like reggaeton, plena, and salsa, while my mother’s heritage introduced me to Scandinavian rock and traditional Norwegian music. This combination gave me a unique worldview, allowing me to develop an eclectic taste in music and a strong sense of creativity from a young age.


As a child, I was always fascinated with how different cultures expressed themselves through art. Music became my first love, but I soon found that my passion extended to gaming, storytelling, and technology. These interests would all come together to form the foundation of my career as an artist, rapper, writer, and programmer.


Chapter 2: The Birth of Joey 6’1” and Underground Rap


Joey 6’1” was born out of my desire to carve my own space in the world of music. Growing up in Puerto Rico, I was heavily influenced by the underground rap scene. By the time I was a teenager, I was competing in local freestyle battles, known for my quick wit and my ability to mix Spanish and English in my lyrics. I wanted to create a persona that reflected both my literal height and my larger-than-life aspirations, and thus, Joey 6’1” was born.


Early in my career, I gravitated toward artists who were known for their wordplay and complex rhyme schemes, such as Royce Da 5’9” and Slim Shady. I became obsessed with crafting verses that pushed the boundaries of what rap could be. By the time I began releasing music professionally, I was known for my punchline-heavy bars, often reaching over 1000 rhymes in a single track.


My second album, La Revalida, became a critical moment in my career. It reflected my growth as an artist and showed the world that I could blend genres, fusing hip-hop with reggaeton, rock, and even R&B. This album solidified my place in Puerto Rican underground rap and led to collaborations with some of the biggest names in Latin music, including Ñengo Flow, Guelo Star, Mc-Ceja, Gastam, and Temperamento.


In addition to local collaborations, I expanded my reach internationally, working with the collective Slaughterhouse on the track On My Grind, which featured Joe Budden, Royce Da 5’9”, Joell Ortiz, and Crooked I. Another collaboration with Joe Budden, the track Without a Oven Mitt, became something of a lost gem in underground hip-hop, generating buzz when it resurfaced years later. These experiences helped me grow not only as a rapper but also as a cultural bridge between Puerto Rican hip-hop and the global underground scene.


Chapter 3: Controversies and Diss Tracks


Throughout my career, I’ve been involved in numerous diss track controversies, and it’s something that has defined my reputation as an artist who isn’t afraid to speak his mind. One of the most well-known feuds took place in 2009, when I clashed with reggaeton artist El Joey. I felt that the Puerto Rican music scene wasn’t big enough for two “Joeys,” so I challenged him through diss tracks like Solo un Joey and Knockout del Segundo Round. My final diss, Tornillo en el Ataúd, was prepared but never released because I learned that El Joey was going through a custody battle. Having gone through similar struggles myself, I decided to hold back, choosing empathy over continuing the feud.


In 2020, I was involved in another controversy with my former friend Davinchi, who initiated a smear campaign against me. I responded with the track Almenos YO Soy un Rapero, but I later deleted it. This time, it wasn’t Davinchi’s diss that hurt me; it was the betrayal of Defknot, an artist I had helped build. While Almenos YO Soy un Rapero has not been publicly re-released, I’ve hinted that it may appear in a future compilation album called Shit List.


My diss tracks aren’t just about calling out rivals—they are a reflection of the competitive nature of hip-hop. I believe that in order to grow as an artist, you need to be willing to challenge others and, in doing so, challenge yourself. Whether it’s responding to someone else’s diss or initiating my own, my goal has always been to sharpen my skills and show the world that I am a force to be reckoned with in the underground rap scene.


Chapter 4: Protorock – Gaming, Hacking, and Programming


While my career as Joey 6’1” was taking off, another side of me was developing under the pseudonym Protorock. My love for video games and technology had always been an integral part of my life, but it wasn’t until I began exploring ROM hacking and game development that I realized I could turn that passion into something tangible.


My first major gaming project as Protorock was Protoman 21XX, a fan-made game that reimagined Protoman in the MegaMan X universe. This wasn’t just a minor hack—it was a complete overhaul that introduced new graphics, storylines, and gameplay mechanics. The project gained momentum when I launched a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo, and it received coverage from gaming outlets like PR-Gamer and Cision News.


Building on the success of Protoman 21XX, I created MegaMan Project 1, a mod of Super Smash Brothers that allowed players to fight with characters from the MegaMan universe. The project was well-received, and it paved the way for my upcoming mod, MegaMan Project 2, which is dedicated to the memory of my mother and father. This mod will feature 20 characters and will serve as both a technical achievement and a deeply personal tribute to the people who influenced me most.


Aside from these large-scale projects, I’ve worked on various other hacks and mods, including Protoman and Bass and Green Biker Dude, expanding the possibilities of what can be done within classic games. Green Biker Dude was a minor character in MegaMan X2 who became a cult favorite, and I saw the opportunity to give him a larger role through my work. These projects are about more than just creating games—they’re about preserving the legacy of retro gaming and bringing new life to classic characters.


Chapter 5: Jigsaw – The Controversial Writer


In addition to my music and gaming careers, I also write under the pseudonym Jigsaw, where I explore topics that are often considered controversial. As Jigsaw, I write stories, blogs, and commentary that challenge societal norms and push the boundaries of conventional thinking. My writing is raw, unfiltered, and unafraid to dive into the deeper, sometimes darker aspects of human behavior.


One of my most significant works as Jigsaw is my autobiography Just in Case. In this book, I delve into my life’s journey—from my early days in Puerto Rico to my rise as an underground rapper, game developer, and writer. I talk about the struggles I’ve faced, the lessons I’ve learned, and the ways I’ve grown as an artist. Just in Case is not just a reflection on my career; it’s a guide for anyone who wants to understand the realities of navigating the creative industries.


Beyond my autobiography, I’ve written several books, including Don’t Be a Douche, a dating guide that takes a feminist and empathic approach to relationships. Unlike traditional Pick-Up Artist (PUA) strategies that focus on manipulation and superficial tactics, my book encourages men to build genuine connections based on respect and understanding. This philosophy stands in contrast to much of the toxic masculinity that dominates dating culture today.


Chapter 6: Hades – The Anti-PUA Advocate


While Jigsaw explores controversial topics through writing, Hades is the persona I use to challenge the toxic aspects of Pick-Up Artist culture. As Hades, I advocate for a more compassionate and feminist approach to dating, rejecting the manipulative tactics that are often promoted by the PUA community. My goal with Hades is to shift the focus from “winning” relationships to building meaningful, lasting connections based on trust and mutual respect.


Hades represents a departure from the typical PUA rhetoric and offers an alternative perspective for those who want to approach relationships in a healthier, more responsible way. While my views as Hades have been met with both praise and criticism, I believe that it’s essential to push back against harmful ideologies and create space for more positive approaches to dating.


Chapter 7: Discography and Upcoming Releases


My discography as Joey 6’1” is a reflection of my evolution as an artist, combining various genres like hip-hop, reggaeton, R&B, and rock to create a sound that is distinctly my own. My music career is marked by numerous releases, each of which showcases different aspects of my personal and artistic journey.


One of my key releases, La Revalida, is an album that highlights my lyrical complexity and ability to fuse different musical styles. This album was instrumental in establishing my reputation within Puerto Rico’s underground rap scene. Tracks like Sueños y Leyendas featured collaborations with heavy hitters in the Latin music world, including Ñengo Flow, Mc-Ceja, Gastam, and Temperamento.


Another major project was Fases de Miel, an R&B and hip-hop album that allowed me to explore softer, more romantic themes. The contrast between La Revalidaand Fases de Miel demonstrates my versatility as an artist, as I am able to seamlessly move between aggressive battle rap and introspective ballads.


In addition to these albums, my catalog includes various singles and collaborations. Songs like No Me Importa Un CarajoMorenaDale RewindPasa el Ron, and Tú Tas Segura Mami are reflective of my ability to create tracks that are both catchy and lyrically complex. These songs explore a wide range of themes, from personal relationships to celebrations of Puerto Rican culture.


My album Conociéndome, which was temporarily taken down, will be re-released in November. This project is another important chapter in my career, and I’m excited to bring it back to the public with updated tracks and fresh production.


As I continue to grow as an artist, I have several upcoming projects in the works. The re-release of Conociéndome is just one of the many plans I have for the future. I am also working on new music that will further push the boundaries of what underground hip-hop can be. I’m always looking for ways to evolve, and my upcoming releases will reflect that ambition.


Chapter 8: Stories, Blogs, and Jigsaw’s Literary Work


As Jigsaw, I’ve written extensively about a wide range of topics, from personal stories to commentary on societal issues. My blog serves as a platform for me to share my thoughts on everything from music and culture to relationships and philosophy. Much of my writing challenges mainstream ideas and presents alternative perspectives that invite readers to think critically about the world around them.


One of the key focuses of my writing as Jigsaw is relationships, particularly the toxic culture surrounding dating advice for men. In my book Don’t Be a Douche, I take a stand against traditional Pick-Up Artist (PUA) strategies, which often encourage manipulation and objectification. Instead, I advocate for a more empathetic and respectful approach to dating, one that prioritizes emotional intelligence and genuine connection. This book has sparked conversations about the need for healthier relationship dynamics, particularly within male communities.


My blog also serves as a space for me to reflect on my career, my experiences in the music industry, and my journey as a game developer. Whether I’m writing about my latest release or sharing my thoughts on a particular social issue, my goal is to offer readers insight into the challenges and triumphs that come with being a multi-dimensional creator.


In addition to my blog, I’ve also written several short stories and essays that delve into themes of identity, culture, and self-expression. These stories are often inspired by my own life experiences, as well as the people and places that have shaped me. As a writer, I aim to use my words to connect with others and offer perspectives that may not always be heard in mainstream discourse.


Chapter 9: Controversies and Public Battles


As someone who has never been afraid to speak my mind, I’ve been involved in my fair share of controversies. Whether in music or in writing, I’ve always believed that pushing boundaries and challenging others is a necessary part of growth, both as an artist and as a person.


My first major controversy came in 2009, when I clashed with reggaeton artist El Joey. At the time, I felt that there couldn’t be two “Joeys” in the Puerto Rican music scene, so I initiated a series of diss tracks aimed at asserting my dominance. Tracks like Solo un Joey and Knockout del Segundo Round were sharp, witty, and uncompromising. While I was prepared to release a final track, Tornillo en el Ataúd, I decided to withhold it out of respect for El Joey’s personal struggles, particularly his custody battle. This experience taught me that while competition is an important part of hip-hop, empathy is equally valuable.


Another significant controversy came in 2020 when my former friend Davinchi launched a smear campaign against me. I responded with the diss track Almenos YO Soy un Rapero, which was influenced by my frustration with the situation. However, the betrayal of Defknot, an artist I had supported and helped, hit me harder than Davinchi’s attacks. Ultimately, I deleted the track, but I’ve considered releasing it as part of a future compilation album, Shit List.


Aside from these high-profile feuds, I’ve also faced criticism for my outspoken views on relationships and dating, particularly through my work as Hades. My rejection of traditional PUA strategies and my focus on emotional intelligence have been met with mixed reactions, with some praising my approach and others questioning it. Nevertheless, I remain committed to advocating for healthier, more respectful relationships, even if it means facing criticism.


Chapter 10: The Legacy of Joey 6’1”, Protorock, and Jigsaw


As I look back on my journey as Joey 6’1”, Protorock, and Jigsaw, I see a life that has been defined by creativity, perseverance, and a refusal to be boxed in by others’ expectations. Whether I’m writing a diss track, developing a video game, or penning a blog post, my goal has always been to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.


As Joey 6’1”, I’ve carved out a space for myself in the world of underground rap, working with some of the biggest names in Puerto Rican and international hip-hop. My collaborations, albums, and controversies have shaped me into the artist I am today, and I continue to evolve with every new release.


As Protorock, I’ve explored the world of video game development, creating projects that pay homage to the retro games I grew up with while also pushing the limits of what fan-made games can achieve. My work on Protoman 21XXMegaMan Project 1, and the upcoming MegaMan Project 2 has allowed me to blend my love for music, gaming, and technology in ways I never imagined.


As Jigsaw, I’ve used my writing to speak out on controversial topics and share my personal experiences with the world. Whether I’m writing about relationships, culture, or my own life, my goal is always to offer a unique perspective and challenge readers to think critically.


At the end of the day, my life is a reflection of the many different identities I’ve embraced. From Joey 6’1” to Protorock to Jigsaw, each persona has allowed me to explore different facets of who I am and what I’m capable of. I’ve faced challenges, controversies, and setbacks, but I’ve also achieved more than I ever thought possible.


And I’m just getting started.

Sunday, June 2, 2024

Omg the politicians are back!!!

You ever notice how politicians are like those weird relatives who only show up when they need something? Every few years, they pop out of nowhere, grinning like they just won the lottery, shaking hands, kissing babies, making all sorts of promises. "Vote for me, and I’ll fix everything!" It’s like, "Yeah, sure, buddy, and I’m the Queen of England."


Then, once they get your vote, poof! They disappear faster than my enthusiasm for exercise. You won’t see them again until the next election cycle when they magically reappear, like Houdini, but without the talent or the charm.


And don’t get me started on their promises. I can’t count one they’ve kept. It’s like they’re allergic to follow-through. "We’ll improve healthcare, lower taxes, fix the roads!" Yeah, right. The only thing they’ve fixed is their salary. It’s like buying a lottery ticket that’s already expired – you’re never gonna see any return.


So, are these politicians just faces for the public while Congress does all the work? You bet. They’re like the frontmen in a band – all the glory, none of the real effort. Congress is where the magic – or lack thereof – happens. These guys just sit back, take the credit, and if things go south, they point fingers like a drunk guy playing charades.


And while we’re out here sweating in the summer heat, they’re probably napping in their offices with five air conditioners blasting. We’re roasting, and they’re living it up like it’s a tropical resort. Your tax dollars at work, folks! It’s like paying for a gym membership you never use – you’re getting fleeced, but hey, at least someone’s enjoying it.


Honestly, sometimes they remind me of dictators. They get elected, make all these grand decisions, and then vanish. Except we’re the ones footing the bill for their lavish lifestyles. We pay their wages, and what do we get in return? A whole lot of nothing. It’s the story of my life – I’m working hard, they’re hardly working.


So next time you see a politician, remember: they’re like that sketchy guy selling magic beans. Lots of promises, but in the end, you’re just left with a handful of worthless seeds. And the cycle goes on.


Here's my deep dive section....

Yknow i always do it.. a explantion as to why???


Alright, let's tackle the curious case of politicians, the ultimate Houdinis of modern society. They appear out of nowhere when they want your votes, and then, like a fart in the wind, they disappear. Let’s dive into this phenomenon and expose the reality behind the political curtain.


### The Vanishing Act: Politicians and Votes


Every election season, it's like Halloween for politicians. They come out dressed in their best promises, knocking on your doors, smiling for the cameras, and pretending to care about your dog’s arthritis. You see them shaking hands, kissing babies, and making grand speeches about change, progress, and how they're going to make everything better.


But once the votes are counted and they’ve secured their spot in office, it's like they’ve been abducted by aliens. They vanish into the corridors of power, where the public can’t see them. It's like you were dating someone who seemed perfect, but as soon as you commit, they ghost you. You’re left wondering, "Where did they go?"


### The Broken Promises


Promises, promises. If politicians were paid in promises, they’d all be billionaires. They promise to fix the roads, improve healthcare, lower taxes, and bring peace to the galaxy. But how many of these promises do they actually keep? You'd have an easier time finding a unicorn in your backyard.


Take a look at some examples. Remember the promise of universal healthcare? How about the vow to tackle climate change head-on? And let’s not forget the commitment to education reform. These are the promises that get people excited, but when it comes to delivering, it’s like watching a dog chase its tail – a lot of effort with no real results.


According to Politifact, an independent fact-checking website, only 20% of promises made by politicians during their campaigns are fully kept . The rest? Either partially fulfilled or completely ignored. It's like ordering a pizza, getting just the crust, and being told to be grateful for it.


### Faces for the Public, Puppets in Congress


Now, let’s talk about the real power players. Are these politicians just faces for the public, while Congress does all the heavy lifting? In many cases, yes. The President, for example, might be the most visible politician, but Congress holds the purse strings and the power to pass or block legislation.


Think of Congress as the shadowy cabal behind the scenes. Politicians are like the pretty faces in front of a rock band – they get all the attention, but the real magic happens backstage. The legislative process is complex, and often, the promises made during campaigns get lost in the bureaucratic maze. The bills that do get passed are usually the result of compromise and negotiation, far removed from the original grand visions.


### Living Large on Taxpayer Dime


And then there’s the lifestyle. Politicians are often accused of living large while their constituents struggle. Ever heard of a congressman taking a pay cut? Neither have I. They’re sitting in their air-conditioned offices, possibly with five ACs blasting, while many people can’t even afford to turn on a fan.


The average salary for a U.S. Senator or Representative is $174,000 per year. Not too shabby, right? And that doesn’t include the perks: travel allowances, healthcare benefits, and a pension plan that’s the envy of many private sector workers. Meanwhile, the rest of us are stuck with rising costs of living, stagnant wages, and the joy of paying taxes that fund these cushy lifestyles.


### Modern-Day Dictators?


It’s tempting to compare politicians to dictators. They get elected, they make decisions that affect millions, and they often seem unaccountable. The difference is, we’re supposed to have the power to vote them out. But what happens when all the candidates are cut from the same cloth? It’s like choosing between a rock and a hard place – or between a politician who’ll screw you over quickly and one who’ll do it slowly.


### The Cycle Continues


So, we pay their wages, and what do we get in return? Broken promises, disappearing acts, and the occasional scandal to keep things interesting. It’s the story of our lives, a never-ending cycle of hope, disappointment, and resignation.


In conclusion, politicians are the masters of the vanishing act. They promise the moon and deliver moon dust. They appear when they need you and disappear when you need them. And while they live comfortably on taxpayer money, the rest of us are left wondering why we keep falling for the same tricks. It’s a sad, predictable story, but one that continues to play out every election season.

Saturday, June 1, 2024

Is it a scam #1 - get a featuring with gucci mane

 Heres the gyst of the deal:

https://vip.wyshmasterbeats.com/guccimane?fbclid=IwAR3LH8kEdVwI2zsVGu2k_yAXE35C-21R3uKa2dTMjeD6AaaZoDqDv3Ev6Rs_aem_AcQUblmY5ke3wRnKYKDdi-cWBPlyDqG_WCf1ydK2xumJMG6MzOlzVXsuHJKKqYPwQ5sziErBRTElMyP4dWbitew5


So, you buy a feature with Gucci Mane, right? That’s like paying for a golden ticket to the chocolate factory, except everyone else has a golden ticket too. So you’re in line with hundreds of other people, all holding the same golden ticket, trying to get their song uploaded.


Then, even after you’ve shelled out the cash for this exclusive (but not really exclusive) feature, you’ve got to pay a percentage to the artist. Imagine that! You’ve already bought the cow, and now you’ve got to keep paying for the milk. It’s like buying a car and then having to pay the car manufacturer every time you drive it. 


So you’re stuck paying this membership fee or whatever it is, and then you’ve got to pay the label if you want to upload anything. And it’s not exclusive! It’s like joining a country club where everyone else in town is also a member, and you’ve still got to pay for the privilege of using the golf course. 


But, and here’s the kicker, it’s not a scam. Oh no, it’s not a scam. It’s just a complicated, rip-off, perfectly legal arrangement. I mean, people throw the word ‘scam’ around like it’s confetti these days. They see something complicated and slightly shady, and boom – scam! But this? This is just good old-fashioned capitalism at work. You’ve got to admire the audacity of it.






The music industry is a multi-billion dollar beast, and like any good beast, it knows how to eat. One of its favorite snacks? The wallets of aspiring artists. Today, we’re going to explore the world of feature purchases – where you can pay for a big-name artist to be featured on your track. Sounds like a dream, right? Wrong. It’s more like a Kafkaesque nightmare wrapped in a dollar sign.


### The Allure of the Feature


Imagine this: You’re an up-and-coming artist with some decent tracks. You’ve got talent, sure, but what you really need is that big break, that one feature that will catapult you into the limelight. Enter the feature purchase. For a (not so) small fee, you can have Lil Wayne, Gucci Mane, or another big name grace your track with their presence. 


But here’s the catch – and there’s always a catch. You’re not just paying for the artist’s time and talent. No, you’re paying for the whole package, which includes the beat they provide. And guess what? You have to use that beat. You don’t get a choice. Why? Because they own it, and ownership in the music industry is a synonym for control.


### The Economics of a Feature


Let’s break down the costs. A feature from a big-name artist can range from $10,000 to $100,000, or even more depending on the artist’s clout. But wait, there’s more! You’ve also got to pay for the beat. That can add another few thousand dollars to your bill. And then there are the royalties. Yes, even after you’ve paid this exorbitant amount, you still have to give a cut of your earnings to the artist. It’s like buying a car and having to pay the dealership every time you drive it.

According to Forbes, the average cost of a feature can vary widely. For instance, a verse from a top-tier artist like Drake or Kendrick Lamar can cost upwards of $200,000 . Lesser-known but still popular artists might charge between $20,000 and $50,000 . But the expenses don’t end there. You might also have to pay for studio time, mixing, mastering, and of course, the ever-present royalty fees.


### The Contractual Minefield


Now, let’s talk contracts. These agreements are often riddled with clauses designed to protect the interests of the big-name artist and their label. One common clause is the “approval clause,” which allows the featured artist to veto the release of the track if they’re not happy with the final product. This means you could pay all that money and still end up with nothing to show for it if the artist decides they don’t like your work.


Then there’s the “territorial clause.” This can restrict where you can release your song. For example, the artist might only agree to the track being released in certain countries. And let’s not forget the “exclusivity clause,” which can prevent you from using the artist’s name or likeness in any promotional material without their express permission.


These contracts are a legal minefield, and one wrong step can blow your whole budget to smithereens. It’s no wonder that many artists end up regretting their decision to buy a feature.


### The Reality of “Ownership”


Ownership in the music industry is a tricky concept. When you pay for a feature, you might think you own the resulting track. But in reality, what you own is a heavily encumbered asset. The featured artist retains a significant amount of control over how the track is used. This includes where it can be sold, how it can be promoted, and even whether it can be performed live.


This control extends to the beat as well. Since you’re required to use the beat provided by the artist, you don’t have any creative freedom in that aspect. You’re essentially renting the beat, and any modifications you want to make will likely need to be approved by the artist or their label.


### The Hidden Costs


Beyond the upfront costs and the royalties, there are plenty of hidden costs associated with buying a feature. For instance, you might need to pay for additional marketing to promote the track. After all, what’s the point of having a big-name feature if no one hears it? 


There’s also the potential cost of legal fees. Navigating the contractual landscape of a feature purchase often requires the expertise of a lawyer, and good music lawyers don’t come cheap. You might also need to pay for additional studio time if the featured artist decides they want to re-record their part, or if there are any technical issues.


### The Perils of Non-Exclusivity


One of the biggest pitfalls of buying a feature is the non-exclusivity clause. Many artists will sell the same feature to multiple buyers. This means that the track you thought was unique might end up being used by several other artists. It’s like buying a designer dress and then showing up at a party to find three other people wearing the exact same thing. 


This can dilute the impact of your track and make it harder to stand out in a crowded market. It also raises questions about the value of the feature. If the same verse is being sold to multiple buyers, is it really worth the high price tag?


### The Psychological Toll


Let’s not forget the psychological toll of this process. The constant worry about whether your track will be approved, the stress of navigating legal contracts, and the financial burden can take a significant toll on your mental health. It’s a high-stakes game, and the pressure can be overwhelming.


### The Alternatives


So, what’s the alternative? One option is to collaborate with other up-and-coming artists. This can be a more affordable and mutually beneficial arrangement. You can also focus on building your own brand and audience. In today’s digital age, social media and streaming platforms provide plenty of opportunities for independent artists to reach a wide audience without the need for a big-name feature.


### Conclusion


In conclusion, buying a feature from a big-name artist might seem like a golden ticket to success, but it’s more like a ticket to a very expensive rollercoaster. The music industry has perfected the art of extracting as much money as possible from aspiring artists while providing minimal returns. It’s a system designed to keep the rich and famous at the top while making it harder for new talent to break through.


So, before you shell out your hard-earned cash for that Lil Wayne feature, think long and hard about what you’re really getting into. It’s a complicated, expensive, and often disappointing process. But hey, at least you’ll have a good story to tell – if you can afford the therapy bills afterwards.


And there you have it, folks. A deep dive into the murky waters of the music industry’s feature purchasing business. It’s a wild ride, and not one I’d recommend to the faint of heart.