In a new episode of Earn Your Leisure, hosts Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings sit down with Grammy-winning artist Lecrae for an in-depth conversation about his journey in the music industry and his blueprint for success as an independent artist. From growing up in Houston to building his own label and surpassing Nicki Minaj on the iTunes charts, Lecrae opens up about the lessons that shaped his career and how he defied expectations to become one of the most influential independent artists in hip-hop today.
Growing up in Houston, Lecrae was inspired by his surroundings to not only pursue music but to take control of his destiny. He details how the city’s influence led him to create his own music label, a move that would redefine his career and set the stage for his independence in a rapidly changing industry. Lecrae’s journey into the business side of music didn’t start overnight, and he shares valuable insights into the step-by-step process of building a label from the ground up.
Lecrae also reflects on his time working at a corporate cable company, where he learned skills that would later shape his approach to the music industry. The experience taught him about the importance of structure, strategy, and leveraging opportunities in unexpected places. He credits those lessons with helping him navigate the complexities of the music world, allowing him to make key decisions that propelled his career forward.
One pivotal moment in Lecrae’s journey came when he landed his first major feature, a career-changing event that signaled the start of a new chapter. As his career began to grow, Lecrae saw how quickly the hip-hop landscape was shifting. He dives deep into his thoughts on the evolving hip-hop market, providing listeners with invaluable advice on how to succeed in an ever-changing industry.
In this episode, Lecrae also opens up about the challenges and rewards of independent touring. He believes that touring independently offers more control and financial freedom than partnering with major players like Live Nation. Lecrae provides key tips for aspiring artists who want to build a sustainable career on the road, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance and strategic planning.
As the conversation continues, Lecrae discusses why he avoids the “pay-what-you-want” model for his music and shares his thoughts on whether playlist placements still carry weight in 2025. His perspective on these topics offers critical insight for emerging artists who are trying to navigate the complexities of the modern music industry.
Lastly, the episode delves into a thought-provoking discussion about the future of hip-hop. With the genre’s rise to mainstream dominance, Lecrae raises the question: is hip-hop at risk of following the same decline that rock ‘n’ roll experienced in the past? Lecrae shares his thoughts on the current state of the genre and what the future might hold for the culture.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of music, business, and culture. Lecrae’s wisdom, strategies, and personal stories provide a blueprint for success, inspiring artists and entrepreneurs alike to forge their own paths and thrive in an industry that’s constantly evolving.
