Music industry milestones for success in career trajectory of early-stage Hip-hop artists

This master thesis investigates the milestones and strategies in the early career trajectories of artists in the Hip-hop and R&B genres, with particular attention on the role of industry professionals in shaping their recognition. Utilizing a qualitative methodology, the study integrates findings from nine semi-structured expert interviews including five emerging artists and four industry professionals - including label founders, managers, A&R representatives and promoters. A dual inductive-deductive thematic analysis approach reveals that stable career advancement is influenced by a complex interplay of structural dynamics and require artists to maintain continuous presence across all platforms. A central finding of the study is the central role of cultural capital - accumulated through live performances, cultural validation and brand alignment - as a central component that facilitates gaining recognition in the early-career stage. The accumulation and conversion of cultural capital emerged as a foundational condition for visibility within the competitive music sector of the creative industries. Authenticity was identified as a substantial indicator of credibility, particularly when demonstrated by artists tangible content delivery in live acts that foster lasting audience connection and loyal fan-base support. Furthermore, this study uncovers the tension faced by early-stage artists: full-time commitment is necessary to gain recognition, yet financial compensation from streaming and industry support is insufficient in the early-stage. Artists are frequently needed to perform extensive labour efforts in absence of a stable source of income. Although the digitalization of the industry presents expectations of allowing for more accessible trajectories to success, findings illustrate that wider institutional inequalities remain. In overview, assumptions that social media enables a more. The analysis outcome suggests that structural inequalities are transformed rather than obsolete. Both traditional and digital gatekeepers continue to hold decisive power in conditioning which artists gain access to pivotal milestones. Overall, the study contributes with insights on how early-stage Hip-hop and R&B artists are required to navigate the rapidly evolving industry demands while implementing strategies that align with their brand identity, meeting audience expectations and conforming to industry standards in the precarious collaboration with digital and streaming platforms. Ultimately, presenting a more complex understanding of early-career development in the music industry.