By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
When rappers want to build buzz, they no longer look toward their labels to help them. The biggest record label, Universal Records, has boasted Lil Wayne throughout his career. But, when he wanted to become the biggest rapper in the game, Lil Wayne turned to the mixtape scene. Now, there are rappers emerging through the mixtape scene, completely ignoring the major labels.
One of the most-successful rappers in the game has been Ludacris. Certain rappers, including Ludacris, Jay-Z, and others, have been very business-minded. Along the way, they have tried to teach many other rappers. 2 Chainz was taking notes when Ludacris gave him information about the game. He has had three opportunities to be in the spotlight. 2 Chainz was one of the original DTP artists and had much success with “Duffle Bag Boy.”
However, 2 Chainz wanted an identity of his own, so he launched his own label, The Real University, and he entered a partnership with Def Jam. Even with Def Jam struggling, the label remains one of the biggest labels in the game. With 2 Chainz partnering with the label, he is able to negotiate his own deals and has his debut album on the way. The debut album follows a number of mixtapes and high-profile features. Many rappers in the South have been dominant and there are many new rappers in the South emerging. But, none are making moves the way 2 Chainz is, but can he maintain it and become next?
