According to The Lox, Lil Kim, and DMX, “Money, power, and respect are the keys to life.” It might be that way for them, but what about the artists who think their “creative freedom” is the key to life?

Many artists may feel like it is hard to break the mold of producing music that  is truly genuine because they are more focused on what records that the general public will like. Artists such as Monica and Fantasia have taken their fight for their creative rights to the small screen with their reality shows. Seeing artists like them who have traveled the world, sold millions of albums, have true fans and still continue to  play tug of war with their record labels can become discouraging for budding artists.

Who will fight the war for real art? Things that people can relate to instead of fantasize about.

Many see the entertainment business as glitz and glamour. Yes, it can be and that portrayal makes it very attractive for many of us, but what about the quality of what we are being exposed to? It seems as if the industry is really shady and needs to be taken over. Or maybe that is the problem. The industry has been taken over by big budgets, high CD prices, and entourages. Nonetheless, many musicians and actors with a steady passion for their art are making an effort to keep it true and real. I applaud them and remain a fan. However, I worry about the future of the industry.

Will the art of war prevail with its big checks and gimmick artists?

Honestly, I find myself caught in a catch 22. Many of the artists that I feel lack a true art form have the catchiest beats. As a music lover, I know that the beat is what ultimately makes a song, but it always feels like there is a void that should be filled.

Many artists get on their grind just to get in the game and rape it. Can we be mad at them? I can’t. Not when there are so many perpetrators out there lacking talent. Do most artists grind? Yes. Do they have that hustler’s spirit? Yes. Do they have real talent and artistry? Not always.

Who is going to fight the war for art?

Many are still fighting this war as we speak. It is almost like a battle between good and evil. Just as Jay-Z said, “Men lie. Women lie. Numbers don’t.”

Think about it… Which side will you be on?