Not that long ago, music artists really knew they had made it when they heard their song on the radio. Then they watched it peak on the Billboard charts, and watched their records go on to sell in the millions.
But that was then, and now it’s all about a whole new set of “making it” benchmarks.
Case in point: a couple of weeks ago, Toronto rapper Drake got the Punk’d treatment courtesy of Ashton Kutcher and a faux earthquake in a parking garage. Though Drake looked ridiculous and slightly humiliated, he still had this to say:
“I said very early on in my career that this is such a sign that you've really accomplished something if Ashton decides to punk you.”
Today’s musical universe is a kaleidoscope of options for getting your brand out there, and radio play is oddly low on the list. The important part is that people know you, no matter how that comes about.
And what’s at the top? Let us count the ways.
1. Have a great Twitter following.
One thing that will never change in the success world is numbers, and the number of Twitter followers you can amass says something very loud and clear. The top seven most-followed people on Twitter are all singers, and they come in before U.S. President Barack Obama, who’s at #8. Lady Gaga tops the list at 25 million followers; close behind is Justin Bieber at 23 million.
Bonus points: Twitter feuds! All the better to get more followers and let people know you’re just like them: petty and insecure. So far the biggest feuds for 2012 have involved singers: Miranda Lambert versus Chris Brown; Christina Aguilera and Adam Levine.
2. Host Saturday Night Live (or bomb on it).
Sure, it’s great to be the musical guest. Over the show’s 30 years every band or singer with any cultural significance has played the seminal variety show, but to really “make it,” you must host. Paul Simon got the ball rolling, but Justin Timberlake set the bar.
Bonus points: A disastrous musical performance might hurt, but Lana Del Rey was not the first. Ashlee Simpson will always be known for her lip-syncing jig.
3. Perform a duet with Jimmy Fallon.
The former SNL cast member has one of the most talked about and adventurously fun late-night shows. And while it’s great to sit on the couch for a chat, it’s just that much better if he sings with you. Again, see Justin Timberlake, and also this past week’s edition with Carly Rae-Jepsen.
Bonus points: If your Fallon duet goes viral, all the better. Think like Timberlake.
4. Own a personally-branded clothing line.
This goes beyond having merch. This is about making the transition from band to brand. Gwen Stefani has L.A.M.B, Jay-Z has Rocawear, Pharrell Williams has Billionaire Boys Club; Jessica Simpson, Jennifer Lopez and Victoria Beckham also have clothing lines.
Bonus points: If you can pull it off without a sweatshop scandal, even better.
5. Get a hologram.
OK, this is a last resort, and you are probably dead so you won’t know this is happening anyway. But nothing says “I’ve made it” than being able to tour posthumously.
Bonus points: Get buried in a famous cemetery. Pilgrimages to your grave are the ultimate in arriving, so to speak.
Related:
Katie Perry covers Carly Rae Jepsen
‘Bay-bay,’ and other horrors of the proper pop pronunciation list