Welcome to this week’s Indie Artist Music Hustle with Blonde Intelligence. I am your host Ms. Roni and I always seek to give you exquisite crainial repertoire. What does it really take to make it as an independent artist in today's music landscape? Killer D joins us to share his raw, unfiltered journey from the projects of Louisiana to the competitive Houston music scene.

Born with natural artistic talent but initially too shy to showcase it, Killer D reveals how he transformed from writing poetry in closets with egg cartons on the walls to commanding stages with confidence. His story is one of persistent evolution—holding onto a hook for ten years until finding the perfect beat for his club hit "Pop It," which unexpectedly gained radio play across multiple states including Georgia, Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.

The conversation dives deep into the creative process behind making authentic strip club bangers, with Killer D explaining the cultural context that makes his Louisiana-influenced sound distinctive. We explore the crucial difference between being an entertainer versus a performer, witnessing firsthand his ability to captivate audiences even when performing acapella. His practical approach to reading crowds before determining setlists demonstrates the adaptability essential for lasting success.

Perhaps most valuable are Killer D's unvarnished insights into industry relationships. From the importance of proper collaboration paperwork to navigating local gatekeeping, he shares wisdom earned through both success and setbacks. "Artists need DJs," he emphasizes, detailing how building relationships with everyone from club owners to waitstaff creates the network necessary for independent advancement. His experiences highlight how regional scenes can simultaneously support and limit emerging artists.

Ready to hear what authentic music hustle sounds like? Listen now to gain practical wisdom from an artist carving his own path on his own terms—and catch his single "Pop It" while you're at it.

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