From: lexfridman
The discussion between Lex Fridman and the artist formerly known as Kanye West (now known as Ye) delves into various aspects of the business side of the music industry, highlighting systemic issues and personal experiences. This conversation sheds light on several key elements, such as the structure and challenges within the music industry, as well as broader thoughts on engineering and innovation.
The Music Industry’s Structural Challenges
Ye discusses his experiences with the music industry’s business practices, pointing out systemic challenges and inefficiencies:
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Contracts and Legalities: Ye points out that contracts in the music industry need significant reform. He compares the necessity for contract transparency and fairness to the creation of a new constitution for the industry. This perspective underscores the complexities and often opaque nature of music contracts that leave many artists feeling exploited or powerless. Ye argues that the current structures prevent artists from accessing the full benefits of their labor and creativity [04:58:01].
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Lack of Representation and Diversity in Leadership: Ye emphasizes the lack of black representation in leadership positions within tech and music companies. He advocates for increased hiring of black engineers and leaders, suggesting this as a pathway to enhance diversity and influence within these industries [01:05:53].
Influence of Fame
Ye critiques the industry for its monopolistic tendencies, drawing parallels to broader socio-economic imbalances:
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Role of Major Companies: In the conversation, Ye accuses major companies and influential figures of attempting to control or monopolize talented individuals. This is evident in his recount of experiences with powerful figures in the fashion industry who tried to stifle his creative and business pursuits [01:08:04].
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Impact on Creativity: The conversation suggests that the drive for market control often stifles creativity. Ye mentions that true visionaries sometimes prioritize their vision to the detriment of business acumen, suggesting that the industry’s structure often prioritizes profit over artistry [02:15:16].
Call for Innovation in the Industry
Ye advocates for a reinvention of the industry that leverages technological advancements and promotes fairness:
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Engineering Opportunities: Drawing from his perspective as both an artist and a businessman, Ye calls for an approach where engineering and creativity intersect. He suggests that with innovation and collaboration, systemic problems within the industry can be solved, and that this will require collaboration and open dialogue between artists, engineers, and business leaders [05:01:11].
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Innovation and New Media: The conversation touches upon Ye’s interest in social media and technology as platforms for change. He addresses his acquisition of the social media platform Parler, hinting at the use of technology to create more equitable and open platforms for artists [05:03:12].
Conclusion
This conversation reveals Ye’s deep-seated concerns with the business practices of the music industry and his calls for systemic change. He envisions a future where diversity, transparency, and innovation characterize industry practices, challenging both new and established players to consider transformative solutions.
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