As an upcoming artist, everybody tells you “networking is key.”
And that’s true. Who you know can open doors your talent alone might not.
But what people don’t say enough is that every connection is a good connection.
In fact, some people in this game will slow you down more than they’ll ever help you.
So while you’re out here trying to build with the right people, let’s put you on game about the wrong ones.
This might save you some time, some money — and a lot of disappointment.
1. Clout Chasers & Fake Supporters
Some people don’t care about you. They care about proximity to you.
They show up when you’re buzzing… repost your snippets… drop fake fire emojis in your comments…
But let that buzz slow down — crickets. Silence. Ghost mode.
If you want spot such manner of people, here are some dead giveaway:
- They only call when you’re trending.
- They never support you privately — only publicly (for their own image).
- They’re quick to attach themselves but slow to actually help.
Why avoid them?
Clout chasers move weird. They’ll embarrass you. They’ll drain your energy. And worse — they’ll dip the second they can’t gain from you.
2. Scam Promoters & Fake Managers
To say it plainly, anybody asking for large upfront money without real proof of results is not your plug — they’re your problem.
This industry is crawling with people who prey on hungry artists.
They’ll hit you with:
“Pay me $500 and I’ll get you on 10 playlists.”
“Sign to me and I’ll blow you up in 3 months.”
“Trust me, I’ve worked with big names.”
All cap. All vibes. No receipts.
Real people with real value show you results — they don’t beg you for a bag upfront.
3. Negative Energy People (aka Dream Killers)
This one is tricky because they often look like friends.
They’ll tell you to be “realistic” (aka give up).
They’ll laugh at your dreams like you’re crazy for believing.
They’ll remind you of everything that could go wrong — never what could go right.
Look… music is already hard enough.
You don’t need people killing your momentum before it even starts.
Keep them far away.
4. People Who Want Control — Not Collaboration
Some people don’t want to build with you.
They want to control you. Shape you. Own you.
Managers, producers, team members… watch out for people who make it feel like you don’t have a say in your own art.
If someone isn’t willing to listen to you about your own vision — they’re not the right person to help you bring it to life.
Collaboration feels like freedom.
Control feels like prison.
Know the difference.
The Network Craze Can Consume
Everybody wants to “network up” these days.
But networking isn’t just about adding people to your circle.
It’s about protecting your circle.
Some people will level you up.
Some people will drain you dry.
Move smart. Build slow. Protect your vision.
Your music deserves real love — not fake hype.
