Ever wonder why some artists blow up while others, despite being talented, struggle to break through? It’s not always about skill or talent. When you look more critically, there is an identity issue involved.
You need a unique identity as an artist. This can take great effort, but it’s worth it, when you consider the risk of blending in in a crowded industry.
And if you’re still upcoming, looking or sounding exactly like another bigger star can be your biggest mistak.
It may have worked for a few people, but exceptions don’t make the rule. If you need proof, we have it in the musician Joe El.
If you don’t know Joe El (particularly if you’re not Nigerian), he’s an Afropop sensation who came onto the scene some time in the late 2000s. One look at him and you’re instantly reminded of 2Baba, the legendary Nigerian who sings the same genre and was the country’s biggest music export at the time. The uncanny resemblance even made some fans suggest they run a DNA test. But it doesn’t stop at the looks: his voice, mannerisms, singing style and even down to his sense of fashion – all make him a perfect clone of the icon.
In an interview on the Hoha podcast a few months ago, he shared how his career took a hit simply because he looked and sounded too much like 2Baba. Media platforms shut him out. Event organizers refused to book him. Fans dismissed him as a “2Baba wannabe.” The result? Years of struggling just to prove he was his own artist.
And he’s not alone. Many artists have faced the same challenge—overshadowed, forgotten, or dismissed as copycats. If you want a long and successful music career, here’s why establishing a unique identity is essential.
1. A Unique Identity Helps You Step Out of the Shadows
Imagine you’re performing at a concert. After an energetic performance that reflects your passion, and the sense of fulfilment that comes from finally getting the exposure you’ve been dying to have, the first thing people say is, “You sound just like O.B.O (or any other top artist)!”
This might seem like a compliment at first, but it’s a burden. If people see you as a replica, there’ll be a hesitation to invest in you. “Why you when we can go with the original”, they will think.
Jason Derulo faced this early in his career. He looked so much like Chris Brown, so he couldn’t escape the comparison. It took a while and a lot of effort for him to break away and establish his own style. Until he fully embraced his pop-infused R&B sound and signature branding, he was denied the credit he deserved for his craft and didn’t become a star in his own right.
Moral of the story: If people struggle to figure out what makes you different, they won’t see a reason to follow you.
2. Offering Something New Earns You a Stronger Fanbase
Think about your favorite artist. What makes you connect with them? It’s probably something unique about their music, personality, or story.
Now imagine another artist comes along, doing the exact same thing. Would you care? Probably not.
That’s why artists who don’t carve their own lane struggle to build a dedicated fan base. Sean Kingston experienced this. His voice, vibe, and production style, all reminded people of Akon. While he had hits, fans eventually lost interest because he wasn’t offering anything Akon hadn’t already done.
Your fans need a reason to pick you over anyone else. Give them something fresh—something that only you can offer.
3. Originality Leads to Longevity
The music industry thrives on evolution. If you don’t have a distinct identity, your appeal can fade as trends change.
Look at Gorilla Zoe. When he first came out, he had a sound that reminded people of Young Jeezy. It was a problem because Jeezy was already established. Once the comparisons got old, Gorilla Zoe’s buzz disappeared.
In contrast, The Weeknd started out with a vocal tone that reminded people of Michael Jackson. But instead of sticking to that, he crafted his own dark, cinematic R&B style, which was something completely fresh. That’s why he’s still at the top today.
4. Industry Opportunities Come to Artists Who Stand Out
Want to land brand deals? Media coverage? Big collaborations? Then you need a unique angle.
Joe El learned this the hard way. His resemblance to 2Baba didn’t just cost him fans; it also cost him opportunities. Cool FM, Sound City, and event organizers refused to work with him simply because he was seen as a copy of someone else. Apart from the lost opportunities, the embarrassment must be sickening
The industry invests in fresh, original talent. The more unique you are, the more valuable you become.
5. A Clear Identity Fuels Creative Freedom
When artists don’t establish their own identity, they often feel trapped—forced to follow trends or fit into a box that doesn’t allow them to explore new sounds.
The Weeknd avoided this. Early on, he was compared to Michael Jackson, but instead of trying to replicate MJ’s sound, he leaned into his own mysterious, moody vibe. Today, his music and visuals are instantly recognizable.
Artists who embrace their originality have the freedom to set trends instead of chasing them.
So, How Do You Stand Out?
- Find your sound. Don’t copy what’s trending. Instead, create something that feels authentic to you.
- Develop a brand. Whether it’s your visuals, lyrics, or personality, craft something recognizable.
- Own your differences. The things that make you unique are your biggest strengths. Lean into them.
And Lastly,
Know that being different is always an advantage. So you must define your own identity, and not let people call you what you’re not.
It’s one thing to be talented enough to make great music. But you should make great music, and also make a mark. And to do that, you need to be unapologetically you.
