The debate over whether the hip-hop industry is a billion dollar industry open to anyone with talent, or whether it is only profitable to select corporate hustlers is one that Damon Dash has decided walk away from in announcing his decision to leave hip-hop for good.
Dash, co-founder of Roc-A-Fella Records (with Jay-Z) said he is sick of the ‘pennies’ available to him in hip-hop, and that he will now focus on fashion and other areas of entertainment instead of the musical art form.
Dame’s decision comes from a self-confessed desire for wealth and material objects. “I couldn't buy what I wanted to buy. I'm talking cooks and drivers. I got into clothes to make money. The music business isn't so profitable, especially not hip-hop."
Perhaps Dash’s dislike for hip-hop has been present since 2003 when he opted to produce an album for former Spice Girl, Victoria Beckham. Or perhaps this cemented his resentment for the industry, as this hip-hop inspired album never saw a release.
Dash has certainly re-focused his priorities: “Not many people understand how important having a butler is. I need somebody to help me get everything I'm going to wear for the day all set up, know what I'm saying?”
Within the last two years Dash sold his stakes in Roc-A-Fella and Rocawear. He is now focusing on clothing, watches and alcohol.
“It's all about finding ways to make money off an upscale urban product. That's what I do. Period.”
Dash, co-founder of Roc-A-Fella Records (with Jay-Z) said he is sick of the ‘pennies’ available to him in hip-hop, and that he will now focus on fashion and other areas of entertainment instead of the musical art form.
Dame’s decision comes from a self-confessed desire for wealth and material objects. “I couldn't buy what I wanted to buy. I'm talking cooks and drivers. I got into clothes to make money. The music business isn't so profitable, especially not hip-hop."
Perhaps Dash’s dislike for hip-hop has been present since 2003 when he opted to produce an album for former Spice Girl, Victoria Beckham. Or perhaps this cemented his resentment for the industry, as this hip-hop inspired album never saw a release.
Dash has certainly re-focused his priorities: “Not many people understand how important having a butler is. I need somebody to help me get everything I'm going to wear for the day all set up, know what I'm saying?”
Within the last two years Dash sold his stakes in Roc-A-Fella and Rocawear. He is now focusing on clothing, watches and alcohol.
“It's all about finding ways to make money off an upscale urban product. That's what I do. Period.”