What Do the NFL/NBA and Hip-Hop Have in Common?

You wonder, where’s the comparison between the NBA/NFL and Hip Hop?

Well, if you’ve been following the NFL labor negotiations and the so-called labor negotiations of the NBA, the main argument on the table is whether the top tier franchises will get a majority of the revenue—for the NFL, an approximate $9 Billion or less?

The owners yearn for more money on top of the billions brought in through television revenue, memorabilia, etc; however, the NBA is losing money on top of the revenue, plus smaller market teams find themselves in the red as they continue to ceremonially get swept under the rug with the rest of the smaller markets.

Just think, Hip-Hop and NFL/NBA?

Signing a record deal with a major label doesn’t guarantee millions, nor does it allow you get your name branded as quickly as possible. When an artist signs with a company, they sit, wait, and hopefully jump on the scene when the market is in need for a fresh face; new style.

So, you wonder how the owners and top executives generate revenue off of a new star?

Every artist is required to go on promo tours, or store appearances, etc; this is marketing. For every appearance, the top execs receives a percentage of the earnings. Unfortunately, the artist is titled to a certain amount which could be frustrating for the artist, but his/her rights belong to the record company. Hence, the Jay-Z fiasco with Def-Jam and the rights to his music. Artists aren’t excited about signing with a record for this reason.

Owners of both NFL/NBA and hip-hop labels are seeking more revenue while the ceiling for there workers continue to drop. This will cause frustration and seclusion amongst the athletes and artists. Artists—Nas and Lupe—will challenge the top executives, a la Demaurice Smith of the NFLPA.

Athletes and artists should have viable options during and after their prospective careers.