Deal or No Deal…

The culmination of an independent hip-hop artist’s hard work can end with being offered a record deal from a major label. But some (usually those with a substitute form of steady income) prefer the slower pace and reduced pressure of the independent circuit. Working with a major label also reduces the control the artist has over his own music: breaking one of the cardinal commandments of independent musicians.

Take for example 24-year-old UNC student Gregory “Gzaz” Jackson. Jackson’s first solo album in 2002 was an independent project that earned him local notoriety. The attention he gained paved the way for contract negotiations with a major record label. Jackson–like so many other independent artists–opted to maintain control over his own projects instead of signing with the company.

“I started negotiations with a label a couple [of] years ago,” said Jackson, “but after a while they just fell through. After that I decided to do it on my own for a while.”

While working the local circuit, Jackson performed at several unconventional venues including a Carnival cruise ship and even the Justice League of Durham.

Jackson continued to practice the tools of his trade, focusing on songwriting and production with several other local Chapel Hill artists. His songwriting has earned him several awards and his production and lyrics have been featured on the albums of several local independent artists. (Hear some of Gzaz’s work!)

He credits the mishap with the label for helping improve his skills.

“In a lot of ways, I’m glad I didn’t sign with the label. I learned that I can do these things on my own and I got an opportunity to get my hands dirty.”

One thing he does understand, however, is the power of the almighty dollar.

“Make no mistake about it, if the right deal comes along then I’m going to take it. As long as I don’t have to water-down my creativity and I’m being paid how I should be, then I’m all for it.”

-Gzaz