Life lessons on ownership and how to keep creative control

At SXSW Sydney, Kid LAROI, one of Australia’s most celebrated young artists, brought together industry friends and mentors to share insights on creative integrity, ownership, and what it means to stay true in a fast-paced industry. 

With guest appearances from music producer Keanu Bates, DJ Tony, and others, the session shed light on how iconic stories, like that of RUN DMC, continue to offer valuable guidance to artists navigating the modern landscape. The legendary hip-hop group’s story of success, struggles with creative control, and lessons in ownership provided a powerful framework for young artists aiming to balance passion and business.

The Legacy of RUN DMC: A Story of Influence and Lessons in Ownership

Kid LAROI’s keynote featured a video message from TJ Mizell, DJ, producer, and son of the late Jam Master Jay, founding member of RUN DMC Mizell recounted the early days of the group, emphasising how they set a cultural standard that shaped hip-hop’s evolution from the ground up. RUN DMC broke barriers in the 1980s with hits like “Walk This Way,” not only pioneering hip-hop but reshaping fashion with their now-iconic Adidas look. However, as Mizell explained, despite their success and immense cultural impact, their journey also held crucial lessons in business decisions and ownership rights.

“Publishing is super important when you’re an artist,” Mizell told the audience. “It’s how you make money when your song is played on TV, radio, or in movies.” Mizell’s father and RUN DMC co-founder, Jam Master Jay, experienced this lesson firsthand when the group sold their publishing rights early in their career for a fraction of what those rights would later be worth. This decision, made without guidance or precedent, cost the group millions in long-term earnings—a tough lesson for anyone navigating the industry’s complexities.

Their mistake was a result of venturing into uncharted territory without strong mentors, a support network, or a blueprint to follow. For Kid LAROI and his team, these experiences serve as a reminder of the value of creative and business control. “Value yourself and educate yourself about ownership,” he emphasised. “Just because it’s new and exciting doesn’t mean you have to jump on the first opportunity.”

Building Authentic Partnerships in an Industry of Complexity

Kid LAROI’s SXSW Sydney keynote echoed many of the insights from RUN DMC’s story. He spoke on the importance of forming partnerships rather than dependencies, noting that in healthy business relationships, each side contributes uniquely. “The best relationship is a partnership,” he said. “You shouldn’t feel like you need anyone, and they shouldn’t feel like they need you either.”

The musician highlighted that artists must consider long-term goals rather than getting lured into short-term, high-cash offers, especially when such deals may cost them control over their creative work. TJ Mizell reinforced this point, explaining how RUN DMC had also partnered with Adidas, securing an initial million-dollar deal. However, Adidas quickly profited tenfold from that agreement in the first year, a situation that could have been renegotiated with more experience and business insight. RUN DMC helped Adidas re-enter the mainstream, yet their business gains were relatively modest in comparison.

Kid LAROI encouraged young creators to take time, ask questions, and seek independent advice, adding that “if someone’s not willing to explain things, that’s a red flag.” Bates, a frequent collaborator, also emphasised the value of outside opinions when reviewing contracts and making business decisions. By creating a tight circle of trusted mentors and business allies, Kid LAROI has managed to focus on his passion for music while protecting his interests.

Mentorship and Guidance: The Power of a Creative Network
Alongside stories of business caution, Kid LAROI’s keynote celebrated the role of mentorship and the value of strong, trusted relationships. “Justin Bieber has been a huge mentor to me,” Kid LAROI shared. “He’s helped me navigate the real challenges of being a young artist, especially when it comes to staying grounded.”

RUN DMC’s career path lacked the same access to mentors, which was partly why they faced so many hurdles, according to Mizell. With few people in their corner to warn them of potential pitfalls, they signed deals that undervalued their work. Today, the presence of mentors like Bieber and seasoned producers like Bates allows young artists to gain insights from the successes—and mistakes—of others. Bates, for example, has been instrumental in helping Kid LAROI maintain a balance between creative fulfilment and commercial viability, providing practical advice while encouraging Kid LAROI’s distinct sound.

“Your creative journey should always reflect what you think is cool,” Kid LAROI said, urging others to stay true to their instincts. Echoing Mizell’s advice, he emphasised the value of seeking input from trusted individuals, rather than being swayed by too many opinions, which can dilute one’s creative vision.

Redefining Success: Leading with Love, Passion, and Integrity

Toward the close of his keynote, Kid LAROI reiterated that success in the music industry should not solely be defined by fame or financial gains. “Value yourself and lead the creative process with love and passion,” he said. “You don’t need to have everything figured out.” He reminded the audience that each person’s journey is unique, and while guidance from mentors is valuable, there’s no universal roadmap.

He encouraged young artists to remember that “there is no big secret to success,” stressing that self-trust and an authentic approach often yield the most fulfilling outcomes. For Kid LAROI, keeping a tight circle and leading his career with integrity has helped him stay grounded and in tune with his artistry.

The session closed with Kid LAROI reflecting on his journey and his hope that younger artists would continue learning, collaborating, and leading with authenticity. “The goal is to be proud of your work, and to build a career that feels true to who you are,” he said.

As RUN DMC’s story underscores, an artist’s legacy isn’t just built on the music but also on the wisdom of navigating an ever-evolving industry. From ownership battles to forming meaningful partnerships, Kid LAROI’s SXSW keynote served as a powerful reminder that, above all, creators should pursue their passions with eyes open, value their work, and, whenever possible, set new standards for future generations.