The Art Of Being Self-Made: A Conversation With DJ Khaled

Author: Julian Mitchell / Source: Forbes

If you study many of the most prominent pioneers to carve out a place in history, what you will find are stories of intense struggle and sacrifice buried beneath each of their most monumental achievements.

Every revered moment in the spotlight is marked by many years treading through darkness. From self-doubt and rejection, to paying dues and perfecting your craft — those who aspire to be great cannot avoid opposition. Thus, chasing a dream requires grappling with the growing pains that accompany adversity. Beyond developing a bulletproof sense of belief, overcoming these inescapable challenges demands a tireless work ethic, unwavering passion and a deep appreciation for the process.

When the odds are stacked against you, it can become difficult to trust the timing of your life. It takes courage to invest countless hours alone, building brick by brick without any immediate return. Yet, what sets innovative creators and disruptive entrepreneurs apart is an unmatched relentlessness to follow through and assure everything they envision becomes a reality.

Few respected figures in music embody this theory more than DJ Khaled. The Miami native pours every ounce of passion into each project, heightening anticipation and cementing his position as a staple within pop culture.

Whether giving a glimpse into fatherhood, taking you into his meetings and sharing the keys to success, or cruising in his car to preview tracks, showing fan love and walking followers through a day in the life — Khaled is the definition of interactive. While his social presence and digital savvy are required to engage a mobile-driven generation, the essence of his brand remains true to the golden era that groomed him. DJ Khaled proudly does the groundwork needed to reach the people; whether in the streets, on the road, or taking over your timeline.

That’s why there’s no surprise that the master collaborator boasts a resume of multiplatinum hits, upholding a track record of radio anthems and cult classics that feature an all-star set of superstars. From Jay Z, Drake and Justin Bieber, to Rihanna, Chris Brown and Chance The Rapper — Khaled has crafted an impressive career fueled by a growing momentum that shows no signs of slowing down.

In addition to gracing the cover of Forbes Life and landing at No. 9 on this year’s Highest-Paid Hip-Hop Artists list, his latest album Grateful is certified platinum. Its success earned DJ Khaled his second No.1 album on the Billboard Hot 100, with both standout singles “I’m The One” and “Wild Thoughts” going multi-platinum. Khaled also released a critically acclaimed book, landed several lucrative endorsement deals and has become a sought-after host for many of music’s biggest awards shows.

In the second installment of their Self-Made Tastes Better series, Luc Belaire CEO Brett Berish sits down with DJ Khaled to candidly reflect on his inspiring 25-year journey to success. Tapping into today’s thriving spirit of independence, ‘Self-Made Tastes Better’ gives a celebratory nod to unapologetic change-makers across creative industries. Directed by Ivan Berrios, the episode explores Khaled’s come up story, motivations, and the importance of taking your dreams into your own hands.

This series is about reflection and taking the time to embrace where you are and your path to getting here – How would you define being self-made and what does that term mean to you?

DJ Khaled: God is the greatest, and being self-made is one of the most amazing feelings ever. I come from being in a garage with two turntables, a mixer, a beat machine, keyboard, a lot of vinyl records and a microphone. To see where I’ve come now, it’s all because I was self-made. I put it on…

Click here to read more