Regardless of how you feel about him or his music, there is no denying the cultural significance and impact of Gucci Mane. His legacy is secured as an innovator, influencer and inspiration for a generation of artists that are currently shaping the new sound and direction of hip-hop. Many have taken notes from Guwop’s handbook throughout the years, rather directly or indirectly, but aside from his impact on music and the industry, there are a number of life lessons you should take from him (& his recent journey/transformation) as well.
Focus on Personal Growth:
After his release from prison, Gucci appeared to have completely changed his life. He was sober, committed to a healthier lifestyle of working out and eating well, and spent a lot of his free time reading. The result? A man that seemed genuinely happy, loving, and appreciative, giving off an infectious uplifting energy to anyone who caught a glimpse. While it might have seemed like an overnight transformation to some, those habits were formed through patience and commitment.
When you make and commit to the decision of changing your mindset, lifestyle, attitude and perspective, your life becomes a world of endless opportunities and possibility. Being healthy and truly happy allows for abundance in all of your endeavors. No matter when changes become apparent to the masses, your focus every day should be on becoming a better person.
Stay Consistent:
Gucci Mane has to be one of the most consistent rappers of all time in terms of releases. After thousands of songs and countless projects, he served as a prime example of the now widely accepted standard and understanding that is necessary to consistently provide your fans with material, often times for free, to keep your buzz and steadily increase your significance. While some may feel that Gucci rode a dangerous line between consistency and oversaturation, regardless, he was rarely ever out of sight or mind – even while incarcerated.
In order to build anything worth lasting, you have to remain consistent. It is the key to maintaining relevance, measuring impact and effectiveness, and establishing a core audience that will inevitably play a major role in supporting your success and journey. It is not easy by any means, but it truly can be the difference between greatness and mediocrity.
Spread Love, & Never Be Afraid to Lose Your Spot:
With some of the best ears in the business, Gucci has long been known for supporting and developing young talent in the beginning stages of their career with no strings attached. Some of those artists include Nicki Minaj, OJ da Juiceman, Waka Flocka, the Migos, Metro Boomin, Mike Will, Southside, Young Thug, Peewee Longway – just to name a few. He represents a rare breed of people who are not only confident enough to not be intimidated when they recognize talent, but also use their knowledge and resources to foster that recognized potential.
We far too often see people who have the experience and opportunity to help a younger generation looking for guidance and insight, but would rather leave them fending for themselves out of spite and/or intimidation. You should want to do everything in your power to help mentor those seeking direction because guess what? They’re going to come up with or without you. You should position yourself as an ally not only because it is the right thing to do, but because success is full circle – the people you meet on their way up, will be the same ones you meet on your way down; how you treat people could make all the difference in the relevance and longevity of your career.
Gucci got his first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 and the biggest commercial hit of his career as a featured artist on Rae Sremmurd’s “Black Beatles.” Because he is a true OG, he played his part and showed love, allowing him to reap the amazing benefits that came from his genuine investment and commitment to the culture. Never be bitter, out of touch, or intimidated by the future, rather be inspired and use it as an opportunity to secure your role in the inevitable process and transition.
You Can Always Bounce Back:
There is no denying Gucci has been faced with numerous challenges throughout his life and career, but that in no way inhibited him from coming out on top. In an interview with NPR, he stated \”I hope my life is a testimony to show people that no matter what you go through … to pick yourself up and be resilient and keep on trucking….don\’t never drop your head, don\’t never feel you counted out. I always have faith that something\’s gonna happen good for you, and it\’s gonna happen.\”
