“Sellout” is somewhat of a curse word to most artists, yet most artists are selling out in order to sellout–of records that is. The art of the creative process in developing quality instrumentation and production coupled with timeless lyrics is simply being compromised for success. This isn’t a new-found concept. Selling out has been going on since Adam sold out God and allowed Eve to eat that apple. But now, more than ever, you can tune into your local radio station and recite a sellout’s elementary-style lyrics, or even do a sellout’s simple dance. Anything for a quick buck seems to be the new motto. Just ask a drug dealer.
The Black Eyed Peas are often charged with being industry “sellouts.” They started out as an underground hip-hop group in California and blossomed into a pop sensation with the addition of Fergie. That’s not the selling out I’m referring to. The band never compromised their talent. They simply poured their heart and soul into their records and created a new sound that was welcomed by the masses, catapulting the group from underground to superstardom. The Black Eyed Peas have since utilized their celebrity to contribute to several charities and worthy causes. That’s the definition of real success–going from unknown to famous by pouring your soul out, not selling out.
This is Soul Train, so allow me to train your soul. Instead of selling out for fame or notoriety, become souled out to a passion or purpose. There is nothing sexier than discovering your destiny and spilling yourself onto it. Being souled out is a selfless act that attracts the masses. It is infectious when you give your all to something. Studies show that people are more receptive to a not-so-talented artist who passionately puts his or her all into a performance, than a superstar with a lackluster performance (Rihanna).
I’m souled out to ensuring the world knows what chivalry and etiquette looks like, and delivering it in a way that has never been seen before. It is my mission to make you more Bereolaesque one lady and one gentleman at a time. It is my passion to educate young men about what it means to be a man, and young ladies on how men perceive you in society. It is my purpose to ensure that every lady walks through doors that are held open by a gentleman. No big name endorsement or six-figure book deal will detract me from my mission; I’m souled out.
We have enough “sellouts” filling up the Billboard Top 100. Let’s try something different–ladies and gentlemen, what are you souled out to? Leave your responses below and let’s affect the world one lady and one gentleman at a time.
-Pleasantries.
– Enitan Bereola, II
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Bereola is the go-to style and etiquette impresario, public speaker and entrepreneur. He is also the author of the critically acclaimed BEREOLAESQUE: The Contemporary Gentleman & Etiquette book for the Urban Sophisticate. He is working on his follow-up, Guide to Ladies’ Etiquette from a Gentleman’s Perspective. Find him at www.twitter.com/Bereolaesque and at www.facebook.com/Bereolaesque
