All He Does Is Win: 3 Marketing Lessons To Learn From DJ Khaled

This story was originally published on Forbes.com 

There are few respected figures in Hip Hop who exert more enthusiasm than DJ Khaled. The Miami native pours every ounce of passion into each project, heightening anticipation and cementing his position as a staple in the culture. Following the recent release of two new singles, "Gold Slugs" and "You Mine" to tease his forthcoming studio album I Changed A Lot, the campaign rollout is officially underway.

From attacking the treadmill and sharing motivating words, to taking cruises in his cars to preview unreleased tracks, and walking followers through a day in the life -- Khaled is the epitome of active. While his social presence and digital savvy are required to engage a mobile-driven generation, the essence of his marketing strategies remain true to the golden era that groomed him. You can't teach hustle, and 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 It'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 a carefully selected set of top-tier superstars. From Jay Z, Drake and Chris Brown, to longtime contributors like Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, and Future among others -- Khaled has crafted an impressive career fueled by a growing momentum that shows no signs of slowing down. Here are 3 marketing lessons to learn from DJ Khaled.

Marketing Is About Capturing Emotion And Creating Moments

Whenever DJ Khaled ramps up for a release, fireworks fly and the date announced instantly becomes a main event. It's common to see Khaled hit as many radio stations as possible, promoting the magnitude and importance of the music he's making. More notably, Khaled drives home the mission behind his albums, the depth of each concept, and what inspired the themes associated with each album. He also explains the thought process behind picking and pairing specific artists to feature on songs together. Then, when the wait expires and music hits the market, that moment becomes not only a moment, but a conversation in the culture.

Establishing a genuine emotional connection is the cornerstone to any effective marketing campaign. Beyond boasting about the excellence of your brand or product, the best marketing tells a story that takes audiences on an impactful ride they clearly relate to. Whether efforts evoke a spirit of celebration and excitement, or provoke reflection and compassion -- great marketing is about creating memorable moments that move people.

Nobody Should Care More About The Brand Than You Do

It's safe to say that DJ Khaled would lay everything on the line to protect and preserve his "We The Best" brand. This is not merely because it's the record label he founded, but more so because that brand name symbolizes the accumulated history of hard work, sacrifice, growth and earned victories generated over the past two decades. Knowing that, Khaled unapologetically declares what his brand stands for: hit records, street anthems, and making history. For those who feel opposed, he's also equipped with a few rebuttal phrases like "don't play yourself", "bow down", and "just know."

Getting vast audiences to buy into your brand or purchase your products begins with first fully believing in it yourself. The best ideas fill a void or solve a problem. When you know the blank space you're stepping into and how valuable the product is to a segment of people, the certainty fuels a confidence and conviction that makes others champion the brand, and ultimately buy into your movement. What you create and present to the public is a direct reflection of who you are, and must be represented, protected and appreciated as such.

Marketing Means Nothing Without A Quality Product

Though he's become known for consistently carrying a magnetic personality, endless personal philosophies, and enjoying a sometimes comedic yet comfortable lifestyle -- DJ Khaled is first known for making hit records. His trademark mantra "another one", derived from over a decade of consistently dropping massive singles and remixes that have climbed the charts, claimed awards, and accounted for street anthems that defined an era. From "We Takin Over", "I'm So Hood", and "All I Do Is Win", to "I'm On One", and "No New Friends", Khaled's resume has always made room for his unwavering sense of self-confidence.

Before executing any elaborate growth strategies or complex marketing schemes, it's critical to assure the product being pitched is of top quality. There's nothing worse than investing excess money, time and resources into pushing a product that drastically misses the mark. Credibility is more significant than popularity. What you're offering must be proven, tested, and made from quality material for it to last beyond a season.

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