Quality vs. Commercial Success: The Divide in Music and Film

 In the entertainment world, there’s a clear distinction between those who prioritize quality and those who focus on commercial appeal. Whether in rap or filmmaking, top-tier artists who master their craft, push creative boundaries, and deliver high-quality work tend to earn respect, longevity, and financial success. Meanwhile, those who cater strictly to trends like mumble rappers in hip-hop or Tubi/Tyler Perry-style filmmakers in cinema may achieve profitability but often struggle with long-term credibility and influence.

It’s the difference between a gourmet chef crafting an unforgettable meal and a fast-food chain churning out mass-produced burgers. One focuses on artistry and lasting impact, while the other prioritizes speed and accessibility. Both serve an audience and can be financially successful, but only one is remembered for elevating the craft.

Why Quality Artists Rise to the Top

In hip-hop, legends like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Nas stand out not just for their lyrical ability but for their dedication to storytelling, production quality, and cultural impact. These artists don’t just make music they craft experiences that resonate across generations.

The same applies to filmmakers like Christopher Nolan, Martin Scorsese, Jordan Peele, and Ryan Coogler, who prioritize depth, cinematography, and storytelling over quick commercial success. Coogler, in particular, has mastered the balance between artistry and mainstream appeal. From Fruitvale Station to Creed and Black Panther, his films are not only financially successful but also critically acclaimed, socially impactful, and culturally significant.

 

What do these top-tier creators have in common?

• Mastery of their craft – They continuously refine their skills.

• Consistency in delivering high-quality work – Each project is carefully executed.

• Resonance beyond trends – Their work holds weight beyond momentary fads.

• Respect from peers and critics – Their influence extends beyond fan appreciation.

Because of these factors, they don’t just make money they leave legacies.

The Appeal and Limitations of Trend-Driven Art

On the flip side, mumble rap became a dominant subgenre in hip-hop, driven by artists who prioritize catchy beats and repetitive hooks over lyrical depth. While some have capitalized on this style for massive success, their cultural impact remains questionable. Many fade away as the trends shift, unable to reinvent themselves or be taken seriously beyond their core fan base.

The same phenomenon exists in filmmaking. Tubi-style movies and Tyler Perry productions have large audiences, often due to accessibility and relatability. However, their fast-paced, low-budget execution often results in work that is commercially viable but artistically lacking. While Perry has undeniably built an empire, his films and shows are often criticized for their writing, production value, and lack of depth compared to more refined storytellers like Coogler.

The Trade-Off: Money vs. Legacy

At the end of the day, success can be defined in multiple ways. Some artists prioritize financial gain over artistic credibility and that’s their choice. Mumble rappers and mass-market filmmakers often cash in on their moment, but their influence may not extend far beyond their immediate fan base.

However, those who prioritize quality over quick success often find themselves with both money and legacy. Coogler, like Nolan and Peele, has built a career that proves you don’t have to choose between box office success and artistic integrity. He gets paid, earns respect, and continues to influence the industry in meaningful ways.

The Choice is Yours: Red Pill or Blue Pill?

At the end of the day, it’s just like The Matrix.

Take the blue pill, and you can chase trends, take shortcuts, and enjoy quick success. You may make money, but your impact will likely fade with time, and you’ll be easily replaced by the next wave of trendy creators.

Take the red pill, and you commit to mastery, quality, and long-term influence. It’s a harder path, requiring discipline, vision, and patience. But in the end, you’ll build something that stands the test of time, earns respect, and cements your legacy.

The industry will always have space for both kinds of creators. The question is which pill are you taking?

Roshaun Akeem Page

Founder/Filmmaker of It’s a R.A.P. Production