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TikToker Malcolm explains why upcoming artistes should move beyond street music
03rd August, 2026 05:05 PM
TikTok content creator Arnold Malcolm has urged upcoming artistes to look beyond street music, saying musicians who want long-term success should create songs that appeal to mainstream audiences instead of focusing only on the hood.
Speaking in a video shared on his Instagram page on Monday, August 3, 2026, Malcolm said many emerging rappers from informal settlements limit their careers by making music centred on violence, crime and drug use.
“Najua ni ma-upcoming rappers kutoka ghetto, especially Kayole. Lakini lazima mthink beyond environment yenu, beyond neighbourhood yenu, na beyond survival,” Malcolm said.
He argued that while street music can help an artiste gain popularity in their neighbourhood, it rarely attracts the opportunities needed to build a lasting career.
‘Think corporate, think mainstream’
Malcolm encouraged upcoming artistes to adopt a broader mindset, saying they should focus on creating music that resonates with audiences beyond their local communities.
“Huwezi kujenga career ukiimba kuhusu murder, violence na weed kila siku. Hizo ngoma zinaattract streets, lakini hazileti brands, endorsements, radio support ama corporate bookings,” he said.
He urged artistes to think about the commercial side of music, noting that mainstream appeal opens doors to endorsements, advertising deals and larger audiences.
“Think corporate. Think mainstream. Think about audience yenye inaspend doo,” Malcolm added.
Don’t let your background define you
According to Malcolm, successful artistes stay true to their roots while producing music that connects with millions of listeners around the world.
“Background yako inafaa ikuwe story yako, si prison yako,” he said.
He explained that musicians should proudly represent where they come from without allowing their environment to limit their creativity or career growth.
Malcolm said there is a significant difference between becoming famous on the streets and achieving financial success through mainstream recognition.
“The streets zitakufanya famous, lakini mainstream ndiyo itakufanya upate dough. Itakufanya ukue wealthy,“ he said.
He encouraged upcoming artistes to create songs that can be played at weddings, clubs, radio stations, stadiums, television commercials and family gatherings instead of targeting only street audiences.
“Create music yenye inaweza chezwa kwa weddings, clubs, radio, stadiums, TV commercials na family gatherings. Hapo ndiyo doo iko,” he said.
Malcolm concluded by urging young musicians to focus on building sustainable careers rather than seeking validation in their neighbourhoods.
“Usichase respect ya hood. Chase ownership na longevity,” he said.
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William Muthama
William Muthama is a digital journalist with a focus on entertainment, human interest, and current affairs. Share stories: [email protected]/ [email protected]
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