THE FORGOTTEN AND THE UNSEEN

In music, certain voices rise to the top, celebrated and recognised globally. But what about those artists who are overlooked, underrepresented, or dismissed entirely? In genres like hip hop, grime, jazz, or experimental music, many artists speak for the forgotten and the unseen, sharing stories of marginalized communities, trauma, and resilience. Yet, despite their undeniable talent and powerful messages, they often remain in the shadows.

For artists in these genres, breaking through can feel like an uphill battle, compounded by societal prejudice, media bias, and a music industry that tends to favor commercially viable, mainstream sounds. But it’s these very struggles that underscore the importance of the stories they tell. From an inner game coaching perspective, it’s crucial to recognize that success isn’t always about fitting in—it’s about embracing the unique truths that only you can share. Henry David Thoreau once said, “If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away.” For those creating outside the mainstream, that different drumbeat is where their power lies.

Challenging Perceptions

Artists in genres like hip hop often face undue criticism. Instead of being seen as a powerful form of self-expression, their music is frequently demonized, associated with violence or negativity. Yet, as Bob Dylan aptly put it, “Don’t criticize what you can’t understand.” The question we should be asking isn’t how these genres are negatively impacting society but rather how society’s challenges are reflected in the music.

In my own article, I explored the idea that “The question is not how music is impacting our youth but how life is impacting our music.” This is especially true for genres that arise from marginalized communities. Hip hop, for example, emerged as a direct response to systemic racism, poverty, and violence. It wasn’t just music; it was, and still is, a form of resistance, a way for young people to reclaim their stories, speak their brutal truth, and demand change.

Yet these very truths are often misunderstood. Rather than engaging with the social conditions that give rise to these stories, many would rather silence the music, blaming it for societal ills rather than recognizing it as a mirror held up to the world. As James Baldwin said, “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” The forgotten and unseen in music face an ongoing battle not only to share their art but to have their truths acknowledged and understood.

Embracing the Power of Authenticity

For artists operating in genres that are often overlooked, the key to rising above the noise lies in staying true to their authentic selves. There is incredible power in being unapologetically you, especially when the world seems intent on shaping you into something more marketable. As an artist, your ability to tell your story from a place of truth and conviction is your greatest asset. Bruce Lee once said, “Always be yourself, express yourself, have faith in yourself, do not go out and look for a successful personality and duplicate it.”

It’s tempting to conform, especially when faced with industry pressures to create music that sells. But true impact isn’t measured in sales or chart positions—it’s measured in the lives you touch, the communities you inspire, and the change you help bring about. When you tell your story, no matter how raw or uncomfortable, you allow others to see themselves in your art. You offer them a voice, a sense of belonging, and a reminder that they are not alone.

Hip Hop as a Cultural Movement

Hip hop, in particular, is more than just a genre—it’s a cultural movement that has grown into a global phenomenon. It’s a space where marginalized voices can find a platform to express their realities, hopes, and frustrations. Despite being scrutinized and misunderstood, hip hop continues to inspire young people worldwide, giving them an outlet to channel their anger, creativity, and resistance into something powerful.

We’ve seen this cultural power reflected in everything from political movements to fashion to global youth culture. It’s a movement that transcends borders, bringing people together through shared experiences. Maya Angelou once said, “Music was my refuge. I could crawl into the space between the notes and curl my back to loneliness.” For many artists and fans alike, hip hop offers that refuge—a space to process the pain, find community, and turn suffering into strength.

The Role of the Artist: More Than Music

Artists in overlooked genres are more than musicians; they are chroniclers of their time. They document the struggles, triumphs, and realities of the communities they represent. In doing so, they become leaders, activists, and storytellers, shining a light on the issues mainstream society would rather ignore. The responsibility that comes with this role can be overwhelming, but it’s also a powerful opportunity to influence change.

As an artist, you are in a unique position to shift narratives, challenge perceptions, and offer alternative visions for the future. Nina Simone famously said, “An artist’s duty, as far as I’m concerned, is to reflect the times.” This reflection isn’t always easy, and it often comes with resistance, but it’s a necessary part of creating art that matters.

Finding Strength in the Unseen

For every artist who feels forgotten or unseen, know that your voice matters. The stories you tell, the music you create, and the impact you have on those who do listen is immeasurable. While the mainstream may overlook certain genres, the power of your message will always find a way to resonate. Keep telling your truth, keep pushing the boundaries, and keep shining a light on the forgotten and the unseen. Albert Camus reminds us, “In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” Hold onto that invincible summer, and let it guide you as you continue to make your mark on the world.

Your music is a reflection of the world around you, but it’s also a catalyst for change. Never underestimate the power of your voice, especially when it speaks for those who have been silenced for far too long. The world may not always see you, but your art ensures that you—and the stories of those like you—will never be forgotten.