Cameen – Arrogant “Cuz I Can”

Check out the new song from Cameen – Arrogant “Cuz I Can”

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Exclusive Interview

Tell us about where you are from and how you got to this position today.
Born Cameen Matthew Copeland March 23, in Brooklyn, New York before later moving to the suburbs of New Hampshire. I became interested in music at an early age and developed my singing ability while working closely with my older cousin, prolific jazz session bass player William Allen. As a teenager my interest gravitated towards sports. This would lead to my sharing of co-mvp honors in New Hampshire’s High School State Soccer Championship, as well as garnering a position on the all tournament 2nd team.

Shortly there after I attend St. John’s University of Queens, New York. However, due to an untimely incident, which would leave me slightly impaired. My stay at St. John’s would be cut short. I then returned to New Hampshire where I received my Bachelors degree in Marketing and Sociology from Rivier College. Upon graduating I started a business known as CKC Entertainment Group LLC/CC Elite Urban Wear. My company specializes in event and party planning for children and charity events. CC Elite Urban Wear is a part of the company which brands me as an artist (clothing, bags, etc). www.cameen.com

I took a little time off from music. However, in July 2010 I released and album entitled “ Cameen.” Coming off the success of this “Cameen” I was determined to create even more of a buzz. So, I started spreading my company paraphernalia (tee shirts, baseball caps, sport tags, CDs, posters and bags) throughout New England and down south. This activity created a whirlwind amongst my fans. It would eventually lead to my sophomore album entitled “LuvJoy,” which was re-released Aug 7th 2011. “LuvJoy” did pretty well with three of the albums most notable singles, “Play,” “Get It On-Remix,” and “Addicted” burning up the radio and club airwaves. “Get It On” is still doing well in many clubs.

Currently I’m prepared and ready to release my third and most complete album to date, in July of 2012. Each month until July 2012, I have released a snippet of different singles that may be part of the CD. They can be heard at www.soundcloud.com/cameen, www.cameen.com and www.reverbnation.com/cameen.

Tell us more about the current song you are promoting to everyone.
The current single Arrogant “Cuz I Can” is part of the new EP entitled “The Next Level.” The song is far from arrogant. It’s a song that shows support to and for those groups or individuals who are constantly bullied because of the way they dress, and or have fun. No one should be hurt because of his or her own individuality and creativity. Therefore, I have fun with the lyrics and the video, which is currently on your site.

Tell us about one of the hardest challenges you had to face in the industry?
One of the hardest challenges for me as an artist has been having to deal with unprofessional and disrespectful people. I don’t think just because an artist isn’t worth a million dollars at any particular time, per se, that he or she should be disrespected or belittled in anyway..

What was one of the biggest set backs in your career and how did you bounce back?
One of the biggest set backs for me was learning how people who I’ve been loyal to and truly down for, played me close when it came to assisting my progress. In order to get back on track, I basically had to cut the “fat” from my team. I finally understood that leaving others who are not as hungry and willing to go as hard as l do would eventually lead to me staying in the same place. And, that’s not what I wanted.

What are some things artists need to be careful of?
Artists need to be careful of leaches, keeping company with non motivated individuals, and hustle schemes to name a few.

What suggestions do you have for other artists like yourself?
I suggest to every artist that he or she:

1. Invest in yourself. You can’t expect a label or anyone else to want to put money into you, if you won’t do it yourself.

2. Educate themselves everyday with some piece of industry knowledge.

3. Stay hungry and motivated.

4.Work on his or her bran.

5. Make sure to read every and all contracts completely with a lawyer present.

6. Look into licensing your art.

7. Sign up to ASCAP or one of the other registering companies

8. Learn about Soundexchange, ISRC Codes, BDS, UPC’.

9. Attend seminars.

10. Surround yourself with people who are making positive moves!

Copyright, copyright copyright your music!

What is one of your favorite ways to promote yourself and your music?
One of my favorite ways to promote is via hot online publications such as wwsmag. lol Other major online social networks and going to different cities and handing out my work and hanging posters. I think it’s important that the powers that be know you as an artist is willing to go that extra mile and hit the brick on your own.

Where can people visit you?
www.cameen.com
www.soundcloud.com/cameen
www.twitter.com/cameen23
www.facebook.com/cameen.copeland
www.youtube.com/mrcameen