Complex Magazine Highlights the Growth of Illionaire Records, the Independent Hip-Hop Label Housing Dok2, the Quiett, and Beenzino

Those familiar with Korean hip-hop will know the names of these three hip-hop artists- Dok2, the Quiett, and Beenzino. They make up the independent hip-hop label Illionaire Records and the U.S culture magazine Complex delves into the story behind the growth of the label and how it differentiates itself from other hip-hop and major labels.

In an article titled, “The Rise of Illionaire Records, the Independent Label Taking Korean Hip-Hop to the Next Level,” Complex details the life and career of the three rappers and how they struggled not be bought out by the mainstream K-pop system.

The article also discusses how Korean hip-hop artists, particularly these three rappers, negotiate their music, profit, and lifestyle in relation to Korea’s unique development of hip-hop and American hip-hop.

Those who are more familiar with mainstream K-pop will be interested to read how this independent label operates differently from major companies like SM Entertainment and YG. The article reads, “Beyond their image and sound, Illionaire earns hip-hop cred because they are hustlers who have bucked the system to create—and make money—on their own terms. Follow the leaders.”

Indeed. Follow the link to read more.