E-40 Shares 7 Pitfalls That Can Kill Your Music Career

In a recent repost from DJ Fresh Inc., West Coast icon E-40 amplified a hard-hitting list of seven behaviors that can derail even the most talented artists before their careers take off. Authored by industry commentator trapLA, the checklist reminds creators that success isn’t just about skill—it’s about professionalism, reputation and how you treat others.

E-40 Amplifies Trapla’s Industry Checklist

E-40 shared trapLA’s warning with his followers, spotlighting three of the seven “career killers” right in the first slide: burning bridges, causing drama and moving weird in the industry. “It don’t matter how talented you are… if you keep burning bridges, causing drama, or moving weird in the industry, that door will close on you fast,” the post reads. The full carousel challenges artists to tap through and be honest about their own conduct. “If you’re guilty of one, fix it NOW! If you know somebody doing these… TAG THEM!” trapLA writes.

The rest of the seven pitfalls span a variety of bad habits—everything from consistently missing deadlines to failing to honor agreements and refusing to take feedback. While trapLA’s original slides break each point down visually, E-40’s endorsement amplifies the message, reminding fans that relationships are as critical as raw talent.

Key Behavior Traps To Avoid

• Burning Bridges: Alienating producers, managers or collaborators over small slights can blacklist you across labels.
• Causing Drama: Public spats and social-media feuds distract from your work and scare away business partners.
• Moving Weird: Unpredictable behavior on set or in meetings undermines trust and reliability.
• (Plus four more on punctuality, payment etiquette, contract compliance and communication.)

While the original Instagram carousel spells out each of the seven, E-40’s share distills trapLA’s advice into a rallying cry for artists to prioritize respect, discipline and courtesy. In an industry built on connections, one misstep can outweigh your highlight reel.

Legendary Career, Hard-earned Lessons

E-40’s own journey underscores the value of solid relationships. Born Earl Stevens, he’s spanned more than 30 years as a rapper, entrepreneur and mentor—cofounding Sick Wid It Records and collaborating with everyone from Too Short to Snoop Dogg. In May 2024, he headlined NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert for Black Music Month, demonstrating that professionalism and consistency pay off. (Instagram post: “#tinydesk • Bay Area ambassador @e40 packs in three decades worth of hits at the Tiny Desk for Black Music Month 🔥 Photo: @moogiem | Maia Stern/NPR.”)

In interviews, E-40 often stresses hustle and gratitude as core values. His endorsement of trapLA’s list echoes a recurring theme: doors open for artists who honor commitments and nurture their network. Social media buzz around the repost shows emerging acts tagging peers—sparking conversations about etiquette in studio sessions, at showcases and behind closed doors.

For rising artists fretting over algorithms and viral moments, trapLA’s seven-point checklist is a timely reminder that talent alone won’t carry you. Whether you’re pitching a label, booking a tour or dropping a single, your reputation follows you.

As trapLA concludes: “Stay solid, stay focused, & don’t be your own downfall.” By heeding E-40’s amplified message, artists can keep industry doors ajar—and build careers that last far beyond one hit.

With decades on the grind and a reputation for innovation, E-40’s nod to trapLA’s advice offers a blueprint for the next generation: guard your name, honor your word and let your artistry shine without self-inflicted setbacks.

Trivia

E-40 has collaborated with numerous artists throughout his career, including rappers like T-Pain, Lil Jon, and Too Short.

Reporter

Ratika Pai

 

Ratika holds a master's degree in commerce and a post-graduate diploma in communication and journalism from Mumbai University. She has 6 years of experience writing in various fields, such as finance, education, and lifestyle.

Read full bio of Ratika Pai