I’m A Hustla: Industry Blogger Don Bleek’s Side Hustles

I am more than just a blogger. I have a few side hustles that I do to keep money in my pockets or to gain more exposure. It is always good to have a few side hustle, especially in today’s economy. “I encourage people to do things on the side even if you’re not going to make a lot of money from it if it something that is beneficial to you and will help you in the long run with your career,” said Angela Yee. Below are a few of my side hustles:

Brand Endorsements

As a prominent Hip-Hop blogger and journalist, that’s always on the scene, I built a reputation as an “it” dude that brands are willing to invest in. I do NOT serve as an ambassador for any company, but I do receive free clothing from fashion brands to wear at industry events and post on my blog. These clothing really does come in handy. Instead of spending a lot of money on an outfit that I am going to get photo’d in and wear only once, I get it for free.

Contributing Writer

My mother didn’t raise a fool. I am putting my Journalism & Media Studies degree to good use. I am a writer for Hip Hop Weekly and Spring Creek Sun newspaper in Brooklyn. For the publications, I write news stories, articles conduct interviews and cover events. However, it’s a side hustle that’s more about exposure than a paycheck. Writing assignments do not pay well. YoDonBleekRaps doesn’t make a lot of money as of yet but it’s something I need to have under my belt to establish myself and build my brand. Always invest back into yourself.

Music Manager

Last year, I became the manager of  rising Hip-Hop artists @dollahtharapper and @RichRozzay. Being a music manager is something that I’ve always dreamed about.

Event Host & Speeches

I don’t always go to events to have fun, party or hang out with friends. I also go there to work. Serving as a host for an event comes at a cost. I won’t do it for under $500. I also go back to high-schools to speak to the students. In all honesty, I have never been paid to speak at a high school because that is something I don’t do for a check. I do it so the youth can hear the important message that I am delivering to them.

Follow me @donbleek88