Killer Mike Reveals He Chose Rap Over Being A Pilot

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Fresh Fest Hip-Hop 50 Forever Launch
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 15: Killer Mike attends Fresh Fest Hip-Hop 50 Forever Launch on June 15, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Mike took a pretty significant detour early on.

Killer Mike has been a prominent figure in the hip-hop industry for over two decades. However, he almost chose a very different path. Recently, Mike opened up about a significant turning point in his career. In an interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1, he revealed that he had once considered a different career. During his fourth-grade year, his teacher suggested that he should become a pilot instead of a rapper. She believed Mike was too intelligent for the music industry. Intrigued by the idea, Killer Mike enrolled in flight school. He did so alongside Slim from the R&B group 112. However, their venture into aviation did not materialize as expected, and Killer Mike eventually returned to his true passion for rap.

Despite facing obstacles and self-doubt along the way, Killer Mike persevered in his rap career. He recently reflected on the impact of his first record deal with Columbia Records. His debut album, Monster, sold over 500,000 copies in the United States. However, it received a lukewarm reception compared to the tremendous success of his contemporaries. 50 Cent, for example, sold almost 10 million copies of his debut album Get Rich or Die Tryin'. Killer Mike admitted that the experience left him feeling damaged and apprehensive. However, it also led him to realize that he felt more comfortable and authentic operating within independent circles.

Killer Mike Releases "MICHAEL"

Killer Mike of Run The Jewels performs on the Main Stage East on Day 1 of Leeds Festival on August 26, 2022 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Matthew Baker/Getty Images)

Killer Mike's resilience and determination to pursue his passion for rap despite setbacks are evident in his new album, MICHAEL. The project was released today. It features the highly acclaimed single "Scientists & Engineers." That single includes a captivating verse from the André 3000, alongside contributions from Future and Eryn Allen Kane. Through his music, Killer Mike continues to showcase his artistic growth and unwavering commitment to his craft. It also shows that an artist can be on top of their game even as many years into their career as Mike is.

Killer Mike's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists. Despite the initial detour into flight school and the challenges he faced early in his career, he stayed true to himself. By sharing his experiences, he encourages others not to let setbacks define them and to remain dedicated. Mike's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of staying true to one's passions in the face of adversity. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!

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