"All you need is 1,000 true fans"

This concept was coined in 2008 by Kevin Kelly, founding editor of Wired Magazine, and explains how creators (whether it be artists, entrepreneurs, etc) only need 1,000 true supporters to become successful.

When I first heard of the term I immediately thought about the rap group, Flatbush Zombies.

The premise of having 1,000 true fans is that once you have full support from them, they would be willing to spend $100 per year supporting you. Whether that be through buying concert tickets, merch, products, or courses - 1,000 true fans should in theory generate $100,000/year.

At first glance, it doesn't seem completely accurate. Of course there's expenses and other things that play into it - but the important part is having loyal supporters.

Flatbush has built a cult-like following by focusing on their true fans and forgetting about trying to please anyone else.

Their music is rooted in authenticity and they don't shy away from speaking their truth.

From rapping about death to mental health to drug use, the raw nature of the way they approach music has cemented their place amongst their fan base.

Not only are they authentic, but they do truly care about their fans.

They'll do livestreams where fans can talk to them and they even recorded a song on an album that consists of sound clips from fans sharing their support.

Their fans appreciate them and care about them as humans. Most artists catch heat from their fanbase if they aren't consistently dropping new music, but not Flatbush. Their first official single was released in 2010 and since then, they've only released 2 official albums as a group and a few mixtapes and EPs.

I don't know the exact reason but if I had to guess, I would say this is because they speak from experiences in their music instead of creating whatever kind of sound is currently trending.

Instead of trying to please everyone and make music that appeals to the masses, by sticking to their true selves and loving their supporters, they've built a brand that can't be replicated.