There is no reason for playing with one’s instrument in hand or one foot on a tightrope any time one picks it up or plugs it in.

For rappers, what microphone is your favorite? Do you travel with that particular microphone that balances your lows better than your highs? If so- do you maintain that microphone? 

Even routine care of your instrument (which includes checking it routinely and fixing things that don’t need fixing) helps to save you from being fired or missing your event because something unexpected happened to your equipment.

Your camera always remembers to pack your gear (especially camera batteries) and to prevent common failures; you will be well prepared (particularly with regard to batteries) to take advantage of the benefit of those items that have consistent problems (strings, guitar strings, etc.)

They are always irritated and take their frustrations out on those around them.

They blame the rest of the world for not appreciating their incredible abilities.

They sometimes left too soon, often just as the ‘big break’ was about to arrive.

Few musicians have ever been really “discovered” and never had to pay their dues. The path to instant success for most artists is very long and winding.

The thing which must be kept in mind is that many incredible underground artists had to be active for decades but have yet to achieve mainstream commercial success.