South African artist Babygrlzae has offered emerging musicians a practical perspective on an ongoing question in the modern music industry: Should new artists focus on singles or release full projects?
Responding to a fan on Instagram, Babygrlzae argued that artists should not necessarily choose between the two formats. Instead, she believes singles and full-length projects serve different purposes and can work together as an artist builds a career.
“Honestly both are important,” she explained. “Singles allow you to put more energy into 1 song so it’s easier to promote whereas a tape allows people to get to know you and your music better.”
Why Singles Matter for Emerging Artists
According to Babygrlzae, singles can be an effective starting point for artists who are still building an audience.
With attention focused on one song, emerging musicians can concentrate their promotional efforts, create content around a specific release and give potential listeners an accessible introduction to their sound.
A strong single can also help an artist generate momentum before moving on to a larger body of work.
For artists working with limited promotional resources, focusing on one song at a time can provide an opportunity to build consistency while gradually developing an audience.
Full Projects Give Artists Room to Show Their Range
While singles can help attract attention, Babygrlzae believes artists also need a catalogue that allows listeners to understand who they are musically.
A tape or other full project gives an artist more space to demonstrate versatility, creativity and musical identity.
Rather than relying on one song to define their sound, artists can use multiple tracks to explore different styles and themes while giving audiences a deeper connection to their work.
As Babygrlzae put it, a project allows listeners to “get to know you and your music better.”
Building a Catalogue Is Key
Her advice ultimately centres on the importance of having music available beyond individual singles.
While she sees singles as a strong way to begin building momentum, she also stresses the value of having a catalogue to support that initial attention.
For emerging South African artists navigating a competitive music landscape, this approach presents a balance: use singles to attract attention, then use projects to give audiences a bigger picture of the artist.
Singles vs Projects: Why Not Both?
Babygrlzae’s comments suggest that the choice does not have to be an either-or decision.
Singles can provide focused promotional opportunities and help artists introduce themselves to new listeners. Full projects can then build on that attention by offering a wider representation of an artist’s sound and creative direction.
Ultimately, her message to upcoming musicians is straightforward: start where it makes sense, but build a catalogue that gives people a reason to stay.
