No favors, no producers: Five stars who made it globally on their own
Doja Cat and Billie Eilish (collage by RBC-Ukraine)
In the music industry, it’s often assumed that you can’t go far without a producer. However, these five stars proved otherwise. They started with home recordings, self-promotion, and complete creative risk, and eventually made it to the global stage without relying on big names behind them.
RBC-Ukraine highlights stars now known worldwide, each story showing how talent can triumph over the system.
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Billie Eilish – global breakthrough from a home studio
Billie Eilish’s career began far from professional studios. She recorded her first tracks with her brother, Finneas, in her own bedroom.
The song “Ocean Eyes”, which wasn’t originally intended as a major release, quickly went viral after being uploaded online.
Despite interest from major companies, the singer did not rush to give up creative control.
Even after signing a contract, she retained the right to decide the sound, image, and concept of her albums herself. This independence became a key part of her phenomenon.
Billie Eilish (photo: Getty Images)
Doja Cat – from internet culture to global charts
Doja Cat embraced the digital era, creating her own music, filming videos, and actively promoting them through social media.
Her early clips were often provocative and ironic, but it was this unconventional style that captured the audience’s attention.
Her songs went viral thanks to memes and TikTok trends. By the time the industry took notice, she already had a million-strong fan base and a clearly defined style.
Doja Cat (photo: instagram.com/dojacat)
Alicia Keys – freedom as the top priority
Alicia Keys began writing songs as a teenager. When signing her first contract, she insisted on retaining full control over her material and refused to adopt a pre-designed image.
Her debut album, “Songs in A Minor,” was a massive commercial success and earned her multiple Grammy Awards.
However, what has always been most important to the singer is maintaining creative autonomy.
Alicia Keys (photo: instagram.com/aliciakeys)
Grimes – a fully independent artist
Grimes, born Claire Boucher, started as an independent musician without formal training.
She recorded her own songs, handled production, and created the visual elements herself.
Her album “Visions” was her breakthrough on the international stage. Importantly, she retained control over every aspect , from sound to album artwork.
Even high-profile relationships, such as with Elon Musk, did not define her musical journey; she built her career entirely on her own.
Grimes (photo: instagram.com/grimes)
Mitski – from college recordings to critical acclaim
Mitski began her musical journey while in college. She recorded her first albums alongside her studies, without support from major labels.
Her style, a mix of emotional honesty and minimalist sound, was shaped during this period.
Later, she signed with an independent label, allowing her to reach a wider audience without sacrificing creative freedom.
She has become one of the most prominent singer-songwriters of her generation and even received an Oscar nomination for her work on a soundtrack.
Mitski (Photo: instagram.com/mitskileaks)
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