Almost a year ago, Talib Kweli, Pharoahe Monch, and 9th Wonder announced an independent music conglomerate, Indie 500. All parties have been incredibly busy since, with an emphasis on activism—including a free concert in St. Louis, Missouri one year after Michael Brown’s murder Ferguson.

Today (September 22) Talib and 9th unveil “Pay Ya Dues.” Joined by Problem and Bad Lucc, the song—not unlike Low Profile’s 1989 hit, urges those with grand aspirations of success in music to stay the course. Diamond Lane Music Group’s Problem and Lucc are worthy voices in this message, with a decade of hard work before proper studio debuts. Talib anchors the Eric G.-produced track. Especially in the 2010s, nothing is promised, so MCs can’t look for microwave buzz.

Indie 500’s music thus far has a message that aligns with its stake in the culture.

Related: 15 Years Ago, Talib Kweli, Mos Def, Common & More Used Hip-Hop for Justice. The Fight Continues.