Artists should not release mixtapes once they're established imo
Agreed, dudes dont really need a mixtape once youve estabilshed yourself, but IF you do go that route, pace yourself. Drop your album, maybe 8-10 months later drop a mixtape (8-12 tracks, not 22), float on that and do a few features for 4-6 months then drop your next album. Dudes just put out too much music when if they'd take time for and between the album, maybe steal some dope cuts from the mixtape (or "remix" it) they'd be ok. But a nikka like Ross has a mixtape, compilation album, solo album, and 2nd mixtape all in a 12 month span....chill out
Drake and Cole actually understand this which is why I think they, especially drake, have sold more....