Pay your dues.
Earn something through hard work, long experience, or suffering
Be a has-been / Be washed up
Someone that was important or respected in the past, but not anymore.
Get a big break
An opportunity that leads to a lot of success.
Break into the business / Get your foot in the door
To make the first step by working in a new business.
Be a one-hit wonder
An artist that has only one hit song.
Make a comeback
Achieve a success after retirement or failure.
Be discovered
When a manager finds you worthy of a contract.
Make a name for yourself / Make it big
To become famous or recognized.
