Music - Songs - Life

Navigating in the music industry right now can be overwhelming.  I began my “music career” in the mid 80s - when (pardon me as I digress here) we didn’t even have cell phones. So yes, computers and the internet were not a tool for musicians.  Our band had to go the traditional route of relying on record companies, agents, booking, etc to push us out to the media. 

Musicians now have so many tools at their disposal.  While this can be good, at the same time, new websites and platforms are being created and coming at you so fast.  It’s hard to know which ones will work for you - and what to spend your time on. 

Here’s a short list of those “deadly sins” some musicians succomb to.

1.  Getting distracted by social media and business. Turn off your computer & your phone.

Take a little time each day to return to why you are even doing music in the first place.  All of the social media outlets in the world cannot help you finish that song you wrote a few years back.  Turning your phone and computer off may actually help inspire something new as well - so take a few minutes every day for this. Keeping your music moving, being creative is an important part of who you are.  Don’t neglect this!

2. Not Networking.

Some musicians have a hard time with this one.  Depending on your personality - you may hate this one.  Networking takes time and energy.  But it must be done.  If you don’t like meeting new people, have someone go with you.  If you have a manager, they are usually really good at this and can be there to continue conversations once you have met someone new.  Stay up on the music network in your local area.  Go to open mics and other shows to meet other musicians and managers who are working. 

3. DIY - neglecting to find help.

Utilizing those around you is something most of us don’t do.  “Do It Yourself” is a great concept, but sometimes you need a little help.  You would be surprised at how many people really do want to contribute to your success.  Don’t be afraid to ask that friend if they would mind putting on a house show for you, or doing some research, or sharing your music with their friends.  If asked, they are usually happy to do it! 

4. Not having a plan.

Having a plan is so important.  This does NOT mean you have to stick to it like glue.  It simply means you have had the conversation about where you are going, how you will get there and what you will do once you do get there.  This gives you direction, clears up any confusion and helps keep you moving.  If the plan changes, change with it - the industry is moving quickly, new things popping up every day - so adapt your plan to move forward with the changing climate. 

5. Ignoring your connections.
Every person you meet is important to furthering your career. This one goes along with number 2 - Networking.  Once you have met new contacts - keep in touch.  Whether it’s someone who just likes your music, or someone who works at the biggest record label in the world - they could be important in your musical journey.  Treat everyone with respect. For the ones you can’t keep up with on a personal level, follow them on twitter to keep up.  They will usually post about new projects and this may be important information for you.

So, keep perspective on your work as a musician in these ever-changing times. And most of all, keep your creative juice flowing!

Dawn