How To Survive In The Music Industry (Definitive Guide) Part 3
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1. Be Humble But Confident
Like Kendrick Lamar says, “be humble,” but never forget that you are the one making music. You have to love yourself as a musician and push your ego aside when it’s time for some humility, but don’t be afraid to show off your skills either!
Be Humble But Confident
Don’t let the fame get to your head, or it will go away just as quickly as it arrived.
2. Network, Network, Network
Have you ever heard the phrase “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know”? This is, in large part, true! You need to know the right people if you want anyone to pay attention.
The music industry thrives on networking, so talk with everyone and get their contact information so that you can stay in touch.
The music industry thrives on networking, so talk with everyone and get their contact information so that you can stay in touch.
If you are humble and kept that ego in check, you’ll find people will be more than happy to talk to you and help you out.
Most genres have their own music scene, and I’m sure you are probably already part of some if you are reading this.
If you are starting, join relevant Facebook groups and forums, go to gigs in your local area, and start getting your name and face known in the right circles.
3. Know Your Worth
Many people will be happy to help you if they think it will benefit them, Especially if that benefit is money.
Don’t give all your music away for free; if receiving money isn’t an option, ask for favors in return, like an introduction to someone who could really help you move forward.
Know Your Worth - If somebody offers you money upfront (and it's not too low), then take the money!
If somebody offers you money upfront (and it’s not too low), then take the money! When starting, this is invaluable because cash flow can often dry up before any success has been achieved.
If you are starting, it’s all about getting the right balance between getting opportunities and getting what you think you are worth. In some cases, you might have to be flexible and give a little to get a little.
4. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For What You Want
If you don’t ask, you won’t get, and in the music industry, you need to be assertive.
That might mean asking a friend or acquaintance for an introduction to someone who could really help you move forward in your career or asking a record label to listen to your demo.
Don't Be Afraid To Ask For What You Want - That might mean asking a friend or acquaintance for an introduction to someone who could really help you move forward in your career or asking a record label to listen to your demo.
Whatever it is, don’t be afraid to ask, as the worst that can happen is someone says no!
If it’s something you really want, then be persistent, and show whoever it is how much it means to you.
Maybe think about what you can do for them to get what you want.
5. Keep An Open Mind
When it comes to music, it is always best to keep an open mind. You may think that you don’t like a particular genre, but it might actually be quite enjoyable when someone plays it to you.
All things considered, if someone is passionate about something and puts in the time and effort to create it, then who are we to judge.
Keep An Open Mind - When it comes to music, it is always best to keep an open mind.
It’s also important not to shut yourself off from new opportunities because of old experiences or misconceptions. If an opportunity arises and has potential, take a look at what it entails before deciding whether or not you want anything to do with it.
The music industry can be a difficult place, so always remember: there isn’t just one way to make revenue as a musician; there are many ways. So keep exploring and be open to different ideas.
