What’s the most important thing to know about being an indie artist? When you boil it down, it’s simple… You need an undying love for music. This is a must if you’re an independent artist looking to carve a career. So, put on your headphones, crank up the volume, and let’s get started with the MOST important lesson of all!
Why is Music So Good?
Now, I’m not sure about you, but there’s something magical about music. It can transport us to different headspaces. It can make a sad person happy, or a happy person sad. What’s more, music can even evoke emotions we didn’t realise existed. Whether the smooth melodies of jazz, the screaming guitars of grunge, or the heart-wrenching lyrics of a ballad, music has an undeniable power to move us.
It can connect people from all walks of life. Consider a live show. A group of people in the moment together. It doesn’t matter what’s happened that week in their personal lives, the energy connects us at that moment and for that time we forget everything. In a world of smartphones and social media, you could say it’s more important than ever.
Is Music More Than a Hobby?
For independent artists, music must be the number one pastime. But it goes beyond that! For indie artists, music is a way of life. When you wake up and your first thought is music-related, then you’re on the right track.
Not many have this fire burning. A force that forces you to create, express, and share your unique voice with the world. If you have this, becoming an indie musician could be for you.
Because this indie music journey is hard work. Late-night jam sessions, countless hours in the studio, and gigs in intimate venues where you can count the audience on one hand.
What It’s Like Being an Independent Musician?
Let’s be real here, the music industry is hard to navigate. As an independent artist, it’s even harder. There are ups and downs, and moments of self-doubt.
There will be times when you’ll release music hoping to dominate the charts just to get a few streams. Those low points will make you believe your race is run. But through the chaos, the sheer love for music will keep you going. For that, You NEED to have a love of music.
A Pain in the Neck
As I’m sure I’ve mentioned, I am obsessed with music. This love became the cornerstone of my success. Some of my early tours were very low-paid. Not that it bothered me, it was an honour to receive anything for performing original songs.
Nonetheless, I’d often sleep in an old van on tour. Hotels weren’t in the budget. So I’d wake up with a stiff neck and my head in the footwell of a dirty van floor before travelling to the next city. I was living like this when my friends were getting their first houses.
Strangely enough, I don’t look back with sadness or shame. I was living my dream. The point being… You’ll have to make sacrifices. But if it goes well, the reward is an existence doing what you love. By the way! I don’t condone sleeping in any vehicle. Take a tent, I’ve seen get by using this approach.
Musicians Who’ve Overcome the Odds
Most musicians have been down on their luck at some point in their careers. Even those signed to major labels! It’s important to keep moving forward when faced with adversity. To prove a point, here are some musicians who’ve overcome the odds.
Dolly Parton
Born in a one-room cabin in Tennessee, Dolly was one of twelve children. She described her family as “dirt poor” even learning her trade on a homemade guitar. After high school, Parton moved to Nashville where she wrote for other country performers before hitting the big time herself.
In her own words… “You’ll never do a whole lot unless you’re brave enough to try.”
Mick Fleetwood
He’s the drummer and co-founder of Fleetwood Mac. Fleetwood Mac’s first gig was in 1967 but it wasn’t until the 10th studio album that they’d really break through in 1975. The following year they released “Rumours”, one of the best albums ever. Despite that Mick Fleetwood says he’s “lost count” of the number of times he’s declared bankruptcy,
Willie Nelson
If there’s anyone who can tell a story or two on the rollercoaster of a life in music it’s him. From the self-destruction of heavy drinking to huge IRS debts, he’s overcome a lot to live his life as a musician.
The Top Tip For an Independent Musician
So, you’ll hit challenges! If you’re an aspiring independent artist looking to find success in music, remember lesson one: Love is your secret weapon.
Love Your Art:
Embrace your sound and let your identity shine. Don’t be afraid to experiment, push boundaries and grow as an artist. Music is a never-ending journey of growth, and along the way, you have to explore different genres, styles, and influences. Keep your love of music alive.
Love the Highs and Lows:
Embrace the rollercoaster ride. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small they may seem. Treat setbacks as lessons and steps towards growth. Treat every “get a real job” remark as an opportunity to prove someone wrong. Remember that success doesn’t happen overnight. When the chips are down, it’s the love for music that will sustain you through it all.
Love Music:
Remember why you started in the first place. At the start, you’ll be skint and often think why bother? Think of that song that helped you when you were down. The gig that blew your mind. Remember how that made you feel. This isn’t any ordinary career.
Curfew
So, my fellow music enthusiasts, let’s raise a glass to the power of music. Here’s to the independent artists who pour their hearts and souls into their craft, and to the unbreakable spirit that fuels their journey. Keep creating, keep dreaming, and keep loving music! The world awaits!!!!!
Follow for more posts. I’d love to hear your tales of adversity in your pursuit of goals. Drop me an email or use the comment section below.
Until next time!
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