Musicians: Don’t Give Up, Do THIS instead...
The 5 (BAD) Reasons Musicians Give Up
The journey to musical success is filled with struggles and disappointment. From self-doubt to feeling cheated by streaming services, the list of challenges may even tempt you to give up.
However, there is hope. By tackling these issues head-on, musicians can find the solutions and motivation to win.
In this blog, we’ll discuss The 5 C's - each “C” is a common reason musicians consider quitting. By the end, you'll be equipped with strategies to turn each of these obstacles into stepping stones for success.
Table of Contents
Reason #1: There’s Too Much COMPETITION
The idea that there are too many musicians and too few opportunities can be paralyzing, and may even stop someone from even trying to compete. How can anyone stand out when there are so many talented artists? This “oversaturation” can lead to feelings of hopelessness, and ultimately wanting to give up.
The Solution: Focus and Personal Relationships
Instead of focusing on everyone you’re competing against, focus on running your own race. Picture a racehorse with blinders on, concentrating on its own path without being distracted by others. This level of focus allows you to hone your craft and develop your unique style, which is crucial for standing out.
Building personal relationships is equally important. Directors, producers, and other industry professionals choose collaborators they know and trust. To build these connections, you need a strong digital presence and communication skills. For example, a well-crafted website and active social media profiles will help you build trust and showcase your talent.
By focusing on your own race and building personal relationships, you can rise above the competition. Remember, it’s not about being the best in a crowded field; it’s about being the one people choose to work with because of your focus, talent, and the trust you've built.
Reason #2: Music Is a COMMODITY
Streaming services give listeners access to huge catalogs of music for a small subscription. Musicians are left facing the harsh reality that people are less willing to pay for music. This “commoditization” of our work can lead to the belief that a career in music is financially impossible.
The Solution: Selling Your Skills to Brands
Musicians should pivot from selling their music to selling their skills. Brands need custom soundtracks for ads, product launches, and other projects. By becoming a problem-solver for these brands, you can tap into a high-paying market that values your musical talent.
When you work with brands, you are not just selling a piece of music; you are offering a solution to their needs. Your ability to write original music that bring their ideas to life is a skill that can’t be commoditized. Each project is unique, meaning your work remains valuable and in demand.
By shifting your focus from selling music (a commodity) to selling a service (a high-paying skill), you can avoid the challenges of a commoditized market. Your problem-solving and creativity become your biggest assets, allowing you to thrive in the music industry.
Reason #3: You Can’t Beat COMPUTERS
As technology keeps advancing, many musicians are worried they’ll be replaced by machines. AI-generated music is becoming better and easier to make, removing the need for human creativity. This can lead to many people questioning the future of their careers as artists.
The Solution: Becoming a Remarkable Craftsperson
To stay ahead of technology, artists have to become remarkable craftspeople. This means developing unique skills (inside and outside of the computer) that producers/directors will still choose over easy-made AI music.
By mastering skills outside of your DAW (songwriting, playing an instrument, communicating with creative people, etc.) you’ll always have an edge over a computer. And when you’re back in your DAW, push the boundaries by avoiding basic presets and popular samples until you develop your very own sound.
By investing time and effort into becoming a well-rounded and skilled musician, you can create music that stands out, even against AI. Your unique touch, creativity, and knowledge will make you impossible to replace, securing your career in the music industry.
Reason #4: I’ll Never Be COMPETENT
Many musicians feel incompetent when they compare themselves to their musical heroes. Their own skills and achievements feel small and they worry they can never catch up. This gap between where they are and where they want to be can lead to self-doubt and the temptation to give up on their dreams.
The Solution: Embracing "The Gap"
The key to overcoming these feelings is in understanding "The Gap." This is the difference between your current abilities and your aspirations. Every creative person experiences this gap, including the very heroes you admire, and it’s a natural and necessary part of the growth process.
Instead of seeing this gap as an obstacle, see it as a motivator for improvement. Remember that your heroes also started somewhere and went through similar struggles. Use their journeys as inspiration rather than comparison.
By embracing the gap, you allow yourself to grow and develop without the pressure of immediate perfection. This shift in perspective can transform feelings of inadequacy into a drive for progress. Remember that every song, every composition, and every project brings you closer to your goals.
Reason #5: All the CRAP Excuses
Many musicians end their progress by holding onto baseless excuses. Common excuses are that they are too young or too old to succeed, that they don't live in a major city, or that they lack industry connections. These excuses are often used to justify inaction and self-doubt, stopping talented individuals from pursuing their dreams.
The Solution: Self-Belief, Hard Work, and Proactive Networking
The first step to overcoming these excuses is recognizing that they are just that—excuses. There are countless examples of musicians who have succeeded despite similar challenges. Age, location, and connections do not determine your potential; your dedication and effort do.
From young prodigies to late bloomers, age has never been a definitive barrier. While major cities might offer more opportunities, the digital age has made remote work and global connections more accessible than ever. And if you lack industry connections, it's your responsibility to network and build them.
Ultimately, the key to overcoming these excuses is self-belief and hard work. Recognize that every successful musician faced obstacles, but they chose to push through them. Believe in your abilities, dedicate yourself to your craft, and take proactive steps to create opportunities. By doing so, you can break free from the limitations of baseless excuses and pave your own path to success.
CONCLUSION: Overcoming the 5 C's
We've explored the 5 C's—Competition, Commodity, Computers, Competence, and Crap Excuses—that often lead musicians to consider giving up. Each of these challenges presents a significant hurdle, but they are not impossible.
Remember, every successful musician has faced challenges and doubts, but their determination and adaptability have paved the way for their success.
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