Why Making It As A Musician Is Easier Than You Think

Would you give anything to be the next Taylor Swift? Maybe you’re a little less commercial, like a Madison Ward type?

Regardless, the point is that you want to sing and play music for a living because it’s a passion. Of course, the stats aren’t in your favour as, of the small percentage that does make it, only 5% make a living. Ouch, that’s a kick to the privates that are your hopes and dreams.

Realizing how hard it is to “make it” may put you off forever. Why try when it’s impossible, right? The thing is it’s never been easier to garner attention than today, and here are the reasons why.

TV Shows

Going on America’s Got Talent or X Factor isn’t anyone’s idea of fun. You’re judged to high heaven by music “moguls” and has-beens for the sake of other people’s entertainment, and it's horrible. However, it is a means to an end because it’s an amazing way to increase brand awareness. You may struggle to think of people who have gone on to great things but don’t forget the ones that didn’t win. The likes of One Direction failed yet are the biggest boy band ever. Appearing on TV and doing a decent job is enough to pique society’s interest.

The Internet

The cold hard fact is that you don’t need Simon Cowell and his band of merry men and women. Nowadays, musicians are going their route, also known as being independent. Before you pick holes in this method, remember that Indie labels exist and contract some huge stars. Arctic Monkeys, for instance, are signed to Domino. With a SoundCloud account and a social media presence, your act can go viral. Once this happens, there is no telling how bright the flame will burn. So, even when it seems unlikely, be sure to post on Twitter, Facebook, etc., just in case.

Networking

Ideally, you want to be in control of your destiny. The music industry doesn’t work like that because you need A&R reps and executives to open doors. But, to get a meeting with them, you first need a buzz. If you don’t have that, then a nice word from a fellow, trusted professional should do the trick. Although it’s a small world, musicians with power are hard to come by; well, unless you have Vampr. With this app, you can connect and collaborate with musicians and build relationships. In music, it’s about who you know as well as what you can play.

Definitions

What does it take someone to class them as a professional? Traditionally, the answer is fame and fortune, but neither of those things makes you a musician. To be bona fide, you need to play for a living and earn a living. If it’s your primary job, then you’re a musician. Redefining the job role is a simple way to finally realize the obvious: that you’re part of the industry. Playing the club scene is a career, too.

Do you agree or disagree? Is making it as a musician easy than you think?