How Do I Become A Successful Musician Or Artist?
A lot of times when I am starting to work with new musicians or artists and I ask them what they need help with, often their response is, “How do I become a successful musician/artist?”
Becoming a successful artist of entertainer is a dream for many, but it is a goal that requires dedication, a very strong work ethic, lots of networking, adapting to the economy, talent, and working with technology or “new ways” of doing things. (Such as marketing, new social platforms, and trends) And the reality is, the industry is a lot more complicated than it used to be, even compared to a few years ago. We have so many outlets to promote ourselves, streaming platforms that pay next to nothing in returns, and AI consuming art that doesn’t pay anything at all… and this is barely scratching the surface of it all.
There is no one-size-fits-all formula for success in the industries, however, there are several key principles and strategies that can significantly increase your chances of making it a career.
First and foremost, you must hone your skills and practice! Whether you play an instrument, sing, or produce music, paint, or act, continuous improvement is essential. Take lessons, practice regularly, attend workshops or seminars, and seek out constructive feedback from mentors, teachers, or those in your sector. The more you invest in your craft, the better you'll become.
Build a strong foundation for your career. This includes creating high-quality recordings, making sure your headshots are always up to date, developing an engaging stage presence, and establishing a professional online presence. Invest in the necessary equipment, practice your live performances, and maintain an active and appealing social media presence. Remember that social media is the best way to build relationships and connections with a fan base from all over the world!
Networking is an essential aspect of any industry. Collaborate with other musicians, producers, artists, actors, comedians, and songwriters (etc), to expand your knowledge and creativity. Attend industry events, conventions, open mic nights, and workshops to meet like-minded individuals who can help you along the way. Building a strong network can open doors and opportunities you might not have found otherwise. But, make sure you maintain these connections as they will only be useful as long as they are live.
Understanding the business side of the industry is just as important as your skills. Familiarize yourself with contracts, royalties, copyrights, and licensing. Consider seeking legal and financial advice to protect your interests and ensure you receive fair compensation for your work. It is crucial to your success that you know your worth, your rights, and when you are being taken advantage of.
The last bit of advice I will have here in this blog is, that success in the arts and entertainment doesn't happen overnight. Rejection and setbacks are common, but it's essential to stay persistent and resilient while staying authentic to yourself and your brand. Keep pushing forward, learn from your experiences, and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the industry. Many successful people faced numerous obstacles before reaching the top.
Becoming a successful artist or entertainer is not an easy accomplishment, but it is both rewarding and doable if you can stick to your guns and continuously be open to growth and learning. By developing your skills, building a strong foundation, promoting yourself, and staying persistent, you can increase your chances of achieving your aspirations. Remember that success in the industry varies for each artist, and there are no guarantees. However, with the right mindset and a commitment to your craft, you can set yourself on a path to realizing your dreams and finding success.
