I’ve talked with a handful of artists lately, here’s the gist…
“I don’t really know what to do next”
A few things…
The idea of playing live, playing music in front of people is a pillar of the music industry and it’s off the table at the moment. So even for those artists who don’t tour a lot, when a pillar is shaky the whole thing is shaky.
We’re good at processing ‘no touring for three months’. We’re bad at processing ‘no touring till I don’t know when’. Both good news and bad news are digestible. It’s the unknown that throws us.
It’s a great time to release music to your fans…but a bad time to try and reach the unconverted masses. And so often times with new music your goal is to do both simultaneously.
During periods where the economy within the music business is timid, a couple things happen…labels/publishers/promoters are much less likely to sign new talent and for the artists already signed, the label/publisher/promoter all of a sudden don’t do all the things they said they were going to do for you. They’re busy elsewhere.
So yes, the confusion and fear is understandable and you’re not alone.
But a couple other things…
“I don’t really know what to do next” usually means “I don’t really know if what I’m going to do next is going to work”. Be honest about what you really mean. I don’t know if what you’re going to do next is going to work either. But you know how to find out.
Lastly…an antidote I see working in the face of a gloomy music business is: consistent enthusiasm. Initiating an idea and seeing it through with a smile on your face and great communication. Making something extra special for the people who want to hear from you. Asking for help from people on your team with optimism in your voice.
Take action. Create your own magnetic pull by keeping in motion.
Onward and upward.
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Drop me an email: gabe@gabethebassplayer.com