As some of you may know, I played a show Sunday night with a band that hasn’t played together in over 20 years.
It reminded me how much I enjoy drumming.
So Much So, It Hurts
It would be more correct to say it reminded me how perfectly comfortable I am playing drums.
It’s something I was (at least partially) meant to do.
The gig also reminded me of the frustration of wanting to make music so bad that it hurts and not being able to get work.
ARGH!
You Can Get Work Making Music
Here’s what I’ve learned in the years since:
- Yes, you have to play, sing or write great, but you also have to be a great people person, network well and market what you do all the time.
- You need to know what you specifically do well and what people need that specific thing. You cannot be all things to all people. (Note: this does not mean you can’t play all styles. It means if you play all styles, you are not the right person for the Heavy Metal Band wanting to play 200 shows on the road this year. More on this in future posts.)
- You need to put focused attention and energy in building a career in addition to your music. They are two different parts of what is supposed to support your life.
- Lastly, you need to know – seriously know – what kind of life you want to live. You will NEVER do what it takes to succeed at anything if you don’t have a strong enough reason why.
Since I know most musicians drop the ball on focusing on this step, what are you doing to focus your attention and energy on building your career?
