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How do I maximize my talent and share my "gift" with the world while also making enough money to be able to sustain myself and others?
Young 23 y/o artist self taught producer and engineer autodidact looking to grow as an artist
20 answers
Updated
Jenny’s Answer
Hey Jamal, this is a great question, there's a lot to consider, because the path of becoming a full-time producer and engineer isn't the same for everyone.
Based on my own experience as well as my fellow colleagues who make a full time living as producers/engineers/etc, some things to do and consider:
- building a catalogue of music that showcases your music style and skills
- incorporating social media so your audience can see, hear, and be part of your journey
- networking & collaborate with other musicians, producers, people in the music business, etc. to open up more opportunities for you
Be sure to view the art that you make and how you aim to present yourself publicly as a business, because this is more of a long game (most businesses aren't an overnight success especially in this industry). Lastly consider finding a mentor to guide you on your unique goals as well as being part of communities so you also have support from people on a similar journey as yours.
Sincerely wishing you all the best on this journey, don't forget to have fun along the way!
Based on my own experience as well as my fellow colleagues who make a full time living as producers/engineers/etc, some things to do and consider:
- building a catalogue of music that showcases your music style and skills
- incorporating social media so your audience can see, hear, and be part of your journey
- networking & collaborate with other musicians, producers, people in the music business, etc. to open up more opportunities for you
Be sure to view the art that you make and how you aim to present yourself publicly as a business, because this is more of a long game (most businesses aren't an overnight success especially in this industry). Lastly consider finding a mentor to guide you on your unique goals as well as being part of communities so you also have support from people on a similar journey as yours.
Sincerely wishing you all the best on this journey, don't forget to have fun along the way!
Updated
George’s Answer
Diversity. Do many music related jobs. Use earnings to up your game; demo’s , equipment , stage show etc. Collaborations! Share everywhere… George A. Kaye
Updated
Terence’s Answer
To maximize your opportunity for sustainability, consider exploring opportunities beyond just discovering the next superstar or collaborating with existing recording stars.
the key is to Connect with local emerging talent and producers to stay grounded and inspired. but Additionally, look into companies and Music supervisors that offer licensing opportunities for quality music in movies,TV shows, and commercials. (BUT you must have quality recordings, sonically)
This can provide a steady income stream and broaden your audience, allowing your music to reach diverse and global platforms. By diversifying your avenues, you can both sustain yourself and extend your influence in the industry.
for example use linkedin and social media to connect with music licensing companies and music supervisors. BUT "connect with people", dont just send them your music. ask questions, create a relationship, see what they're working on...know their previous work, and then ONLY send what they need.
become a "go-to' person, where they know they can send you a email of what they need and get exactly what they asked for not just random beats and songs.
use social media to connect with non exclusive music licensing companies
use social media to connect with music supervisors
use sites like linkedin and IMDB to research music supervisors
the key is to Connect with local emerging talent and producers to stay grounded and inspired. but Additionally, look into companies and Music supervisors that offer licensing opportunities for quality music in movies,TV shows, and commercials. (BUT you must have quality recordings, sonically)
This can provide a steady income stream and broaden your audience, allowing your music to reach diverse and global platforms. By diversifying your avenues, you can both sustain yourself and extend your influence in the industry.
for example use linkedin and social media to connect with music licensing companies and music supervisors. BUT "connect with people", dont just send them your music. ask questions, create a relationship, see what they're working on...know their previous work, and then ONLY send what they need.
become a "go-to' person, where they know they can send you a email of what they need and get exactly what they asked for not just random beats and songs.
Terence recommends the following next steps:
Updated
John’s Answer
Great answers to this question, thanks to all of you!
Say yes to as many gig opportunities as possible, and do anything you can to develop your personal adaptability and tolerance. Adverse conditions seem to be the norm rather than the exception.
If you have an artistic partner that enhances your work and/or experience hold on to them, and be grateful. If you don't, keep your eyes peeled and your heart and mind open for people who can fill that role.
Say yes to as many gig opportunities as possible, and do anything you can to develop your personal adaptability and tolerance. Adverse conditions seem to be the norm rather than the exception.
If you have an artistic partner that enhances your work and/or experience hold on to them, and be grateful. If you don't, keep your eyes peeled and your heart and mind open for people who can fill that role.
Updated
Roy Lee’s Answer
I wholeheartedly concur with everything that's been shared so far, and I honestly can't suggest a better path. However, I notice that no one has requested to experience your musical prowess. As someone who wears the hats of a music publisher, producer, artist, and composer, I'm keen to delve deeper into your unique style and capabilities. I'm curious about your preferred genre(s), the equipment you use to craft your music, and whether or not you incorporate your own vocals.
Without this insight, it's challenging for me to guide you through the critical decisions you're facing. If you possess a genuine, innate talent and view it as a gift to share with the world, I'm driven by a heartfelt desire to assist you in doing just that.
I'm here to lend a hand in opening doors for you.
Best regards,
1Tone Publishing LLC
Roylee
Without this insight, it's challenging for me to guide you through the critical decisions you're facing. If you possess a genuine, innate talent and view it as a gift to share with the world, I'm driven by a heartfelt desire to assist you in doing just that.
I'm here to lend a hand in opening doors for you.
Best regards,
1Tone Publishing LLC
Roylee
Updated
Daivion’s Answer
Take steps outside your comfort zone...
-Display your work publicly. Social media is a powerful tool for this.
-Be ready and eager to collaborate with other musicians to build your reputation in the industry.
-Understand your unique selling point. What makes people want to work with or invest in you?
-If needed, get a part-time job to financially support your career.
-Participate in open-mics and networking events. Seek out local studios.
-Display your work publicly. Social media is a powerful tool for this.
-Be ready and eager to collaborate with other musicians to build your reputation in the industry.
-Understand your unique selling point. What makes people want to work with or invest in you?
-If needed, get a part-time job to financially support your career.
-Participate in open-mics and networking events. Seek out local studios.
Updated
Dora’s Answer
Hi Jamal,
First of all, DON'T WORRY. You got this! Loads of people will try to discourage you from pursuing your passion in the creative field, by saying it will leave you broke. It is bullsh*it. Many times, they are happen to be out-of-work creatives or people who did not dare to pursue their dreams. #1 suggestion: always seek advice from people who are active in the industry, and whose life and achievement you look up to.
#2 tip: develop a mindset where you look at art as a mixture of creativity and business. You should try to find a balance between the two. Do what you love to do, always have passion projects - no matter their size - on the side. But also, keep up with market and corporate demands. If you earn money there, you can use that to fuel your own projects. Loads of writer-directors, think for instance Damien Chazelle, started off like that.
#3 tip: look up IKIGAI, it is a powerful Japenese concept that can give you guidance - not only in work.
#4 tip: similarly to others who left you notes, I too believe, that developing 2-3 additional skills that somehow connect to your main field of work can be great assets. If you maintain your curiosity, and enjoy learning you will have a huge advantage.
I hope some of this helps. Keep at it!
First of all, DON'T WORRY. You got this! Loads of people will try to discourage you from pursuing your passion in the creative field, by saying it will leave you broke. It is bullsh*it. Many times, they are happen to be out-of-work creatives or people who did not dare to pursue their dreams. #1 suggestion: always seek advice from people who are active in the industry, and whose life and achievement you look up to.
#2 tip: develop a mindset where you look at art as a mixture of creativity and business. You should try to find a balance between the two. Do what you love to do, always have passion projects - no matter their size - on the side. But also, keep up with market and corporate demands. If you earn money there, you can use that to fuel your own projects. Loads of writer-directors, think for instance Damien Chazelle, started off like that.
#3 tip: look up IKIGAI, it is a powerful Japenese concept that can give you guidance - not only in work.
#4 tip: similarly to others who left you notes, I too believe, that developing 2-3 additional skills that somehow connect to your main field of work can be great assets. If you maintain your curiosity, and enjoy learning you will have a huge advantage.
I hope some of this helps. Keep at it!
Steve Jacobson
Creative Leader/Content Creator/Producer/Editor/Storyteller
43
Answers
Updated
Steve’s Answer
My son has been grappling with these challenging circumstances for over a decade now. His roles have varied from being an audio engineer, producer, recording artist, musician, to even an Uber driver. He's had the privilege of collaborating with some of the music industry's heavyweights. Currently, he's leveraging his skills as a recording engineer for video games, commercials, podcasts, and more.
As echoed by many, this journey is not an easy one. However, maintaining consistency, showing persistence, and building a strong network are crucial.
Don't stop nurturing your own projects! Make sure you share them with the world, letting others appreciate your craft. The industry is now more receptive than ever to direct-to-consumer models, bypassing the traditional gatekeepers like record labels.
Seek out mentors who can guide and inspire you. Spend time shadowing them at work to gain valuable insights.
Wishing you the best of luck.
As echoed by many, this journey is not an easy one. However, maintaining consistency, showing persistence, and building a strong network are crucial.
Don't stop nurturing your own projects! Make sure you share them with the world, letting others appreciate your craft. The industry is now more receptive than ever to direct-to-consumer models, bypassing the traditional gatekeepers like record labels.
Seek out mentors who can guide and inspire you. Spend time shadowing them at work to gain valuable insights.
Wishing you the best of luck.
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Hey Jamal! When you get the answer to your question, would you mind posting it for all the world to see? Because we've ALL been trying to figure out that one!
Seriously, though, it IS the lifelong question of any type of creative artist: how do I do this, and actually make a living at it? The uncomfortable truth is, there is no one answer - every artist's journey looks completely different. Some of it will be determined by other skills you have. Are you really good at computers? You may get an IT job to pay the bills, while working on your music on your own. And here's a potential side benefit: that day job can sometimes pivot your creative career in a different direction.
Here's an example. Try to imagine the days before Pro Tools, when we all had big, clunky tape machines. Now your IT job makes you a computer guru, and you discover ProTools and computer recording software early on - you might become a prominent engineer/producer because of those skills. Today, it might be something completely different, like AI. I know another guy who did a lot of VoiceOver work on the side. His studio ended up becoming a prominent voice studio in his area, with lots of other voice artists recording there.
All of that is to say, be open to the possibility of things going a different way than you think, and do your best to be ready. The buzzword is "pivot" - be ready to pivot into other areas. I went from recording studios, to record labels, to live sound, to teaching college courses. You may have to do the same kind of thing.
And learn anything and everything you can about the music business! Recording, mixing, mastering, but also marketing and promotion, touring, and online distribution services, just as a few examples. You can never stop learning about how things work, because it will continue to change.
Hope that helps.
Never stop learning.
Learn music publishing. Start your own publishing company.
Promote, promote, promote.
Network, network, network!
Start over. Reinvent yourself. Try something else.
Seriously, though, it IS the lifelong question of any type of creative artist: how do I do this, and actually make a living at it? The uncomfortable truth is, there is no one answer - every artist's journey looks completely different. Some of it will be determined by other skills you have. Are you really good at computers? You may get an IT job to pay the bills, while working on your music on your own. And here's a potential side benefit: that day job can sometimes pivot your creative career in a different direction.
Here's an example. Try to imagine the days before Pro Tools, when we all had big, clunky tape machines. Now your IT job makes you a computer guru, and you discover ProTools and computer recording software early on - you might become a prominent engineer/producer because of those skills. Today, it might be something completely different, like AI. I know another guy who did a lot of VoiceOver work on the side. His studio ended up becoming a prominent voice studio in his area, with lots of other voice artists recording there.
All of that is to say, be open to the possibility of things going a different way than you think, and do your best to be ready. The buzzword is "pivot" - be ready to pivot into other areas. I went from recording studios, to record labels, to live sound, to teaching college courses. You may have to do the same kind of thing.
And learn anything and everything you can about the music business! Recording, mixing, mastering, but also marketing and promotion, touring, and online distribution services, just as a few examples. You can never stop learning about how things work, because it will continue to change.
Hope that helps.
Paul recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Brianna’s Answer
I think to start making money you definitely have to start getting your name out there locally try playing open mics or something or try to get your tune played somewhere they might allow it to be played as more people see you perform and everything they may start to book you for paid shows and gigs that will slowly get better the more you put your name out there. But be sure to have a day job to use to help you sustain your career as you continue to put your name out there eventually things might just work out. But definitely have fun and don't worry everyone starts small.
Updated
Henrien’s Answer
Always keep your day job until you can devout all your energy to your craft. Being an artist should not be about making money. That is the end goal.
First, you have to determine if your gift is marketable and can impact an audience. Who is your audience.? Build a strong base. Power before money.
When people follow you and you have made a impact online than you can start to use your talent to make money . Make me know who you are and what you do.
Stay around other successful people. Join any group that puts you in contact with your base, your potential investors, and your craft.
Mold your talents and focus on your craft. Also, take care of your wellness. Artists need to be healthy. What you put into your body will reflect in your craft. Stay on the path.
First, you have to determine if your gift is marketable and can impact an audience. Who is your audience.? Build a strong base. Power before money.
When people follow you and you have made a impact online than you can start to use your talent to make money . Make me know who you are and what you do.
Stay around other successful people. Join any group that puts you in contact with your base, your potential investors, and your craft.
Mold your talents and focus on your craft. Also, take care of your wellness. Artists need to be healthy. What you put into your body will reflect in your craft. Stay on the path.
Katherine Avery
Run a music studio and teach private music lessons; teach college-level religion classes
299
Answers
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
Thinking big picture, Ken Coleman has a book called From Paycheck to Purpose, that can help you map this out. You'll be great!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
5667
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jamal!
Maximizing Talent and Sharing Your Gift While Making Money
To maximize your talent as a young artist, self-taught producer, and engineer, there are several steps you can take to share your gift with the world while also making enough money to sustain yourself and potentially others. Here is a comprehensive guide on how you can achieve this:
Develop Your Craft: Continuously work on honing your skills as an artist, producer, and engineer. Practice regularly, experiment with different techniques, and strive for excellence in your work. The more you develop your talent, the more valuable it becomes.
Build Your Brand: Establishing a strong personal brand is crucial in the music industry. Define what makes you unique as an artist and create a compelling narrative around your work. Use social media platforms, websites, and networking opportunities to showcase your talent and connect with your audience.
Create Quality Content: Focus on creating high-quality music that resonates with your target audience. Invest in good equipment for producing and engineering to ensure that your final product meets professional standards. Consistency in delivering top-notch content will help build a loyal fan base.
Collaborate with Others: Collaborating with other artists, producers, and musicians can help expand your network and expose your talent to new audiences. Seek out opportunities to work on projects with like-minded individuals who share your passion for music.
Monetize Your Talent: There are various ways you can monetize your talent as a musician. Consider selling your music online through platforms like Bandcamp or iTunes, offering production services to other artists, licensing your music for commercials or films, or even performing live gigs.
Diversify Your Income Streams: To ensure financial stability, consider diversifying your income streams within the music industry. This could include offering music production courses or workshops, selling merchandise related to your brand, or even exploring opportunities in sync licensing or music supervision.
Stay Persistent and Resilient: Building a successful career in the music industry takes time and perseverance. Stay committed to your craft, be open to feedback and constructive criticism, and learn from both successes and failures along the way.
By following these steps and staying dedicated to growing as an artist while also being strategic about monetizing your talent, you can maximize your potential and share your gift with the world while also achieving financial sustainability.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Billboard - Billboard is a reputable source for news and information about the music industry, including trends, insights, interviews with artists, and business aspects of the industry.
Rolling Stone - Rolling Stone covers a wide range of topics related to music culture, including artist profiles, album reviews, industry news, and analysis of current trends in the music business.
Music Business Worldwide (MBW) - MBW provides in-depth coverage of the global music industry from a business perspective, offering insights into revenue streams for artists, emerging trends in the market, and strategies for success in the industry.
These sources were consulted to provide accurate information on maximizing talent as an artist while also making money within the music industry.According to www.iAsk.ai Ask Ai Questions Search Engine:
Maximizing Talent and Sharing Your Gift While Making Money
To maximize your talent as a young artist, self-taught producer, and engineer, there are several steps you can take to share your gift with the world while also making enough money to sustain yourself and potentially others. Here is a comprehensive guide on how you can achieve this:
Develop Your Craft: Continuously work on honing your skills as an artist, producer, and engineer. Practice regularly, experiment with different techniques, and strive for excellence in your work. The more you develop your talent, the more valuable it becomes.
Build Your Brand: Establishing a strong personal brand is crucial in the music industry. Define what makes you unique as an artist and create a compelling narrative around your work. Use social media platforms, websites, and networking opportunities to showcase your talent and connect with your audience.
Create Quality Content: Focus on creating high-quality music that resonates with your target audience. Invest in good equipment for producing and engineering to ensure that your final product meets professional standards. Consistency in delivering top-notch content will help build a loyal fan base.
Collaborate with Others: Collaborating with other artists, producers, and musicians can help expand your network and expose your talent to new audiences. Seek out opportunities to work on projects with like-minded individuals who share your passion for music.
Monetize Your Talent: There are various ways you can monetize your talent as a musician. Consider selling your music online through platforms like Bandcamp or iTunes, offering production services to other artists, licensing your music for commercials or films, or even performing live gigs.
Diversify Your Income Streams: To ensure financial stability, consider diversifying your income streams within the music industry. This could include offering music production courses or workshops, selling merchandise related to your brand, or even exploring opportunities in sync licensing or music supervision.
Stay Persistent and Resilient: Building a successful career in the music industry takes time and perseverance. Stay committed to your craft, be open to feedback and constructive criticism, and learn from both successes and failures along the way.
By following these steps and staying dedicated to growing as an artist while also being strategic about monetizing your talent, you can maximize your potential and share your gift with the world while also achieving financial sustainability.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Billboard - Billboard is a reputable source for news and information about the music industry, including trends, insights, interviews with artists, and business aspects of the industry.
Rolling Stone - Rolling Stone covers a wide range of topics related to music culture, including artist profiles, album reviews, industry news, and analysis of current trends in the music business.
Music Business Worldwide (MBW) - MBW provides in-depth coverage of the global music industry from a business perspective, offering insights into revenue streams for artists, emerging trends in the market, and strategies for success in the industry.
These sources were consulted to provide accurate information on maximizing talent as an artist while also making money within the music industry.
God Bless,
JC.
Maximizing Talent and Sharing Your Gift While Making Money
To maximize your talent as a young artist, self-taught producer, and engineer, there are several steps you can take to share your gift with the world while also making enough money to sustain yourself and potentially others. Here is a comprehensive guide on how you can achieve this:
Develop Your Craft: Continuously work on honing your skills as an artist, producer, and engineer. Practice regularly, experiment with different techniques, and strive for excellence in your work. The more you develop your talent, the more valuable it becomes.
Build Your Brand: Establishing a strong personal brand is crucial in the music industry. Define what makes you unique as an artist and create a compelling narrative around your work. Use social media platforms, websites, and networking opportunities to showcase your talent and connect with your audience.
Create Quality Content: Focus on creating high-quality music that resonates with your target audience. Invest in good equipment for producing and engineering to ensure that your final product meets professional standards. Consistency in delivering top-notch content will help build a loyal fan base.
Collaborate with Others: Collaborating with other artists, producers, and musicians can help expand your network and expose your talent to new audiences. Seek out opportunities to work on projects with like-minded individuals who share your passion for music.
Monetize Your Talent: There are various ways you can monetize your talent as a musician. Consider selling your music online through platforms like Bandcamp or iTunes, offering production services to other artists, licensing your music for commercials or films, or even performing live gigs.
Diversify Your Income Streams: To ensure financial stability, consider diversifying your income streams within the music industry. This could include offering music production courses or workshops, selling merchandise related to your brand, or even exploring opportunities in sync licensing or music supervision.
Stay Persistent and Resilient: Building a successful career in the music industry takes time and perseverance. Stay committed to your craft, be open to feedback and constructive criticism, and learn from both successes and failures along the way.
By following these steps and staying dedicated to growing as an artist while also being strategic about monetizing your talent, you can maximize your potential and share your gift with the world while also achieving financial sustainability.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Billboard - Billboard is a reputable source for news and information about the music industry, including trends, insights, interviews with artists, and business aspects of the industry.
Rolling Stone - Rolling Stone covers a wide range of topics related to music culture, including artist profiles, album reviews, industry news, and analysis of current trends in the music business.
Music Business Worldwide (MBW) - MBW provides in-depth coverage of the global music industry from a business perspective, offering insights into revenue streams for artists, emerging trends in the market, and strategies for success in the industry.
These sources were consulted to provide accurate information on maximizing talent as an artist while also making money within the music industry.According to www.iAsk.ai Ask Ai Questions Search Engine:
Maximizing Talent and Sharing Your Gift While Making Money
To maximize your talent as a young artist, self-taught producer, and engineer, there are several steps you can take to share your gift with the world while also making enough money to sustain yourself and potentially others. Here is a comprehensive guide on how you can achieve this:
Develop Your Craft: Continuously work on honing your skills as an artist, producer, and engineer. Practice regularly, experiment with different techniques, and strive for excellence in your work. The more you develop your talent, the more valuable it becomes.
Build Your Brand: Establishing a strong personal brand is crucial in the music industry. Define what makes you unique as an artist and create a compelling narrative around your work. Use social media platforms, websites, and networking opportunities to showcase your talent and connect with your audience.
Create Quality Content: Focus on creating high-quality music that resonates with your target audience. Invest in good equipment for producing and engineering to ensure that your final product meets professional standards. Consistency in delivering top-notch content will help build a loyal fan base.
Collaborate with Others: Collaborating with other artists, producers, and musicians can help expand your network and expose your talent to new audiences. Seek out opportunities to work on projects with like-minded individuals who share your passion for music.
Monetize Your Talent: There are various ways you can monetize your talent as a musician. Consider selling your music online through platforms like Bandcamp or iTunes, offering production services to other artists, licensing your music for commercials or films, or even performing live gigs.
Diversify Your Income Streams: To ensure financial stability, consider diversifying your income streams within the music industry. This could include offering music production courses or workshops, selling merchandise related to your brand, or even exploring opportunities in sync licensing or music supervision.
Stay Persistent and Resilient: Building a successful career in the music industry takes time and perseverance. Stay committed to your craft, be open to feedback and constructive criticism, and learn from both successes and failures along the way.
By following these steps and staying dedicated to growing as an artist while also being strategic about monetizing your talent, you can maximize your potential and share your gift with the world while also achieving financial sustainability.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Billboard - Billboard is a reputable source for news and information about the music industry, including trends, insights, interviews with artists, and business aspects of the industry.
Rolling Stone - Rolling Stone covers a wide range of topics related to music culture, including artist profiles, album reviews, industry news, and analysis of current trends in the music business.
Music Business Worldwide (MBW) - MBW provides in-depth coverage of the global music industry from a business perspective, offering insights into revenue streams for artists, emerging trends in the market, and strategies for success in the industry.
These sources were consulted to provide accurate information on maximizing talent as an artist while also making money within the music industry.
God Bless,
JC.
Updated
Isaac’s Answer
Great question!
There are many ways to earn income as a musician. If you are trying to be an artist. The absolute best way is Touring!
This is how most famous musicians get their gigs and play for many people.
Some other notable ways are
- Taking Gig work
- Providing a service to other musicians
- Playing an instrument for someone at an event
- Busking or Street Performing
- (Very Small) Releasing music Online
- Merch
- A page dedicated for buying your products
- Mixing and Mastering
- Music Production companies
- Composing Music
There are many ways to earn income as a musician. If you are trying to be an artist. The absolute best way is Touring!
This is how most famous musicians get their gigs and play for many people.
Some other notable ways are
- Taking Gig work
- Providing a service to other musicians
- Playing an instrument for someone at an event
- Busking or Street Performing
- (Very Small) Releasing music Online
- Merch
- A page dedicated for buying your products
- Mixing and Mastering
- Music Production companies
- Composing Music
Updated
Ariana’s Answer
Hello there! I'm Ariana, and I've got big dreams in my heart. My ultimate goal is to become a singer/songwriter, just like my idol, Taylor Swift. I'm excited about the day when my passion for music will also become my paycheck.
singer
songwriter
actress
dress designer
costume designer
Ariana recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Jamal !
You have received a fabulous outpouring of advice and I would also like to participate hopefully sharing something for you to consider. A career in music or film starts with education. You have stated that you are autodidact which is a great accomplishment if it is for music and film, however, you are seeking to advance your knowledge and add to your already existing talent. One way that you can consider doing this is to be a music or film student in a structured environment and go for a degree since you are also concerned about achieving financial stability.
I'll tell you why you may want to consider college. You will do well since you are already autodidact. What you didn't get from that experience is the hands on variety, the working with others as collaborators, projects that someone gives you a deadline for and someone to be accountable to, challenges which will prepare you for a professional career, self discovery, a network of people who will be friends and contacts and perhaps colleagues off-campus, you will continually be aware of opportunities and not wonder how to start your career, a support system will be there for you which everyone needs as they study and pursue a career and in the end, yes, you would obtain a college degree that will be helpful when applying for work in and outside of your field. The music and film industry is very broad and the degree can open doors when no degree may not be a qualifier.
That being said, if you really do not want to go to college, even starting at a community college at first, then you will have to obtain all of the things I've mentioned on your own. That may be a lot of physical work, lots of talking and meeting people and having a unique and marketable portfolio, reels of your work that you've done on your own. Contact and network with the Michigan Film and Digital media Office, Music Hall Detroit, Detroit Film Office, Detroit Film Theatre, Michigan SAG-AFTRA union (go in person and speak with the administrators), and visit college film and music departments to learn of any opportunities. It is very possible for you to be an independent artist but you need to gather everything that you will need to create and promote your work.
The bottom line is that to be a success, one must greatly enjoy each project and not overthink about the future of the career. With performance careers, anything can happen, it is certainly not a predictable career, but depends on many factors that should be a persons' foundational training. I would suggest thinking it over, consider college, film school or music school, try to manage and promote your career on your own and come to a conclusion as to which path will be best for you where you live. Learn the Detroit music and film communities and be out there networking on a daily basis. With college, it's easy to do that, but you must do what you feel comfortable doing.
Don't give up, reach your dream career and enjoy it all the way !
MICHIGAN SAG-AFTRA https://www.sagaftra.org/michigan
You have received a fabulous outpouring of advice and I would also like to participate hopefully sharing something for you to consider. A career in music or film starts with education. You have stated that you are autodidact which is a great accomplishment if it is for music and film, however, you are seeking to advance your knowledge and add to your already existing talent. One way that you can consider doing this is to be a music or film student in a structured environment and go for a degree since you are also concerned about achieving financial stability.
I'll tell you why you may want to consider college. You will do well since you are already autodidact. What you didn't get from that experience is the hands on variety, the working with others as collaborators, projects that someone gives you a deadline for and someone to be accountable to, challenges which will prepare you for a professional career, self discovery, a network of people who will be friends and contacts and perhaps colleagues off-campus, you will continually be aware of opportunities and not wonder how to start your career, a support system will be there for you which everyone needs as they study and pursue a career and in the end, yes, you would obtain a college degree that will be helpful when applying for work in and outside of your field. The music and film industry is very broad and the degree can open doors when no degree may not be a qualifier.
That being said, if you really do not want to go to college, even starting at a community college at first, then you will have to obtain all of the things I've mentioned on your own. That may be a lot of physical work, lots of talking and meeting people and having a unique and marketable portfolio, reels of your work that you've done on your own. Contact and network with the Michigan Film and Digital media Office, Music Hall Detroit, Detroit Film Office, Detroit Film Theatre, Michigan SAG-AFTRA union (go in person and speak with the administrators), and visit college film and music departments to learn of any opportunities. It is very possible for you to be an independent artist but you need to gather everything that you will need to create and promote your work.
The bottom line is that to be a success, one must greatly enjoy each project and not overthink about the future of the career. With performance careers, anything can happen, it is certainly not a predictable career, but depends on many factors that should be a persons' foundational training. I would suggest thinking it over, consider college, film school or music school, try to manage and promote your career on your own and come to a conclusion as to which path will be best for you where you live. Learn the Detroit music and film communities and be out there networking on a daily basis. With college, it's easy to do that, but you must do what you feel comfortable doing.
Don't give up, reach your dream career and enjoy it all the way !
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Jessica’s Answer
I do know with a platform on reverb Nation it is possible to receive monies through distribution methods. Try to find platforms like that and audition for what they have on reverb Nation. And most importantly never give up !! Have a good day ,!!
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Yingna’s Answer
Very thoughtful question. There needs to be a balance. I think financial security comes first. We need to survive before we can thrive. It's like in the open ocean, we need to know how to swim ("sustain yourself") before we can appreciate the sunset and compose poetry ("share your gift with the world")
I believe, sharing one's gift with the world is a life-long goal. It's a beacon that inspires you and helps you not to get lost. And it's never too late to share. For example, we can make a living in the daytime, and immerse ourselves in our "talent" at night, during weekends, any free time you have. Work hard and be persistent. Gradually, our two goals will merge into one.
Hope this is helpful. Good luck :) !
I believe, sharing one's gift with the world is a life-long goal. It's a beacon that inspires you and helps you not to get lost. And it's never too late to share. For example, we can make a living in the daytime, and immerse ourselves in our "talent" at night, during weekends, any free time you have. Work hard and be persistent. Gradually, our two goals will merge into one.
Hope this is helpful. Good luck :) !
George F Spicka
Compose Music \ Play Jazz Piano \ Curator of Paleontology
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George F’s Answer
Hi Jamal, in a way that's kind of what we all want.
I think that #1, it helps to be persistent, especially at the outset. Ae a friend of mine says, "The life of an artist is one of rejection."
That persistence is based upon ones belief in oneself, and that can be tricky. By that I mean, are we as accomplished as we think we really are, or are we being deluded by our egos. Even for the best there's always room to learn, so in a way, the lifetime of an artist is lifetime of learning.
It's also important to understand how the people you deal with really are. Ideally it's best to find people in positions of power, who are flexible in outlook, and understand the meaning of the word visionary. At times you'll hear of those who are "leaders" in the community but when you start to interact, they maybe more reactionary than you expected. That is, what was forward looking in their youth, over time, has become old fashioned, but they can't recognize it.
So to answer your original question, there is no one set answer. Everyone finds their own way through the tangle. Persistence is #1, alying what you learn along the way. And #2 would be to understand what motivates people. Are you just a "piece of talent," or do they envision something more.
I think that #1, it helps to be persistent, especially at the outset. Ae a friend of mine says, "The life of an artist is one of rejection."
That persistence is based upon ones belief in oneself, and that can be tricky. By that I mean, are we as accomplished as we think we really are, or are we being deluded by our egos. Even for the best there's always room to learn, so in a way, the lifetime of an artist is lifetime of learning.
It's also important to understand how the people you deal with really are. Ideally it's best to find people in positions of power, who are flexible in outlook, and understand the meaning of the word visionary. At times you'll hear of those who are "leaders" in the community but when you start to interact, they maybe more reactionary than you expected. That is, what was forward looking in their youth, over time, has become old fashioned, but they can't recognize it.
So to answer your original question, there is no one set answer. Everyone finds their own way through the tangle. Persistence is #1, alying what you learn along the way. And #2 would be to understand what motivates people. Are you just a "piece of talent," or do they envision something more.
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Carissa’s Answer
A superb resource is through
✦CDBaby- https://cdbaby.com/
They are a one-stop shop with tons of resources to get the ball rolling for cheap!
They've been around more than 2 decades, so yeah..... I strongly believe it's ideal to start here.
My experience has been surrounded by the jungles of the "Music industry". . . .
best to take it slow rolling until you have it down with:
✦Write- Create- Catalog- Repeat.
Waterfalls of knowledge and education are soul-draining. . . . I had to take a vacation from music due to brain overload.
✦Catalog -means you SAVE it from the public eye until you have 10 + to use/ flaunt/sell an album.
✦Reference Tracks, reference tracks, reference tracks-
Always use another song to look at for similarities in structure/ Tempo/ Textures you want to ultimately emulate.
Using 5 references can be even more safe due to accidental copying too much.
✦Facebook groups are a plus for finding more mentorship.
I hope this helps!
https://cdbaby.com/
Write- Create- Catalog- Repeat.
Catalog
Reference Tracks
Facebook groups
✦CDBaby- https://cdbaby.com/
They are a one-stop shop with tons of resources to get the ball rolling for cheap!
They've been around more than 2 decades, so yeah..... I strongly believe it's ideal to start here.
My experience has been surrounded by the jungles of the "Music industry". . . .
best to take it slow rolling until you have it down with:
✦Write- Create- Catalog- Repeat.
Waterfalls of knowledge and education are soul-draining. . . . I had to take a vacation from music due to brain overload.
✦Catalog -means you SAVE it from the public eye until you have 10 + to use/ flaunt/sell an album.
✦Reference Tracks, reference tracks, reference tracks-
Always use another song to look at for similarities in structure/ Tempo/ Textures you want to ultimately emulate.
Using 5 references can be even more safe due to accidental copying too much.
✦Facebook groups are a plus for finding more mentorship.
I hope this helps!
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