Everyone is always looking for the answer to the question, how do I become successful in this crazy music business? It's a pretty big question and somewhat misleading as well because it sort of implies that an answer to this question will reveal a specific method one can adopt, apply and, without fail, it will work every time. There are thousands of articles and blogs written daily about how to become a success in the music industry by doing all the things that you should do. They touch on things such as social networking, building a mailing list, putting together a tour, putting on a showcase, creating an EPK, how to record an album, the proper way to approach managers, publishers and A&R and on and on.
Although they can absolutely be a great help and by no means am I saying they're not relevant, there is really no magic path to the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. In fact, if you look at many of the successful musicians, singers and bands out there, you'll find that each of them has achieved success through very different means. I think it has very little to do with what you do and everything to do with how you do it and the attitude you adopt while you're on your journey. Don't let yourself get overwhelmed with all the advice that's floating around online. Really focus in on what resonates with you and just discard the rest. Take BIG actions in as many career-building areas as you can and don't spread yourself thin trying to do everything at once. You'll find that by doing the things that make the most sense to you, you'll be more productive and effective and you'll enjoy the process a whole lot more as well.
The absolute most important thing that you can and must do though, is be completely AWESOME!!! Make sure that you are 100% behind what you're doing and believe in it fully otherwise all of the above is irrelevant. Know that you're being the very best you can be with the creative side of your career; write the best songs you can and record them at the highest possible quality, put everyting you've got into your live show, create a strong image and brand, etc. You'll get attention from people who can offer opportunities that just may give you the push you need.
Here's a great article that I came across by Julien Smith, a New York Times best selling author of a book called Trust Agents. The Short and Sweet Guide to Being Fucking Awesome. Much of what he says in the article can be applied to so many different things, but try looking at it in the context of your music career and see if it stirs up any creative ideas or even just a burst of inspiration. Please let me know how it affects you if at all.
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