why indie artists and performers should not care much about making money at the start of their career?
It’s not necessarily true that musical artists and performers shouldn’t care about making money at all at the start of their careers. Financial stability is important, but the early stages are often better spent focusing on other aspects that will lead to long-term success and potentially greater financial rewards later. Here’s why:
Building a Foundation:
- Develop Your Craft: Early years are crucial for honing your skills, writing strong music, and refining your performance style. Focusing on making money might distract from this crucial growth.
- Build a Fanbase: Gaining exposure is key. Playing gigs, networking, and building a loyal following is more important than immediate income. A strong fanbase will eventually translate to more paying gigs and opportunities.
- Establish Your Brand: Solidify your identity as an artist. Experiment with different sounds, build a strong online presence, and define what makes you unique. This attracts the right audience and future collaborators.
Long-Term Game:
- Strategic Decisions: Don’t rush into bad deals just for money. Focus on building a sustainable career with ownership of your art. This might involve learning the business side of music to make informed decisions later.
- Invest in Yourself: Early investments like high-quality recordings, professional photos, and marketing materials can pay off significantly in the long run.
Financial Considerations:
- Day Jobs are Okay: Having a part-time job provides financial security while you pursue your music career.
- Seek Grants and Awards: Many opportunities exist for funding, like artist grants, competitions, or residencies.
- Focus on Value, not Just Money: Building genuine connections with fans and collaborators can lead to future opportunities with better financial terms.
However, completely ignoring money isn’t realistic
You’ll need some income to cover basic needs and essential career investments. But remember, financial success typically follows artistic success. By focusing on building your skill, fanbase, and brand early on, you’ll be well-positioned to reap the financial rewards later when your career takes off.
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