Music Minute Monday: Things I’d Tell My Younger Self (Artist Edition)
Last week was a particularly introspective one with the celebration of 5 years of showcases coming up, as well as going to my alma mater to find an intern for the Fall semester. I remember attending those internship fairs as a student, specifically, my senior year. I was hoping for an internship that could turn in to a job, which I got thankfully however, that’s a different story for a different time. The vision of where I’d be and what I would have accomplished by now was very different when I was 21 compared to the reality of where I am now.
With talking to so many students the other day, I realized there were things I was saying to them I wish someone had told me and some things I had been told that have either rang true or, were completely false. So today’s Music Minute Monday is all about what those things were and what they mean today.
This industry will only work as hard as you do.
My voice teacher, Bruce Bennet actually said that to me my sophomore year of college in regards to the Belmont Music Program and I didn’t realize it was something I’d be reminding myself of a decade later! It’s a version of “you get what you give” but in regards to the music industry, everyone is competing to get their “dreams.” So, while yes, there is an element of luck in this industry, it’s mostly about staying focused and working hard towards your goals every single day.
To quote Taylor Swift, “You need to calm down…”
The world is not ending because you’re graduating. The world is just beginning and there is SO much you’re going to experience. Keep the goals in mind, and stay focused, but also be nicer to yourself when things don’t work out. This industry is competitive, and for every 1 gig that says yes, 5 more will say no. It has nothing to do with you or your talent, it simply has to do with space and whether or not you were a good fit.
Learn to say No sooner.
Not every opportunity will lead to something better, and you won’t miss out or be left behind if you choose to prioritize certain things over others! Sleep & self care are just as important as the hard work you’re putting in. Unfortunately, there are people who will take advantage of those who say “yes” all the time. They’ll continue to drain your energy, waste your time, and redirect you in directions you don’t want to go until you draw a line in the sand. Boundaries are important, self care is important, and the word “no,” is a complete sentence.
Time is a currency. Spend it wisely.
In the same vein as the previous point, I said “yes” to every single money making opportunity that came my way, and every gig that was offered. That in turn, occasionally lead to me chasing down paychecks that would barely cover my electric bill, and Your time has worth and value, treat it just like you would the money in your bank account. It’s precious and needs to be allotted according to what you can and cannot afford. You can afford to work hard. You can afford to go out with friends sometimes. You cannot afford burn out. You cannot afford not having time alone to recharge.
Don’t be an asshole.
Seriously. This is the simplest one. This town is small and gets smaller the longer you live here. Work hard. Be Nice. Everyone talks to everyone else. Make sure when they talk about you, it’s good things.
As always, take this with a grain of salt. The Music Industry is a fun and exciting place to be but, it can also be intimidating. You’ll be fine, just keep breathing, and keep going!
If you’re still nervous and want a space to meet artists, musicians, and industry women alike, come hang with us next Tuesday, March 26th at 3rd & Lindsley for our All-female showcase! Use code STUDENT15 to get a discount!