This may come as a shock, but “making it” in the music business isn’t just about having a lot of talent.
Some would even ay that talent has completely gone out of the window, if they were to judge the talent of the industry as a whole by the stuff that takes over the radio airwaves.
So, if it’s not dependent upon your incredible talent, what does determine your success?
Part of it is luck – the whole “being in the right place at the right time” thing. But that’s a small part – something akin to the little midget slice of pizza when you’re looking at the pie – it sticks out, but it doesn’t really contribute to the whole in a significant way.
What about basic business skills? Simple things like how to write an email without sounding like someone in primary school, showing up to gigs on time, following up or following through when you give your word, respecting people’s time. How far will those get you? Pretty darn far!
There’s no wonder that some of the most successful musicians have strong business minds (Lady GaGa, The Roots). They realize that business skills, even something as simple as basic professionalism, matter. They matter to the engineer that masters your upcoming release. They matter to the web designer who works their magic with your website. They matter to the event organizers who book you to ply their event, and they matter to the agency you’re pitching to represent you.
Basic professionalism can make you or break you, especially when you’re just starting out.
Never ever underestimate how valuable someone’s time is to them, as its the surest thing you can do to wreck your relationship by ignoring it. From late-notice requests, mis-spelled pitches, no call no show cancellation notices, to failing to return an email or give someone a ring back to confirm a project – remember to mind your manners.
Treat the people you work with like you want them to treat you – with respect, and as someone that’s trying to make a living off of what they do. It’s the golden rule that many people seem to forget.
Have any experience to share? I’d love to hear your stories – for better or worse. Leave them in the comments!
* Photo provided by Purple Phoenix