djrootsqueen

How to Make a Living as a Musician (and Grow a Fan Base)

Despite all of Hollywood’s success stories, getting “discovered” isn’t as simple as it sounds. Hard work is part of the equation for most artists; here, Rude Girl Radio explains how to make a living off your passion for music, no luck necessary.

Become a Business-Minded Professional

Music may be an industry where guidelines are guesswork, and the “right” thing could be many things. Yet some standard business advice still makes sense even for creatives. From shaping your creativity into a brand to formalizing paperwork, taking your art seriously is an essential step.

Formalizing your musical endeavors into a business structure is often the best move. Forming an LLC is affordable using an online formation service, and the benefits include limited liability, tax perks, and flexibility. On a similar note, filing taxes as a musician can be complicated, as Turbo Tax details, but deductions for expenses could help you stretch your budget further.

Depending on your talent and goals, pursuing an agent might be on your to-do list. Though forming connections in the industry can happen through various mediums, an agent could fast-track your career development. A professional agent has relationships with venues, brands, and artists, explains Berklee College, but finding the right person to work with is the key to success.

Dedicate Time to Networking

Networking is crucial in most industries, with 80 percent of professionals saying they can’t be successful without it. Whether online or in person, networks help you find support, gain visibility, and even make better decisions. Finding new contacts is one way to network, while reconnecting with old acquaintances is another option.

Connecting with people you’ve lost touch with is as easy as using an online search engine for high school graduates in Atlanta. Quick results let you reach out and rekindle relationships, both business and personal.

Take on Gigs (of All Sizes)

Your goal in music might be to land a record deal or a high-profile partnership. To get there, it makes sense to dive right into the industry. Freelance work can land you paid gigs and help build a network of acquaintances who might lead you to bigger names in the industry.

There’s another important piece of the equation when working gigs: your brand. Being professional, prompt, and positive with everyone you interact with goes a long way toward building a positive reputation.

Personal branding should also extend to your media— your website, social media, and any marketing or promotional materials should align with your goals. Something as simple as a flier could help you make connections and schedule gigs.

Invest in Business Cards

It might seem old-fashioned, but business cards remain an excellent way to share your information. Handing someone a physical calling card makes a lasting impression, and you can personalize business cards to match your style and branding.

It’s unclear what the precise impact of business cards is on a company, but some sources claim they can boost sales. For a DJ or musician, putting your name out there is worth investing in printing business cards. There are several digital business card options out there as well.

Sell Music Products Online

Whether you’re a DJ, musician, or singer-songwriter, there are countless ways to sell music. Digital music downloads are one way to put music in fans’ hands and earn an income, but thinking outside the CD can boost your earnings and visibility.

Consider creating and selling music products like custom song lyrics, music classes, and tutorials. Or, monetize social media and attract fans with dance videos, challenges, and merchandise. If you grow a large following on TikTok, for example, you may receive sponsorship offers to promote other artists’ work or branded products.

Collaborate Whenever Possible

Collaboration takes networking a step further. Tunedly endorses collaboration as a way to learn new things, grow your audience, and lift up the music community as a whole. Approaching others with a collaboration pitch could benefit you both, even if you have different styles or fanbases.

Music may be a unique product, but managing your art as a business can pay off. From printing business cards to expanding your network and building relationships, there are countless ways to get your work in front of an audience and grow as an artist.

How to Build Success in the Music Industry

Countless people dream of capturing success in the music industry and making a living from their art. But let’s get real: the music industry is brutal, and it’s challenging to know where to start. The good news is that dedication, hard work, and strategic thinking can take you further than you think. DJ Roots Queen shares some tips on building a name for yourself in music:

Carve out your niche.

The music profession is incredibly diverse and always evolving. Finding your niche involves more than choosing a genre. There are many different job titles you can have in the industry, some of the most common being:

Musician: The traditional occupation of a musician is playing an instrument or singing, either for yourself or an audience, via concerts, clubs, or events. Musicians also compose music, often incorporating elements from several genres to create unique sounds.

Music producer/engineer: Producers and engineers play a key role in creating and curating sounds for specific singers or bands. They’re responsible for how a song sounds when it all comes together. These professionals record sessions, mix and edit tracks, apply sound effects, and master the finished product.

Music teacher/instructor: Teaching music is one way to break into the industry. Many music teachers instruct children with an interest in excelling at an instrument but without guidance on the basics. You can also teach at a higher level, such as tutoring students in music theory or helping professional musicians master their skills and music styles.

Songwriter: Songwriters write lyrics and melodies that make up songs. They work closely with performers and producers to create something new and captivating that will draw fans in from across the globe.

Set up your space.

Making a stress-free environment for your music is essential for the creative process. Whether it’s a home studio or a cozy corner of your house, designating an area to call your own will set the tone for good work. Invest in comfortable furniture, keep the space clutter-free, and add personal touches that evoke positive feelings.

Taking regular breaks throughout creative sessions can also help you stay energized and productive. Don’t forget to step away from the computer and enjoy some fresh air during breaks!

Create quality music.

At the end of the day, the most important thing is to make quality music that you believe in. Don’t focus too much on what other people think, but stay true to yourself and your creative vision. Take time to practice and hone your craft so you can create something that stands out from the crowd.

Build a network.

Networking is essential for success in the music industry. Start forming relationships with other local musicians, as having allies will provide you with moral support and access to resources like recording studios or performance venues. You should also make connections with producers, A&Rs (artists and repertoire representatives), booking agents, radio DJs, and other industry professionals who can help you get to the next step.

Promote your music.

You must get your music out there and heard by potential fans — and success in this area hinges on how much and well you promote yourself. Social media platforms are fantastic for connecting with listeners, so use them wisely! Create profiles on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, and other leading sites. Here are some other things you can do:

• Post regularly about upcoming shows or releases.
• Interact with other users.
• Comment on relevant posts.
• Share your music with influencers who can give you valuable exposure.
• Host giveaways or competitions.

While you’re at it, consider reaching out directly to media outlets like magazines or websites that cater specifically to undiscovered musicians and bands. Many of them will feature unsigned sign artists if they like what they hear.

Conclusion

Pursuing a career in music can be rough. It requires dedication, hard work, and lots of networking and strategy. But never think it’s impossible.

Remember to determine your niche, set up creative space, focus on honing your skills, and follow the other tips above. Take it one day at a time, all the while believing that you will reach your dreams!

Would you like to read more helpful content or hear my mixtapes? Visit DJRootsQueen.com today!