Why is it next to impossible to make it in the Music Industry? Is it really all about image and catchiness?

Answer 1

If it was easy to make it; everyone would be doing it. There are thousands of people out there that do make it and millions that don't.

Answer 2

Is it all about image and catchiness?
For the major labels: yes.
For the independent labels: not always.

The bottom line is in today's music industry. Everyone is trying to make a profit. They aren't interested in your artistic vision or what your music is trying to say.

They want a product they can sell. Yes, I said product. They are not looking at the music that you put your heart and soul into as an artistic expression.

You and your music are a product to be sold. How can they exploit your songs and make the most money possible until the next best thing comes along? Sound bleak? It may seem that way, but think about it this way.

Each industry has to make money to survive.

If you are a professional musician/songwriter/producer/etc., your job, instead of working at Starbucks, is to make music. The business people in the industry exist to make money from your music, so you can continue to make your wonderful music. Consider them a necessary evil.

The music industry is extremely competitive. Every thinks they can sing, everyone thinks they have talent, and a lot of people think that talent is all it takes! WRONG.

If you want a record deal and you don't want to get screwed, you better be polished, have experience, and be able to work your rear end off.

You have to have ambition and drive. Because you may be scraping by for the time between deciding to be a full-time musician and the time you make enough to support yourself.

So...don't quit your day job until you're ready for that.

Understanding the business side of the industry helps. If you have a college in your area that teaches courses in copyright and contracts, I would try and take them. Or do the research on your own.

With all the resources that exist on the internet, being ignorant of the business principles is not an excuse.


The most important things to remember

1. Get a good business manager as soon as you can afford one. NEVER pay a manager/agent that says you have to put money upfront. IT'S A SCAM.

2. Go to live music shows. Make contacts with other musicians, and get advice.

3. Get a good entertainment attorney, and never, I repeat, NEVER, sign a contract with letting your attorney review it and give you advice. It will be the best money you ever spend.

4. If you can, write your own music. You'll be more well-rounded in the long run and you'll make more money.

5. Research the terms (record labels, independent music, performing right organization, the big 4, copyright, record contacts, music publisher, artist manager)

6. Check out the sites (CDBaby.com, SonicBids.com, indie911.com, myspace.com-Music section, musicfreedom.com, songwriter101.com, musiccontracts101.com)

7. Buy the book The Musician's Business and Legal Guide by Mark Holloran. (And REALLY read it!)

8. Remember if you allow yourself to be screwed, you will be. I promise.

Hope that helps!

Answer 3

impossible music industry image catchiness

Answer 4

Its up to you. If its about image and flash to you, than you need to portray that catchy imagery. But if its about the music, than you will never worry about the image, money, shows, photos, and what not. You should focus on bringing a message. Whatever yours is, focus on it. And if that ain't workin', than you might be spreadin' a message that ain't you. Take a deep breath, ask yourself what your'e doin', and go with the most positive flow you envision. Not the most money makin'.

Answer 5

every little hick town has several bands and performers in it, many of whom are VERY good.

It takes drive, a willingness to sleep in your car for months on end, talent, image, and most of all-----a lot of luck, just being in the right spot when that one dude hears that one song that is totally yours and you are doing it perfectly that one time.

Forget about "making it" and take your music out there and have fun with it.

Answer 6

It is about sellability... can it bring in money for the people putting it out... Hey... I don't make the rules! I prefer Indy labels and such... it is a whole lot more work but without the detachment of intellectual property and without the hype.