I'm sure this has crossed your mind more than once as it is much debated and talked about in the music community. Everyone’s situation is different, but the short answer is No! Ask any of the music greats and most will say the same thing. I have personally, on more than one occasion, quit my job to pursue my djing and mixing business; it didn’t go so well at first. Sure I was making some money but not nearly enough to pay all the bills. I had a mortgage and other obligations totaling $2000+ a month and it just didn’t work. If you really do want to make the push, I would suggest keeping all your bills as low as possible; make sure you at least have a few consisted up that cover your living expenses. But again, I would highly recommend you do at least keep a part time job so you don't get too stressed and overwhelmed. The ideal situation would be to work a job with something having to do with music; whether at a music store, a record shop, your local church, teaching lessons, or an assistant at a production company. Really anything related to music so you are working every day with something you love, but also investing in your own music endeavors on the side.
Now whether you have a consistent job in the music field or in an unrelated industry, you want to always make sure you set aside a budget per month that you can use to invest in yourself. This could be things like marketing, getting new equipment, buying merch, or running some ads. Not dumb unnecessary things you really don’t need, but stuff that can really help you achieve your goals in the most logical way possible. I applaud you if you if you feel that much passion and drive and want to just go right for it; I have on more occasions than one as I said above. Some people can do this, some people have other means of money such as a rich family/investor where finances aren’t really an issue. If you do have this luxury, I would say to definitely go all for it and make the studio your second home; you are one of lucky ones. If you have the burden of bills over your head and/or have a family depending on you to put food on the table, I definitely recommend approaching things more cautiously. It may take a bit longer this way, but at least you are not putting you and your family in jeopardy of going broke. Make sure you do a comprehensive evaluation of what makes sense, don't jump the gun and think major music success will happen overnight. Prepare a solid plan that has all your bases covered. If you put too much stress on yourself, you will eventually get burned out and it may leave a sour taste in your mouth. Remember, slow and steady always wins the race!
If you want more useful information like this that can help elevate your music career, fill in your e-mail below and I'll send you my new EBook for FREE!
Comments