Three Favorite Things (New Discoveries for 2009)
A) Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings. I have been a fan for a long time but they continue to impress me. Saw them live again this year and I can’t believe they have continued to get better. They run their own label and do all of their music marketing and promotion themselves. Truly musicians who have built their music career without the help of any major corporations.
B) It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. I know I’m late on this but I finally got into this show. Why is it great shows come around only when I have more work than I can handle?
C) Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl – In spite of the ambitious title this is one of the most profound books I have ever read.
Something You Learned This Year About The Music Industry
What have I learned about the Music Industry this year? More than the last six years combined. I learned that there is no longer such a thing as insider information. I have met kids in college who have learned and absorbed music and information in months what took me years of trial and error to amass – while this can be humbling, I also think this is one of the coolest things about the digital age. I have also learned that information without a goal and a plan to reach that goal doesn’t amount to much. What I have come into contact with again and again is that there is no “right” answer to the question “How to make it in the music industry?”
2010 Primer
I’m not sure 2010 will vary greatly from 2009 for musicians and music executives. I think the focus should always be to make sure you are making a better and more interesting product. As in the past few years I think we will all be served by conducting our business as if there is no help coming from anyone and to remember that no single agent, manager or music executive will ever care as much about your career as you do and therefore won’t ever make as much of an impact on your career as you do.
About You
I am available as a music consultant and music business coach for musicians and executives that are overwhelmed by the struggle to distinguish themselves from the growing numbers of aspiring artists out there. I am working on continuing to build my website Musician Coaching and consistently creating meaningful content that will be helpful to musicians who are trying to make a living. I am constantly trying to learn as much about emerging technologies and making sure that I am familiar with every online and offline marketing strategy that is being used by both emerging and established artists so I can be the best at what I do.
