As a producer I’ve done a lot of work with artists fresh in the game, early in their career. Some of them will ask me some paraphrasing of this question
Do I have a chance of making it?
I’ve been trying to distill my response to concisely answer this once and for all. I usually end up responding with my own series of questions. If you’re looking for answers to if you’ll make it, if you’re good enough, wondering why it’s taking so long, etc. considering these questions should help you gain clarity. . .
How will you know if you’ve “made it”? What are your goals? How long do you expect it to take to get there?
If you don’t know where you’re heading, it’s easy to feel insecure and directionless. If you have a clearly defined end point, you’ll know when you’re headed there and have the awareness to change your aim when you’re not. Are you trying to be an international superstar or make a living doing what you love? I know for sure you can make a living with your music. . .eventually. If fame feels for you like a big part of your goals, consider this. . .
If there was no reward (fame, money, accolades) other than the journey of being an artist, would it still be worth it to you?
Imagine this: Maybe for all your talent, hard work, time and financial investment you don’t end up world famous. Maybe you don’t even end up locally famous. But maybe you’ll. . .
-make several albums of music that capture who you are and how you see the world
-perform your music in front of audiences
-star in music videos and photo shoots
-become more skilled at a craft than you ever thought you could be
-do some road gigs and experience tour life
-learn how to make a reasonable income doing what you love or take on a career that affords you the flexibility to still pursue music seriously
-meet great friends and lovers that share your passion
on and on. . .
Maybe that wouldn’t be so bad? And, while you’re enjoying the journey and putting in the work, maybe you’ll catch a break and become that superstar you dreamt of. Here’s how to definitely not be a superstar . . .
I’ve been pursuing this for two years and if I don’t make it soon, I quit.
I’m not going to put in the work if I don’t know first that this will make me famous.
There are no guarantees, only hard work and luck can take you where you want to go. Back to the original question. . .
Do I have a chance of making it?
By asking that question, you show that you need to refocus your “why?”. If the reason why you do this is to be rewarded with fame, money, accolades, etc. that’s probably not going to lead to a satisfying place. If that’s “making it,” then no, you most likely won’t. But if you’ve got something creative inside you that you have to share with the world and your definition of “making it” is having the privilege to do that. . .I like your chances of having a great adventure. Embarking on that adventure just might make you rich and famous too.
Drew Mantia
Feel Good Music Recordings
3146264270
feelgoodmusicrecordings@gmail.com