How to Stay In the Music Industry Despite Turbulent Times

Q&A article helping artists, DJs, and musicians pivot their skills to stay in the music industry during COVID and beyond.

In what ways have you seen COVID-19 affect the music industry?

The pandemic has been devastating for live entertainment, especially the music industry. It's been incredibly challenging for up-and-coming artists that want to get out there and play live. Now, all they can do is a live stream performance, but if they still need to get a large following, that can present its own challenges. The pandemic has hurt all artists, even larger acts had to cancel tours. Ultimately what we're talking about is tons of money lost for the artist, the promoters, also for the sound engineers, the lighting engineers, the stage crew, food vendors, security, stage techs, drivers, venues, and anyone who works in live music.

Furthermore, the pandemic has created a lot of self-doubt and uncertainty for artists. Some artists are now thinking about shifting to a different career or starting side hustles. Multiple income streams are the way to go, even during normal times.

What is the future of the music industry over the next few years?

The music industry is constantly changing, though the pandemic definitely threw a curveball for live music. What I believe is that artists need to stay focused on their principles. Of course, people have yet to learn what the future will be like, besides more streaming and technology innovations. Still, we can focus on sound principles such as creating great songs and great video content, staying engaged with one's community, and focusing on mental and physical health. When things start to open again, artists that spend their time wisely will get a jump on their careers because they focused on their music and marketing their brand when they couldn't do much else. I believe that people will be more excited than ever before about live music since we've been starved of it for the past couple of months.

Beyond the effects of COVID-19, what are common reasons why musicians have to seek employment outside of the industry they love?

When artists start, most don't already have hit records or a trust fund. Without a fan base, the primary focus is making money, paying rent, groceries, and car insurance. They have to figure out a way to survive. At the same time, it's good to work outside of music because work begets work. Being grateful for the ability to play music is essential. You have to be thankful and humble that you do get to practice your instrument, write music, and record.

Most artists don't realize they can find jobs with transferable skills that will help their music career beyond making music: graphic design, fashion, education, website design, software, programming, marketing, social media, accounting, business development, and working at a studio. Learning about money management is an excellent way for an artist to support their career when they're starting out.

What are the risks/effects of musicians leaving their industry (even if the intention is only temporary)?

Leaving the music industry temporarily can mean an artist will potentially lose their craft and passion. Even if you have another job, practicing music and writing songs is imperative to stay sharp. Having another job to support one's career is great, but artists must keep their technical skills up to par by practicing daily.

What are some creative ways to stay in the music industry but still make ends meet?

Getting a job working for another artist is an excellent way to learn the business. Knowing what strategy works for that artist and learning from their mistakes can help one's own career. However, remember that what worked for them might not work for your artist brand.

I'd suggest they get a job at a record label or help an artist that's successful so that you can be around them and see what they're doing to be successful. Learn from their successes and mistakes. Have an open mind about how you can be close to music without relying on the craft entirely, such as working in design, video production, or other ways to transfer your skills and still be around music.

What are the best ways for a musician to prepare for their future?

• Reevaluate business plan

• Keep writing songs or collaborating with other people to write songs

• Get to know yourself: figure out what you're good at and what you're not - collaborate with others to fill the holes within your own wheelhouse of skills

• Keep learning. In addition to learning your instruments and your music software, also study business and marketing.

• Spend some reverse-engineering the careers of artists that have careers you "think" you want. Find inspiration there as footsteps to follow.

• Decide whether you're in it for life. You must commit and decide to do this no matter what. It's okay to temporarily take another job or make other arrangements as long as you're committed to being an artist or a musician for life.

• Teach music lessons to other artists, which will make you better

What attitudes and values should musicians carry with them to help lead them toward a successful career?

Artists should do everything they can to keep a positive attitude and mindset. Have a great work ethic. Ultimately someone with less talent but willing to put the time in can equal or surpass talent. Beyond that, they must value their family, friends, and community. Thank them for being supportive. Always remember who was there to help you out because they will be there for the long run. A music career is a marathon, not a sprint.

Understand that there are waves of success with dips and plateaus. Find a way to push through the dips by reinventing, pivoting, and keep going. Understand that what worked for you in the past may not work for you in the future. The methods that got you where you are, but they may not take you to where you want to be.

Lastly, it is challenging for young musicians starting out to have the money to support their physical health. Your physical health can affect your mental health. Exercise, eating right, and meditation help you feel healthy mentally. Making music could be a form of meditation. It is essential to surround yourself with supportive people and be healthy because they affect us the most.

Justin Paul is an educator, music executive, and consultant. Visit linkedin.com/in/justinpaul or justinpaul.com for more information.