Music is often intertwined, and musicians approach their work with unrealistic expectations. Musicians can become obsessed with small, unattainable goals that are too vague or unrealistic. This can lead to musicians focusing on smaller successes in exchange for bigger ones. Here are three unattainable musical expectations you should be aware of:
You don’t need to work hard to succeed in music.
The first unrealistic expectation in music usually separates lifelong musicians from those with a temporary interest who quickly move on to other things when things get difficult. Although it can be very enjoyable to write music or perform shows, it is not easy. It takes hard work and sacrifice to be a successful musician, from routing tours to investing in money. It is important to find joy in being a professional musician. However, if you don’t want to put in the work, it won’t be possible for you to become a successful musician. While making music for enjoyment is fine, you need to put in the work necessary to find listeners for your music.
One day I’ll only be able to focus on my music.
This is a difficult one. It would be nice to live in a world that respected the hard work of musicians. But we don’t. Even the most successful musicians have difficulty making ends meet. But, being a professional musician is indeed difficult. No matter how successful you are in music, the expectation that one day you will be able to concentrate 100% on writing and performing songs is unrealistic. Every musician knows that there will come when they need outside help to keep the ship afloat. These are where accountants, managers and labels, as well as publishers, come in. It is not a good idea to let other people handle your non-musical career aspects. Many musicians are taken advantage of and sign poor contracts. Even though most musicians don’t become superstars, it will still be part of being a serious musician to write emails, route tours, negotiate contracts and promote new releases.
Music is only good if I’m making money.
It is false. You deserve to be paid if you are a serious musician who works hard to create music. Unfortunately, audiences buy as much music as possible for very little money. Even for musicians who have many listeners, this means there isn’t much money. Money is vital for all musicians, but it shouldn’t be the only measure of their success. It’s a hard pill to swallow, but it’s what it is. It is better to plan how difficult it will be to make money from music. It would help if you had a plan that allows you to be creatively and financially sustainable. Some musicians may need to take on side jobs that don’t focus on their music. Others may find it impossible to work in music.