Tell us a little bit about what you're up to, and how you make money from music?
I'm currently working on several different projects at this time including: A few instructional courses for guitarists and composers, working with an up and coming pop artist "Olivia Somerlyn," and composing for media. Along with this, I also teach Guitar and Songwriting/Composition lessons privately and to small classes.
I make money from all these different avenues of music and I believe it's important for musicians (who aren't already stars) to keep the "door" open for other opportunities at making some money through their unique musical skill set. Whether that be teaching, performing with artists, licensing your songs, or even appearing in a film as a musician (this is what I did for the 2009 Feature Film "FAME"). With that said, it is also quite important to understand your strengths so you can prioritize that which you spend the most amount of time doing.
Could you give your general thoughts on the music industry today?
The industry today is truly open to everyone and this is mainly because of the internet/social networking sites. It's now almost mandatory for an independent artist/band to not only be familiar with these social networking tools, but also use them to their advantage in creating/maintaining a loyal fan base.
Labels still carry a lot of weight when it comes to promotion and distribution; however it is now completely possible to make a living as a musician without being signed.
What do you think the future of the music industry will be?
Good question. As technology progresses I eventually can see the industry turning into something where one of the world's most famous artists is a guy who isn't signed and performs/records directly from his house (we already see this a bit w/ youtube and other sites). Digital distribution will be dominant, internet promotion will rule, and the independent artist will be completely empowered.
I think a few big labels may still be around, but most of them will be replaced by small internet business that offer promotional/distribution services.
How do you see yourself fitting into this New Music Industry (NMI)?
It works perfect for me, as I am very picky about who I trust (especially when it comes to my music career). I can see myself fitting in well and taking advantage of the technology made for independent artist empowerment.
I see the New Music Industry (NMI) as holding great opportunities for the average musician to make a living. What are your thoughts on this?
Absolutely. I mentioned a lot about what would be available for artists above, but I think that other musicians (session guys, producers, etc.) will be able to take advantage of the advanced technology as well. We're already hearing great music created by people who live nowhere near each other (Record in their own studio, send it to the next guy, etc.). So I can only see this growing to a point where the artist/session guys/engineers etc. don't even have to meet face to face to make a record.
I see the role of musicians changing. There is a need now to create your own career, so aspects of business and entrepreneurial spirit will be just as important as musical skill/talent. Can you describe any other skills you have developed to help create the career you want.
Becoming educated on business matters is very important for every single musician. If you're not up to speed, then you are truly hurting yourself... so I agree with you there.
As for other skills, I believe it is absolutely essential that you are Passionate, Persistent, and Patient.
You must be absolutely passionate about what you do, so it doesn't feel like work. Trust me, you will spend many more hours at "work" than many of your friends who work 9 - 5 jobs. You also must be very persistent in your thoughts and actions, no matter if that means keeping in touch with old business partners or constantly promoting your latest album. Last but not least it is essential to be patient. That doesn't mean you do 1 thing and then wait for it to come to fruition, but instead you must understand that everyone in this industry is very busy. If you send an e-mail to a musical supervisor about licensing one of your songs and don't hear back from them in a week, that doesn't mean they hated what you sent them. It just means they are very busy and haven't had time to get to your submission... a week or two later it would actually be very appropriate to check back with them to see if they've had time to listen.
How will musicians make money when so few people buy music any more?
It is true that pirating has negatively impacted record sales, but it is still very possible (if not more so now!) to make money as a musician. You can teach, do session work, compose/license for media, make instructional products, and record/sell your own music but promote it in a unique and more valuable way!
For example. You're a relatively unknown artist and just finished your first album. Great, but why would anyone want to buy it if they haven't heard you? Well, they wouldn't at first, but if what your selling is more valuable than 10 songs, then the person will be more inclined to buy it. Why not add some merchandise to each purchase of your album? Perhaps you could give out a free lesson via Skype w/ each purchase?
There are a million things you can do to not only sell your album, but create a database of loyal happy fans. Once they buy, you can keep in touch with them and they will be more interested in your future releases. Its a fact that most business comes from repeat customers.
What's your idea of a successful musician?
My idea of a successful musician is very simple. Someone who loves what they do. It doesn't matter if the piano is a hobby or your main vehicle for making money. Success to me is happiness.
Thanks to Chris for this interview and Tom Hess for helping mentor me in the world of music business.