Hey Upstage Family! This week we are discussing how to be a DIY musician AND ask for help from others.
A DIY musician is a ‘do-it-yourself’ musician also referred to as an independent artist. It is the age of independent artists in this 21st century. Musicians are able to become successful all on their own because of the advancements of social media and education offered specialized in the music industry. To be DIY is right in the acronym, you do everything yourself!
The roles of a DIY musician:
-musician (obviously)
-songwriter
-recording assistant
-audio engineer
-producer
-promoter
-booking agent
And those are just a few…Everything listed above are full time jobs - and people get paid a lot to do just one of them! It is true that some of those roles are easier to fill as a small, emerging, independent artist. For example, being your own songwriter is easier when you are not trying to curate each song to the formula of a radio playing pop song. However, you still don’t need to do everything all on your own, that’s just unrealistic without burning out within a few years.
So, what can you do?
Create a circle of DIY creatives! Find other people who are in a similar place in their career and are in a similar creative field. There are numerous people out there trying to “make it” on their own just like you. And you can find them online or at local creative events like open mics or art shows. Find people to fill in the gaps of your career while you help them with their endeavors. You may still have to pay for services, but you will be paying people you trust.Even though it may be easier and more accessible to be a DIY musician today, it is still not a recommended endeavor if you are embarking alone. It really is crucial to have a circle of people you are able to trust and work with.
In conclusion, be responsible for the things you are comfortable and confident in, and ask for help and work with others when you need it – you will be better because of it!
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