Valuable to others, or only you?
2010-07-21
When I'm hot, it's hard for me to imagine that others in the room are cold. I think it really is hot, not that it's hot only for me. It feels like fact, not opinion.
When I do something that's really valuable to me, it's hard for me to imagine that it's not valuable to others. I think it really is valuable, not that it's valuable only for me. It feels like fact, not opinion.
This is common and understandable. Our personal perception feels real. It's hard to see things from another person's point of view.
This is also the core of the “starving artist” problem.
When someone creates something that is really important, powerful, and valuable to them, it's hard to imagine that it's not important, powerful, and valuable to others.
But money only comes from doing something valuable to others.
The starving artist pours his heart into personal expression that's incredibly valuable to him, but not (yet) valuable to others. That's why no money comes.
The good news is there are two ways out of the starving artist problem, and either one can be fun.
1. Focus on making your art more valuable to others.
Art doesn't end at the edge of the canvas. Keep going. Constantly think of the audience point of view. Constantly ask, “How can I be more valuable to them?” You may come up with ideas like:
- Convert what you do from a public display to a personal service. Every work is customized for hire.
- Spread a fascinating version of your history, so they can get interested in the person first, and art second.
- Be more entertaining, so that people don't need sophisticated tastes to appreciate your art. (Watch the scene in Amadeus where Mozart honestly loves his friend's low-brow opera.)
- Use scarcity. Make your shows invitation-only.
- Engage more senses. If you're a visual artist, incorporate audio so even the blind would love it. If you're a musician, make a live performance so visually interesting that even the deaf would love it. Can you even incorporate smell, touch, or taste?
- Push to new shocking extremes to give people something to discuss afterwards.
- Go where money is already flowing. Adapt what you do to match the needs of businesses, holiday resorts, hospitals, universities, etc.
Then force yourself to try all the best ideas, even if it seems unnatural at first. Read books about business and psychology to get more ideas, since many brilliant minds are asking the same question from a different perspective.
Keep doing this repeatedly, paying attention to feedback from others, and you will become more valuable.
Though if you find in the long run this makes you more miserable than excited, try the other way:
2. Stop expecting it to be valuable to others. Accept it as personal and precious to only you. Get your money elsewhere.
Sex with my wife is very valuable to me and her, but luckily I'm not trying to make it valuable to others.
If you stop expecting your art to be valuable to anyone but you, your conflicted mind can finally be at peace. Do it only because you love it, and it honestly doesn't matter what anyone else thinks.
You might even keep it private like a diary, just to be clear who it's really for.
You'll probably be happier with your art because of this change in mindset. Ironically, others may appreciate it more, too, though you honestly won't care.
Nice article! You have really opened my eyes to the whole business side of music in a very direct way. Instead of just regurgitating information you tell us in a way that would be beneficial to us. Because you know at the end of the day we just want to get our music out there. Thanks again!
I just knew, by synchronicity, that this article was going to be relevant to my situation. Just today I've decided to give up music for good. I do it because I love, but I feel so insane to love something that no one else feels about the same way. Does anyone relate to this? Derek, your article probably applies to people who aren't crazy like me.
Great article, as usual. Thanks!
Direct and cogent writing, as usual.
And it applies to any creative output, not just art - including software, writing, and to some extent, even scientific work and research.
i have always felt like I have something to share through my music; however, it is still uniquely mine and I only do it because of how it makes me feel. It doesn't take a scientist to realize that I am not making a killing at what I do; however, I have a group of dedicated and loyal listeners that appreciate and relate with what it is I do.
Thanks, Derek! As always, you words make a lot of sense . . . . .
'' Do it only because you love it, and it honestly doesn't matter what anyone else thinks.''
This is what matters most!
If your art is so unique that people don't understand you then your art creates isolation and misunderstanding. Its good to be original yet sometimes its lonely.
Wow, lots to think about. I want my music to be successful, and everyone loves our performances and my harp playing. So why isn't the money coming? Maybe I need to become more about the music and the audience than just knowing that they will like what I do???
I am always trying to see "what value is this to others?" Am I giving them outlet to what they might otherwise not say? And I do music in many forms (music therapy, drama, ect) and I do see music, and try to put pictures to it, just don't have the video equipment yet...but I will one day. Though I love the Rock Opera.
Peace!
Inky
awesome.
just as i released my new website & music video this past week, after more than a year of working steadfastly with people offering their time, energy, talents & expertise to manifest my ideas, reading yet another of your notes feels totally accurate - great timing again! keep sharing the wealth derek ~
Very true Derek. As an artist I get caught up in all the to do's in keeping up with the industry. It can be stressful when you put all this pressure on yourself, so when you keep your expectations low and realize why you create art in the first place, things definitely become easier. Thanks for this, I need a reality check from time to time. Cheers!
Seems like the choice between 1 and 2 might go a long way to answering a related question for artists: Should I combine what I love and trying to make money?
If 1 sounds good, go for it! If you're more into 2, make peace with having a day-job and be glad for the separation.
great insights Derek..thanks!!
Option 1 has been a long time coming, but I get it now. It's less about "Look what I can do!" music, and more of "Look what you inspired!" music. Bringing the fans into the story behind the music. Sharing that story with others. I'm starting to focus exclusively on creating piano music inspired by my fans...each composition inspired by one fan.
Option 2 seems almost selfish. If you have something beautiful and creative to share, then share it. Don't horde it. Give it as a gift.
I write in my diary a lot, but it's not selfish of me not to share it. I find I write more freely when it's only for me. -- Derek
Thans Derek, you have made me think. I wish others loved my songs as I do,so I could get more play and feel of accomplishment.
Certainly no disagreement from me with the truth and veracity of your words and conclusions, but now people like you and me are at odds with the preponderance of "conventional wisdom" which perpetuates the lie of "do what you love and the money will follow". And people wonder why I've had sixty jobs in my lifetime. "Do what you love" and far more often than not you will indeed starve to death simply because attaching money to passion is like leaving a twenty-dollar bill on the nightstand: You reduce making love to prostitution. (Oh, wait: Isn't that the theme of my book? And yes, I'm starving.)
Put this way, perhaps:
The distinction is between what's "important" and that which is "expedient".
It's expedient I "work" to make money to buy stuff and pay the bills.
My life is important.
So yes, you're correct: The world doesn't give one damn about my life, only my labor.
I've thought about keeping my music private... it seems I've effectively done that anyway without trying. If I only make my music for me, and if people could just listen to it or not, I wonder if I would be able to sleep better at night...
Nice article. It is always good to take a look with a different angle. Thanks for sharing.
Derek;
Great contribution! "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver" (Proverbs 25:11)...I miss your expertise at CDBABY!
Peace,
Peter
thank you Derek!
this is perhaps the # 1 reason everyone in this business fails - not understanding the value proposition. well said.
For me when creating music, I'm expressing outward something that's coming from inside of me. I do it to please and express me. If one or a million others like it that's great, but if no one else likes it that's ok too. If I try to create music to please others, it's a endless battle. How I promote and present what I created is the business side of music, that doesn't come into play until after it's been created.
I like what you say
I totally agree, Derek.
After people gave me years of feedback that my music was 'healing' to them, I've recently released an hour long 'Healing Piano' album. This was a shift from me subjectively thinking my music was just interesting melodically, etc..
art is always valuable...
Frank Zappa described the style of his music with one word: PERSONAL.
Studying all of the art forms (drawing, music, writing, design, photography, etc.) will help you learn to TELL A STORY with whatever it is you are making.
Not sure why so many people gravitate towards music as a pure, elusive, magical artform that must never be combined with other mediums.
Maybe scraping a pick up and down the strings and mumbling is boring, generic, overdone.
Forget about the instruments, chords, and scales... and just tell a story. People will listen.
The second one would be good if it weren't easier said than done. Too many people tell themselves they're only in it for themselves only to keep being heartbroken because they lied to themselves.
People don't pay for music anymore(at least in Brazil they don't).Be number 2. Make it valuable to yourself. And be happy. Derek is the man!
Mixed or maybe confused on this article. I think it has good points, the best being, "do it because you love it". That's what I do...even when the people who are supposed to love and support me...don't...I am persistent and keep on keepin' on because I love music and it's a part of me. I am always thinking of ways to get my music out to people through advertising and different fan bases as you suggest like universities, hotels, etc...but sometimes others look at it as a means of "selling out" not doing it because you love it. I guess that's where my confusion lies. Sometimes I doubt myself whether that makes sense.
To Alex - I was saddended when I read your line "you gave music up for good". If YOU truly don't love music anymore, give it up, but please don't do it because someone else doesn't understand or appreciate your music. The way I look at it, God gave me musical talent and I believe it was to share it with whoever would like to hear it...even if it's one person. I've been getting beat up lately about why I spend all the time I do on my music and that I'm a nobody because I never made it famous, but then I received a message from a little girl's mother. She brought her little girl to an outdoor event my band sang at...she thanked me for signing my CD for her and talking to them at the event and that her daughter was so inspired by me that she now wants to be a country singer. THAT's why I am persistent even through the tough times. THAT's why I do it...to make a difference in someone's life.
Sorry this was so long!!
Hi Derek,
perfectly valid and valuable points here but want to add a spin to #2. Sometimes the best work really doesn't catch folks until later - maybe after we leave Earth. I believe even those of us who are not dead set on fame & fortune make art for the whole world, whether or not anyone is listening. Might be valuable to others and they don't know it yet. If we really feel this is the case and want to decrease our starving quotient, I like the advice you've previously given on the other side of this coin - 'starting a movement' - realizing people may really not like your work - you may even piss some folks off - this could be a sign that we are hitting a nerve in the culture that might need to wake up. We never do know, but following the call is satisfying.
Bonsoir Derek, you definitely are very direct & to the point in this article of very sane advice.
Where there is a will there is a way, how bad do artists want to take their own talent in order to let it live on. An artists creation shall always be valuable to themselves which means it should with the right approach also be just as valuable to others, as you mention, change things up, even if it is for sanity purposes only at the end of the day one will feel better about themselves
"If you liked the comedy, good, if you didn't like it, great." - Pietro Aretino, Italy 1492-1556.
In a way, I don't care about what anyone else thinks and in another way I need people to find what I'm doing valuable. It's fun, it's fascinating but part of the goal is to generate an income and for me therein lies the challenge.
rada
But if the goal is to generate income, then you DO need to focus on being valuable to others! You can't not-care what anyone else thinks. -- Derek
wow - timely reminder as i prepare promos to send out to my dream labels. it has to be valuable to self in order to come from the heart and therefore be of value to others, n'est ce pas?
thanks for reminder not to seek approval/recognition in order to appreciate value.
ever learning, ever expanding...on the priveleged magical mystery tour i find myself :>
"If you stop expecting your art to be valuable to anyone but you, your conflicted mind can finally be at peace."
God, this is *so* where I am right now. Thanks for this.
I've learned to relax and not worry about what may resonate with other people, and lo and behold, sometimes it does. I've written songs that expressed something I wanted to express, but honestly didn't expect anyone else to like them as I do, and guess what? Those are the songs that get the most airplay and most people say they love. Do it cuz you love it, and the rest will follow.
I love your articles, Derek. They're direct, helpful and easy to understand. Thanks!
I wish I could wake up every morning, write and record music and make a comfortable living from doing so.. and am doing everything that I am willing to do to achieve this. while maintaining respect for self, in my eyes. I think personal conflict comes from wanting something for the wrong reasons. I do not seek fame, rather success, though it comes with the territory. you can't make money off of art if you don't present it. I think desperation shows.. and if you are happy with yourself and satisfied with what you produce, then that in itself is payment enough. I imagine that someone who was doing something entirely for monetary gain or ego would become bored and move on to whatever venture presented itself as an easier means to fill that void. I do what I love first.. and scrape together money second.
Thanks Derek. You usually make me laugh and/or think. You did both.
I do like creating/writing/ performing music for myself but I also analyze and adjust aspects to make it more valuable to others as well. Or at least I hope I do.
Hey Derek,
Your words have always had a lot of meaning to them...I read all of your articles, and rarely write the comment....but I almost always forward it to my bandmates, and crew to discuss at round table time...."Starving Artist" to me is a frame of mind. While there have been times in my career as a musician, and a producer that I have been short for cash, I NEVER felt it was that I was not sucessful at what I was doing.
I thought I had better manage my money better!....I have been lucky!....I have a great band, a nice studio, built into the house I own (bought with money made doing music)...I do not have a lot of cash to throw around, but what I have I choose to spend wisely....no starving involved...I just work hard...at what ever I do!....music or 9-5 job...you can "starve" either way!....I just choose not to!...So for the people who are about ready to throw in the towel, make sure that you were managing your efforts/money right before you do give it all up.
good luck to you all
Chris
My friend Tom MacDonald said one time to me "If you're playing music, you are successful!" He loves making music, and it has little to do with commercial success. He has a strong following in this community, because he not only is a great guitarist /singer/songwriter, he also has a great sense of humor. You not only get to hear this wonderful music wherever he's playing, he makes you laugh too. There's the art, and the entertaining. So that's one side of the coin. If you love it, do it. The other side is figuring out if anyone is interested in what you're doing. If so, then you have to do the business. More wise words came from another old friend and neighbor of mine, the late Utah Phillips, who told me "There's the art of music, and then there's the business of music. We all have to do the business too, Maggie." Or words to that effect.
This just seems like a new way to be an elitist. 'Go to shocking extremes?' What like Glenn Beck or some sick reality show? And why should i assume that my audience is too dumb to get a complex idea? Why should i be afraid of trying something new or 'unpopular' in my work? "Tell a fascinating story of your history." This is all about marketing. It is all about our star-struck personality-driven culture - which i want to challenge, not succumb to. It has nothing to do with making art and they ARE NOT THE SAME.
You are a business man - nice for you that you made a million at it. Every artist is not trying to do that. And if all artists did it this way - the world would be full of the same ol same ol. The tyranny of popularity kills art. It is like living in high school forever. yes be of service - but as a person in the world, not IN your art. And don't confuse the two.
What the 'masses' want has been CONSTRUCTED by the mass culture machine - the top 40, itunes, big radio, t.v. - and i am all for the artist who is brave enough to step outside of that and say, yeah, i am going to challenge my audience to step out of their perceptual biases - oh sorry I used another big word -
Don't ask people to dumb down. Not in these times. We need to be encouraging people to think, to be really creative all the way, not sit back and wait to be catered to.
Because really, the world is on the brink, and dumbing down, turning your art into sensationalism or self-help slop, or bowing to the almighty dollar is not going to fix anything - and in doing that, you will not be doing your true work, unless your work is to be a market-teer, self help guru or 'personality.'
I think though there is nothing wrong with considering your audience, to a point, if you want to make money. BUT you only do that AFTER you find your voice, AFTER you have discovered what your contribution is as an artist, and what your art is meant to be on your terms - that is the hard work, and much of it is done lonely, but it is SO very worth the doing. And if you do it, the audience will come to you.
Anything less is a tragedy, a silencing, a cop-out - and to suggest it just seems like anti-intellectualism and anti-art to me.
It is a sort of reaganomics for artists. A tyranny of the marketplace that kills the spirit and soul of art.
Brother who commented and said you were ready to give up - don't give up - you just have not found your people yet. Be YOU ALL THE WAY and you will find like spirits and community.
I think I know the people you're talking to, and though I'm a starving artist at this particular moment, it's not me.
Charles Stross said in the introduction to his recent collection of short works, Wireless, that writers do what they do because they *need* to communicate. The same need to communicate applies to many songwriters, of course.
I had moments of trying to convince myself that I could just do it for myself and still be satisfied when I wasn't yet sure I had the insane commitment to plunge in, be a starving artist (for just a little while mind you), and be 100% committed to one goal. But when I spent many hours working on songs, all the while thinking of the pleasure they would bring myself AND others, then didn't have time to promote them and felt I was shouting into a void, that was truly frustrating. Now that I quit my dayjob I don't have the 1,000 hardcore fans an artist supposedly needs to support themselves, but I have 200 and growing and I'm willing to live on beans so I can keep playing and writing, for their sake and mine.
This is a long way of saying I pity the fool who has that NEED to communicate through music but can't marshall his/her talent and hard work to make it valuable to others.
Great post Derek,
especially the last paragraph.
Would you write about how people complain about how hard it is to 'make it'and do that really well, like it's their job? I have several artist friends whose music I think could do quite well commercially if they got it into the right hands. But there's always some excuse about how they've been rejected by everyone (when I press for details it turns out they only sent it to a few). I think people's biggest barrier to success is their bad habit of constantly focusing on failure, almost as if that's what they really wanted.
I think the heart of this article is about following your bliss. When you're true to yourself and true to your art, it attracts people, but not everyone. One who tries to please everyone will always fail as there are too many varieties of taste and appreciation. As an artists adapts his art for the mass media it often loses its essence. I opt for number two and believe it will make one more successful spiritually and economically.
Derek my man, don't ever stop doing what you do...
I would go a step further and say that if Art is what you create you first need to embrace step #2. Once you have accepted this step, you can move onto to step #1 always keeping #2 in mind. Even the most private of Artists will hold value to others and they need to find the way that works for them in connecting with others and sharing their art, for pleasure or for monetary reasons. Art should never place money above it, as soon as it does it stops being Art and becomes something else, something disposable, which the World shows you, many people also enjoy.
Art absolutely needs to be shared with the World at some point, whether now or later. Each Artist needs to find their path and follow it, trusting their gut to make the right decisions. Use the force, don't force it...
Your article makes sense. And as artists we have to accept these realities. I will add that the technology that has given so many of us access to communication with potential fans has also created the noise that has helped make music harder to sell. I am constantly receiving notices on Facebook to attend somebody's show or buy somebody's latest recordings, and it gets tiresome. Everyone is chasing the same limited supply of dollars. I'm sure that my notices are seen as tiresome at worst, amid a cacophony of others at best. When you reach someone with your music, it is rewarding. At the moment, I am struggling financially, however, and I wish that more people understood that by supporting the art they enjoy with their dollars, it helps the artist continue his or her work.
love that! There's a book called "The Gift - Creativity and The Artist in the Modern World" by Lewis Hyde that addresses this issue from a life changing perspective (though Derek's life changing post is shorter!) http://www.amazon.com/Gift-Creativity-Artist-Modern-Vintage/dp/0307279502
"Advertisers control the music biz and God help the artists whose songs or lifestyles fail to endorse the consumption of bling-bling. Maybe I'm doomed because the only product I want to sell anybody is the bling-bling of awareness."
p.s. a comment on my comment - I sound angry - and actually I apologize for that. The article made my hackles stand up. I am tired of having artists told that they can't live from what they do because they don't make themselves 'useful.' That is a huge generalization and a falsehood - and does a disservice to artists. Many of them are extremely 'useful' spiritually - if this does not translate into money, IT IS NOT A FAILURE. Our culture is very anti-art - it is militaristic, materialistic and does not support the arts or education. Artists blame themselves. They shouldn't. We need to change our culture. But meanwhile, keep doing your art as you see fit.
I'm following number 2, but I resonate somewhat with Kimmerjae's point. It takes the disappointment sting off a bit if I just go ahead and make my music and write my words with the presumption that my work will be valuable to someone someday, someway, perhaps long after I'm gone. If not (and I'll never know, eh?), then at least I am following a path with heart and I am doing that which is most satisfying in life - creating.
For me it all comes down to the expectations we put on others. If we would let go of expectations we would free ourselves to enjoy our natural relationship with our music, loved ones and even our own short comings.
Normally, I write a song because it's there in my head. I originally write it because it's entertaining and at times challenging to me and I get a great deal of joy from writing it. I have so many things that I have written and never shared with another because I honestly ask myself, "Is this just for me or could it benefit, or be enjoyed by others." Sometimes, I write a song (totally different process with struggling involved and normally not as good as the ones that just show up in my head) because I see a need for such a song. (Now isn't that funny that I see a "NEED," sounds like EGO to me.) Lately, I find myself doing this less and less and sticking to what comes along naturally. I find people naturally gravitate to the songs that come through me rather than are built by me.
So I guess I'm trying to say more to myself because I need be reminded, "Drop the expectations and just be natural and see where that gets you."
Actually, having sex with your wife is also valuable to me...
Excellent! Excellent!
What I do as a musician became more valuable to me when I (finally) determined that it should be valuable to others first.
#1 for me is that listeners find value in my music. This affects how I approach each composition in its recorded and released formats. But it's a positive affect!
I cannot claim the bucks are rolling in...but I am much happier now than when wanting to be known as "somebody".
Michael
Spot on as usual Derek. Thanks
As always Derek, you whet my appetite!
Hi Derek,
Good thoughts, as always. But I don't think it has to be either #1 or #2. Why can't it be a combination of both? Sometimes I write/play music for the joy of sharing it with other people and making them happy. For example, I might go out and perform a bunch of covers, letting the crowd tell me what they want to hear. I also just helped a friend write a wedding song for her brother's wedding. Both of those are quite gratifying. And quite often I get paid to do it, too.
Sometimes I write/play music completely for myself, and to express what I want, without the input from others. Sometimes I get paid to do that, too. (Festivals, concerts, CD sales, etc.) And there's a whole grey area in between where it's sort of half and half. The point is: if you're an artist, of any sort, you live your life by making art. Just like anything else in your life, there are times to share, times to go with the crowd, times to be private, and times to be in between. I just make music wherever and whenever I can.
Peace,
Julie
You always pass on something worthwhile. Thanks
This is article is correct in many ways. If it's money you want you gotta do what everyone else is doing. Sorry. But if you do it cause you need to make art for you. Then don't expect anything but your creation. Be proud and always do better for yourself.This has a longer self life.Peace
To the point of "Go where the money is flowing" - honestly the best place to go would be the Department of Defense.
Think having the DoD fund the arts is crazy? One guy's already done it in theater: http://www.kpbs.org/news/2010/feb/09/theatre-warbrings-greek-drama-camp-pendleton/
Making music is an extension of yourself. It is important to you because it is a part of you.
As far as the thermostat (being hot when everyone else is cold), we always have a battle over whether its too hot or too cold in our house. I usually lose.
I like this a lot!!! It's right on time, and let's me know my musings about visuals, controversial lyrics, etc. are correct. Thanx!
Thanks. I needed this. Most of what I write is very political or critical of society, and, quite naturally, most folks don't want to hear it, because my INTENT is to make them uncomfortable, to make them think.
Kenny Loggins once said (and I paraphrase) that when he tries to make everyone happy, the song usually stinks, but when he writes for himself, at least he's satisfying one person.
I think I'll stick with that.
great article! I truly enjoy the articles you send out.The second half of this article is were I'm at .Took me a long time to figure it out though.LOL!!!
Hey~ how about an article on being famous!
I would like to make more money at what I do ,
BUT~ I know and have worked with very famous
artists,and I am always at odds with there life styles,good or bad. Not a place I want to be.You really have to want to be famous to live like that 24~7
your thoughts
BB
It's great to feel what can do poor persons.
ataboy, it has always been true but easier now to share. Do what you love as much as you can do it and to the best of your ability. If someone else likes all the better.
Hi Derek,
I follow both:
"1. Focus on making your art more valuable to others."
"2. Stop expecting it to be valuable to others."
As even thought the two don't seem to work together very well,
ironically, (for me) somewhere in the middle is where I am at peace.
Example: Viral Song - Pass It On!
A song about helping the poor, feeding the hungry, healing the sick, stopping the wars, and making global warming history)
http://www.viralsong.com
I produced this song / project for myself, and was inspired by the concern for my 4 year old daughters future. And I don't expect the style of music, and or the message to be of value or current concern to everyone.
I feel the song is valuable to "me", and I'm happy that I did this, but it's now also my job to let others hear it, and hope they realize how valuable it really is to them as well.
Arnold.
Great article. I live in Nashville Tennessee and work in the music industry here, and this place is filled with starving artists. A common complaint about the Nashville music industry is that it is a freelance driven scene, and no one wants to commit to a “band”. Over my decade here so far I have worked primarily as a “hired gun”, be it on tours, recording sessions, or nightclub gigs. I have done my own projects on the side, but often found it difficult to find good players to commit to these creative projects for little to no money. This is simply just the way it is, and understanding and accepting this is crucial. No one will ever care as much about my music as I do.
So while I continue to work in the “business” side of the Nashville music industry, I consciously work towards regularly engaging in the creative and spiritual sides of music. I play some shows with a local classic rock band, attend some local blues jams, and continue to write and record my own music. I even still practice my guitar after 32 years of playing, just for the sake of being good at it. Rather than going for the “big prize” like the typical starving artist (which doesn't really exist anyway), I simply work towards earning a living, and make sure that I enjoy every musical experience as much as possible along the way.
Wow, another fantastic post, Derek. My mind is already swimming with ideas from this, thanks, you rocketh!
Every artist should be required to do both. You don't grow until you see the effects of your art on the world...Then there is that part of your art that doesn't care what the world thinks. And most of the time it is our best work. Van Gogh had no idea his art would find such worldly value. Maybe the starving artist icon and the works of our 'diaries' are our best chance of immortality. Or, do both, as I suggest, let others find value in your work (it's painful letting others slice and dice your creations, I know) but you might enjoy the gain of that process...while you're alive.
I have been blessed and quite fortunate to hear, from some of the listeners of my CD, that my music comforted them, or moved them. I hear the word comfort often. I know I'm on track by those things said.
One guy said of my music, it is "making me cry n sh*t." I got goosebumps from that one and considered it the highest compliment I've ever had (contextually related to the source, of course).
This is timely to me. I'm in a state of transition with my music approach and trajectory and these differentiating perspectives nail it. Thanks Derek!
PS: I can't hold a day job for sh*t.
Have been trying to remember to not be quirky when working w/ others (as evidenced in your earlier article!).
Artistically speaking, I believe my stuff is my "service" to others.
I have a coworker who says, "keep it real," to which I typically reply: "but if you're going to be a fake, be a glorious fake!"
Art for fun, art for hire, art for the people - As long as it's art - It's all good!
I've managed to make a living in the arts for over 30 years and one lesson I have learned is to forget about trying to force my work on the cool, snobbish, elitist, "in" crowd and be thankful for and make myself available to those who DO appreciate what I do.
Yet the artists with the most loyal followings are often the ones who are the most personal and idiosyncratic. The last thing I would want is for Sufjan Stevens or Rickie Lee Jones to start worrying about what "the audience" wants. If your work doesn't have compelling emotion and meaning for YOU, how can you expect it to have it for the audience? In fact, the answer could be the opposite: make your music MORE personal, MORE vulnerable, MORE idiosyncratic. Have you gone far enough? But there are no career guarantees either way because you can't control your times: Van Gogh sells for multi-millions now but couldn't get arrested in his lifetime. Check out Bettye Lavette's recent interview on Tavis Smiley: she sang for 43 years before audiences began to value her work. Does that mean music was a glorified "hobby" all those years? There's a false split being propagated here. it's not either/or, it's both/and.
Keep doing it for Me (that is, You)!!!!
Life Lessons from Charlie Chaplin - Speech Charlie Chaplin gave on his 70th birthday
As I Began to Love Myself
As I began to love myself I found that anguish and emotional suffering
are only warning signs that I was living against my own truth.
Today, I know, this is “AUTHENTICITY.”
As I began to love myself I understood how much it can offend somebody
As I try to force my desires on this person,
even though I knew the time was not right and the person was not ready for it,
and even though this person was me.
Today I call it “RESPECT.”
As I began to love myself I stopped craving for a different life,
and I could see that everything that surrounded me was inviting me to grow.
Today I call it “MATURITY.”
As I began to love myself I understood that at any circumstance,
I am in the right place at the right time,
and everything happens at the exactly right moment.
So I could be calm.
Today I call it “SELF-CONFIDENCE.”
As I began to love myself I quit stealing my own time,
and I stopped designing huge projects for the future.
Today, I only do what brings me joy and happiness, things I love to do
and that make my heart cheer, and I do them in my own way and in my own rhythm.
Today I call it “SIMPLICITY.”
As I began to love myself I freed myself of anything that is no good for my health—
food, people, things, situations, and everything the drew me down and away from myself.
At first I called this attitude a healthy egoism.
Today I know it is “LOVE OF ONESELF,”
As I began to love myself I quit trying to always be right,
and ever since I was wrong less of the time.
Today I discovered that is “MODESTY.”
As I began to love myself I refused to go on living in the past and worry about the future.
Now, I only live for the moment, where EVERYTHING is happening.
Today I live each day, day by day, and I call it “FULFILLMENT,”
As I began to love myself I recognized that my mind can disturb me
and it can make me sick.
But as I connected it to my heart, my mind became a valuable ally.
Today I call this connection “WISDOM OF THE HEART.”
We no longer need to fear arguments, confrontations or any kind of problems
with ourselves or others.
Even stars collide, and out of their crashing new worlds are born.
Today I know THAT IS “LIFE”!
amateur
ama= to love
teur= to do
To do it for love whether the $ $$ are there or not is key
☺♪
☺♪☻
☼ stay "sunnyside up! " and keep trying to perfect your writing even if you succeed financially or not.
cdbaby.com/artist/petephlapps
Do what you do. If it doesn't suck you will have to work it.
remember you audience!
music does not owe you a living... and you do not owe music your life (starving or otherwise). do it because you love it with no expectation and you never know how things might shake out. just keep doing it in your own way...
Hi Derek,
I agree on your post...
...however I think that most of great artists created music just the way they liked, being "accidentally" popular.
I think it's hard in music (and in art in general) both to create something great AND to focus rationally on being valuable by others.
Ok, maybe Britney Spears teach the opposite but...
Anyway, I agree with the theory.
Ciao,
Gabriele
Timely advice again, i would add - that each starving artist has some some grounds of negotiation that they hold sacred.
I for one refuse to let my art bow down to supply and demand, specially if it is from where the money is backed by an agenda favoring a Government, Religion or Corporation.
I believe my art represents certain values that i would rather die believing in, than sell out short of what i hold sacred.
My latest song (on the blog link), is about artistic journey in yearning, loss and self-discovery. The part i wrote and recorded last night quotes your advice to be an extreme version of myself.
Thank you for being your extreme version of yourself.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OqwCEhzeMEA
Hey Derek,
Nice piece!
Would you agree that a reasonable balance comes from riding the wave between these two extremes and doing both simultaneously? Let the music come from the heart, but if the guy in the second row wants to hear Straight No Chaser, well… play it for him! Or, if the community wants Beethoven, don’t schedule Schoenberg. I think the starving artist situation becomes the starving artist problem the moment an artist uses the word “should.” You know… “People should appreciate my work more,” or “People shouldn’t be so into XYZ,” or “I should be making more money because of ABC.” As a good friend of mine says when I use that word, “Stop it! You’re shoulding all over yourself.” Art first… money second… expectation/reality gap smaller… happier… better art… more money. Paradox. But, hey, not much in life isn’t.
Enjoyed your article!
Derek..great editorial... When developing product programs for national retailers... first rule is... "identify who the customer is..." ...my career started in retail as a corporate buyer for a national retail conglomorate.
FIRST rule for a music artist... YOU... the music should be from and for YOU.... if it is marketable... if their is an audience for your music...and you can make a living off of what you love to do... PERFECT...if not... your music should be your HOBBY..
~Rhonda
Thanks for this great advice Derek, so true!! Now to find where money is flowing, I've worked on the rest for a while now!
Hi Derek. I'm a No.2 kinda guy for better or worse. Though in personal and professional matters (as opposed to artistic), at some point I got the idea if something wasn't good for someone else as well as me, it couldn't be good enough for me. Perhaps, that's made for some less than advantageous strategic decisions. But hey, I'm happy, and at the brink of 70, I just got a commission from Berlin for a piece for John Cage's centenary in 2012! So I guess some of what I've done has been OK for one or two others. That's enough for me! I'm impressed by stadiums of 40,000 + people listening to music altogether (and paying for it), but it isn't something I need to keep going. I intend to keep going as long as I want to and/or can. I remember how shocked Darius Milhaud was in Aspen back when, when Benjamin Britten was there for some award. In his speech, Britten spoke about how important it was to "please" people. Milhaud's career was directed in a very different direction. Well, in certain areas of art, that "pleasure principle" IS important. We all have to pay the rent somehow. But I think always of Van Gogh, who only sold 2 pictures in his whole life. I respect his sacrifice and am profoundly grateful. I'm grateful to you too, Derek. All the best as ever, jpt
If I remember correctly, deepak Chopra says in The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success to turn the typical thought of 'What can you do for me?' into 'How can I help?' In other words, if mass appeal is what you're after with your music, what artistic service can you provide that solves a problem or fills a niche your audience is missing?
A product, service, or work of art is only worth what someone will pay for it, but its meaning, significance, relevance, and impact can be invaluable.
I've had people tell me that I'm the most business-wise musician that they know - to which I respond "If I'm considered good, then we're in trouble."
I've been pursuing it for 30 years, working on my 7th cd, (with probably 4 albums that shouldn't see the light of day) and really never made a dime above keeping the business itself going.
I've sold about 8,000 cds and roughly 50,000 downloads / plays.
I had success when I wrote music that spoke a language that appealed to a specific group of people (Pagans) and did the music well.
At 50, I'm giving myself permission to lay the perfroming down, and after I finish this record, I'll be looking at different ways of raising money. (We did the Adopt-a-Song thing starting in 1991 and it's not working in this economy. I'm 4/5ths of the way through the project and nearly dead in the water.)
It's easy to confuse art with therapy. Art communicates with an audience, therapy provides a catharsis for personal growth. My tastes run to music that speaks to big ideas - why we're here, the awe inspiring universe and our place in it and brings that awe down to a place where people can a handle on it. I've been lucky that some folks have found it "useful" - and really the best most of us get is knowing that our work did something for the people who heard it.
Translating that into a living? Now *that* seems to be magic...
s'great that big d. "Sex with my wife is very valuable to me and her, but luckily I'm not trying to make it valuable to others" is an lol and a point nicely made - i find your wee blog valubale, thanks for doing it
"Art doesn't end at the edge of the canvas" that's a statement of genius - we often forget to apply our creativity to the business side of what we do.
Business can be art too!
Derek,
That's our intention!
We make music,books,clothes,and other products and services that empower not just ourselves but the purchasers as well!
Today to be successful you need to help as many others as you can.
For more info....paythecreator.com
This is the way I feel about and perhaps it will help someone.
"I don’t do this for reward or financial profit. I don’t live my life in order to acquire approval or to enhance my standing. I live to share the pleasure I feel from my work with you. I seldom have a map and rarely do I push, often to the dismay of many."
It works for me.
These two methods/approaches are really the yin and yang of art. It is through the tension of the need to create and the need to make a living that art is created. Many, many artists when asked how they did such great work, say, "I was just trying to make a living."
However, they weren't trying to earn their daily bread by digging ditches - they chose art.
I think your choices are that you can either make pleasing people part of your art (different from developing the art of pleasing people) or wait until the gears of your creative output and the Wheel of the Universe turn and mesh.
"oh the world owes me a living.. I think I'll go out and collect" - old song, where is that from?
anytime I worked on something musically, I thought, this is what I do, it's fun, and I can do it endlessly... and the results well-exceeded my expectations.. not that you don't handle business, but it's like a message in a bottle, toss it out there.. Duane Allman said, "a song is a gift to the world." It's a way of giving back, isn't it..
Great article Derek.
I guess the underlying question then is: Is your music a business or a hobby?
Well it sounds like you are saying "if you want to be successful then you have to avoid being too personal and imagine what the general population wants or can handle and if need be, dumb it down for them." Maybe I am misreading it...if that's true then according to "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron you have just created some major creative blocks for yourself that may be difficult to undo.
The second part of your topic makes it sound like "if you are unique and before your time you will never be successful so just sit in your living room and don't even try to find others who might share your vision." I can't believe you mean that.
Maybe we should ask Bob Dylan what he thinks...that would be interesting.
You're projecting some meaning that isn't there. #1 = Do your art, but then think of how to make it even more valuable to others. Could be just context or publicity. #2 = If that doesn't make you happy, then don't. -- Derek
Being an artist, has to be self gratifying, as far as making money, it goes back to that old saying, you have to have money to make money, But what do I know.
There's a middle road between options 1 and 2, and you've discussed it often. You expect that your work won't be valuable to everybody, but that some people will get it. Then you figure out where to find those "some people."
I'm a writer - not a musician - but your advice applies to every creative field. Being of 'service' to others is not as selfless as it sounds - if it didn't make ME feel good to do it I wouldn't be doing it! Giving of yourself to make other people 'think' or 'feel' or 'be' somthing more than they were before you came into their lives is the greatest gift any artist can give... and if you can make money doing that it's just a perfect world!
I have an amazing musician friend who writes incredible lyrics with stories behind each song - BUT when he gets up to perform he doesn't share the stories behind the tunes with his audience; they are being deprived of a huge chunk of the big picture. Derek's advice to "be more entertaining" and "engage more senses" is spot on!
As a writer, I write about my life experiences that I know other people have lived through and will relate to. People love to know that they are not alone in this crazy world and if we can reach out through music, art, or the written word and if we are fortunate enough to touch lives in doing so then we are truly blessed.
Thank's, Derek.
Very interesting!
Regards,
rauldelcorte.com
What a great teaching moment! I wish I had taken comfort in this principle years ago it would have saved me many irritations as to why no one thought I was a awesome as I did/do.
For the past few years I have found contentment in my art for the few copies I do get to share with people who "get it" - in fact I have been suprised by it - since I learned the principle that Derek has so eloquently penned here. Al great lesson for the next generation of upcoming artists. We must understand this or else the best art (not necc the most comercial) will cease to exist. If you want to be rich, make commercial music or find a great paying job, or start your own business where you can make a load of money, if you wish to be content with your art, Do so with the understanding that you are your own ultimate customer. Over the years I've been involved with five CD releases. There is only one I still listen to. It is the only one I would still release today (+5 years later) if I could do it again, its not the most commercial, but its the only one that I wrote for myself. Its also the best selling of all the CD's, because it was released on a label. I still havent seen any real commercial success, but there are people I'm not related to or personal friends with, who will pay for it. - not to mention the tens of thousands of illegally downloaded copies that are out there on peoples ipods (thank you Pirate bay and company)- which I dont really count as 'fans', still, some people support their artists, others simply dont care. Its reality, almost everyone thinks music is free. I dont see that changing - ever, so get over it, Make your music the best you can - I feel strongly that you should make it for yourself and you'll be happier than if you wear yourself out chasing the eternally elusive brass ring. I do believe that a work of Art is not complete until it finds a wall to be hung on. That means, when you are truly happy with your work, hang it up and let it be seen. If only a few happen to glance at it, be content with what you are given.
Derek has done alot of things right in his life. I'm pretty sure he's exposed his less than perfect side as well. We are all fortunate to know him. Thanks for another great lesson.
Thank You!
This is valuable to me - and, by the looks of it - to a lot of others as well.
All Best to You,
g
"Keep doing this repeatedly, paying attention to feedback from others, and you will become more valuable."
Some really good advice here Derek.
I do have to add, however, that sometimes it isn't the art itself, but the technology. A songwriter who writes great songs, but does not have the money, equipment or ability to have them recorded to "radio quality" is at a serious disadvantage in building an audience, even if the songs are winning awards from songwriting critics. The artist should make every effort to find someone to help overcome this deficiency in the way in which their work is being presented so that it can reach a broader audience.
Sometimes it's a matter of marketing also, in that your simply marketing your art to the wrong crowd, whereas if you focus on a different crowd, all of the sudden they love it and your a huge success. The vastness of the sea can make it hard sometimes for the fisherman to find the fish; even if he really wants to catch the fish and the fish is wearing a neon sign. So the artist (fish) needs to communicate & receive feedback on finding where the fisherman (buyers) are.
Oscar Wilde was a starving artist. But his artistic works are now considered great. So perhaps he felt that it was necessary to deprive himself to compel him to create better art. Or, perhaps his works were ahead of their time; too controversial for the society & times in which he lived, their greatness only to be appreciated after society had undergone significant change.
While Derek has some great points, my point is that sometimes lack of success is not due to the merits of the art itself but to other factors that are beyond the control of the artist. But ultimately you do have to eat, so perhaps you should find some way to accomplish both your artistic & survival goals - hopefully by constantly examining ways to make your art more successful, if that is actually your goal, you will find a way to survive on your art - which is the best of all scenarios. Do not get discouraged, be better, smarter, & more determined!
Hi Derek, I started to do the latter years ago and it's worked pretty well for me so far and as you say, it takes that burdon of 'worthyness / financial reward' off the music so I can enjoy it. How's the world tour going then? Say hello in Liverpool if you make it this far! Love and kisses, phil
To paraphrase another post of yours, there are always more than two choices!
Somewhere between the two, or in a gray area of the first:
What if the primary goal of your art is to connect with other people, not necessarily to make money? If that connection happens it is most certainly valuable for both parties, but at the same time for that connection to be real, your end as an artist has to be the most genuine it can be.
In this way, choice #2 above feeds #1, and vice-versa...The artist follows his/her love and heightens the quality of the connection on their end. This, in turn, makes it more valuable to those the artist is connecting with.
Of course, this all assumes that there is a connection in the first place.
OK, enough running in circles!
I go by the second way
another approach is, if you are trying to please lots of people and get money from so doing- you are likely on the wrong track as an artist. maybe you could do commercial jingles.
instead you might focus on getting in touch with yourself more deeply and pay attention to what is deep inside your creative soul--nurture that, express that. Most people will walk, few will stay-- those few are who are digging the art coming out of the real you. you will be growing as an artist.
Those fans will be inclined to protect you because you've actually taken them someplace where they've never been --or couldn't get to, or couldn't hear it before through the din.
but you got to let them come and go too,on their own journeys through life.
peaceout/luvup
When we become desperate to just get our music out there and have it heard, that is when the industry and consumers take advantage of us and gives us less than our music in worth.
music being derek,
usually i gust want to piss on your feet, something i learned from my dog.
but
that was a wonderful bright on read.
but
when i love myself
my honey calls me a jerkoff
but
she loves to watch
and then takes me out to dinner.
bright musical ways
ian the being
The timing of this post was just right for some decisions I have to make. Thanks You once again, Derek.
The advice that I made the motto of my career: "Find existing communities of people that will love you, I suggest nursing homes."
I have done over seven thousand programs in senior facilities, and I have been in nine hundred preschools. Both of those communities of people love me and I love them!
If a tree falls in the forest,
but no one is around ...
does it make a sound?
~~~~L A M M Y AKA MR. TRUE~~~~
Maybe it's not all black and white. If you love your art chances are at least a hand full of others might too. Make it because you love it but don't hide it away- you may just be doing that because you fear criticism. That is why I liked cd baby so much- maybe you sell a hundred discs in a year just to complete the "circuit"
how about a balance of both? possible? producing what is important to you and highlighting/selling what becomes valuable to others... TH
i was thinking, any artist that waves a starving flag, is probably not putting the art first
Indeed my whole site is designed around #1.
All I needed to know was that millions of people need legal instrumentals for their youtube videos. And that seo was the way to deliver...
So from songwriter to composer/seo blogger.
Dano
as usual ... I do agree
As many have pointed out, I think balance is the key and for me perserverance is the way. I just remixed a musical I wrote and recorded in 1979. I transferred the analogue 24 track recordings to digital, pitch corrected and mixed with automation not available in 1979 plus adding all the bells and whistles. I guess the answere to my perserverance is whether John Q is ready for it and, of course, is it out of date. Love your challenges Derek. Keep the faith...jack
Do something valuable to others as you would have them do something valuable to you.
Timing is everything.....
Hi Derek,
Yes, as usual you make a lot of great points. In today's market if you don't sound like a la so and so as far as songs go you're not going to make it sadly. Making the song universal, and staying true to your vision of songwriting is the way I have always done it. If anyone would like to listen my whole catalogue is at www.acidplanet.com/artist.asp?songs=717684&t=7094. I am diverse musically, and please come in and take a listen. I'd love your feedback. Thank you. CBrian Wilson & Illumination
This seems to be the paradox of success and failure rolled into one post.
Ultimate happiness for unfulfilled aspirations may lie with self perception and self satisfaction. If you cannot be avant garde for the world, remain avant garde for yourself.
If you could be rich and famous, but miserable in your art
OR
If you could be happy in your art, but poor and destitute
Which would you choose?
Why can’t you be rich and famous and happy in your art? Few ever get it all.
Whatever you do, always realize those fine lines we cross into extremes of life decisions?
Stay true to yourself because once that is gone, nothing else matters.
Stay balanced and remember Yahoo...
You Always Have Other Options!
One of the things to not misconstrue in this is the notion of "doing what other people want" regardless of whether it is valuable or meaningful to yourself. For example, people love to have me around to clean out their flooded basements. Not always absent value to me, but not something I should do often or set as a goal because people want or need it. Be aware when you are asked to do something that is valuable to someone else, that it's not really something that someone else should really be doing for them rather than you doing it yourself. There are jobs or requests for music which I turn down (I'd rather clean out a flooded basement). Be yourself first as an artist, then go find those people who want the kind of thing you do, find your tribe, rather than expecting everyone's statistically averaged tastes to form your audience's profile.
I strongly feel that we have over-saturation on many levels, and most people have no idea what is valuable to them in terms of art and entertainment without being told by the media, advertising and the accompanying megoliths and Middle-Men. This makes it clear why you can be frustrated financially even if you get confirmation at every show that people at the show value it: but how do you get more people (who will also value it) to the show? Middle-men of labels, presenters, venues, festivals, etc. that are very bottom-line driven have to take some chances if you don't sound just like Valuable Band X, and this is a rare attitude in my experience.
I support the comments from L. Song. And others recommending a balance of this paradox.
Think of the old snake-oil salesmen archetype: value is a perception, if you can manipulate perception, you can impart value. This is intertwined with but separate from actual content, and has grown to be so much more important than the actual content, especially in the "soft arts" of art, music, writing, entertainment, theater, film where preference is basically opinion, and especially in our Golden Age of Technology and Media which can in which most of us are basically told what to think and what to like.
While this Derek post seems like pithy, practical advice, it is not a healthy philosophy for evolution within the arts. I am glad it seems to clarify things for some readers, but this is a paradox that requires a give and take between both extremes from self to others. Still, the results of that process seem at the whims of the Middle-Men (who represent their own interests primarily), as with so many other megolith entities.
Everything seems to be nested business models within business models, and you cannot deny the trend of regurgitation overtaking innovation in the past 2 decades (how many remakes of 60's movies were there in the 80's? Seems to be many more now...).
I like useful business advice, and although this seems practical, i.e. Economics 101: supply and demand, it does not really clear anything up for me.
I am not complaining as much as desiring a clarity in what seems to be increasingly murky confusion: the old equations do not apply, i.e. hard work=success. I feel that there are likely as many "starving artists" writing the next pop-chart topper as there are dada performance artists, likely more, so how does this supply and demand advice help those populist-seekers (the core of the advice) make the necessary connections to generate income?
I think it's hard for musicians who happen to be adept at business to understand that not everyone is adept at or enjoys business, artist or not, and they can be mutually exclusive in many cases. The "starving artist" is more likely someone who does not like certain parts of The Game even though they excel at what the game is called: Art. This sets up a conflict right away. It would be like if every farmer had to participate in a gladiator match every Saturday to keep their land: the winners would be farmers, but being the best farmer would have nothing to do with who won.
Great point! As always!
Thanks.
re #126, Cornelius Boots:"Think of the old snake-oil salesmen archetype: value is a perception, if you can manipulate perception, you can impart value. [...] especially in the 'soft arts' of art, music, writing, entertainment, theater, film where preference is basically opinion, [...]"
Such as TV/radio news and newspapers?
I am not aware of any jazz musician friends of mine who got into jazz in order to make money. Perhaps there are distinctions to be made when talking about musicians. I for one don`t enjoy appealing to the lowest common denominator. It is unfortunate that unlike the past, these days in order to be successful in an art like jazz, one must be an internet expert, communication, sales, promotion, marketing, businessman, psychologist, graphic designer, teacher etc... all rolled into one.
Big questions!!
I agree with you, Derek, on the main points. If you aspire and need to make money with your music (any art), then you have to make it accessible and worry as to what others think. If you don't, then one has to come to peace with an idea of creating for one's own enjoyment, sense of meaning, inner satisfaction. An ideal thing would be not to have to compromise and make your stuff accessible and low-brow, but raise the audience to your level (provided that your level is a model), where you are taking them. Wishful thinking.
Talent is a mystery, but most people agree it's 90% persistence and hard work. And to be at the right place at the right time matters.
Great topic. Could probably go on for more.
Best,
Julia from Boston
I appreciate you attention and
suggestions. Any help is always
welcome .
Frances
It's an old conflict, isn't it? Do what you love, or sell out. Is it art or business? Or maybe, is it art, or entertainment?
Completely resonate with Ken (Post # 22)
Ken Tribolini (2010-07-21) #
For me when creating music, I'm expressing outward something that's coming from inside of me. I do it to please and express me. If one or a million others like it that's great, but if no one else likes it that's ok too. If I try to create music to please others, it's a endless battle. How I promote and present what I created is the business side of music, that doesn't come into play until after it's been created.
As a punter, I can tell you two steps to making your art more valuable to me:
1. Say what you're going to do;
2. Do what you said.
It should be easy. But I have too many experiences of bands who forget to email me about gigs, refuse to make their contact details publicly available (are you in business or not??), expect me to become their facebook friend to keep updated, don't say what time the gig starts or don't start when they said, advertise a new CD but then don't have any available ... etc, etc. If you don't act like you care about your audience, I find it harder to care about your art.
Do something because you love it - because you may not get immediate fame and fortune from doing it. If you love it, you get instant satisfaction just in the doing of it. People will like it or not but meanwhile, you're getting the satisfaction of following your creative path. I recently set up my keyboard at a nearby outdoor venue and the response was so great I wondered why I hadn't done it sooner. I make money, sell CDs and get tons of positive feed back! I thought I was making this big sacrifice but it turned out to be hugely rewarding. So I say: Put your work out there if you love it and you will always come out ahead. The approval of others is nice but it should not be the essential reason we (artists) do what we do.
I absolutely love this article. Thanks for sharing. Sage Words of Wisdom.
I like the article. It actually made a lot of sense to me, i know may artists that have given up far too quickly.
As for myself, for the last few months I have been working on a personal project about myself, for myself, however, in a public forum... At the moment it doesn't matter to me that nobody is paying much attention because I am not really promoting it anyway...
It is there for anybody to see, but I happy just to get it out. It's one of those projects that have been clogging up the idea bank and it is time to release it, mainly for my own good and development.
Thanks for the article
Thanks for posting to the dense and simple people. We need all the help we can get.
Well Derek, I have met many people who only know how to do things one way. Either A:For Them or B:For Others. This is not just art related, but Life in general. You can give a road map on how to be a different person, but don't expect a person to change without a drastic life changing experience. I have seen people go from one to the other... but again, very rare do I see ambidextrous people.
Indeed....... what is art for? is a big question... WHO is your art valuable to?.... if it is valuable to the people around you.. your community... even a cyber one... if they are inspired to create, express and use art, music, dance as integrative forces in their lives ....then it is very VALUABLE... because it keeps a meaningful and Free creative community alive... If all we had is industry driven culture... the world would be a much less beautiful place...Whether being valuable to a small community makes you any money is another question. In short I am saying.. there is something in between making a good living out of your art and just doing it for yourself... Thanks for making us all think Derek : )
Another fine ovbservation by you, Derek.
I pretty much live by your second observation. I create the music because it makes me happy. If people like it, then it is a bonus. But I was going to create the music anyway because I do it for me.
Having said that, I still seek ways to try and find something that I am comfortable with in your first observation. But what I want to do in that sense requires money that I don't have. So I do the things that I can afford and work patiently on trying to achieve the bigger goals.
So by applying what I can achieve successfully with your first observaion and constantly reminding myself why I do this, as portrayed by your second observation, I maintain my sanity (even though the creative process of music does this for me anyway). Therefore I rejoice when one person comes forward (without being coerced) and says they really love my music. It all becomes much more worth all the effort than I imagined!
Love your Attitoode!
Solitoode
I think part of the journey for musicians - maybe all of it - is figuring out where we are on the spectrum. How much positive feedback, if any, do we need from making music, and how much non-music income-earning can we tolerate.
I am about to quit the "dayjob" I've had for seven years because the gigs have gradually disappeared as I have had to pass up opportunities that wouldn't pay as well as a day at work. I had to make those choices because after a few brief stints of homelessness, I realized being homeless isn't as romantic as it sounds, and I needed income that was not being generated through musical endeavors. Now I have a couple of months of funds in the bank. I am going to focus on writing, gigging, recording, and see if the world is willing to provide enough income from that, enough that I won't have to work a full-time desk job, anyway!
And if I earn nothing, at least I'll have some songs written and some recordings made.
How about expanding #1? As well as becoming more valuable to 'them' directly, isn't there a role for education so that 'they' learn to appreciate what you have to offer? Fitting in with their conceptions of value is important, but so is disrupting their usual conceptions of value. Bend but don't buckle!
Derek
A great article and always shows the many sides of an issue.Hope you had a chance to check out our new video it'll be aired on CBS Sunday Morning Sept 12th
I think you have the order wrong. First you LOVE your work - regardless of whether someone pays you or not, then you see what you are willing to do in order to sell it.
It's lonely at the bottom!
Anyway, the whole world's wrong!!
Good story and food for thought as usual.
i love how the comments are numbered 1 - 0 and then start again. it's like when Korn did a CD with the first track numbered 13. i think it's time for junk food. gotta go.
I was just talking to a music partner of mine today about how you have to find a way to share while encouraging others to join in.
First, you have to do it because you love it- it's the gift you have that you share. Not everyone is into the style I write but most people ARE interested in helping others.
Second, I use my music to help others. I have found that people want to be a part doing good things that help community. It's what I call the "EVERYDAY HERO EFFECT" because it gives everyone a chance to do something good AND in return they feel good. They listen to my music, and participate in my campaigns/missions and together we change the world -viola'.
You always have good things to share thanks Derek.
My friend and I started writing tunes eight years ago with scarcely a thought given to letting others hear them... Two albums and an ep later and we still write what we like but the fall out is that others love it too...
Do it for the love of it...
M
Art,beauty,Light,darkness,and music is in the eyes,ears and heart of the beholder, or listener, in this case, when you post your music on CD Baby, one of the things you're ask to do is say who your music sounds like, this is always hard for me, I believe my music is simply what is is, if its in the flavor of jazz, that doesn't mean I want to say it sounds like the jazz crusaders, if its blues, I don't want to say it sounds like BB King, its me, and I say that with humility and appreciation to be playing music, but, its my thoughts, my heart and soul, my music. I understand that's a marketing tool, and to say your music sounds like any particular artists is a left handed compliment to your skills, but to me, the idea is to get a listener to hear your music and form their own opinion, and become a fan of your music, not because you sound like someone else, but because its you, and that listener bonded with your music for that reason alone,
I have a friend who does angel-based collages. She's been doing them for years and over time has build up a following. Now and then, when she finds a piece from last year, she tells her husband to "get rid of this" for fear one of her regulars will find something not brand new. Her husband, no fool, will pull out the easel, place the work in question at the front of the booth with a sign reading "Show Special -Today Only" with a price tag of $300.
In almost every instance, the piece in question sells quickly, despite having been marked UP $100.
Another artist, a calligrapher, had poured his heart into a large scale work, clearly a one-of-a-kind piece and not something you'd normally see at an "art fair". One afternoon, I noticed the piece missing. "Just the right person came along" he told me. Was it the shape or style that worked for them, or perhaps the bold statement the piece made I asked? "Nope, he replied, it was the color...it went with the molding in the livingroom".
Art is in the eye of the viewer. The decision to make art belongs to the artist. Anyone can buy it, few can make it and for that the world is a better place.
How about a third choice, Derek?
Make the art that is the most truthful to your inspiration and vision: make the art as artistic as possible. Then work to sell the hell out of it. THEN, and this is the most important part, LET THE CHIPS FALL WHERE THEY MAY. Don't look at it like your art was a failure, or wasn't accepted or isn't worthy if you don't meet your sales goals. Just make fear free art.
Commercial art is about "giving folks what they want so you can get what you want", and that happens at the art's inception. Commercial art is more about persuasion then the art itself. Which is fine. Not a thing in the world wrong with that.Some of my fav music comes from that perspective.
But you can make your art's intention to be true to your inspiration, vision, etc and still market it aggressively. You just gotta let the chips fall where they may. If you do multiple projects, one may sell o.k., one may not. One may wipe out all of your fans. One may make you a zillion dollars after your dead. Who knows. Just sell the hell out of it AFTER it is produced, and let the chips fall where they may.
So add option three, Derek! LOL!
Derek,
Indeed. After I "fired" my boss, I was really passionate about doing music full time. I did it for a year and was really consternated that there was not much draw for my brand of high energy indie rock-n-roll (www.guppyeffect.com). I figured out that it actually rocks TOO HARD for most people, not that it didn't rock enough. It pushed people to their psychological limit and beyond in rocking.
So now I've chosen plan B. I make my living through writing and do music for the love of it. I think this is how it should be. It feels right.
This was solidified for me after I read Hugh McLeod's book "Ignore Everybody" that you so kindly shared with me. He says that best way not to "sell out" is to not depend on music (or whatever your art) for your livelihood.
I have never believed in being a starving artist. I work on a CSA farm all summer and get all my food free. Nice huh?
Visit my web site if you'd like to read more of my creative writing.
As a busker, I rarely perform my own songs on the streets for the reason that they are not valuable to others. People desire to hear songs they know and ones that remind them of happy times in their yesterdays. I remember singing 'Sunday morning coming down' and seeing a man stop dead in his tracks, turn around and walk across the road to throw me some money. That says it all and you have it spot on as usual!
Thanks for the news article
Audio-Rarities
so true and i see the point on both scales once again derek cool advice .
Derek, I hope the honeymoon is still in full bloom! Mine is after 27 years!
Thanks for sharing something that 154 other bloggers out there think is worthy of spilling about.
A year ago, I ran out of money, musicians, and momentum. I decided to "quit pushing" and see where the tide would take me. In the meanwhile, I've played more gigs, written more songs and recently won the 2010 UK Songwriting Contest category in the Faith/Christian category with my song "Plan for Peace." This is something I'm particularly pleased with as I have been rejected as a Christian writer because I do not "do altar calls." Apparently I'm the wrong shade of Christian for the business side of commercial Christian music.
Clearly "Plan for Peace" has value to someone beyond myself.
We all need people with expertise we do not possess to help us create what we do not have: money, harmony, wine, food and peace. Find them. Treasure them.
To all fellow Derek Disciples: keep the faith, keep your pace, find you peace and it all will find you.
Thanks for the great article. I totally agree with both points.
For me, I usually tend to try to combine the 2 thing together: I only do things I love and then slightly modify it in a way that it's also profitable. This seems to be problematic as it's ultimately unclear what's the final purpose of the act.
This is one of the most wonderful descriptions of the difference between egoism as a end unto itself, versus using the ego to open up to something bigger.
cheers, and an awesome take on an extremely subtle dimension of the craft of art.
Trey Gunn
Dead on - been following/alternating both paths for decades. Both approaches have symmetry with expression being foremost. Create because you would be miserable not creating - if others appreciate, fine, if money comes, fine. Drop those two from your focus & you may be surprised how they tend to themselves...
If one really wants money and/or appreciation from others more than the satisfaction of an obsessive drive for irreverent self expression - well, then maybe another vocation would better serve those goals.
I am not rich, not valuable to more than my circle, but I have been creating art that pleases me and many others for more than 3 decades - I am satisfied and successful enough to sustain that output - what more is there to expect?
Good one Robin Hood!
Others may see arrogance in this apparent oblivion to money or need for valuation, but
...who cares?
Have struggled with the question of what is of value to people. Best answer I can come up with is the inspiration and Spiritual healing music can bring to life...if one's music still inspires over time then a bit of Universal truth has been shared!!!!
"The tyranny of popularity kills art. It is like living in high school forever." - L. Song #42
I find this comment fascinating, because while I really agree with it on some level, particularly in the creative process, another part of me knows the popularity of any art often results merely from a critical mass of people just simply "liking it", regardless of the artist's intentions in creating it & regardless of whether he/she desired, or even didn't desire, for it to be popular.
-----------------------------------
At some level, I still think you have to love the piece of art, create it with passion, & relish your work or your work process (even if you later deny it or didn't realize it at the time) for others to attach such love to it too.
-----------------------------------
I also really enjoyed the comments made by Cornelius Boot #126 - very thought provoking: "The 'starving artist' is more likely someone who does not like certain parts of The Game even though they excel at what the game is called: Art." ... of course, some artists just suck at it - which explains why they are starving - but point taken, maybe they're great at their art, but just not good, or have no desire to be good, at the "business" or all of the other irritating jobs necessary to have popularity, or to find the help necessary to nourish & sustain it.
Very wise words, Derek, thanks. The bit about being hot really struck a chord, because I am always telling my wife that it's "not cold in here"!
As for your suggestions - option 2 just doesn't work for me; it's a big buzz for me when people tell me they really like a piece I have just performed. If no-one liked my music (and sometimes it does feel like that!) then it would seem pointless to perform. So I am stuck with option 1 - I think the visual aspect of my performances is worth developing further; I already use slides to my music - as I am increasingly un-oil painting like - so making them more "exciting" sounds like a great idea. Cheers Derek!
Point 1 reminds of Seth Godin's Edges in his book Free Prize. You might find more ideas there too.
Cheers
Simon
Music always live in both angles. There's life in the one and in the other. All music arts start with the self aspect. An idea breathes life into it. And there's personal satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment if one creates for self.
This self aspect should be well established within, it always remains a place to come to when people don't seem to like your stuff.
However, on the sustainability aspect, the artist, as part of an essential artistry element, should develop that idea (music) germane to the payer or buyer's world, considering all the factors that influence what the people want to hear.
Think about this, no artist should go to the market and pay for what he or she doesn't like. Then apply it to self...that does some justice...doesn't it?
Another great read, Derek. Hi.
Thought provoking! Many of my artistic friends live in both camps: the love of art (forget about the income) and the love of pleasing others (commercial aspects). Franz Joseph Haydn was adept at balancing both aspects; he pleased the Count and wrote wonderful music in spite of the tepid and hastily-given assignments. One could say that Henry Mancini and John Williams have also rode the fence between great music and commercial prosperity. My approach is to create musical compositions and arrange them in the best way that I can and then find creative ways (or other people)to get my music "out there" and on the internet. If I really believe in what I create, then I should be willing to share it with others. If they buy it or assign me a commission...that is okay, if not, perhaps they've gotten some enjoyment out of the experience. Music as a product is being phased out and music as an experience is taking over. The large record companies must be willing to bend to the new technology or be left far behind, as artists find new avenues to disseminate their music. Suing your customers for file-sharing is an insane thing to do. I love what Aaron Copland said, when asked "what is your best composition?" He replied, "The next one!"
On the money once again, and lots of great comments too. After 20+ years as a songwriter (with a minor amount of financial return) and a newspaper and magazine editor (where I actually make a living), my two most popular pieces still seem to be:
1) My song "Road Construction."
2) My newspaper column about a "bug feast" featuring a menu of cricket cacciatore and other insect delights, with lots of funny quotes from the kids who were there.
Humor is valuable in any economy, I guess.
Hmmm. Interesting thoughts. In my opinion whether or not an artist is currently commercially successful often has little to do with the value of the music-even the future commercial value of the music. I'm so glad someone like Nick Drake didn't change up his style because he wasn't on the top of the charts... does that mean his music was only personally valuable to him? And because he focused on developing and discovering his own artistic expression rather than catering to what the mass wanted - he contributed something real to the artistic community... to art itself - and not just for himself. That's a real artist, not someone who places commerce over art. And yet years later, a wider number of people are being inspired by the value of his art.
And yet, I absolutely think that they don't have to be at odds with each other. I think the artists that can tune in and get a really clear picture of what is most valuable to them are the artists who connect with the most people. If it wasn't about coming from an authentic place that way I wouldn't be an artist. Lord knows It's not exactly a straight forward way to the bank. Someone like Jeff Buckley - I'm so glad he probably didn't think " I wonder what is going to be commercially valuable to others" before he started playing solo at Sin-e. Because he wouldn't look around at what everyone else is doing and discover a sound similar to his own. Maybe he might think Kurt Cobain was really big - had value to the masses - and conclude that he should try something like that... and we all would have lost a precious gem to the artistic world.
Still - I appreciate what you're saying on one level. I do things to be of service to people that are not my first love in art. Weddings, Teaching stuff like that- but it's all to support the real art. I think with so much advice on different sites to artists about how to make money with music, it's important to remember the role of the artist is to express the truest thing within them as a first priority, not the most commercial. If you're really on target and keep at it - I think money follows.
But in the immortal words of Levar Burton
"You don't have to take my word for it..." : )
Yes yes yes Derek, you always post things that I need to read and to know. Thanks so much. God bless you.
Patricia
Always enjoy your articles. You've probably commented on this experience. When your only in music for art's sake and gain a little following you really lose sight of the big picture when your microscopic world is perfect. I've found it's better to get a producer who is compatible but not your friend. It's impossible to stand back and look at yourself. We all fill in the cracks instead of actually fixing them. Best regards, TW
I once made friends with an over the hill prostitute who hung out in my bar. She got drinks on the house and in return would bring her johns in and have them buy a round for the house. Her johns were usually middle aged and kinda ugly.
-- Derek
One night she came in with a blond 18 year old sailor built like Adonis.
I remarked "Ramona your clientle is improving"
She replied "Oh he no client, some times I do for Love"
And that is the story of the music business in a nutshell.
Love, B
AWESOME story! Love it!
sure - well written etc - i like comment 27 ... "easier said than done" - the doing is the ting, and many a slip twixt cup and lip. the talking about it - yeah we all do it, and then what happens is always totally different. like you pour your heart into something that earns no meny, then you give someone a crap little drum groove you programmed twenty years ago and had forgotten about and it get's used for a TV commercial and brings in $6000 per year for three years (actual example) - fact and madness are inseparable, i guess they call it "rock 'n roll, baby"
95% people involved in the so called music business will never succeed, and by succeed I mean manage to make enough money to pay the bills etc.
When you make art your 'business' you are gambling at a chance because the interest of the masses (or even a small segment) is not based on how original you are or how technical you are, it is merely a roll of the dice. So every body who wants roll those dice see what comes up but don't waste too many years on a so called industry that is nothing more than a scam that preys on you ego. Ironically the most 'powerful', beautiful art is created by those that struggle with
that very egotism and try to tame it,channel it. If you think your 'music' is amazing and 'the best' chances are its not but if you understand that your one small voice can bring hope to another , that authenticity is found in vulnerability, that ego means death to creativity; then you are on to something.
“They’re only songs.” states a family member after the second cd and I’m stopped in my tracks by the brevity of the statement and the implication therein.
Limited value comes to mind.
For decades, I’ve taken consolation in the knowledge that the starving and unknown artist with brilliant capacity leads no different a life to the starving artist without such capacity. If both remain unknown then the disappointment and the exhilaration are mirrored. The effort still needs to be employed regardless of the accolades or indifference.
Whatever the art, it’s one facet of existence.
And so I write my occasional songs and - if I’m to take this seriously - I’ll see it as a gift which needs developing. For me, at this point, I’ve recorded the songs and placed them where they can be found. I’ve never given up my day job which doesn’t indicate lack of belief but does recognise that whilst ‘they’re my babies’ that they stand as orphans in a busy and crowded world.
‘Hooray’ and ‘Did it.’...... Good for me and the world turns in its sleep.
After three cds I can say that no-one is beating a path to my door and I remind myself that three cds and paths to my door had nothing to do with the creative process which generated the songs. I remind myself of the joy and wonder of melody and chord structure marrying lyrical impulse from ...somewhere within. I remind myself that I’m a gardener, a father, a sometime struggling human as well as a ‘songwriter.’
So now, after thirty years of simple chords, I’ve started learning my blues scales. The impulse is there to become a musician and Griff Hamlin’s words ‘......... apply yourself.......’ bubble up. Yoohoo....my fingers can work - individually!
It’s funny thing - Value.
It’s five in the morning and echoes of Monty Python’s ‘Always look on the bright side of life.’ cut through the frost.
Money certainly does come from creating something of value to others, however creating something of great value does not necessarily solve the starving artist problem.
VanGogh's paintings and Herman Melville's Moby Dick are commonly cited examples of artists whose extraordinary works, while of huge value to people to the point of greatly influencing and shaping our culture, only made a lot of money long after it was of any use to their dead creators.
The problem isn't always a lack of value, it is often that people don't appreciate the value of something when faced with it. Or even when they are hit over the head with it. And sometimes true value is not only ignored but leads to the deliberate exile or even execution of the messengers.
This mass lack of appreciation for people and things that are of value and benefit all of us is above all else (at least in my opinion) why we may be a doomed species.
Whether people like or dislike my artistic abilities is not as important to me as... if I'm happy at what I'm doing.
Reff:
http://bible.cc/philippians/4-11.htm
I love your articles, Derek, but this one struck me the most.
Derek,
Thanks. As usual, I read your article and got the message. You're very good at being succinct, something we're not always good at. And here's how what you said applies to us...Maggie and me....known for many years onstage as Lucky Mud.
We've played the mainstages at major festivals, and we tour Ireland every year. 7 CDs on cd baby (how we found you) and we're in our third very successful music series at a beautiful art-deco theater in Panama City, Florida.
The thing is, we've never made a living at music, and we never will. Audiences tend to 'get' our music, but our press kits are swallowed whole by the business.
We decided long ago to work day jobs and play only what we want to play. Our music is original and we love playing it.
1 and 2 both apply to so many of us, because we come to understand that the 'business' of music isn't for everyone, nor is it accessible to everyone.
I just retired in August (started my first rock band in 1964 and love music more now that even then), love to tour and would rather perform than eat. But like almost 100 percent of us, we'll never buy that condo on the coast with CD sales, and we'll never have to worry about getting a special accountant to handle the music income.
Thanks again.
Mike and Maggie McKinney
Lucky Mud
What an eye opener Derek, awesome write-up as usual
I am so blessed to have other's notations and examples to read, as it shows me what is missing in my recipe to Success. I love the articles, and my Students are now listening.
Yea as usual a top subject for mind thought and lifes building blocks to helping with new direction
Thanks again.
I just wonder, for the n°1: If Van Gogh had apply those ideas, his paintings wont have been the same
I hope that the people who manage now CD Baby are going to read this, and change at least the main page of the site, because it becomes really ugly and not clear at all like it was with you. It is full of a lot of things, and gives the only desire to run out of that quickly and fare away.
I think Derek is missing some important things with this. Other comments have pointed out the distinction between true value and mere marketability; also that marketability can change over time.
What about grant and patron support? My wife and I have been successful in the last several years by working both in the marketplace and receiving grant support. The combination of grant support and marketplace activity has allowed us to do our work without compromise. (I think the word compromise ought to be used somewhere to describe #1.)
Lots of great creativity has been supported outside of the marketplace and it's not an either/or choice. You can be involved with both.
It bothers me that compromise is suggested as something that can be fun. What good is thinking for yourself if you lack the courage of your vision? There are worse things than starving. Perhaps more tragic than the early death of a wonderful artist is the compromising of a wonderful artist's vision.
For me, there are problems with not making money as an artist.
1. I'd miss the connection I get with a good audience - an audience that is too hard for an amateur in America to find.
2. I'd miss the depths that I get into because I don't have to make a living at something else.
art is not valuable because you get money for it
By giving to others; you're giving to yourself...could there be anything more we need? Thanks for the reminder Derek
Let’s assume that an artist reaches the pinnacle of success in the music world.
Gets all the wealth and fame he could ever want!
Is told by the media that he’s a genius, the sexist man alive… can do no wrong.
Fast forward, whether he likes it or not, the day comes when he falls out of favor with the public.
Considered a has-been… washed up… there’s new kid in town, he’s has lost his luster… whatever, the world changed.
It’s true… you’ve got to give the people what they want… if you want to make money.
Stay true to yourself… but don’t think that just because you thought of it, it’s great!
So Very True Derek. the VLAUE is in the Art. the MONEY is in the VALUE to the public.
The BALANCE between the two can sometimes come with a compromise or even sacrifice to your art. You write 10 good,heart felt songs for an album. But, it's the 11th song that you just threw on there that becomes the big hit.
I heard Bobby McFerrin say that he wondered why the public wasn't so interested in his voice, until "Don't Worry, Be Happy" was a big hit, and he really didn't put as much into that song.
I guess you just do what you do, and take what you can get in all forms. It's good to have your art appreciated, and it's also good to be able to pay your bills on time
Implied in this article is an awareness that superlative craftsmanship plays an important role in making performance arts valuable to others.
Here is another website that talks about that more directly and may also be helpful to others:
http://www.musicalratio.com/aboutthecraft.html
Derek, always welcome. Thanks.
"When someone creates something that is really important, powerful, and valuable to them, it's hard to imagine that it's not important, powerful, and valuable to others."...I discovered these two recently, they are having fun expressing themselves and I've been enjoying watching them. Check out their podcast on cdbaby how they did it and watch some of their innovative song vids, up heads...
Dawn
http://cdbabypodcast.com/?p=877
Every couple years I read something like this and it feels like it completely changes my brain chemistry. I've always battled with artists on how to walk the line of marketable whilst maintaining their own artistic vision. ie- not selling out. whatever that means.
But this essay totally puts it in the proper perspective. Thank you for helping sort this out.
Once again... Derek you hit the nail on the head! Your wisdom is beyond you. Is King Solomen your ancestor?
Totally Awesome Derek! One of the best articles because it raises the question, is Art business or Art? Does Art have to correlate business in order for it to be "successful"? Some of the early artist and musicians "art" was considered garbage in their time. It was only appreciated after they passed because so many were ahead of their time. I personally think if you are a true artists, the art will inspire you from within, not from how much money you can make from it. Yes, we all have to eat, and it is only a handful that can truly let the art inside them dictate the direction, for the money, fame, etc.. will follow only as icing. This reminds me of many bands who get signed to a major label, and the label tells them directly, okay you are going to make this kind of record. This leaves the band with no musical input, originality, or art. They are simply machines producing the next the next assembly line project. This is why so many are rushing and excited about the whole Independent scene. Yes, it is very difficult without the start up capital of a major label, but if they stick it out with the Indie or (heart) route, they will come out much better artistically and financially in the end.
Great article Derek !
Hey there Derek,
As always you have enlightened my Artistic Ingenuity as ever and remind me just how important the final "Artwork" we produce on our much hard worked for CD's and the Graphics we all incorporate that helps us get it all out there in a positive light! 
Long time no talk!
Great article there "Bro"
Talk to you real soon!
Baran
Hi Derek,
Wonderful points for artists (and all others for that matter) to keep in mind to serve OTHERS and give them what they need and want, especially if we are asking for monetary funds in return. People will not pay for something they do not see useful in their own lives. We are driven to purchase something out of emotions, desires, needs, and wants. If our art doesn't produce or provoke a necessary emotion, desire, need, or want for the buyer, then the artist will stay a starving artist. (side note, there's a little store in my town called Starvin' Artist Supply. We bank on the fact that this is the lifestyle we must come to grips with if we are to pursue the creative arts.)
Changing our mindset and perspective to who our target audience is will increase our chances for success. Not just in selling art, but in developing positive relationships, trust, and respect for others.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom with all of us!
Maybe I'm in denial, but while it completely makes sense to me that to earn a living from your art it has to be of value to others, I hang on to the idea that that can be accomplished by striking a universal note, in whatever art it is. In my case music: with universally appealing lyrics or truths that speak to all of us, and music that most anyone hears and goes "ahhh" money will follow. I've struggled with this but I do believe that when you let your light shine it allows others to do the same, and for that reason they will be drawn to what you do. Assuming what you do lifts them up.
My opinion which is just that!
Thanks for keeping the thought provoking mails coming Derek, best wishes,
Clara
Hi there!
Thank you for a great article.
I´ve been doing all the things that you talked about, just to make a living out of playing music. I´ve been playing in cover bands, doing sing and song writer nights at pubs, playing weddings, arranging music competitions, invested in a sound and light system, producing bands etc.
One day I found out that I was going to be a father and the very next day I went and got me a "real job" as acarpenter with a steady paycheck.
A big weight fell off my shoulders. I can pay my bills and then do my music? hm this is new. I found that I just loved spending time at nights writing songs on my guitar, jamming with my friends and not thinking about the money aspect of my music.
Me and my friends ended up recording the songs we were jamming on. We met some really cool people who had great experience of both recording and mixing. People who is working with some of the top artists in Sweden right now.
Well to us this didn´t feel like a big thing, cause we we´re free. Not really planning to make a huge carrer out of it. We just wanted to hear our songs on a cd...
Today I´m playing my own songs in front of the same kind of audiences, in clubs just like the once I used to do my cover nights at. But this time my friends/fans don´t go there to hear me do a bad imitation of Nirvana. They want to hear the latest "The Bjorn" song and sing along with the earlier songs that we released, maybe buy a t-shirt, or a poster for their little brother...
You know what?
Me and my friends are getting payed for doing this. The years where I was going where the money allready was flowing taught me a valuable lesson.
How to get paid!
Derek, you are right!
It might sting a bit but oh what a good lesson it is. Friends it´s time you ask yourselves:
“How can I be more valuable to them?”
Peace out!
Still... It reminds me of that line from "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" When Frank has showed off Rocky to the guests... And Janet says she doesn't like a man with "too many muscles"...
Frank says "I didn't make him for you!" (But she get's him anyway)...
Get it... a lot of starving artists are like that... They didn't make their "art" for "you", but you eventually get it anyway...
Take Van Gogh's work... Was ridiculed in his time... But now! Priceless!
Wow - people. Valuable does not equal sell-out. I mean think of the music you love - is it valuable to you?
And making it valuable doesn't mean it has to be valuable to EVERYBODY. I mean, Tupak Shakur is highly valuable to some people - but I'm not one of them. And there's nothing wrong with that.
It means, if you're making music just for you - great. Get a job. Even better - find out what you're career is - your calling, if you will.
If music is your calling. If you're making music FOR A LIVING. Then you're in business. And businesses whose products have not found an audience for whom they are valuable - well, we call them closed/out-of-business....
And it doesn't have to be commercial. It doesn't have to be GaGa. It just has to find an audience - who wants/needs/desires and sees the value.
And that's where marketing comes in. The only purpose of marketing is to communicate your value to your audience in such a way that they see it, buy it, and talk about it to others.
Your Business Coach,
Debra
They call it the Music Business. I'm your Music Business Coach
Very interesting topic...
Derek,
Great article........ I love what you have to say about being creative and making it valuable. It is similar to being a best selling author. I know Tim Ferris wrote a great book of expression but he also made it very valuable. That is def an art form, or at least takes lots of practice. I also think this is great because it can give people the courage to step up, be creative, and let the world experience them and their art. I recently created a TV show to be creative but to also give people value.
Thanks Derek
PS. Hope you get to make to interlocken .... dont miss that place.
If the medium is the message - music is the messenger.
I just want people to stop being cruel to animals. Make the world go away - stop eating meat.
If my music does anything please world STOP EATING MEAT and being complicit to horrendous atrocities committed each & every second of your lives.
It is not a source of protein. We know this is a LIE by the food industry with PROFIT motives.
Please save our precious animal. COWARDS hurt & eat animals. You don't need it in your system - it's VERY BAD for you.
You can make a meaty veg casserole delicious eggplant/mushroom for that MEATY taste.
Give yourself 30 days to get the toxins out of your system, out of your twisted taste palate.
FREE YOURSELF FROM THE LIES.
And never let the music die.
I always enjoy reading your wisdom in the blogs you send. I don't normally comment but I got to say you got it spot on with this one.
I've had a relatively successful career in music for the past 2 decades because as much as I love music I also subscribe to your option no 1. I've made music that in old skool words "Sells over the counter".
I built my career using the techniques in option no 1 so I could do option number 2 and blend it in. You get the best of both worlds. You can do the music the way you love and you can also do the music that the masses will love and you cater for both. You don't have to choose just one.
Thanks for reminding me.
Bless
I try and politely tell some other musicians "Your music is worthless....until you have created value to it"
I like your second bullet under point 1: Spread a fascinating version of your history, so they can get interested in the person first, and art second.
Last month I found myself in an art gallery in Laguna Beach. As the curator talked about the different pieces (which I didn't personally care for), it became clear that she was trying to sell the story of the artist, rather than the art itself.
It's a bit of a recursive idea - why does one buy the art? Some buy it to please themselves, some buy it to have a story to tell to others.
Great post (as always). As a freelance writer, the tightrope I walk is learning how to write in a way that will be suitable for another publication and valuable for their readers, while still maintaining my own voice. It may take me a lifetime to figure out the balance.
Derek,
I really love the generosity in your leadership. Thank you for this gift. I support this perspective and really enjoy experimenting with it's joyful approach to shifting challenge.
It provides me the freedom to have fun, explore trust and build confidence within my life.
All the best friend...tbird luv
This is very thought provoking as I am venturing into psychic art from poetry now , it is more what I call psychic fantasy art, so its not exactly personal , though it needs to be seen where those of like minds will understand it and question it ,interestingly that is where I will be moving to very soon, somewhere where there are all like minds and visitors will question.So there will be a chance for me to perhaps get 'seen'and not be isolated with what I do, which I have been up to now?I have thought of selling via my website, this is still in the thought process.
Your insight is truly superb and mind-boggling, Derek!
I never do anything big, but I love to write stories, and all of the things you've said here really apply to what I try to do. I just try to make them fun, mostly for myself, but for my close friends as well. One of my biggest problems is incorporating all of the senses my characters feel into the pieces, but I find if I remember to include even small things here and there, it helps a lot.
I adore your blog; thank you so much for sharing your insights with us! It's such a nice pick-me-up!
Sometimes when you are passionate about something...it can become contagious....then you do become valuable....on a good performing night anyway!!
Derek,
Thank you for such a great post. I am a writer and this way of thinking applies to us perfectly. Too many times we agonize over things that are external to our art, hurting our creativity in the process.
Today's post on my blog references this one a great deal and I thank you for the inspiration.
Pretty insightful. I really do think it's important to pay attention to how you can give the audience something creative and unique but at the same time give them something they can get some value from. The band that comes to mind for me is Gwar. Whether you love their music or hate it, you come away from one of their shows feeling entertained - VERY entertained. That's the kind of entertainment value my band aspires to. Admittedly on an astronomically smaller scale. but job one: put on a show. Give them something to remember.
Well put!
Even before the marketing comes into the picture I think it starts with the philosophy and/or maturity level of the artist.
IMO it's an important part of the maturation process for an artist is learning that much of your art is in the communication of your ideas and not just perfecting them in the language of your own mind.
If you don't care that other people understand what you're saying then that's great, but don't expect them to consider it valuable.
Music - communication = masturbation: You can probably find a few people who are willing to pay to watch you perform it, but they'll probably be pretty weird and it won't be very fulfilling.
This post was PERFECT for me, Derek. I am an artist, and guess what. I am starving. ha ha. Thanks for the inspiration, and I'll keep trying to make my creations valuable to others... You rock.
I don't think that either marketablity or popularity should really be the measure of good music or art. I think one of the downfalls of genres like hip hop is that rather than remaining something creative, they soon fall into the mentality of winning a popularity contest and therefore, artists try to sound like everyone else.
The flip side of this is that one does create music and art to be heard and seen. I like to hear comments both good and bad from others on my music because that feedback is imporant but I also don't use it exclusively as a measure of it's artistic value.
Bach, for example, was never all that popular in his own time. His brothers were perhaps even more popular but now the tables have turned.
So I guess what I am saying is one needs to steer a happy medium between being popular but also following ones internal sense of artistic value.
Astute and applicable to everything.
Very interesting and true
Derek - while I certainly agree that music must be valuable to others to succeed, and I tire of so-called artists whose only goal seems to be "Look at me!"...
...I think you've missed the most important aspect of how to be valuable to others. And that is to take risks artistically, and have something to say. The very reason people gravitate toward art and music is because the best of it says something that we all wish we could express, but can't. That takes guts and perceptiveness and love. And most musicians now seem to be focused on "marketing" instead.
There's no battle between "doing it for yourself" and "doing it for the audience." That's just a false battle between self indulgence and salesmanship, neither of which have anything to do with art.
I remember being in a songwriters class. the statement was you have to write for yourself and others. There is a format to follow and you can be creative with that format.
Thanks Derek.
Creating work for others is harder, thats why most people dont do it. I paint. Doing work only for me is easy. I set the bar as high or as low as I like. I set my sence of taste. I don't have to second guess others reaction to the work. If it doesn't work I can change it and no-one will complain. I can explore, play, ponder. No-one is waiting for delivery.
Most of the greatest artists in history had to work for others. They adapted their style to fit the customers needs. Great art is great because of what it conveys, not who it was made for. So when your craft becomes eloquent, its time to face option one, not endlessly work on option 2.
Thanks Derek
Love the website - great advice for all creative people.
jason skill
So true, I love to write songs because I need to do that, but there is a part of me that wants others to enjoy listening to them too.
If you can make one person feel, or think about your song thats good because you have shared something with them.If you can make some money thats great too Love and Peace to all of you
I believe that not only musicians but professionals from other industry can apply these principles and succeed.
Thanks for sharing
Great article. Reminds me of one of my favorite lines: Perception is Reality. If the "perception" is that something is not of value, that will be that person's "reality". The trick is to make sure that the perception is changed, so the reality also changes to one of value.
Ray
Great perspective. Although this makes so much sense, I believe most aspiring artists and musicians don't understand these concepts. There also might be a kind of halfway point between these two mindsets, that being working as a sideman.
I spent the first 14 years of my adult life playing in a variety of bands in New England - rock bands, top 40 bands, blues bands, etc., and many of these projects also played original music and worked towards building a following, record deals, etc. While some of these projects were great experiences, by the end of those 14 years I still wasn't earning a real living from it, didn't have much of a following, and my audiences weren't that interested in hearing my original music or "art" - all goals I originally set out to achieve. I felt like my career was "'stuck" and was starting to burn out.
So in 2002 I packed up my belongings and moved to Nashville Tennessee with the goal of working as a sideman. After a lot of patience and hard work, I was able to find work as a guitarist on a national level tour and have been earning the bulk of my living as a touring musician ever since. I work for a successful country artist, and while I don't have any say in the material we play, nor am I involved in any songwriting, I am finally earning a living by playing music.
Now that I am earning a living as a player, I have also taken the pressure off myself to turn my music and art into a commercial success. I take on some fun and creative side projects, and when I'm not touring, I play music just for the sake of music without worrying about the outcome. I have made my music just that - music for me, and it feels great!
This poem sounds sad with the tone that I am imagining within. Lately I have had my ups and downs of many things and, I feel that someone is really trying to mess up things for me in the sneakiest ways.
I am so proud of myself to say that I finally was selected to tour the entire Los Angeles area. for shows. I have worked hard-I am worth it too. I am lonely but, I write my novels and songs to keep me going. And, I tell myself all the time. Your going to make it...Silver You are going to make it. However my situation living with my mom she doesn't want to hear it. But, I can say it is still difficult because, I had a baby, by a guy who said he was going to marry me but, instead he left and he knew that my goal was to become a celebrity and, know I need a baby-sitter. And, my little half sister she has an attitude like. I do all the work and I pay her. when I am not even doing her songs. All the songs I'm doing is my lyrics and, it makes me so SCARED and, MAD. That I know she is trying to pull me back. So are other people. And, I am still like WTF! is your problem if you do not like me then stay away from me. Because, I can care less about how they feel. They ain't supporting me and my family. Who are you? who sent you to me? to ruin what I have going on for myself. MY FUTURE! And, I say you know what if things always have to be sooo kaotic it's better of with people like them not around because, nobody isn't starting nothing but them or who ever. It makes no since for somebody to terrorize a young woman and, her kids. By doing rude things.
I remember one time I was coming from the mountains with my family and, some guy in a HUMMER. I don't know if he was talking to a lady in the passenger set or he was flipping me off saying something. I have no idea. And, I was so sad about that because, I was like who is this guy? So, like a couple months later I was on you tube and, I saw something that made me feel a whole lot better. About people like that man. And, so what I saw I am still happy because, I know that quote is true. " God don't like ugly"... So, so far everything going good. but, after all the Mental,physical, emotional, abuse people had put me through in my life time I'm happy though. long as I don't get put into a liner thingy. What ever goes around come around that's why it is so important to treat people right. i think that if i ever get a record contract.I want like a fionce for years first and just my children.
Really great article, thank you!
I have been doing a project for 6 years and finally found that it is only valuble to myself, so I stopped expect it too much and find peace now.
what do you think about painters not selling a single painting in their lifetime and being so famous now. are they valuable?
Holy Moses Derek! Long time no see!
Hope all is well with you!
Ok.... first off, nice article, it's been the core of what MadMouse Records has been all about...making music for the love of it.
Oh, make no mistake, in the beginning we had lofty ideas of an exceptional income to be able to do nothing else BUT make music, but after about 4 years of hammering at it,(mind you it hasn't been horrible), you have to rethink your goals and make them more reasonable AND attainable in smaller steps to what you deal with in reality. (so you don't starve or lose yourself chasing after the money and not the love of the art)
Like I said, it hasn't been horrible. Actually it's been very rewarding in other ways. We've gained a ton of friends, a level of respect from some very nice industry leaders and some decent opportunities to head our direction. Even though I still work a 9 to 5, our music has added an additional zero to my income to allow my wife to stay home to run the house. That's a nice reward for me.
It's like a blog you had out a couple years back on cdbaby.org about "Would You still make Music if you DIDN'T get paid?" and of course we responded with an "Absolutely!" , because in reality, we WASN'T making much at the time.
GP-101 and MadMouse Records took the summer of 2010 COMPLETELY OFF!
Did some traveling and a lot of thinking and get this...TOTAL Internet BLACKOUT! We didn't even look at a computer for three months! We wanted to decide what REAL direction we wanted to take our music. My son Michael was 16 when we started the group and I started the label. He's 20 now and has opportunity to do other things.
But we did decide we wanted to continue producing music. Over the years we had a couple songs that were put into advertisements for radio and even had one song that was used in a Japanese anime film.
So we decided to concentrate our efforts on media production instead of the yearly grind to put out an album every few months. That way I can still teach music to local kids, and my son can pursue college and keep a hand in making music.
We moved from "the sticks" as it's called around here, and bought a 2200 sq. ft. farm house literally just outside next to the city limit sign. Most of the first floor of this 1891 house is a studio. I can very easily record a good size orchestra or rock band and have the equipment to back it up!
We opened our house up at the beginning of October to teach some local kids how to play guitar and piano and maybe even group them together to record some music and inspire maybe the next best band from our studio! ....you never know...They all love coming because my wife makes sure no one leaves hungry either...lol
The last part has been the greatest reward for me so far...sure, it may cost ME a little cash and time because I don't charge any of my students to be here, but the inspiration and thank you's from the students and parents is a reward as well....
Much Love to You Derek! You're still an inspiration to us!
Larry and Michael Hinty
"BigDaddy L & BeatMaster Mike"
GP-101 and the MadMouse Records Family
http://www.mellowcherrymedia.com
Ohio's premier Electronica,Techno and Down-Tempo media music production
Hopetown House Studio 2010
Derek,
Great post. This reminds me of the book called Linchpin, By Seth Godin. I believe that it all boils down to how much value you are giving to other people when it comes to your personal success and happiness. I was watching a YouTube video of Frank Kern and he mentions that if you want your product to be successful you have to deliver more happiness than suffering to the consumer.
Music Artist Jay Sean, mentioned in one of his interviews that he wanted people to not worry too much and just live life to the fullest everyday so he created songs that would make people feel positive and happy. This is the way he delivered value...
Thanks once again Derek.
Have an amazing weekend!
Cheers,
Nabil
I like the story and feel that you touched on some good points.But i am one of those musicians who sold cd's out of the trunk of his car as well as local stores and the internet. I saw that the people i sold to out of my trunk, had more of a grasp of my music and me as and artist.Meanwhile the people on the internet where interested more than 2-3 million people.Sad thing is i made more out of my trunk then in stores and the internet. true a artist should just love to make their art. But if people who didnt have anything to do with creating that art make money,And the artist doesnt.Thus lies the starving artist problem.finding the right people to get your art heard/seen!!!
Sometimes if the artist can get others to see what he sees, feel what he feels, then maybe he can open their eyes up to the fact that it is valuable, to everyone. For some reason I feel like Eminem does this really well, but I'm sure there are tons of others.
I really like the advice to do it because you love it. I've been doing music for 30 years, and one of the first things I decided is that I would strive to maximize fun for myself and others. It's still fun, sometimes lots and lots of fun, and the money is ok.
Ciao _ kevin m
Just Believe in Yourself,and trust in God,and if you are Truly Talented,your audience will find you and love you.
Thank you Derek for this.
Point 1 requires a fair amount of business creativity... there are opportunities to create value everywhere (most without selling out). I wonder if the mindset of record royalties is such a blinding glare that other opportunities get passed right on by.
Case in point, for years sheet music and piano rolls were bigger money makers than records. On the other hand, its a rare thing indeed to see tabs, backup tracks, or even instructional videos for sale on an artists website. (my guess is most any fan who plays would be more likely to purchase such than to pirate it)
this is great! as an artist and musician i battle with this constantly., its great to read it from this perspective
cheers!
A dear friend of mine turned me on to your blog. This piece is so timely for me. I am new to the "show my work" game, and find that it's like putting my soul up for the world to see and love or reject. I have lots of positive feedback but no one wants to take my art home with them. You know what I mean? Tough...but that's the way it is and always shall be.
Thank you for your words of "instruction"...helpful and so very true!!
This reminds me of the "Curse of Knowledge". The Curse of Knowledge says that we believe things to be true because we know them - this often leads to braniacs saying things they just think everyone else knows, but in reality nobody can hold onto. But it crosses across less intelligent thresholds, too. Thanks for the post Derek.
I think #2 makes you authentic because you don't have to please people to create your art