We told you this year would be one of transparency and we meant it, but who is going to keep us in check?
The music industry lives and die on teamwork, which is a little ironic when you consider the fact everyone who makes it into this business does so by being a self-starter. All music professionals had to find their own path into this industry, and many overcame great adversity to do so. As a result, we all have a tendency to try and do everything ourselves.
In 2017, attempting to do everything it takes to be successful on your own is a fool’s errand that ends in frustration more often than not. There is simply too many plates that need to be spun and balanced for any one individual to do everything they desire without some kind of support system.
For example, let’s look at the career of Chance the Rapper. Chance is one of the most high-profile independent artists working today. He built his career with the thoughts in his mind, but he is not the only one responsible for his music reaching your ears. That process took numerous people working in a variety of positions over a long period of time in a way Chance himself could never have achieved. Chance needed help, he still does, and so do you.
At the beginning of the month we laid out our goals for the year ahead and we encouraged you to do the same. Since that time we have run several articles on how to keep yourself in check from day to day, but in order to make the most of your work you need an outside influence. This can be us here on the blog, someone you know personally, or a professional connection you’ve made online. Find someone who understands your goals and the work you’re doing to reach them, then ask that person to keep you on track. They don’t need to force you to do anything, but they should make it a point to check in with you periodically.
You should also make yourself available to keep others in check as well. Learn what those you care about are working toward and find a way to help them reach those goals. Maybe this means taking time out of your schedule to assist on a specific task, or maybe this just means calling them to check in once a week and discuss and progress/setbacks that have occurred.
Success in the music industry is hard enough without isolating yourself from the world around you. Be open, and encourage others to do the same. Together, anything is possible.
James Shotwell is the Marketing Coordinator for Haulix. He is also the Managing Editor for Substream Magazine, host of the Inside Music Podcast, and a 10-year veteran of the entertainment business. We recommend you follow him on Twitter.
