To make it as a successful music artist today requires an array of skills that go beyond just having musical talent. The modern music landscape is highly competitive, and artists have to work on all aspects of their craft and business to cut through the noise. Here are 10 key skills that all music artists need to succeed.
10. Strong Work Ethic.
Succeeding as an artist requires an enormous amount of work and dedication. It means long hours practicing, rehearsing, recording, promoting, and touring. Artists have to be extremely self-motivated and disciplined to keep producing music and pushing their careers forward over the long run. If you feel like doing music one day and want to quit the next, you’re likely not going to succeed as a musician.
9. Unshakeable Resilience.
The music industry is hard and filled with rejection and failures. Artists encounter obstacles like losing record deals, bad reviews, poor album sales, and shows with low turnout. But the pros dust themselves off and persevere. Resilience and the ability to accept failures as learning experiences are essential. Success often comes after a long series of NOs thrown in your face repeatedly. Just think of how the entire world seemed to have a personal issue with Justin Bieber when he made his music debut. The guy even said in an interview that he would have never reached nearly 3 billion views had it not been for his haters.
8. Multilateral Flexibility.
The music industry is constantly changing, and artists have to be willing and able to adapt to the times, trends, and social movements. This could mean trying out new sounds and styles to stay relevant, learning new technologies and how to connect with fans, or taking on new business models for making a living. Flexibility provides opportunities for longevity.
7. Abundant Creativity.
Strong creativity is the foundation for memorable and distinct music. Artists need to use their creativity to craft both music and an image that stands out. Creativity also helps in problem-solving, whether in the studio, on stage, or managing the business aspects of their career. Think of it as resourcefulness.
6. Genuine Team Playing.
Successful artists work with producers, managers, agents, songwriters, and other musicians. They have to be good collaborators who can take feedback, incorporate the ideas of others, and share credit. Strong collaboration leads to a higher quality end result. Anybody who is too sensitive and doesn’t open their mind to the professional input of someone else who’s likely been in this game for longer, is doomed from the start.
5. Smart Marketing.
Successful modern artists know how to build their brand and promote their music. They use tools like social media, live streaming, music videos, email campaigns, and press coverage to raise awareness and shape their image. Compared to a mainstream act, the indie name will almost guaranteedly have considerably less money available for marketing. Thus, one needs to be extra savvy and attentive to the ROI (return on investment). Unconventional marketing is also highly efficient but must be employed in curated quantities, or the artist risks becoming a living meme.
4. Loud Branding.
Whatever an artist chooses their mission to be about, it needs to be thoroughly reflected in who they show up as. If marketing reaches the ears, branding must reach the eyes. If people don’t remember the look and easily associate it with the sound, the effort might take too long to ever get to the finish line.
3. Memorable Showmanship.
Engaging live shows are one of the best ways for artists to gain exposure and connect with fans. It takes a lot of skill to command attention, get fans excited, and deliver a high-energy performance. Strong live performance abilities inspire audiences and spread by word of mouth. Think of it as the invisible marketing layer that can turn out to be the most efficient one if done correctly.
2. Palpable Authenticity.
Memorable artists project a clear and authentic image and message. They are self-aware, write lyrics and develop a style that reflects their genuine selves, and make heartfelt connections with fans. Audiences can sense authenticity, and it breeds loyalty. While one must indeed keep up with the times, changes that are too drastic and too soon, will deter long-time fans from supporting the artist any longer.
1. Business Acumen.
Artists can no longer just focus on their music—they have to develop business skills to oversee their careers and finances. This includes skills like negotiating contracts, planning budgets, managing schedules, hiring effective teams, and making strategic decisions to maximize opportunities. Business savvy gives artists more control and financial success. You could be the most talented name in the world with the most tickets sold, but if you don’t know how managers and contracts work, you can still end up broke after tremendous sales.
In today’s music world, talent is not enough. But by strengthening these 10 skills, developing persistence, and never stopping the pursuit of their goals, artists can position themselves for success and longevity. Mastering the craft and business, adapting to changes, and building an authentic connection with fans are the keys to forging a memorable and sustainable career as a musician.
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