The idea of success is different for every artist, but Dallas musicians say the key to full-time gigging is being nice to be around.
Andrew ShermanWhen the art of music becomes a career, it can be as frustrating as it is rewarding. The competition is fierce and figuring out how to piece a living together can be extremely challenging. The idea of success is different for everyone, but one common benchmark and goal among artists is being able to quit their day jobs and make all of their income through music.
We spoke to a handful of full-time musicians who shared some insight. Some of the common themes among their responses, like honing your playing skills, can seem obvious. So does the idea of embracing the social sacrifices — missing possibly every family event.
"If you want to play full-time or just be a musician in general, it takes a lot of networking, so going out to other artists' gigs and supporting them and going to open mics is helpful," she says."I think the networking is the most important part because the more people see your face and see you out there performing and stuff, the more connections you'll make. Putting yourself into a supportive community of artists is very important.
Keeping any band together is a challenge and getting along with each other is key, according to the music scene veteran. "Playing at church can be a multitude of things for musicians," he says."For some, it's a place where they can practice their faith alongside their gifts, and for others, it's a consistent paycheck away from the hustle and grime of bars. And for some, it's where you can do all of the above as well as network yourself with full-time touring musicians.""If there's a viable path, go with your gut feeling," he says.
After putting in the work and getting in the room for the gig, there's one truly important factor, according to Smith.
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