ION INDIE MAGAZINE December 2016, Volume 31 | Page 111

There are so many incredible bands and songwriters in the world today. Yet most of them will remain stars of their own world. Corporate money decides what music gets on the radio these days. So, for the most part, in a single day you probably hear the same 5-10 artists all day, every day. Yes, there are still a few stations playing decent music, but let’s be honest, it is simply older mainstream music. So where is the real music at? It is everywhere. At your local pub downtown…in the garage next door. In today’s DIY society, the internet is saturated with tools for musicians to be self-managed businesses. Which means that anywhere those tools exist, you can also find new artists. Independent radio stations are also a great way to support the development of new music. The industry need not be in the corporate hands when we have so much at our disposal. Keep dreaming and reaching for those dreams, but by all means, do it for you! After all, it is the driving passion of most artists to share what they create. Hard work is a necessity if you want to be your own musician. Never devalue the time and effort you put in to each performance, but at the same time, put everything you have into it. You are your own best ally…and worst enemy. Be sure to check your focus frequently. It is too easy to fall into routines of playing for “exposure” or taking shows that don’t make sense. Yes, you will need to get your name out there, but if you want exposure, think “media”. Find a benefit (or organize one) for your local community food bank or something that you are also passionate about. Give to the community that you want to support you. If you are giving away your time, make it mean something to you and your fellow musicians. Venues do not want to pay independent artists without turnout guarantee. If we each lay the groundwork in our own communities, then we can network together and start owning the music industry together. No need for big promoters (but they will come knocking) as long as we work as a collective of like-minded musicians who want the opportunity to tour. Whether regionally, nationally or globally, the tighter of a network, the further we can go! It all starts with you…and me…and every single musician out there. The industry has not belonged to the musicians for far too long. It’s time we take it back. Simple things…shared tasks done locally, while we grow the network. #BeTheRevolution Do you share this vision? One of unity among musicians--regardless of genre or geographical location? If so, let me know. Send me your thoughts on the matters you see day to day in your musical journey: [email protected]