How Should You Invest In Your Music Career?
How much money should you spend? And on what?
When I decide I'm going to do something, I go all in. Which sometimes can be a great thing. But it also can be expensive.
So without getting into too much detail...let's just say I had a lot of tax deductions the first year I started performing and promoting myself as a singer-songwriter. Some of which were wise investments in my career, and others were...a great learning experience. ;)
So if I could go back in time and give myself some money advice, here's what I would tell myself:
The press kit
What you shouldn't spend your money on:
You don't need a physical press kit. (Gasp!) There are all sorts of websites telling you you should put together some glamorous, professional press to show venues you're serious. So I followed their advice because I wanted to be a "serious" musician!
And then I realized no one wanted them. It's 2017 and venues do their booking online. I'm sure there are exceptions, but I've never once come across a situation where I needed to use my physical press kits.
(Which are freakin cute, by the way. And a huge waste of money.)
What you should spend your money on:
Sound/Recording Equipment
What you shouldn't spend your money on:
New instruments, microphones, interfaces, headphones etc. when you can already use what you own. I get it. Your current guitar doesn't have the best tone. And you NEED that other microphone to make your voice sound better before you can release your music! But sometimes it's better to just use what you have. Get your music out there. Perform. Post live living room videos to your facebook page. Just start making music (and making money) before you throw out. A better guitar isn't going to have a significant impact on your career. Releasing your music, creating consistent content for your fans, and performing gigs is.
What you should spend your money on:
I went about a year without owning a P.A. system. And then I bought a small one under $200. At that point, I could easily make that money back by playing one night at a restaurant-style venue. I think that was the smartest investment in my career because it opened me up to playing house concerts, and other venues that didn't provide a P.A. system.
Online stuff
What you shouldn't spend your money on:
What you should spend your money on:
Almost done…
We just sent you an email. Please click the link in the email to confirm your subscription!
OKSubscriptions powered by Strikingly