I read a handful of blogs that speak about the music business--specifically the independent music scene. Small miracles like itunes have leveled the playing field for music artists in that getting our music out there no longer requires a contract with a major label. My music is on itunes just like Lady Gaga! It's also on Rhapsody, Napster, Amazon, emusic, and the list goes on. No longer do you have to go to a store to purchase music when you can simply download it digitally. Gone are the days of expensive music videos featued on MTV or VH-1 when, with relatively little expense, independent musicians can create their own youtube channel and feature their music.
While this is a blessing, it can also be a curse! Now the competition is fierce! Digital distribution of music via platforms like itunes make it possible for your listeners to sample your wares. Meaning, while you may have the same distribution channels that Lady Gaga has, of you're music is mediocre, no amount of marketing hype or buzz will help you. Your music can't suck. And how is that measured? By your fans of course.
Many of the blogs I read speak of putting in your 10,000 hours of practice. Being an engineer, I broke out the calculator and did some math. If you work full time (presumably 8 hours a day) and take a lunch every day, 10,000 hours adds up to 5 1/2 years at a job. One could say that, after 5 1/2 years working at a job you would be pretty well versed in what you do. Now, if you work a full time job (as quite a few musicians do), let's say you practice 2 hours a night, it would take over 13 years to hit your 10,000 hours. That's some time huh?
The bottom line is this is a brave new world for music artists and fans alike. Fans will win with the ability to pick the best of the best. Musicians will have to step up their efforts to create awesome music. Mediocre, "not bad", "good enough", won't cut it.
Now, I have to go...practice!
