Over the course of my time here at Vocalzone so far I have seen and heard a lot of things from artists. One thing that always baffles me is the things people will say to artists. I have read a lot of articles online and watched some videos. Here is a list I have compiled from the internet, and from artists themselves, on things in which they are tired of hearing.
1. So are you still doing that music thing?
This is one of the most common things asked. It is as though people don’t see music as a viable career. They don’t see all the hours of practice and hard work that you put in. To them, it will always be just a ‘hobby’.
2. Do you know who you sound like?
Unless you are in a tribute act, this is not something you want to hear. It might be intended as a compliment, but you don’t spend your life tweaking and perfecting your craft to be told you sound like someone else. You are you. Your sound is your sound. You are unique.
3. Sing Something
Or just play something. Yeah, you all love to play your instruments and sing when you can. But this doesn’t make you performing monkeys. I have heard time and time again, (guilty of this myself), people asking musicians to perform on the spot. Nothing wrong with wanting to hear them, but go and see them perform…. Support their craft.
4. What’s your ‘real’ job? How do you make money?
This is your real job! Nothing more annoying than having someone dismiss your passion. Especially when you put so much of your energy into it. Even if you do have another job, you don’t want to be constantly reminded that right now you can’t devote all your time to music.
5. Or… WHEN are you going to get a real job?
Just no.
6. Unfortunately, we aren’t paying any of the bands, but it will be incredible exposure.
9 times out of 10 it won’t be. Unless a top record producer/ talent agent or management, or even just a massive crowd it probably won’t be. You can bet it will probably be a few locals and a bored bartender.
7. WOW, you guys are so good! Why aren’t you famous?
This is probably a question you want the answer to yourselves.
8. When you open for someone big you should tell me, I’ll come and see that!
Even family members will say this one! If they don’t want to come and see you when you are playing in the back of a small bar/ pub, then why should they come when you are selling out arenas or headlining Glastonbury.
9. Can I have a go on your instrument?
Some Musicians have been saving money their whole life to buy their instrument. Without it, they can’t do their job and develop their craft. It’s basically a second limb. You can look, but don’t touch.
10. Your life always seems fun, I wish I had fewer responsibilities.
Trying to make it in music can be so hard! The industry is volatile, and you never quite know how your music is going to be received. Even some of the most famous artists in the world can disappear, I mean let’s look at Duffy. She was huge for 4/5 years, but when was the last time you heard anything new from her?
As always we want to know what you think! What’s the worst thing you have been asked? How did you respond? Have I missed anything off? Make sure you comment on the post on Facebook and share this amongst your friends.
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