(Photo by Jim Nix)
Most people come to Nashville because they want to do what they love, sing their songs for adoring fans, and become what they were always meant to be. This town is seen as the promised land for musicians and songwriters. It is where they will find record deals, opportunity, and celebrities. After living in town for a few months, though, it can be easy to begin to lose momentum. Knowing some basic industry customs can help to funnel your enthusiasm into the right places. For that reason, I have outlined some “need to knows” that specifically pertain to the Nashville music business.
Music is a business about knowing people. If you come to town not knowing anyone, go out. Build real relationships. An easy way to extend connections is by creating a business card. Nashville is one of the few cities in which this is still necessary. Everyone has one here. Be careful that you are creating real relationships. It will be transparent if you are approaching someone because you want something from them.
You have to go to shows. There is a show every night of the week in Nashville. It is where you meet other artists. Co-writing is essential here. Collaborating with others helps you stay fresh and hone your craft. You never know who you may meet when you go out. My Dad always said, “No one’s waiting for you, you have to go out and let people know you are there.”
Find people who believe in what you do. There are people that are interested in genuinely helping you. You just have to find them. Make sure that these people have your best interest at heart.
It’s a team sport. Trying to do everything yourself can get hectic. Do what you do best. Build a team around that. Don’t be afraid to hire someone. It can be easier and more cost effective to allow a professional to do what you can’t. If that is not an option, use friends or other individuals who have a similar mindset to yours to get the job done. This also means that ‘there is no I in team.’ It is not about stepping on toes to get to the top. You get there, and you bring your friends along with you.
Put in the time. Do you really want this? Seriously think about that question. If your answer is still a yes, then accept the fact that this is not easy. It is straining on your relationships, wallet, and heart. Think carefully about any other possible career paths that are available to you. Making music your hobby is not giving up.
Understanding these principles can certainly help to ensure that you fully reap the benefits of the promised land. Success will find you when your passion is connected with the right people. Practice. Play shows. Work hard, and you will get there.
-Lyndsey Iellimo