“Wood burns because it has the proper stuff in it; and a man becomes famous because he has the proper stuff in him.”
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe-

 
            “So, I’ve learned how to play an instrument.  Now, how do I get famous?”
In this fast-paced digital world, here and now environment, and instant gratification society, one could get frustrated searching for the path to fame and fortune.  Before the digital age, the music industry was a peculiar beast.  An artist would be ‘discovered,’ usually involving some kind of raw talent and/or charisma.  Then, a record company would foot the bill for a recording, a band, tour bus, outfits, and all the other necessities someone would need for going out and promoting a musical endeavor.  This, in turn, created ‘fame.’
            Nowadays, most music is distributed digitally.  Instead of getting a hard-copy like a CD, tape, or record, music is downloaded from the Internet.  Companies like iTunes and Amazon provide consumers with essentially any kind of music available, and it is only a click away.  This opportunity for sharing music is worldwide.  Music is not only available in the consumer market, but with the rise of social-networking communities like Myspace, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Reverbnation it is easier to hear new music from new artists.  These websites are available for free and the perfect way to build your musical enterprise, right from the comfort of your own home!
            Until the last decade or so, artists and bands could submit a ‘demo’ CD to a record label for review, quite possibly leading to a record deal.  However, many large record companies no longer accept unsolicited material.  In other words, without someone else representing your music, it will not be considered.  
            So what do you do?  Sitting around waiting on fame is not going to make anything happen.  Anyone pursuing a career in music should take steps to control their own destiny.  This means making contacts (networking) both in real life and on the Internet and performing at every opportunity you get.
Most importantly, love what you do.  If you are making music because you want to get rich and famous, then stop now!  The superstars have thousands of people working behind them to get one name go to the top, and everybody gets a cut.  If music is your dream, then don’t wait on the stars to align before taking the first step.  You have to get out there and try, over and over again because with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

Calling all students songwriters, musicians and singers!  We are looking for submissions to be showcased in our Cleveland County Artists feature:

email me at justin@cfmedia.info for more details.