The Hidden Path to a Successful Producer’s Career
“So, I haven’t been to a studio in 3 weeks and I feel like I’m off my pivot.” I’m talking to my mentor because I keep taking meetings for possible sync placement opportunities and talking to music managers but I haven’t made even a beat in what feels like forever. “This ain’t beat making, this is the music business. And in business you take meetings and answer emails.” I sat on a bench across the street from an Audi dealership kinda day dreaming about owning one as my mentor continues laughing at my naiveté. “You want the big checks? You gotta go to meetings. That’s how the game goes.” It’s been about 4 years since that phone call and I can confirm with every fiber of my being that he was right. I have gone months at a time taking meetings, going to brunches, answering emails, scheduling more meeting, answering DM’s, leaving voice notes, going to more meetings, getting on zoom calls, and going to more brunches for the sake of hearing someone say “aight, send the invoice.” We keep hearing that you’ve gotta stay in the studio, yet how can we when the money requires us to….take meetings.
Tangled Threads: The Art of Organization
In the music business, organization is the secret weapon. Keeping your emails, contacts, and project files in order is paramount. Taming the chaos allows you to swiftly locate critical information, maintain clear communication, and stay on top of your game. Embrace your inner project manager and organize your admin tasks by priority so that you can focus on the important stuff.
Following the Trail: The Power of Communication
In this crazy world, communication is the lifeline that connects you with clients, collaborators, and opportunities. Following up on emails and inquiries shows your professionalism, dedication, and commitment to the artists who have decided to hire you. It’s not just about having the craziest beat of vocal chain; it’s about nurturing relationships and building a network of trust that will lead to future endeavors. Stay persistent, stay connected, and follow the trail to success.
Seeking New Leads: The Hunt for Opportunities
Finding new clients and projects is will become your oxygen. Actively seeking opportunities keeps you one step ahead and gives you the confidence to keep going when someone turns down your services. Embrace your instincts by scouting for gigs, networking at events, and leveraging online platforms. With each new lead, you uncover potential collaborations that not only enrich your portfolio (catalog) but also contribute to your livelihood as an audio professional.
Cracking the Code: Balancing Creativity and Business
As a producer, you must strike a delicate equilibrium between your creative pursuits and the practicalities of running a business. Admin work may not be as glamorous as crafting beats or tweaking knobs, but it’s the foundation upon which your career thrives. By tending to administrative tasks, you pave the way for sustainable success, allowing your creative endeavors to flourish and your bank account to remain in the black.
“Aight OG, let me get back to it.” I turn to my inbox and finally start responding to people who’ve been looking for me to get back to them. I bounce between gmail and google calendar scheduling time for tasks and meetings. I look back up at the Audi dealership and day dream again. I wonder if Timbaland has to do all this. No, he doesn’t. That’s what a manager is for.
Duh….
