Earning Potential for Electric Guitarists: Navigating the Music Industry

Electric guitarists, like many musicians, face the beautiful challenge of an ever-expanding yet unpredictable earning potential. The scope for earning as a guitarist can vary widely, and the financial outcome can be influenced by multiple factors. Just as the sky represents the limit, the earnings can range from peanuts, the colloquial term for a very small amount of money, to a substantial living if one dedicates themselves fully and strategically.

The Two Main Paths

There are two primary paths a guitarist can take: as a session player, or as a part of a band. Let's explore each path to understand the earning potential and the demands they entail.

Session Player: The Top of the Game

A guitarist aiming to become a session player must possess a rare combination of talent, knowledge, and an established reputation. A session player works on projects where they contribute their skills to recording and live performances often without the credit or visibility that frontmen or band leaders may have. For instance, many studio sessions are done in secret to maintain the integrity of the song, and thus, session players often stay in the shadows.

To become a session player, you need to:

Possess exceptional technical skills and a wide range of playing styles Establish a strong network of contacts within the music industry Gain a stellar reputation and an impressive portfolio of past work Continually hone your skills and stay updated with the latest trends in music and technology

With all these factors in place, one can indeed make a living as a session player. However, reaching such heights requires a significant investment of time and effort and may not guarantee a consistent income.

Band Player: From Safeguard to Stardom

On the other hand, a guitar player can opt for the band route. This path is more varied and outcomes may depend on the type of band, the genre, and the level of originality one brings to the table. Playing in a band can be a long, arduous journey, with the prospect of fame and financial success often being curtailed by meager interim earnings and the uncertainty of whether one can "make the big time."

If a guitarist wants to perform original music, the path to success is considerably more challenging. The music industry is fiercely competitive, and even the most talented musicians may not secure contracts or record deals easily. Such a journey can be filled with a series of small gigs and side jobs to keep the bills paid, with little to no guarantee of longevity or success.

However, if a guitarist is content performing covers or cabaret music, the landscape changes. Many club scenes, particularly in places like the UK, are shrinking, with established venues struggling to keep their doors open. This can make the earning potential for gigging in smaller venues less predictable.

Despite these challenges, some guitarists have found success in their duos or small ensembles, which can provide a steady income. This is less about talent and more about reputation, connection, and a substantial amount of time invested in building a presence in the industry. However, it's important to be prepared with a backup plan, as the music industry is notoriously unpredictable.

Realistic Expectations and Backup Plans

It's crucial to set realistic expectations from the start. Many musicians, including guitarists, need to have a solid backup plan. This can include traditional jobs or other sources of income. Many musicians balance their musical career with teaching, sound engineering, or production work.

Ultimately, the earning potential for electric guitarists depends on a combination of factors: talent, hard work, networking, strategic planning, and often, a bit of luck. While the sky is the limit, the path to achieving financial success is fraught with challenges and requires dedication and persistence.