Introduction

Setting Your Path: Joining the music industry at the age of 14 can be both exciting and daunting. This article shares insights from a 30-year-old career that began at 14 and provides a roadmap for aspiring teenage musicians.

Talking to Parents About Your Music Career

Communication is Key: When you decide to pursue music as a career, it’s essential to communicate your aspirations to your parents. Provide them with information about the steps you are taking, your goals, and your plans to make yourself and your work ready for the industry.

Steps to Take Before Talking to Your Parents:

Learn to play an instrument, such as piano. Take theater and choir in school to enhance your performance skills. Gain access to technology and learn how to use it for music production. Take English and work on poetry (lyrics). Perform as much as possible to build your repertoire and confidence. Create a portfolio of your work that showcases your skills and potential.

The Importance of High School Education

Lessons from a Misalignment: Sharing a unique personal story from 1990, I joined the music industry without a background or experience, using a program called Octamed. Despite my early success in music production, DJing, remixing, and performance, my lack of formal education led to significant challenges later in life.

Missing Final Exams: I never sat my final exams, resulting in no permanent school record, even for basic numeracy and literacy. I left school at 16, and while I succeeded in making several records, released an EP at 15, and continued producing music for 14 years, these achievements didn't matter to potential employers when I needed a qualification for a job.

Valuable Lessons: When I left the music industry at 30 to seek employment, I faced numerous job rejections due to the lack of a final school record. This experience emphasizes the importance of completing your education, even if it means delaying your aspirations. While numeracy and literacy might seem less relevant, proof of completing exams significantly enhances employability.

Building Your Skills and Gaining Experience

Learning on the Job: When you start in the industry, focus on learning through practical experience. Use whatever technology is available to you and learn how to use it effectively. Creating your portfolio of work will help you showcase your skills to potential record labels and employers.

Timing is Everything: While it's vital to be prepared, the timing of your decision also matters. Consider delaying your application to a record label until after you have a strong portfolio and a solid foundation of skills. Potential employers may overlook the 'final exams' record if you have an impressive portfolio and years of professional experience.

Challenges in the Current Music Industry

Post-Lockdown Reality: As a 40-something artist, I've experienced the reversal of fortune. The music industry, particularly independent labels, has faced significant challenges during the lockdown. Many musicians, including myself, have seen a decline in income. This has highlighted the uncertainty of pursuing a career in the music industry.

Making it Sustainable: Music can be incredibly rewarding, but it requires hard work, dedication, and a realistic understanding of the risks involved. If your primary goal is fame or significant financial gain, you may be disappointed. However, if you're passionate about music and willing to put in the effort, it can be a fulfilling career.

Conclusion

A Word of Advice: I strongly advise graduating high school and completing your exams. This step can open doors for employment and future opportunities. If you have a chance to release music, take it, but ensure you've finished your education first. After all these years, I deeply regret not pursuing an apprenticeship or trade. Music may provide invaluable skills and experiences, but a solid education is a safety net for your future.