If you begin to dive into musicians “success stories”, most of them have one common denominator: they were at the right place at the right time.
I grew up in a small town. (At one point there were cows/horses in the middle of it, literally a few blocks away from the grocery store.) I could play hundreds of shows in that town, and the chance of a record label A&R or a talent booker seeing my set was slim to none.
The second I moved to the city of Toronto my world changed. I was not only more inspired, I was also surrounded by industry that became aware of my presence.
But like most things in life, every positive scenario comes with some negatives. Moving to a big city, with little to no plan, and no friends to connect with can be difficult. There will be challenges. But if you are serious about pursuing a music career, it can be extremely beneficial.
Here are 8 lessons I learned from moving to a big city for my music career!
1.) You have to be a hard worker
Gone are the days you work a part-time job and can comfortably afford to live. Taxes are higher, rent is through the roof, and music expenses (like recordings/music videos) are going to increase. In order to keep up with the industry you will need to work (a lot) while still having time to work on your career.
I currently have one full-time job, one part-time job, and another side job I am on the hunt for. Trust me, you can fit it in! Not everybody wants to do this… and you have to work fast and have a good work ethic. But the extra $ you can make to invest in your career will go a long way. Having a relaxed work schedule just won’t cut it.
2.) Define success for yourself
I truly believe success is in the eye of the beholder. If you are content living in Hawaii going to the beach everyday and performing at cafes, then you are successful. But if your dream is to be a singer who is respected within the industry, then you will have to move to where the industry is. What kind of career do you dream about? What does your type of music typically lead to? Defining what success means to you is important before you make the move! The big city isn’t for everybody. And the “American dream” isn’t everybody’s dream either.
3.) Be prepared for anything
I’ve grown to have this travellers mentality where I can up and leave a city tomorrow and not miss much. Being in music, this can help you as you sometimes have to move when opportunities present themselves.
4.) Do a “test drive” before you move
Before I officially moved to Toronto, I took a music business course called Canada’s Music Incubator. (https://canadasmusicincubator.com/)
It allowed me to experience the city and the music scene for two months before making the jump. Before then, I had spent months off and on in Nashville and even considered moving to New York.
I know now that Toronto is the perfect fit for me, but I wouldn’t of known that if I hadn’t of tried it out. I have known some people that have moved to Toronto, and completely hated it. If you aren’t enjoying your life, it’ll be hard to feel inspired to create music.
There are many cities with a great music industry; all of which have different pros and cons. I suggest testing the waters before you make the move!
5.) You’ll have to be comfortable being alone
“There is no solitude in the world like that of a big city.” – Kathleen Norris
It’s hard to make friends in a big city. Like, really hard. People are all very busy and they realistically only have a couple “friend slots” they have time for. It’s also hard (and expensive) to actively go out and meet people when you are working a lot yourself.
Don’t get me wrong, I have met so many incredible people and have a lot of music friends in this city I am thankful for. But it is harder to find a close friend you would call to rant to.
You’ll have to become super comfortable being independant. I’ve gone months working and haven’t had a proper visit with a friend. Some may say that’s crazy, but it is the kind of dedication you need when you’re wanting to grow your career.
You can definitely balance a social life, but if it doesn’t come right away don’t stress. It can be lonely but that is completely normal!
6.) Be careful who you listen to/hangout with
Big cities attract all kinds of people. Some are genuine musicians who are working in the industry, and others move for the lights, camera, and the action. (Literally.) There are a lot of smooth talkers and name-droppers.
It’s important to take everything with a grain of salt and always be sceptical when it comes to networking with industry, writers, and musicians. REAL6
If someone is bringing you down, tearing apart your music, or trying to get something from you… it is ok to walk away. There are many other industry people you can become friends with and these toxic relationships will not serve you and your creativity.
7.) Support your local music scene!
There are so many genres of music in a big city. There is an unlimited amount of inspiration! Take advantage of it by going out and seeing as many shows as you can. You will not only be supporting the music scene, but will also be learning about shows and how you can improve your own. My view on live performance has completely changed since I moved to Toronto and it is because of the amount of amazing live entertainment there is in the city.
8.) Have FUN!
It will be stressful. And it will feel like too much at times. But the benefits surpass far from the negatives. Smile through the bad times, drink a few too many coffees, and have the time of your life.
