Thank you very much for making this video it explains in great detail your intentions behind that first video... i’ll be honest when I saw that video about stop selling music.... I was like wtf???? I initially didn’t get what you meant because the thought of that suggestion I perceived it as a personal attack to all songwriters and producers and artists... then the second video..... then the third video.... and now this one..... I paid closer attention to them the second and third one... because I was turned off completely by the first one. Now that I have watched this one..... I will go back and watch all three....... to get a full better understanding..... without feeling personally attacked lol..... The truth is.....it’s been said if you want to make a person angry? Tell them a lie.... if you want to make a person furious? Tell them the truth. In hindsight? That is exactly what I was experiencing when I watched you first video. YOU MADE A VALID POINT BY ASKING THAT QUESTION AND BY GETTING US TO THINK. In that I want to thank you for sticking your neck out there to address the pink elephant in the middle of the room. The music industry has changed and while some were able to be out right lucky..... others genuinely mastered the business .... and some extremely talented were and still remain clueless about how to survive in an industry where it’s heavily saturated with creative people and music..... and the opportunities Have narrowed.... the internet and social media and distribution services like Tunecore and Amuse have changed the game in many ways... even social media where people can build and audience and following if you’re dedicated and know what you’re doing. It changes fast, some people are literal gurus and genius with the younger generation and some older people it has literally just out ran them and they are having a hard time keeping up or just gave up and walked away completely. But you’re right....... between the crooked ways of the industry.... the methods of delivery from physical CD’s to streaming services and live streaming etc. somewhere in there musicians and producers and songwriters are still getting financially raped......and are suffering and are broke. It’s like it needs to be a new version of “How To Make It In The Record Business” or a new version of “This Business Of Music”..... literal courses streamed on RUclips.... that walks people step by step.... that should be suggested for everyone.... updated constantly.... there are probably some videos like that on here.... but they honestly need to be heavily seen by people.... that are interested in making money doing music. For some it’s just a way they think they can make a ton of money at.... for others we do it out of inspiration... we do it because we have a genuine love for the expression of ones creativity.... yes it would be great to honestly make a good living from it.... but for these later types... the business side of music often leaves a bad taste in your mouth. Crooked managers, scam artists, predators, crooked lawyers etc.... the best thing would be is if each of us knew what to do... how to do it... without a red carpet laid out before us... just how do you build from ground zero...... if you have a ton of money to invest in yourself great... if you don’t ok then here is the minimum of what you will need to get going... start on these things etc........ Some times we can teach something technical to somebody... but often we can’t convey or give them talent and creativity. So again I just wanted to say again that I appreciate this video....... and sorry to hear about the death threats.... that’s just on a whole nother page..... but I learned a lot from what your intentions are and were in this video..... I think you’re right we have to reinvent something new in how to beat utilize what’s available to us. There’s got to be a better way to do this than what is existing. Thanks again.
Damian Keyes wow, thank you! Yet thank you for your brilliance, courage and honesty.... this is a very sincere experience you're sharing. I felt you, got you, understood you here... I literally had an "ah ha!!! " moment.... like okkkkkk now I understand where you're coming from! Not that you were not clear in the other video... it's just honestly the emotional ego often attached to out love and hate relationship with this gift of music we have. It's like to be honest it has felt like a blessing and a curse... for me personally... so like I said, there was an immediate defensive posturing... at the title alone.. and the subject just felt uncomfortable... so not understanding... initially... I tuned out.... as a reaction... which is my issue... but on this one.... I was like hold up... ok I read him wrong... so I truly appreciate you taken the time to share this with us. Thank you for pinning my comment.. thank you for your response.. and yeah.. how do we reinvent this puppy!!!! Thank you for igniting thought and the suggestion for a positive overhaul. Respects!
That’s ridiculous, people are overly sensitive these days... Believe in yourself Damian, you did the right thing. We love your content and have mad respect for you and your work. There 3 types of comments, Positive, Negative but with an argument to disagreement, and last one, the dumbasses and shitholes, who just want to pull your leg because you’re successful, those are the ones you wanna swipe off. Stay safe, farewell bud.
Sucks that people feel so emboldened by the anonymity that they think they can behave however they want. Glad to hear that you are OK and yeah, maybe try to focus instead on the positive comments :-)
Your titles are confrontational, but your videos are intelligent and thoughtful. We can't expect that too many viewers have the ability to be intelligent at all, or to get past gut feelings and strong loyalties to their preset beliefs. In my country (the USA), this problem is a daily fact of life! lol
Sorry to hear it got that heated, no one deserves that when all they’re doing is trying to help. I def think you give good, positive advice and I’ve taken a lot of it back to my 2 bands that we now try and practice. I get why people got pissed off about it cause I’m about to hit 40 and don’t want to admit that it’s pointless having cd’s etc but we have to lol at what’s happening now. You’ve just had the balls to say it out loud.
Recently subscribed. I appreciated your take on the music business these days. I'm a music teacher and amateur musician. Interested in ideas about music and the business. Less interested in going pro myself, at least not now. Will continue to listen to your ideas.
Wowzers! I wondered why you'd been quiet this week. Mental man. Sounds like you hit a nerve. I mean, you spoke sense and explained your actions, and made it clear selling CD's as merch makes sense. I think your follow ups, those done (and I'm sure those which will come) will be worth their weight in gold mate. I even saw a comment on your third video where someone said they at first thought you were crazy, but that it was starting to make sense to them. Way I see it, you're only trying to help people. People don't HAVE to take your advice. I think it's pretty decent man, and well thought out. Keep it up bro. Respect.
Your opinions are spot on and 100% correct about where to put your time and money for becoming a success in music. Ignore the haters. I've been through the same thing, and ignoring them is the only way to live your life. Their poison is not your poison.
Horrible to hear that. I'm also glad that you spoke about it, and recognized the perversion in seeking out hate. I've noticed the same in how I look at comments. It's good to be aware of this strange addiction and stay far far away from it. One tip is to treasure the good words said- literally writing it out or sticking it on your head if you need to. If bad words have much power, good ones have more.
Great video ! You're obviously making people think and making them react to their personal situation. Ruffling some feathers is always a good thing. Those haters might rethink their positions and look for a different, more successful approach. Thank you for posting !! And yes, we've got your back !!! :-)
Wow... You're respected and admired widely mate. Perhaps this is one of those times where a problem is actually an opportunity in disguise. Irrespective, please stay safe. Happy to help you in any way I can if you need support.
You're building something awesome here, thanks so much man. I'm considering making a live session channel and your knowledge is super helpful to me. I don't think about selling any of the live recordings, it's all merch.
I've earned a living in Australia as a musician for the last 10 years and Ive found you videos to be very thought provoking. You've also fueled some great conversations between myself and my fellow muso buddy's. .. I appreciate what you're doing bro.
I recently got back into, or more like got into marketing my music and I just came across one of your videos so checked out your channel. Even though I'm not new to marketing by any means I enjoy the content made and I'm always learning new things so I'm glad I did. Even though this video isn't the happiest of videos going right now, I dig how honest you were with the comments and the addiction to finding the most negative shit there was. It happens more often than most would like to admit. Good on ya.
Sounds like you conducted a fascinating social experiment! Thanks for being very frank about your experience and sharing about the deeper meaning of all of this.
This is really a symptom of the human psyche. We are prewired to seek the negative. We have to consciously push the positive. This is a well documented psychological phenomena. It is pretty cool that you are able to put this experience to words and make sense of it. Cheers man!
Hi Damian, I've only just come to your channel and I wanted to tell you how much I appreciate your down to earth approach and all the advice you've giving. Unfortunately we live in an era that is increasingly reactionary and ideologically extreme, where left and right are less and less inclined to even engage with each other, let alone meet each other in the middle, and I think your vile death threat over such a relatively trivial thing is a sign of the times, sadly. And the nature of social media obviously makes these things possible. I think it's easy to slip into addiction to negative thinking and I appreciate your candour with your own experience with this. That part of our brain that we used to need for survival, to focus on where the next sabre-toothed tiger might be, is still in us whether we like it or not. For myself, mindfulness has been a great help with this type of thinking. It is hard for muso's though, as you well know, to accept the new paradigm of the way music is consumed. Letting go of that CD idea is just so damn hard....even when we don't even play them ourselves anymore! Easy for an accountant to swap from tangible books to digitised files in the ether...not so easy for a musician or an artist-the whole process is about holding something tangible in your hands! Anyway, keep up the great work mate :-)
youre a fuckin brave man to tell the truth! and to give great freakin advice. I understand people hate...but they are afraid and stuck. And its people like you, that one day they will remeber and say...that GUY was RIGHT...and he TOLD ME BECAUSE HE WANTED TO HELP ME! STAY TRUE!
thank you, damian, for your valuable insights and straight-cut opinions. i think most of us here do appreciate that more than you might fathom. we all - you included - live under the gaussian curve which means, we do meet every kind of person out there and the majority is sort of benign but far of faultless average. but as there´s also some very outstanding and generous personalities, a small percent of low-life exists, too. we have to deal with that without letting them bring us down. keep up your very good work. THX !
I appreciate and get a lot out of your videos. I have been a professional independent musician for 12 years and your vids motivate, and inform me on how to stay creative on the business side, so thanks. I wanna keep playing music full time.
Just watched this a second time. I suddenly remembered Lady Gaga’s words “If you don’t have any shadows you’re not in the light.” I need to say that your videos and advice are really appreciated. I feel that the independent artist has more opportunities and resources now than ever before, but it takes much more discipline, self-motivation, and patience to be where one would want to be. Most of us know that the right algorithms and mindsets do exist but are left to find them on our own. You have a way of getting your ideas across in a very realistic, enthusiastic, logical and concise manner that makes the musicians path feel less like getting lost in a dark forest with a box of matches and is very motivating. Thank you, and please keep doing what you do!
Been following your channel for a while now, and it got me rethinking a lot of aspects about myself as a musician / creative. Not only have I gotten a bit more serious about my role in my bands / projects, I’m also having a lot more fun (due to being more involved). On the subject of “not selling music”, I really don’t get what the fuss is all about. This is basically what the punk scene has been doing for years: offer music for free/donation/streaming online, and sell your vinyl/cd at the merch table at shows. Now, we’re not playing big arena shows or anything, but at least a lot of bands (mine included) have sustainable careers because of merch sales. People are more than willing to lay down some cash if they had a good time at your show. Does it pay my rent? At the moment it doesn’t. But I do get to play shows around the globe, have a ton of fun, and not have to worry a second about costs like gas/travel expenses, accommodation, studio fees, production costs etc. That’s all covered.
I was a Professional entertainer for 16 years, and you learn very quickly, that there are people who REALLY believe with ALL of their pea pick'n hearts...that their JOB is to heckle you. The moment you stoop to the the hecklers level, the audience dislikes you for badgering one of their own. You are the PRO and their the "little" people with ordinary lives. When "he" screams, speak softer and softer until the audience can no longer hear YOU then THEY shut HIM up. What's more, they give you the credit for being SO professional. I've literally had the loudmouth come to me after a show,shake my hand and with a huge grin say,"Hey man' your the best I've ever seen". Haters will hate. Play to the people that like you already. Thank you for the TIPS.
Thanks for continuing to talk about this topic Damian, those who actually appreciate it will love you more for it. The reason for all this hate is probably that there's a lot of people who get angry because you've actually triggered some self evaluation, they've got mad from their conclusions and instead of deciding to act on them in a positive way they decide to (threaten to) shoot the messenger. To me that's a sign you've started the right discussion :)
I became a fan and a Subscriber BECAUSE of your content this week! I wasn't aware of you until "Stop Selling Your Music". I can only imagine how shaken you would be after receiving a video threat like that. Hopefully it was only some troll that was making a puerile attempt to get under your skin. Please know that there are those of us that find value in what you offer here. I've gone back and watched a ton of them this week. It's healthy to examine our industry and pose the questions that you do. I appreciate it. Thank you for your candor, experience and perspective.
I find it crazy how offended some musicians get about what you said. I totally understood it. The statistics and proof have been here for years now and many are refusing to see it. I got it. I get it. Keep doing what you do.
That sucks and some people don’t know where to go... They have completely lost sight of what is important. Please report them. They can lose their account. It can also be illegal. Come, fix upon me that accusing eye. I thirst for accusation. - William Butler Yeats Parnell’s Funeral This poem is old but still relevant. It’s just as true today as back then. It takes a lot of self knowledge to understand when that desire to be accused is taking over and to make a clean break as you did.
Hope you're doing alright man. I've recently had someone who lives about 10 minutes away from me threaten to "gut me like a fish", beat me up, kill me, says he has gang member family members, etc. He was recently released from jail on a firearms charge and is also a crackhead. It's no joke.
I am in a band for a year now, I can assure you that every advice you gave in your videos is relevant and usefull. They are dense and content based, keep up the good work! Indeed we are in a time of change in music. Most bands were playing and getting cash money by avoiding taxes and fiscal fraud but now everything has to be declared so it's harder to get paid gigs. But Facebook, Spotify , distrokid and RUclips allows a very small budget distribution. In my local area bands are blossoming because of it, it's great. Best regards from France.
Hey man, thanks for pushing through and keeping at it!! I'm painting a far different picture of the next few years with your advice in mind. It's really the first time I've felt like I had some clarity, and actually defined direction, which stresses me out far less haha.. so thank you!! Cheers!
Oh no! Your doing so seriously awesome work for us musicians out here hitting the pavement! Please dont stop! Some folks HAVE to drink hater aid...that's a sad state to be in...death threats? Wow!
Oh man, so relatable. I did a video of me singing a cover, gave it a clickbaity title, and it got about 300,000 views within a week or something. And then yeah, after a while I would just glaze over the positive comments and actively seek out the negative ones, and just get into arguments with people. It just brought out the absolute worst in me so I deleted the video. Now I get comments all the time asking where the video has gone, and nobody seems to understand why I would delete a video with so many views (It was up to a million views when I deleted it). So thanks for sharing, it's kinda comforting to know I'm not the only one that struggles with hate comment addiction, or HCA, which I'm going to start calling it from now on.
Keep doing what you are doing Damian. Honestly I feel the outlook you have on the industry is the most accurate one as in that you have seen the patterns and have made a game plan to suit longevity in the business and I honestly take your opinion into consideration any time I move forward with my projects. Please dont stop
These are tough times for all musicians, we have to navigate new ways of being entrepreneurial and you are being creative, and sensible in your advice, some people just don't get it.
Thank you Damian for your content. Here is what you should tell the haters or coward anonymous theateners : Two Feelings are the roots of all other feelings : Love ....and hate. Well, know that hate, just like anger , is nothing more than a bi-product of fear. Period. Hope it helps, Rick 💪
Really honest video. Death threats online are common. I've had a few. The comment section doesn't always represent the reality of the person making the comment. I have a BS profile because I don't take social media serious. Some trolls are really messed up pieces of poop. If you give them attention them you become time and entertainment in their life.
And still you are right. Its exactly the same as with photography: 20 years ago you could make a living from selling landscape-photographies as fine-art-prints. Now the game is over. It may be sad, but no one can change it by being angry about it or about someone telling him this fact. But among us musicians are some people, suffering from serious mental health problems. One of them must have sent you this shit.
I'm new to your channel but I took the videos as a thought provoking devil's advocate. There is a ton of great advice that you give FOR FREE and I hope you don't hold back on the future because of this one incident. You inspired me to do more with my own channel and I plan on uploading weekly! Seriously, thank you for making such amazing content!
It’s best not to engage in internet debates. However, I’ve seen the videos in question. I honestly don’t see how anyone could be triggered by your opinions on this topic. I for one, believe that your intentions are extremely positive.
I've received a lot of death threats as well. My advice is to make a screenshot, make notes of all details such as name, date, which social media etc, send it immediately to your local police, and then delete, block, ignore and forget. Don't feed the trolls! Your content and opinions are very helpful :-)
Sir, this was very enlightening - to see the point of view of the creator. See, I was wondering why some of the people I am subscribed to kind of ignored most of the good (some times even touching and heartfelt) comments and decided to engage the negative/trolls. Personally I was finding it disappointing, how smarter than average people simply couldn't resist clapping back as if it would show.. something? So many great comments, but sometimes only negative ones were answered. I was thinking about unsubscribing since I found that unfair to the fans and followers and actually made me stop commenting on those channels. Anyway, enough rambling. Thanks for the video and the new perspective.
Damian you are working in the business of music and i think you know that the artists are ungrateful and very sensible, their égos are touched, i'm working in the music business industry in France and i'm agree with your mindset, we need to find a new business model...the old paradigm of selling cd's is dead, as you said you need to build your own community !!! Love your video !!! sorry for my approximative english...
this is crazy ! I mean, all you do is help us. Wtf... I hope you find the strength to focus on the positive comments because most of us want you to keep going ! Man, some people are crazy !
Only recently found your channel after the video you mention, 'Stop selling music' showed up as recommended on my channel. I watched it and found it interesting and had a few well thought out points. Can understand people not agreeing with everything in it but not any hate or threats relating to it. ( But then again some people can seem to get very hostile about any video on any subject!) Anyway, I've since watched a few more of your videos and they all seem to offer some good advice and ideas. Keep up the good work.
I don't really see how people can get angry about your decision to swim with the current when it comes to music sales. It's obvious that this is where the industry is going. Loving this channel Damian! Really useful advice. 😀
You don't win arguments with negative keyboard warriors. If people can't handle your opinion.. bad for them. Block them and keep sharing! I really enjoy your channel, don't agree on lots of stuff you say but I respect your opinion and I use the stuff that helps me.. so thank you buddy. Keep it up!
Thank you very much for making this video it explains in great detail your intentions behind that first video... i’ll be honest when I saw that video about stop selling music.... I was like wtf???? I initially didn’t get what you meant because the thought of that suggestion I perceived it as a personal attack to all songwriters and producers and artists... then the second video..... then the third video.... and now this one..... I paid closer attention to them the second and third one... because I was turned off completely by the first one. Now that I have watched this one..... I will go back and watch all three....... to get a full better understanding..... without feeling personally attacked lol.....
The truth is.....it’s been said if you want to make a person angry? Tell them a lie.... if you want to make a person furious? Tell them the truth. In hindsight? That is exactly what I was experiencing when I watched you first video. YOU MADE A VALID POINT BY ASKING THAT QUESTION AND BY GETTING US TO THINK. In that I want to thank you for sticking your neck out there to address the pink elephant in the middle of the room.
The music industry has changed and while some were able to be out right lucky..... others genuinely mastered the business .... and some extremely talented were and still remain clueless about how to survive in an industry where it’s heavily saturated with creative people and music..... and the opportunities Have narrowed.... the internet and social media and distribution services like Tunecore and Amuse have changed the game in many ways... even social media where people can build and audience and following if you’re dedicated and know what you’re doing. It changes fast, some people are literal gurus and genius with the younger generation and some older people it has literally just out ran them and they are having a hard time keeping up or just gave up and walked away completely.
But you’re right....... between the crooked ways of the industry.... the methods of delivery from physical CD’s to streaming services and live streaming etc. somewhere in there musicians and producers and songwriters are still getting financially raped......and are suffering and are broke.
It’s like it needs to be a new version of “How To Make It In The Record Business” or a new version of “This Business Of Music”..... literal courses streamed on RUclips.... that walks people step by step.... that should be suggested for everyone.... updated constantly.... there are probably some videos like that on here.... but they honestly need to be heavily seen by people.... that are interested in making money doing music.
For some it’s just a way they think they can make a ton of money at.... for others we do it out of inspiration... we do it because we have a genuine love for the expression of ones creativity.... yes it would be great to honestly make a good living from it.... but for these later types... the business side of music often leaves a bad taste in your mouth.
Crooked managers, scam artists, predators, crooked lawyers etc.... the best thing would be is if each of us knew what to do... how to do it... without a red carpet laid out before us... just how do you build from ground zero...... if you have a ton of money to invest in yourself great... if you don’t ok then here is the minimum of what you will need to get going... start on these things etc........ Some times we can teach something technical to somebody... but often we can’t convey or give them talent and creativity.
So again I just wanted to say again that I appreciate this video....... and sorry to hear about the death threats.... that’s just on a whole nother page..... but I learned a lot from what your intentions are and were in this video..... I think you’re right we have to reinvent something new in how to beat utilize what’s available to us. There’s got to be a better way to do this than what is existing.
Thanks again.
Wow, dude thank you so much for this message it has literally made my day! I am pinning it to the video. Seriously, thank you so much! 🙏🙂
Damian Keyes wow, thank you! Yet thank you for your brilliance, courage and honesty.... this is a very sincere experience you're sharing. I felt you, got you, understood you here... I literally had an "ah ha!!! " moment.... like okkkkkk now I understand where you're coming from! Not that you were not clear in the other video... it's just honestly the emotional ego often attached to out love and hate relationship with this gift of music we have. It's like to be honest it has felt like a blessing and a curse... for me personally... so like I said, there was an immediate defensive posturing... at the title alone.. and the subject just felt uncomfortable... so not understanding... initially... I tuned out.... as a reaction... which is my issue... but on this one.... I was like hold up... ok I read him wrong... so I truly appreciate you taken the time to share this with us. Thank you for pinning my comment.. thank you for your response.. and yeah.. how do we reinvent this puppy!!!! Thank you for igniting thought and the suggestion for a positive overhaul. Respects!
I hope you've reported them to the police. You're an inspiring chap, no need to be treated like that
That means you’re doing something right
I was about to say the same thing! :)
Richard Rey thanks so much Richard, yeah it is done wonders for my channel subs so I guess I can’t complain
Controversy breeds attention
Richard Rey I agree, when you start making people angry that means you’re on the right track. Keep up the great work.
in the minecraft community if you dont like minecraft they will wish you to die
This is why I try to minimize my exposer to Twitter. I don't know what it is about that platform in particular, but it brings out the worst in people.
That's how you know you're doing something right. Sending you good energy friend. #forward #strong
Mental State Music thank you so much 😊😊
Keep your chin up bud. Your doing amazing work. Don't let the arseholes get you down.
Dave Ramm thanks so much Dave
You are one of the most sincere I've found on this app. So sorry this happened.
Damian don’t listen to negative comments. you have a lot of value to offer.
vocalmaestro thank you so much it’s really appreciated 😊😊
You are great Damian, this is one of the best channels out there for supporting upcoming artists. If not the best.
That’s ridiculous, people are overly sensitive these days...
Believe in yourself Damian, you did the right thing. We love your content and have mad respect for you and your work.
There 3 types of comments, Positive, Negative but with an argument to disagreement, and last one, the dumbasses and shitholes, who just want to pull your leg because you’re successful, those are the ones you wanna swipe off.
Stay safe, farewell bud.
Thank you! It's all good dude it's done wonders for my channel lol but now its back to business as usual 🙂
Damian Keyes Glad to know! Your audience admires you and will always do. Good luck!
Sucks that people feel so emboldened by the anonymity that they think they can behave however they want. Glad to hear that you are OK and yeah, maybe try to focus instead on the positive comments :-)
Your titles are confrontational, but your videos are intelligent and thoughtful. We can't expect that too many viewers have the ability to be intelligent at all, or to get past gut feelings and strong loyalties to their preset beliefs. In my country (the USA), this problem is a daily fact of life! lol
Mr. Basic thanks so much yeah you are right I think a lot of people didn’t even watch the video and just got triggered by the title 😊
truth
Sorry to hear it got that heated, no one deserves that when all they’re doing is trying to help. I def think you give good, positive advice and I’ve taken a lot of it back to my 2 bands that we now try and practice. I get why people got pissed off about it cause I’m about to hit 40 and don’t want to admit that it’s pointless having cd’s etc but we have to lol at what’s happening now. You’ve just had the balls to say it out loud.
If you’re going through hell, just keep going 💪🏼 Cheers 🍻
Much respect man your only human bro
Interesting. Thanks for this video. Hadn't considered this concept of addiction to negatively
Recently subscribed. I appreciated your take on the music business these days.
I'm a music teacher and amateur musician. Interested in ideas about music and the business. Less interested in going pro myself, at least not now.
Will continue to listen to your ideas.
Wowzers! I wondered why you'd been quiet this week. Mental man. Sounds like you hit a nerve. I mean, you spoke sense and explained your actions, and made it clear selling CD's as merch makes sense. I think your follow ups, those done (and I'm sure those which will come) will be worth their weight in gold mate. I even saw a comment on your third video where someone said they at first thought you were crazy, but that it was starting to make sense to them.
Way I see it, you're only trying to help people. People don't HAVE to take your advice. I think it's pretty decent man, and well thought out. Keep it up bro. Respect.
Your opinions are spot on and 100% correct about where to put your time and money for becoming a success in music. Ignore the haters. I've been through the same thing, and ignoring them is the only way to live your life. Their poison is not your poison.
Cheers from America. Always count on your guidance!
Poor you man, thats not on. You seem like a good man, hope you deal with it in the right way. Peace
When you are in the spotlight, very important to keep the fire burning mate..with the right fuel.
I like that a bass is in the video kinda "backing" you. Best pal/instrument.
Thanks Damian - Your videos are eye-opening and good ideas about the future of music. Keep it up man.
Horrible to hear that. I'm also glad that you spoke about it, and recognized the perversion in seeking out hate. I've noticed the same in how I look at comments. It's good to be aware of this strange addiction and stay far far away from it. One tip is to treasure the good words said- literally writing it out or sticking it on your head if you need to. If bad words have much power, good ones have more.
Vihan Damaris thanks Vihan, yeah a wierd week but a big learning curve 😊
Great video ! You're obviously making people think and making them react to their personal situation.
Ruffling some feathers is always a good thing. Those haters might rethink their positions and look for a different,
more successful approach.
Thank you for posting !! And yes, we've got your back !!! :-)
Wow... You're respected and admired widely mate. Perhaps this is one of those times where a problem is actually an opportunity in disguise. Irrespective, please stay safe. Happy to help you in any way I can if you need support.
Thank you so much Toby, that made me smile 🙏
You're building something awesome here, thanks so much man. I'm considering making a live session channel and your knowledge is super helpful to me. I don't think about selling any of the live recordings, it's all merch.
Thank you so much Bill 🙂🙂🙂
I've earned a living in Australia as a musician for the last 10 years and Ive found you videos to be very thought provoking. You've also fueled some great conversations between myself and my fellow muso buddy's. .. I appreciate what you're doing bro.
I recently got back into, or more like got into marketing my music and I just came across one of your videos so checked out your channel. Even though I'm not new to marketing by any means I enjoy the content made and I'm always learning new things so I'm glad I did. Even though this video isn't the happiest of videos going right now, I dig how honest you were with the comments and the addiction to finding the most negative shit there was. It happens more often than most would like to admit. Good on ya.
I agree 100% with you and I will be giving all my music away for free in the public domain. Don't let the hater get to you, cheers!!
Dont let it get to you damian, dont waste your time on those guys and keep making videos !!
Damian mate, you are the only one so far talking about the music industry on the right way, so don't fucking stop
Who would send this guy a death threat? Dude is helpful and positive.
Sounds like you conducted a fascinating social experiment! Thanks for being very frank about your experience and sharing about the deeper meaning of all of this.
Props for being honest dude
This is really a symptom of the human psyche. We are prewired to seek the negative. We have to consciously push the positive. This is a well documented psychological phenomena. It is pretty cool that you are able to put this experience to words and make sense of it. Cheers man!
Hi Damian, I've only just come to your channel and I wanted to tell you how much I appreciate your down to earth approach and all the advice you've giving. Unfortunately we live in an era that is increasingly reactionary and ideologically extreme, where left and right are less and less inclined to even engage with each other, let alone meet each other in the middle, and I think your vile death threat over such a relatively trivial thing is a sign of the times, sadly. And the nature of social media obviously makes these things possible. I think it's easy to slip into addiction to negative thinking and I appreciate your candour with your own experience with this. That part of our brain that we used to need for survival, to focus on where the next sabre-toothed tiger might be, is still in us whether we like it or not. For myself, mindfulness has been a great help with this type of thinking.
It is hard for muso's though, as you well know, to accept the new paradigm of the way music is consumed. Letting go of that CD idea is just so damn hard....even when we don't even play them ourselves anymore!
Easy for an accountant to swap from tangible books to digitised files in the ether...not so easy for a musician or an artist-the whole process is about holding something tangible in your hands!
Anyway, keep up the great work mate :-)
Mark Hughes and the Whole Wide World thank you so so much Mark 😊😊😊
youre a fuckin brave man to tell the truth! and to give great freakin advice. I understand people hate...but they are afraid and stuck. And its people like you, that one day they will remeber and say...that GUY was RIGHT...and he TOLD ME BECAUSE HE WANTED TO HELP ME! STAY TRUE!
thank you, damian, for your valuable insights and straight-cut opinions.
i think most of us here do appreciate that more than you might fathom.
we all - you included - live under the gaussian curve which means, we do meet every kind of person out there and the majority is sort of benign but far of faultless average. but as there´s also some very outstanding and generous personalities, a small percent of low-life exists, too. we have to deal with that without letting them bring us down.
keep up your very good work. THX !
I'm Subscribed. I remember you saying about doing things for free way back when I was at acm.(1999.)Some people are just born negative!
EJ! How's you? Great to hear from you. It's been a long time, I need to hear all of your news hit me up. Damo@dkmanagement.co.uk
sorry to hear you went through this, man :( you're videos are always very helpful
I appreciate and get a lot out of your videos. I have been a professional independent musician for 12 years and your vids motivate, and inform me on how to stay creative on the business side, so thanks. I wanna keep playing music full time.
Just watched this a second time. I suddenly remembered Lady Gaga’s words “If you don’t have any shadows you’re not in the light.”
I need to say that your videos and advice are really appreciated. I feel that the independent artist has more opportunities and resources now than ever before, but it takes much more discipline, self-motivation, and patience to be where one would want to be. Most of us know that the right algorithms and mindsets do exist but are left to find them on our own. You have a way of getting your ideas across in a very realistic, enthusiastic, logical and concise manner that makes the musicians path feel less like getting lost in a dark forest with a box of matches and is very motivating.
Thank you, and please keep doing what you do!
Been following your channel for a while now, and it got me rethinking a lot of aspects about myself as a musician / creative. Not only have I gotten a bit more serious about my role in my bands / projects, I’m also having a lot more fun (due to being more involved).
On the subject of “not selling music”, I really don’t get what the fuss is all about. This is basically what the punk scene has been doing for years: offer music for free/donation/streaming online, and sell your vinyl/cd at the merch table at shows. Now, we’re not playing big arena shows or anything, but at least a lot of bands (mine included) have sustainable careers because of merch sales. People are more than willing to lay down some cash if they had a good time at your show. Does it pay my rent? At the moment it doesn’t. But I do get to play shows around the globe, have a ton of fun, and not have to worry a second about costs like gas/travel expenses, accommodation, studio fees, production costs etc. That’s all covered.
Keep up the good work! You make sense to me!
I was a Professional entertainer for 16 years, and you learn very quickly, that there are people who REALLY believe with ALL of their pea pick'n hearts...that their JOB is to heckle you. The moment you stoop to the the hecklers level, the audience dislikes you for badgering one of their own. You are the PRO and their the "little" people with ordinary lives. When "he" screams, speak softer and softer until the audience can no longer hear YOU then THEY shut HIM up. What's more, they give you the credit for being SO professional. I've literally had the loudmouth come to me after a show,shake my hand and with a huge grin say,"Hey man' your the best I've ever seen". Haters will hate. Play to the people that like you already. Thank you for the TIPS.
Thanks for continuing to talk about this topic Damian, those who actually appreciate it will love you more for it. The reason for all this hate is probably that there's a lot of people who get angry because you've actually triggered some self evaluation, they've got mad from their conclusions and instead of deciding to act on them in a positive way they decide to (threaten to) shoot the messenger. To me that's a sign you've started the right discussion :)
I became a fan and a Subscriber BECAUSE of your content this week! I wasn't aware of you until "Stop Selling Your Music". I can only imagine how shaken you would be after receiving a video threat like that. Hopefully it was only some troll that was making a puerile attempt to get under your skin. Please know that there are those of us that find value in what you offer here. I've gone back and watched a ton of them this week. It's healthy to examine our industry and pose the questions that you do. I appreciate it. Thank you for your candor, experience and perspective.
Well said, and thank you. Now, more music!
Mark Coren hell yeah!!! On with the show!!
I love your content! You give so much useful advice and your work is greatly appreciated! Thanks, Big D!
I find it crazy how offended some musicians get about what you said. I totally understood it. The statistics and proof have been here for years now and many are refusing to see it. I got it. I get it. Keep doing what you do.
its so hard to say anything in this world with out offending ppl!
+Lofi Meka true I get trolls everyday and it’s frustrating that some people are funny but so many people take trolling too far
That sucks and some people don’t know where to go... They have completely lost sight of what is important. Please report them. They can lose their account. It can also be illegal.
Come, fix upon me that accusing eye.
I thirst for accusation.
- William Butler Yeats
Parnell’s Funeral
This poem is old but still relevant. It’s just as true today as back then. It takes a lot of self knowledge to understand when that desire to be accused is taking over and to make a clean break as you did.
Hope you're doing alright man. I've recently had someone who lives about 10 minutes away from me threaten to "gut me like a fish", beat me up, kill me, says he has gang member family members, etc. He was recently released from jail on a firearms charge and is also a crackhead. It's no joke.
You are very informative to me. I have learned a lot from you. I've written down a bunch of things because it makes sense! Thank you!
.....means you are reaching a lot of people- some of which are a bit “crazy”.
Please keep going....you’re one of my favorites ;-0
Sonic Impact thank you so much 👏😊
Hey Damian, you are doin it right, you are a good help for a lot of musicians like us, greetings from Buenos Aires
I am in a band for a year now, I can assure you that every advice you gave in your videos is relevant and usefull. They are dense and content based, keep up the good work! Indeed we are in a time of change in music. Most bands were playing and getting cash money by avoiding taxes and fiscal fraud but now everything has to be declared so it's harder to get paid gigs. But Facebook, Spotify , distrokid and RUclips allows a very small budget distribution. In my local area bands are blossoming because of it, it's great.
Best regards from France.
Don’t listen tho the bad peoples writing negative things, you are doing right
Hey man, thanks for pushing through and keeping at it!! I'm painting a far different picture of the next few years with your advice in mind. It's really the first time I've felt like I had some clarity, and actually defined direction, which stresses me out far less haha.. so thank you!! Cheers!
Oh no! Your doing so seriously awesome work for us musicians out here hitting the pavement! Please dont stop! Some folks HAVE to drink hater aid...that's a sad state to be in...death threats? Wow!
Thanks for talking about this.
Oh man, so relatable. I did a video of me singing a cover, gave it a clickbaity title, and it got about 300,000 views within a week or something. And then yeah, after a while I would just glaze over the positive comments and actively seek out the negative ones, and just get into arguments with people. It just brought out the absolute worst in me so I deleted the video. Now I get comments all the time asking where the video has gone, and nobody seems to understand why I would delete a video with so many views (It was up to a million views when I deleted it). So thanks for sharing, it's kinda comforting to know I'm not the only one that struggles with hate comment addiction, or HCA, which I'm going to start calling it from now on.
Full on your side! Thank for the advises in generall 🙏 dear Damian!
Keep doing what you are doing Damian. Honestly I feel the outlook you have on the industry is the most accurate one as in that you have seen the patterns and have made a game plan to suit longevity in the business and I honestly take your opinion into consideration any time I move forward with my projects. Please dont stop
Fuck the haters! Say what's on your mind!
i hope your ok mate your content is fantastic keep doing what your doing pal :)
These are tough times for all musicians, we have to navigate new ways of being entrepreneurial and you are being creative, and sensible in your advice, some people just don't get it.
Thanks so much Michael
Don't join the negativity my man, don't give your energy to these assholes. Just ignore or block them. They don't understand what you're about.
Keep up the great content !
I am 14 years old and yesterday I was threatened by someone on the internet who said he would pay someone to kill me, I am scared for my life now.
Thank you Damian for your content. Here is what you should tell the haters or coward anonymous theateners :
Two Feelings are the roots of all other feelings : Love ....and hate. Well, know that hate, just like anger , is nothing more than a bi-product of fear. Period.
Hope it helps, Rick 💪
Really honest video. Death threats online are common. I've had a few. The comment section doesn't always represent the reality of the person making the comment. I have a BS profile because I don't take social media serious. Some trolls are really messed up pieces of poop. If you give them attention them you become time and entertainment in their life.
Cheers brother thank you for the info
Keep it coming 🙌🙌
And still you are right. Its exactly the same as with photography: 20 years ago you could make a living from selling landscape-photographies as fine-art-prints. Now the game is over. It may be sad, but no one can change it by being angry about it or about someone telling him this fact. But among us musicians are some people, suffering from serious mental health problems. One of them must have sent you this shit.
I'm new to your channel but I took the videos as a thought provoking devil's advocate. There is a ton of great advice that you give FOR FREE and I hope you don't hold back on the future because of this one incident. You inspired me to do more with my own channel and I plan on uploading weekly!
Seriously, thank you for making such amazing content!
Where ever focus goes energy flows...
Bless you brother!
It’s best not to engage in internet debates. However, I’ve seen the videos in question. I honestly don’t see how anyone could be triggered by your opinions on this topic. I for one, believe that your intentions are extremely positive.
I've received a lot of death threats as well. My advice is to make a screenshot, make notes of all details such as name, date, which social media etc, send it immediately to your local police, and then delete, block, ignore and forget. Don't feed the trolls! Your content and opinions are very helpful :-)
Sir, this was very enlightening - to see the point of view of the creator. See, I was wondering why some of the people I am subscribed to kind of ignored most of the good (some times even touching and heartfelt) comments and decided to engage the negative/trolls. Personally I was finding it disappointing, how smarter than average people simply couldn't resist clapping back as if it would show.. something? So many great comments, but sometimes only negative ones were answered. I was thinking about unsubscribing since I found that unfair to the fans and followers and actually made me stop commenting on those channels. Anyway, enough rambling. Thanks for the video and the new perspective.
Thank you.. DK. for the video all about musicians staying focus on his art and craft. Haters nothing more nothing less.
Damian you are working in the business of music and i think you know that the artists are ungrateful and very sensible, their égos are touched, i'm working in the music business industry in France and i'm agree with your mindset, we need to find a new business model...the old paradigm of selling cd's is dead, as you said you need to build your own community !!! Love your video !!! sorry for my approximative english...
this is crazy ! I mean, all you do is help us. Wtf... I hope you find the strength to focus on the positive comments because most of us want you to keep going ! Man, some people are crazy !
Shine on. You rock so hard 🎸
Just found your channel I really like your videos thanks for all of your advice and hard work
Damian, greetings from Ecuador. I've seen many of your videos and are very interesting and useful, keep advising us buddy!
Only recently found your channel after the video you mention, 'Stop selling music' showed up as recommended on my channel. I watched it and found it interesting and had a few well thought out points. Can understand people not agreeing with everything in it but not any hate or threats relating to it. ( But then again some people can seem to get very hostile about any video on any subject!) Anyway, I've since watched a few more of your videos and they all seem to offer some good advice and ideas. Keep up the good work.
Just keep on doing what you are doing, I love it and I’m learning
Receive some love from NY
Keep up the good job
It's not the "negative comments", it's the "interaction" .
I don't really see how people can get angry about your decision to swim with the current when it comes to music sales. It's obvious that this is where the industry is going. Loving this channel Damian! Really useful advice. 😀
full support, keep the videos coming, great content!
You love it, drama for a small channel. And now you can exploit it, making it resonate even harder.
Damn straight!
You are right about all of this, so I wouldn't feel bad about anything that you said.
Thank you!
Oi! Consider this a Life Threat! I will F@#$ing come over there and keep you alive because I want to hear more from you!
You don't win arguments with negative keyboard warriors.
If people can't handle your opinion.. bad for them. Block them and keep sharing! I really enjoy your channel, don't agree on lots of stuff you say but I respect your opinion and I use the stuff that helps me.. so thank you buddy. Keep it up!
Well just ignore the idiots...Lot's of people like what you do!
When you challenge peoples convictions, some of them think critically about them and some of them lash out at you.
Very true thanks Greg