Musicians, We Aren't All Going To "Make It"

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  • Опубликовано: 18 окт 2024

Комментарии • 148

  • @pauldecoster
    @pauldecoster 6 месяцев назад +44

    I failed at the big dream of being a rock star, but I have three recordings out on Spotify and am working on a fourth. I perform around New York while putting on showcases for other artists. I feel blessed that I didn’t give up.

    • @jasondidner
      @jasondidner 6 месяцев назад +2

      I believe we are fellow travelers.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      awesome man! Keep dreamin' ♥️

    • @lostsoulsoftheabyss1771
      @lostsoulsoftheabyss1771 6 месяцев назад +1

      Your only four songs in dude don’t label yourself as a failure 😊

    • @emonteadams
      @emonteadams 6 месяцев назад

      Then you didn’t fail

  • @wurlitsyzer9810
    @wurlitsyzer9810 6 месяцев назад +13

    We've all been raised on television to believe that one day we'd all be millionaires, and movie gods, and rock stars. But we won't. And we're slowly learning that fact. Fight Club (1999)

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +2

      Just watched that again the other night!
      "stop trying to control everything and just let go."

    • @wurlitsyzer9810
      @wurlitsyzer9810 6 месяцев назад

      @@jimiwmusic :)

  • @Amper-o-mat
    @Amper-o-mat 6 месяцев назад +11

    Thank you. I distanced from music industry years ago and became independant street musician. I have 5 gigs per week and make just enough for living. I don't need millions to live, I don't need any marketing and media, I don't need anyone to glorify me, or even know me and my music, I just explore my creativity without any pressure. It is not so hard to become a full time musician, but it requires overcoming the ego and selfimportance. It is true, on the street i am no one, but who cares, i can play whenever&whatever I want and i live free. And It is much better than isolating myself and constantly complaining about not achieving that "breakthrough into the scene"...

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +2

      That's awesome. You are practicing your art all the time --- that in many ways is already "the dream."

  • @JuliusFawcett
    @JuliusFawcett 6 месяцев назад +24

    In my 20's I wanted to play guitar and sing, but I also wanted to be a dad. I had two kids and ditched music to make a living from teaching. At 47, my kids left home, I quit the 9 to 5 and started playing guitar everyday, the goal is to attract one more fan, one more gig, one more well wisher everyday. I learned a hundred covers and have played 200 open mic nights, i wrote and performed my first song this year, I was so amped! I write songs every day now and I love the whole process. I have the belief that everything happens at the perfect time. You are wise and you are young and you are talented, I'm sure that you have all that you need to be a success. There are a number of artists still making great records in their 80's. Stay true to who you are and you win.

    • @nicholasstutsman
      @nicholasstutsman 6 месяцев назад +1

      this is amazing to read, julius!!! ❤❤🎉🎉

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      This its awesome. Thanks for sharing. I aim to make music till I drop dead with a guitar in my hand --- and pass the joy of it to my daughter and anyone else who's tuned in to my wavelength ♥️

  • @yegorbiziuk5290
    @yegorbiziuk5290 6 месяцев назад +26

    The only thing we're all going to make is our art

    • @randykalish7558
      @randykalish7558 6 месяцев назад +2

      Back to double it up: 👍

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +2

      correct answer !

    • @KenTeel
      @KenTeel 6 месяцев назад

      Well said. And, ain't it grand that we get to make that art.

  • @LuciensMusic
    @LuciensMusic 6 месяцев назад +7

    Trying to "make it" took the fun out of making music for me,,Its never been about money for me but I would like to be recognized as a great songwriter some day🙂

  • @chrissiemilnarskii
    @chrissiemilnarskii 6 месяцев назад +10

    the way you articulate the sheer intensity of “the dream” is spot on. Really enjoyed this one

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      Thank you ♥️

  • @ereiffman
    @ereiffman 6 месяцев назад +6

    You reap what you sow. But illusions can distort your vision of what you're actually sowing and reaping. Maybe true wisdom is about being aware of what it is you're sowing and reaping. I won't be too narrow-minded to say that I didn't have the "dream" at some point, or that a nugget of it isn't still lurking somewhere. But I'm also incredibly grateful that my love for music was always there. I'm grateful that even when reality did kick my ass - and still continues to do so - my goal is always just to improve on what I did last time. And that's not only about technique. It's about life. The more you appreciate your journey (and your life), the more you begin to recognize how powerfully it impacts your art. Rockstardom doesn't have a monopoly on the evolution of music, as much as they'd like you to think. No, we might not all "make it" in that way, and that's okay. Maybe we're not supposed to. Maybe money and fame are one thing, and music is just music. So let it be music as intended.
    Amazing video - thank you!

  • @JimmyDThing
    @JimmyDThing 6 месяцев назад +4

    In awe at this one. Powerful stuff. I don't have the shared experience of dreaming that big and shooting that kind of shot. But man I know exactly that moment where you connect with "salt of the earth" folks tragedies and they teach you, knowingly or not, what a gift they are.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      It's so real ♥️

  • @blackironpotrecords1600
    @blackironpotrecords1600 6 месяцев назад +1

    Today, fewer people are “making it.” Oh, there’s the occasional viral sensation but there are no new superstars supported by big record labels. Radio is no longer the source of new music. There are no more physical sales of music. Music videos have long disappeared. MTV & VH1 stopped playing them years ago. However, it’s a new day for the DIY artist and your content really puts that into perspective. The sooner the aspiring artist understands the context of the times we’re in, the better off he or she will be. Making it as an artist means and looks totally different in today's world. Subcribed.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      Well said - this is exactly how I see it. Thanks for the sub friend 🤟🤟

    • @blackironpotrecords1600
      @blackironpotrecords1600 6 месяцев назад

      @@jimiwmusic Absolutely. Glad to support your channel.

  • @thesunman108
    @thesunman108 4 месяца назад

    Beautiful channel. Amazing at how much I relate to this and how healing it is to hear another speak on this. Thank you.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  4 месяца назад

      So glad to hear this. Thank you for the kind words friend ✌️

  • @quinntessentialLOFI
    @quinntessentialLOFI 5 месяцев назад

    Awesome video Weaver, I quit blazing around 3 years ago and now I finish tracks consistently. I loved the creativity that it gave me but it would only last for an hour or two and then I'd be left feeling kind of tired and unmotivated. Congrats on kicking the habit and making this video in a non-preachy way.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  5 месяцев назад

      Thanks friend, glad to hear this ♥️

  • @Zimi.M
    @Zimi.M 6 месяцев назад

    "Failure can be the downpayment on your future." Jeez man thank you

  • @tedfordmusic
    @tedfordmusic 6 месяцев назад +1

    This is a beautiful message, thank you Jimi. I'm trying my absolute best at the moment to be kind to myself, to love and listen, and to free myself from the fear of writing, the fear of "not being good enough". I've learned recently that these fears come from the ego. We are conditioned to compare ourselves to others, to compare our lives to that exact rockstar dream that you described in this video. In reality, we are all perfect, and always have been. I used to think (and still do sometimes) that if I wrote that beautiful song, or played that amazing solo my value as a human would increase, I'd have more friends, my desires would be fulfilled. But this isn't how art works. To create art is to create resonance with the inner self. There's no place for ego. I've been reading Rick Rubin's book "The Creative Act" and Kenny Werner's book "Effortless Mastery". They both talk about a lot of these ideas. I feel deeply blessed to be learning these lessons at a young age, and am absolutely loving my life as a composer and songwriter in the UK. Thanks for all of these videos, I've watched them all and I love them all. What you say always seems to resonate with me.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      Never read Rubin's book. Effortless mastery had a big impact on me when I read it a few years back --- absolutely gorgeous. So glad you tuned in my friend --- keep practicing your art ✌️

  • @bartoliblue
    @bartoliblue 6 месяцев назад +1

    I really love your videos, Jimmy. I also used to think I had some entitled route to success through music, but I never really worked at it.
    Then, like you, life crept up and mugged me. I sold all my music gear in my early 40s, thinking I was done, only to fall deeper and deeper into depression. Only recently have I realised how integral music is to who I am, and that 'success' is entirely relative.
    Now, at the age of 52, I am working on my second album, 19 years after the first one. Whether it's 'successful' or if anyone ever hears it is irrelevant. What matters to me is being creative, free of delusion, and not wasting any more time.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      love to hear it friend 👍👍

  • @LennyHarold
    @LennyHarold 6 месяцев назад +1

    Jimi, when I say I connect so much to your stories and message. This is you "making it"!! Speaking life into creatives and and giving opportunity for them to think differently!
    This resonates so much with me because the second half of last year I took time to recalibrate and reboot myself. Understand what my intentions were and listen to how God guiding and teaching me through life's lessons. I had opportunity come my way but I couldn't bend my morals for a chance at stardom. My integrity and the message I wanted to send into the atmosphere. I had to realize I wasn't looking for stardom I was simply looking for a stage to inspire others. And in that dedication to the intention, stardom would have detoured that.
    Thank you for this encouragement and letting us know there are others out here realizing their purpose and boldly moving in it.
    Blessings to you!

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      So happy to hear this friend. I really, really appreciate it. Glad to hear you are finding your path. Beautiful stuff. Blessings to you ♥️

  • @elleshea13
    @elleshea13 6 месяцев назад +1

    Ah...what sweet memories. I had a band with "my boys" just out of high school and it was everything. We definitely did more dreaming than playing or writing. It was exactly what I needed at that time in my life. My home life was chaotic and volatile and this was freedom! Some of my favourite memories of my younger life are doing nothing but being a teenager and dreaming of a better life with music as the vehicle. And today, I am not a rockstar but I still pursue music but in a different way. I no longer dive head first into lofty dreams but I would never give up those times when i did.

  • @johngallaghermusic9777
    @johngallaghermusic9777 6 месяцев назад

    In my twenties I was in a band with a good looking singer with a large management deal in London and the promise of getting signed to a record contract. When it all didn't work out ,I found myself as a songwriter and a guitarist from being a bass player. I'm 55 now and have played and earned a small living for over a decade from music. So called failure is a strength builder if you choose to see it that way. Never ever give up if you love it ! Great video ,Jimmy . All is true . Thankyou

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      Love to hear it friend. Your story and others like it reflect the larger truth of being a professional musician. Mostly it's way of life that demands consistency and openness. This has been my experience thus far...

    • @johngallaghermusic9777
      @johngallaghermusic9777 6 месяцев назад

      @@jimiwmusic I'm actually glad to have gone through that period of my life because it taught me about acceptance of the things that were out of my hands and in that time, the true direction revealed itself for which I'm truly grateful. Thanks for your clarity and honesty,Jimi.

  • @CatchyGreezzly
    @CatchyGreezzly 6 месяцев назад +2

    Thanks Jimi, i love what you're doing, jeep It up

  • @beatbuildersstudio
    @beatbuildersstudio 6 месяцев назад

    This is such a great message. I know we love the happy endings but there is peace in the not ao great feelings.
    More people need to realize that everyone wont make it.

  • @Schaffy_Music
    @Schaffy_Music 6 месяцев назад +1

    I’m just making what I enjoy; success, is just seeing that one other person, enjoyed my song, then I’ll move on to the next one.

  • @KenTeel
    @KenTeel 6 месяцев назад +2

    What is "making it" ? Anyone who works in the music business is working. They're working just like anyone else works. It only looks glorious because a PR campaign convinced you of that. If you're making music, regardless of how much you're getting paid to do that, you've already "made it." The music business is like a lottery ticket: A few lucky people win. 99% of people play music on the side, in addition to their jobs that makes the bread and butter. Believe it or not, there are some advanges to being in the 99%. You don't have to play music that you don't want to play. You don't have to deal with reocrd companies (Including slave contracts, that you'll never pay back), you get to play music when you want to, and not according to a requiement. You don't have to deal with shady managers, you get to stay home (instead on nonstop hotel rooms, where you are away from your family, and your dog or cat, for weeks or months at a time), and you don't live or die, career wise by some popular trend with people. You get to play music your way. That's pretty grand. Yes, adolecent fantasies that are driven by ego and ignorance, need to be adjusted. Life does that for us. Aim for the "small times" instead of the "big times", you'll actually probably have more fun.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      true words friend 👍👍

  • @KristenMcNamara
    @KristenMcNamara 6 месяцев назад

    Good stuff! ❤ We all have to live to know where our music and love for making music fits into the journey we want. Truly.

  • @PecktheTownCrier
    @PecktheTownCrier 6 месяцев назад +2

    This was great & helpful. Thanks Jimi.

  • @davidlattoband
    @davidlattoband 6 месяцев назад

    Beautiful video. I resonate deeply with your story. Stay wise!

  • @synthoelectro
    @synthoelectro 6 месяцев назад

    I continue to make music because I love it, and I release it for posterity, and that's it. I first began releasing my music online in 2011 and promoting it around 2012.

  • @jeremybeggsmusic
    @jeremybeggsmusic 6 месяцев назад

    Spot on brother. I went through a pretty traumatic time a couple of years ago which for me was that fork you spoke about. But from that you learn and grow and I couldn’t be more happier with where I’m at as an artist now. Keep up your great work, it’s so beneficial!

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      Glad to her that friend. You got a really nice sound btw 💪 . Effing beautiful.

    • @jeremybeggsmusic
      @jeremybeggsmusic 6 месяцев назад

      @@jimiwmusic thank you so much!

  • @tommyhostetter9191
    @tommyhostetter9191 6 месяцев назад

    This is your best episode yet, I watched it twice, really hits home I think for any creative person. So glad your still creating through these videos, I took forward to them, keep it up. And just as a side note, I've almost lost enough weight to FINALLY wear my ORM shirt and wear it proudly I will, lol. Will always be one of my favorite bands, you guys "made it" in my little musical world!

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      Thanks T --- That's amazing about the ORM shirt. I'll never forget those days. Hang onto that shirt too --- it could be worth up to $60 dollars one day!!!

  • @naispuma21
    @naispuma21 6 месяцев назад

    Cool message, thanks for sharing those stories… liked and subbed!

  • @jasondidner
    @jasondidner 6 месяцев назад

    My musical dreams have been through numerous adjustments not so much because of the scarcity of the big time but because I’m not ruthless enough to ignore the needs of my family in order to pursue fame. So I keep creating - in my own time - on my own terms. I’m 53 and make albums at home. I play out when I can. And wisdom about it comes slowly. I believe that I’m about to release my best album yet. It seems to be speaking to people more in this pre-release moment than my previous albums did at and after release. Thank you Jimi.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      Glad to hear it friend. That's what it's really all about!

  • @Sam_Saylor
    @Sam_Saylor 4 месяца назад

    holy shit,your actually really good.
    Havent seen content delivered like this before
    Keep cracking!

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  4 месяца назад

      ahhh thanks! will do 💪

  • @DannyLyriCa
    @DannyLyriCa 6 месяцев назад

    Truly a hard hitting video. When I was younger I used to be in a music group with my high school friends, later on just me and one of my friends. We used to have the very same dreams, we used to see ourselves living the fame lifestyle. The people chanting our songs, the world beckoning us with their praises and admiration etc etc.. Until life happened. I went on to college, he took on a family business, then responsibilities kicked in. Fast forward to now, I'm still a musician juggling with consistency, balance, and work. Constantly thinking about what actually makes a musician.. Would it be performing talent? essence in songwriting? or amount of productivity? or is it all together? I'm constantly battling quality vs quantity.. things have gotten complicated since then.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      Absolutely relate my friend --- especially that last part about the balance of it all. Godspeed on your journey. Keep expanding and keep making your art. The only way out is through!

  • @stephanielriver.7953
    @stephanielriver.7953 6 месяцев назад

    The story about your manager stabbing herself gave me chills

  • @AKdaRockStarrOfficial
    @AKdaRockStarrOfficial 6 месяцев назад

    Grew up in a small border town near the southern tip of Texas.
    A teenager who failed in becoming the guitarist/singer in a metal band so I became the drummer. (Im better on the drums even though I learned guitar way before drums…go figure haha)
    I made friends in San Antonio during college years and formed a band thinking our sound was going change everything.
    It didn’t.
    I was already on a career path while everyone I hung out with and my bandmates still had min wage jobs with no weekends off. Practicing and gigs were nearly impossible to schedule among us 5. So that failed and The band broke up.
    I took a job back in my home town, but I still kept in touch with our rhythm guitar player. (Still One of my best friends)
    I was always into hip/hop since 4th grade and I taught myself to make beats and record on protools so I started producing and writing and recording my own music. I did a few albums, made a few music videos, opened up for riff raff at the Pharr event center (Great show) and got my mic shut off opening a J.Cole show at South Padre island. (Funny story) 😅
    Apparently j.cole had his own openers and the locals worked out a deal with the venue to perform spring break 2k15 but that didn’t fly with dreamville saying they’ll leave if the venue didn’t kick off the locals. A few groups got to perform and when it was our turn to go on, they cut the mic right after my verse. (Talk about embarrassing.) So that failed.
    I turned 29 and became focused on my career and am now dedicated to my family and my job.
    I still write produce and record but only because I love going from silence to creating a fully fledged song. It’s fullfilling to be goofy or serious or emotional or whatever. I’m old now but I’m never hanging up the sticks, mic, guitar, piano, and headphones. It’s my favorite thing to do. And it always will be.
    Great video man. I knew exactly what you were talking about.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      Nice! That's a wild tale haha. I just had my first kid 2 days ago! I plan on making music till I croak. I just love it. There is nothing like it.

  • @codycriswell
    @codycriswell 6 месяцев назад +1

    Smack dab in the middle of the fork rn. Learning to choose wisdom instead of cynicism.

  • @stellar_cartographer
    @stellar_cartographer 6 месяцев назад

    Beautiful video. Thank you for these. I’m going to reflect on this and will be sure to comment more :)

  • @shea_o_keith
    @shea_o_keith 6 месяцев назад +1

    Not trying to be hyperbolic but this video very well may have saved my life. I know what you mean about the steep slope of cynicism. Thank you!

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      warms my hear to hear it friend ♥️

  • @what3verhappened
    @what3verhappened 6 месяцев назад

    thank you for these, Jimi!!

  • @Tunafishloverr
    @Tunafishloverr 6 месяцев назад

    The delivery of this is touching my soul. Everything is so well put. I’m still at that point of hyper-fixation on achieving the ultimate dream of “making it”. I think it’s good to believe you can do it, but my goal was never to be an industry star. I only wanted to be able to make a decent liveable wage from music, and I think that’s more possible now than ever. At the same time, it’s also more possible now to, as you said, not “make it”. I know there were countless acts and bands from every era of music that had the courage to give this thing a serious shot and never got the return on their investment of time. But it seems these days, the internet perpetuates that even more, so I try and stay level headed about it. Understanding that, yes, there is a very good chance I never even get to the point of making a living wage from it. While also keeping in mind, that the artists who are long term successful don’t typically “make it” overnight

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      Sounds like you have a sober mind with regard to your career. That's really really good. Don't get me wrong, I've still got a dream --- It's just more routed around practicality! Stay true and work hard my friend --- the opportunities are there!

  • @ThatsOurRobert
    @ThatsOurRobert 6 месяцев назад

    "Making it" for me has always been the goal of escaping the 9 to 5. I wouldn't even be bothered eating instant ramen
    5 days a week as long as I am doing what I love and growing financially, musically and with my content. Ofcourse there
    is a big dream, but this way of making it feels more in reach and not overwhelming for someone with ADHD.
    TIP: Keep in mind it's 20% about the art and 80% about putting yourself out there with content. You could be the
    next rockstar but if nobody hears or sees you it's impossible to get somewhere. Don't make it hard either. Just share
    your process of doing things like it's your personal growth journey!

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      100% --- that's my new dream, work for myself, make records till I die 💪💪

  • @cucumberforest
    @cucumberforest 6 месяцев назад

    I also put my band project on hold after our drummer committed suicide. Shortly afterwards the guitarist died of pancreatic cancer. I couldn't touch an instrument for twenty-five years. Suddenly I had the impulse to carry on. Against all odds. Because I have to make music, from the bottom of my heart. Stardom is secondary.

  • @royaxley5931
    @royaxley5931 4 месяца назад

    Amazing.

  • @japanesecatbus7336
    @japanesecatbus7336 6 месяцев назад

    I’m currently working a full time job just out of college and wrestling with this idea of how much effort I should put into my music. My project, Bateman Bridge, has been a place for me to dream, process, and move on in my life. I know that I probably won’t make it, but I feel like I could make really healthy connections with others in the industry if given the chance. They just haven’t come to fruition yet. I’m considering moving away from home and starting afresh to get new perspective and motivations. Ultimately if my music serves as a way for me to process my life journey, that’s satisfying enough in and of itself. I hope one day I can look back on years of material and logically hear how a scared, slightly cynical and confused boy became a better man.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      well said friend 💪

  • @darioscomicschool1111
    @darioscomicschool1111 6 месяцев назад

    Thank you so much for this ONE. An Important Video!

  • @SteveWeave
    @SteveWeave 6 месяцев назад

    Thanks as always, Jimi, for your perspective and approach to things that affect musicians outside of the actual creating of music. As someone who has been doing this a very long time (40 years now) I think the idea of "making it' is just a false construct that a) musicians have been sold and b) society has collectively manifested. The latter is predicated on the idea that it is completely fulfilling to express your most inner identity and have that be seen, appreciated and adored. Who doesn't want to be loved? But look at famous musicians, did it fill "the void?" And in the context of "making it, " that means a sacrifice of almost everything that arrives wether it be personal relationships or other ways you might impact the world. I have a number of peers that would be considered semi-famous level musicians in Canada, and they can barely make a living (I make more by teaching and doing workshops) and ask them how they feel about playing a song at 54 years old that they wrote at 19, and it being the only one people pull their phones out for.
    As far as musicians being sold a false narrative, the biggest rock band that has ever been (that's the Beatles, kids) split one penny FIVE ways on their contract early in their career. Never mind what artists of colour had to endure to scratch any kind of living out of the hands of gangsters that ran the business. Ask the Beatles what it was like to be famous: "it was like the whole world went mad, it was years of chaos and we were really scared." the legendary manager Shep Gordon (highly recommend the documentary on him about the music business) said 'I've never seen fame be a positive influence on anyone, and the higher the climb, the bigger the fall."
    I, for one, have listened to these sages through the ages and while I can admit to wanting to be famous for about five minutes, I got close enough to that scene in my own career that I could see what was down the road, ahead. We were asked to open for a big name band for a sold out show at a premiere venue. How much did it pay? They laughed at us followed by saying there are 300 other bands that would do it for free. So we said no thanks, and booked a show at a bar with our favourite local bands and made $1400. It's that frothing chance of us being seen by a manager who would "get us" and "sign us" and we would "make it," that the industry uses to pray on bands. The reality is it was a high profile sold out show, and if we're being asked to play, we are good enough to be paid, thanks. I also was close to an artist who got signed, recorded at Electric Lady, got flown in a private plane listening to her Bob Ludwig mastered debut record who found herself isolated, lonely and surrounded by strangers on coke talking endlessly about "product." She was built up and pumped up, and then suddenly dropped when another artist hit that they were working with. The take away - it's not a healthy good business that you want to be aligned with!
    Finally, some advice I did take to heart years ago, is that if you want a career, you've got to do it because you love it. That, and just don't stop. I've performed songs and made people cry, music has been my only friend at a gig where everyone was talking and uninterested. I've played on mountaintops in Whislter, in the rainforest for Theatre events and last year played a sold out show in a New York venue with my best musician pals. We're "nobody's" and yet they wanted us to sign the gig poster. Did we use the momentum? Monetize our tik toks? Get on a spotify playlist? Sign a 360 deal? No, we had a great time and I went back to writing songs and booked a bunch of local shows to play music on the coming warm summer nights. And I'm excited about what I can do that I haven't done live before.
    If you are playing music you are contributing to the spirit of creative imagination, and I thank you and applaud you. And believe me when I say famous musicians would probably die for the creative freedom that YOU have right now.
    Peace.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      Wow. What a great friggin response. Thank you for sharing that. So well written and filled with truth. I love that Shep Gordon documentary and often quote the exact quote you used here. I completely relate to your perspective. Love is the real currency of the creative act.
      "And believe me when I say famous musicians would probably die for the creative freedom that YOU have right now."
      Well said friend. Thank you 👍✌️

    • @SteveWeave
      @SteveWeave 6 месяцев назад

      Thanks my creative brother! @@jimiwmusic

  • @Fallstar777
    @Fallstar777 6 месяцев назад

    Same. God so well said. We’ve been grinding since 2005. We were dropped by our label in 2014 and that was the death of the dream. Man but we kept going, started families, but kept making music. I think hobby band was the worst thing you could ever say to young me, but now I embrace it. 2020 was about when I stopped caring about making it and more focusing on the 500 people who were really supporting us and buying our records. Now we don’t focus on the idea that 700k people listened to this one song on Spotify, but more on the fact that we were the top artist for 74 people this past year. That means way more. We’re still able to fund records with our dedicated 500 fans and they love us. I’m happy now and can’t believe I’m still able to make records. We definitely made stupid decisions early on but we don’t focus on where we went wrong anymore. Now we’re just excited and feel lucky that we can keep putting out records and so glad we never gave up. Thanks so much for your messages Jimi. You really are helping so many artists navigate through such a tough process. Much loves

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      Thanks for the story and for the kind words friend. Keep doing what you love!!!

  • @DaRoyofficial
    @DaRoyofficial 6 месяцев назад

    As contradictory to what you're saying as it might seem, I think the only limitations we have are self imposed. When we start to lack belief and see inexperience as failure, you lose momentum. When you start to see your journey as a unique set of challenges, it doesn't have to look like any journey you've seen before, which is what makes yours interesting and unique. When you work with the enthusiasm you had on day 1. And be transparent with yourself. Have you really given it your all or were you distracted and delusional about your process getting you to your destination as opposed to the destination itself being delusion. It's impossible to not get recognition if you are who you say you are, it's logical you will

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      Nice take my friend. We wrestle with delusion on all sides of the dream. Is the destination itself delusion or the method of getting to the destination delusion? Adjustments to both are what leads to progress. Wrestling with these questions is what keeps us humble and guides us along the path that leads to the place that is really worth going --- even if it is not where we thought we'd end up according to earlier beta-test versions of our dreams! Good thoughts.

  • @felipetroccoli7809
    @felipetroccoli7809 6 месяцев назад

    thank you for that man.

  • @deep.wellbeing
    @deep.wellbeing 6 месяцев назад +1

    If I can make 40k a year making music for myself instead of grinding my bones to dust for some faceless corporation, I'd consider that making it. I don't want much.

  • @ScarPolish
    @ScarPolish 6 месяцев назад

    Thank you Jimi

  • @bassisacalling
    @bassisacalling 6 месяцев назад

    I identified with all of this, thanks.

  • @Kevintheminiion
    @Kevintheminiion 6 месяцев назад

    This really makes me think

  • @stellar_cartographer
    @stellar_cartographer 6 месяцев назад

    Mohawk valley, holy crap are you from upstate NY? Love your videos!

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      Yes indeed!

    • @stellar_cartographer
      @stellar_cartographer 6 месяцев назад

      Me too! I'm out by Amsterdam, moved back a couple years ago after traveling a bit. Want to let you know I appreciate your insight and videos. I feel like you touch upon a lot of the thought process that goes on in my mind and remind me to let things fall into place. Wish you the best with all your endeavors!@@jimiwmusic

  • @wagnersouza4463
    @wagnersouza4463 6 месяцев назад

    The problem of artists nowadays is that we ( I'm an illustrator ) think we have the answers, we know politics, we understand complex social life, but most of artitst live in an ivory tower, blaming woorking poor, working class, middle class. Blame people with other political beliefs. But the irony of all that is all these people have stories, and good art came from not your own lived experience or beliefs, but the collection of experience of other. So when you open your heart to talk to other people you will many times realize that many people have way difficult lifes than you, but still living and surprising happy. I'm from Brazil, people struggle a lot, but still happy, not because their are dumb, but because their seek meaning in other things. Artists unfortunally had lost the capacity to view that, and many are falling in the political social message trap, instead to just tell stories without any arrogancy to change the world or educate people, and this is fucking us up, we are gettinng depressed and angry.
    Yes, sometimes life kick our ass is a good thing, it's a reality get into our lifes.

  • @pauldecoster
    @pauldecoster 6 месяцев назад

    By the way, I want to thank you for this video. It resonates on many levels.

  • @kimblez
    @kimblez 6 месяцев назад

    Ouch ...this video hit differently ...a good talk

  • @ViceArc
    @ViceArc 6 месяцев назад

    For me the "it" is making music I'm happy with. Full stop.
    So In that sense I've already made it, even though I'm currently at 2200 streams on Spotify.
    And you have to ask yourself, is getting famous and dying young (as so many do), really success?
    Do you. Have fun. Enjoy life. That is "Making it".

  • @randykalish7558
    @randykalish7558 6 месяцев назад +1

    The cake, the cake! The way they felt about you to do that, you had made it with them, that was the mojo, the wave, their being expressed to you that way, the unrecoverable moments of existence shared acknowleging each other. I approached Music with: I'll prostitute you to gain fame from people. She said: Work for me or them, while she filled my head with irresistable ideas and opened my eyes to her many enemies who pedal what looks like music. Her favor might not include fame. Fame may in fact come of sources deserving severe scrutiny.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      The more I hear from you Randy the more I'm certain you are me in the future reaching back across time and space to correspond with my present self 😂✌️✌️

    • @randykalish7558
      @randykalish7558 6 месяцев назад

      🙏

  • @mlfilion
    @mlfilion 6 месяцев назад +1

    I use to think i was going to make it. Now, i do it because i enjoy it. It's a hobby. There are millions who want to succeed at music, but very few make it big. You have to be better than the best. Because that's what you're up against.

    • @randykalish7558
      @randykalish7558 6 месяцев назад +1

      I suspect the better than the best don't make it because they'd rather play music than maintain a place in a pile of changing moods.

    • @randykalish7558
      @randykalish7558 6 месяцев назад

      They might be your neighbor!

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      true words

  • @nicholasstutsman
    @nicholasstutsman 6 месяцев назад

    this was a banger video, jimi. “ping 400 emos in a discord server” level of importance in this message. i will always support you

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      haha. Thanks friend. Been listenin' to the EP, how's the release been?

    • @nicholasstutsman
      @nicholasstutsman 6 месяцев назад

      @@jimiwmusic whoa if you really have been, thank you!! yeah over 1,300 monthly listeners in the first month it’s been out! so i am pretty pleased :) LP #2 is already in the works (lets get that jimi w collab going lolz)

  • @GingerWaters
    @GingerWaters 6 месяцев назад +1

    Why everybody dreams of playing for stadiums. If you can draw the pub full with your entertainment. You have a job.

    • @GingerWaters
      @GingerWaters 6 месяцев назад

      …and once you know how to make them walk out smiling, you can start to look for bigger venue.
      This is what my logic tells me about being commercial musician. But then you are part of the alcohol sales campaign, and that brings moral issue: do I want to be the guy, who made little Bil’s papa drink his bicycle money.

  • @ivrz
    @ivrz 6 месяцев назад

    Most of us ....
    We all have t grow up, or not

  • @rayeblack
    @rayeblack 6 месяцев назад

    I wanted to “make it” because I wanted my passion to be my life’s work.
    Instead I’m working 9-5 in bank. I sold out, because the dream wasn’t being realized.
    I still have the dream, but it’s just that. A dream.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      But now you can afford to buy 100 guitars!!!! lol. I feel you. I'm still towing that line and learning to be a dreamer who is also practical. Much to learn. Still dreamin' though ✌️

    • @randykalish7558
      @randykalish7558 6 месяцев назад +1

      This passion is really serious, it works in our mind, its part of us. To then take that and cast it into the raging sea of riptide, tsunami and whirlpool in hopes it'll find safe harbor, is uncertain. And how safe is that harbor? But the thought of you being really tight with your passion and feeling really cool in that, is sublime.

    • @rayeblack
      @rayeblack 6 месяцев назад

      @@jimiwmusic I’m not going lie, man. I cried my eyes out when I watched this. I’ll never stop making music. But I hate thinking that I’m relegated to the bank forever

  • @shanttt
    @shanttt 6 месяцев назад

    Imma make a song about your story here. ✅🥂🙏 💯

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад +1

      Let's GO!!!

    • @shanttt
      @shanttt 6 месяцев назад

      @@jimiwmusic 🙏🙏🙏

  • @cloud9savagehenry
    @cloud9savagehenry 6 месяцев назад

    Respectfully... being huge as a musician is much like winning the lottery. The only advice I could give is, don't give up.

  • @caseysweat9449
    @caseysweat9449 6 месяцев назад

    I think if you have a vision and you truly believe you can make it, At the very least give it a serious try. Put out at least a handful of songs and really work to promote them. That is a good way to test the water and at the very least see what kind of reception you get. If your stuff is truly GREAT and you make a serious effort to promote it. You will get noticed. It is ok to try and fail but you will never forgive yourself if you don't at least try.

    • @jimiwmusic
      @jimiwmusic  6 месяцев назад

      Very sound advice ✌️✌️

  • @postworld1185
    @postworld1185 6 месяцев назад +1

    We're saturated with mediocrity because people just want to "make it." We desperately need brilliant, groundbreaking, imaginative songs. Re making it - "Don't try." Bukowski.

  • @TheRobba
    @TheRobba 6 месяцев назад +1

    I am gonna be HUUUUUUUGGGGGEEEE and skinny

  • @dallassegno
    @dallassegno 6 месяцев назад

    I was signed and they told me, chart music is all politics and yes Satanism is high in the business but no you don't have to be a Satanist. All I wanted was to write hits for famous singers. Oh well. Could still do it.

  • @ryanrockers
    @ryanrockers 6 месяцев назад

    I hope you still like doughnuts

  • @Babientity
    @Babientity 6 месяцев назад +1

    see yall ...i didnt watch tha videio

  • @bobsbigboy_
    @bobsbigboy_ 6 месяцев назад

    well you might not, bozo but I am

  • @LUCIOdaMayTricks
    @LUCIOdaMayTricks 6 месяцев назад

    U just chose not to undergo The transformation INTO true star

  • @Daneiladams555
    @Daneiladams555 6 месяцев назад +1

    who would want to be famous today? its a total joke and im glad it didnt happen for me, I would of died from drugs

  • @Sal-tr3oz
    @Sal-tr3oz 6 месяцев назад

    nope not for me enjoy tho

  • @Slo_Cooka
    @Slo_Cooka 6 месяцев назад

    Ha! Cookie cutter dreams of a sea of artist all dreaming the same dreams.
    We made videos, I only have access to one.
    Having music in my life and having the outlet to escape into creativity is a gift worth having.
    This isn’t a push for promotion. This band doesn’t exist anymore. Fun times.
    ruclips.net/video/svYl7PRxMQQ/видео.htmlsi=bEriL5a6zJg8V-Bd

  • @Slo_Cooka
    @Slo_Cooka 6 месяцев назад

    ruclips.net/video/svYl7PRxMQQ/видео.htmlsi=bEriL5a6zJg8V-Bd
    This isn’t a promotion. Just the only video I have what we used to do as N indie band in England mid 90’s…
    Like you say man. The wisdom from the fails give you insight to the heart of life and test your mettle.
    Having the music in your heart gives you a place to escape to. I still create and I do still want to make it. But that making it reframed now as more literal ’making it’ as in building it. Enjoyed this one. Still enjoying the dreams just in a different way