As much as every aspiring musician day dreams of light shows and head banging fans, the phrases “Get Rich Quick” and “Start a Band” clash right from the beginning. As much as it may appear to be lighting strikes of luck that push many artists into stardom, the reality is that getting struck by lighting is a matter of timing and opportunity, not just luck. Although we may not be able to predict exactly where lighting will strike, we know what lightning is trying to do and we know that if we position ourselves properly, we can increase the odds of the electric shock.
So what does lightning have to do with a career in music or starting a band? The cost of positioning – timing and opportunity have a great affect on your band’s success. Some people may have great timing and great opportunity; others are restricted by their timing and opportunity.
I have always been jealous of the rich kid at school whose parents supplied all the musical gear one can imagine. I always thought that if only I had that opportunity, I could rally enough talent and glide into the spotlight. Right now, I am currently in the opposite situation. I have bills to pay, a family that I need to think about, and a job that eats up the majority of my week. Timing and opportunity are simply not on my side right now. Just as many aspiring musicians have stepped in similar shoes, we work hard to reach our goals.
I came across an article by Spin Magazine that highlighted some 9-5 business professionals who have committed to their musical passion, started a band, and rock each weekend away. As these professionals push their music career forward, they may be struck by lightening. For others, I am sure there is a simple satisfaction in the ability to rock to the soothing vibrations and are content to have found a healthy balance.
To the musicians who crunch numbers, tally timecards, and carefully balance a family and a musical past time, Breakthrough Band solutes you.
Read For Pros About to Rock from Spin Magazine. |
