If you’re someone trying to make a living playing guitar, and you’re paying your bills, give yourself a big pat on the back. You’ve probably already figured out the need for multiple sources of income like playing gigs and teaching, and you might be writing and recording music, too. You may also have that higher profile gig that sustains your drive through the not-so-glamorous gigs.
It may not be what you always dreamed of, but don’t despair. Some of the best players on the planet are living a similar life.
This reality eats at some musicians in a negative way. They’ve had this fantasy of the great gigs and great money rolling in year after year. That doesn’t happen for everyone.
But if you’re playing music because you love music, and love performing, you’re in it for the right reasons. Not everyone can do that. And if you’re paying your bills, too, you’re winning.
I’ve met a lot of people who have a lot of money who dream of being able to play music – even just a little – and they can’t. The irony is pretty profound.
The world is not set up for all musicians to make an easy living. So, if you are, or even close to it, kudos to you. You’re doing something right.
