Why It’s So Hard for Independent Artists to Break Through 

No one cares about you until you are already successful.For independent artists, that reality can be brutal. Anna Stephens of Decent Music PR looks at why breaking through is so hard and how artists can take back control.

‘People Don’t Want to Know, Until You’re Big’ – Why It’s So Hard for Independent Artists to Break Through 

by Anna Stephens of Decent Music PR

Breaking into the music industry has always been a tough challenge, but in today’s world, it’s become a relentless uphill battle for independent artists. The harsh truth? People don’t care until you’re already big. From music consumers to industry gatekeepers, nobody seems interested in an artist until they’ve built significant social traction or gathered street cred. This reality can be incredibly frustrating for talented artists who are still waiting for their moment to shine. 

Even the most gifted musicians struggle to break through if they don’t already have a fan base or viral presence. Talent alone doesn’t cut it anymore; without the necessary hype or recognition, the industry and audience often won’t stop and take notice. This leaves many artists frustrated and questioning their next steps, as they’re expected to market themselves just as much as they create their music. 

Has the Industry Forgotten Artist Development? 

In today’s world, the focus has shifted away from nurturing and developing talent. Labels, in particular, are more concerned with artists who are already viral or have large social media followings. This trend has made the industry lazy, and in many ways, it’s forgotten the importance of artist development. Where is the commitment to artists based on belief in their potential? Is the music even the priority anymore, or is it all about the numbers? 

This is where the shift in mindset needs to happen. Artists can no longer wait for others to believe in them. Instead, they must take matters into their own hands, using their creativity and hustle to carve out their own space. It’s no longer just about the music; it’s about the work you put into getting it heard. 

Empowering Artists to Take Control of Their Careers 

Instead of viewing this reality as a roadblock, artists should see it as an empowering opportunity. Yes, the industry may be driven by trends and social media metrics, but this doesn’t mean that hard work and dedication won’t pay off. For those who aren’t among the lucky few to receive top-down support, there’s still hope. It just takes a lot of grafting, persistence, and the willingness to embrace every aspect of being an artist, not just the creative side. 

Here are three steps to help independent artists take control of their own careers: 

1. Look After Yourself: Taking care of your mental health is crucial. Balancing your craft with time to recharge is essential to avoid burnout. Being a successful artist isn’t about living a chaotic, tortured existence — it’s about maintaining your well-being so you can continue creating. If you’re not in the right headspace, your creative flow will stagnate, so don’t feel guilty for taking breaks. 

2. Write, Even if It’s Rubbish: The creative process isn’t always easy, and sometimes the inspiration just isn’t there. But the act of writing regularly — even if it feels like it’s not your best work — is essential. The moments of brilliance come only after hours of unproductive writing. Keep honing your craft, because the more you write, the more you’ll improve. Ultimately, you’re going to need lots of songs, especially given that today it’s all about single releases. Consistently delivering great new music is always your primary goal. 

3. Accept That You’re a Marketer Too: In today’s music landscape, artists are also marketers. Whether you’re posting on social media, creating PR campaigns, or playing live shows to promote your music, you are the one who cares the most about your success. No one else will invest as much effort in making sure your music reaches the right people. Be proactive, learn marketing techniques, and engage with your audience. 

Conclusion 

While the music industry has its flaws, there is power in embracing the hustle. Independent artists who understand that talent alone won’t get them noticed, can empower themselves to take control of their careers. If you want to succeed, you have to wear multiple hats: musician, marketer, and entrepreneur. The days of waiting for a label or industry figure to “discover” you are over. Now, it’s up to you to make your music seen and heard, one step at a time. 

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About Me 

I’m founder of Decent Music PR, where we empower artists to get in front of the right audiences across press, streaming platforms such as Spotify, and social media platforms via targeted ads campaigns. We are constantly developing strategies for artists to get in front of the right audiences and take charge of growing their own fanbase for themselves. 

Visit www.decentmusicpr.com for more information on the various services we offer artists across all genres.