So you’ve decided you want to pursue a career in the music business? Even though it seems every young kid wants to be a star up on the big stage, it takes a lot of hard work and luck to make it in the music industry. In order to be a professional musician you have to conduct yourself professionally as well. This means paying attention to the business side of a music career, being prepared, showing up on time and playing capably. You will still have to work everyday, pay taxes and budget your money. You’ll have to market yourself aggressively and stay organized. The myth that popular music is all about sex, drugs and rock and roll is nonsense. Popular music is about the business of music. After a live performance most musicians still have plenty of work to do. The stage and equipment must be broken down and by the time the work is finished, the fans and fanfare will be long gone.

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