Having a bad attitude.
Showing up late, skipping rehearsals, ignoring your scene, clashing with bandmates, or neglecting your fans online and offline? These behaviors kill careers. Success demands discipline and a great work ethic.
Substance addiction.
Addiction damages bands. It leads to missed gigs, legal trouble, theft, and worse. Prioritize staying in control for the sake of your career and relationships.
Relying on others for success.
Whether you have a manager or a label, your career is still your responsibility. These days, labels want artists who are already growing their audiences. DIY is non-negotiable.
Picking a name that’s taken.
Sharing a name with another band creates confusion, blocks branding, and invites lawsuits. Research thoroughly—Google, ReverbNation, MySpace, and trademark databases are your friends.
Ignoring your online presence.
You must be active where your fans are—Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and beyond. Interact consistently; if you’re not engaging, your fans will move on.
Skipping merchandise sales.
Merch sales can fund your travel, food, and essentials. Make it easy for fans to buy by having a well-lit stand, a variety of items, and card payment options.
Not touring.
Recording revenue isn’t what it used to be. For many artists, touring is essential to financial survival and fan engagement.
Making mediocre music.
Good isn’t enough. If your music doesn’t excite fans, make improvements or consider starting fresh.
Choosing the wrong bandmates.
A band is a team. Align on work ethic, goals, and vision. Otherwise, incompatible members will drag everyone down.
Being unavailable.
Opportunities require your presence. Be ready to show up—momentum depends on it.
Chasing money over passion.
The music industry isn’t a fast track to wealth. If you’re not driven by passion, creativity, and collaboration, reconsider your path.
Buying fake followers or streams.
Fake numbers fool no one. Labels and venues value organic growth, so invest in building real fans.
Recording drunk or high.
Impaired recording wastes time and money while compromising quality. A great recording is your lasting legacy—take it seriously.
Giving away too much music for free.
Strategic free releases (like mixtapes) can build an audience, but balance is key. Overdoing it leaves money and credibility on the table.
Submitting weak press kits.
A standout press kit boosts your chances with venues and festivals. A sloppy one gets ignored.
Paying to play.
Don’t pay shady promoters to perform. Exposure doesn’t pay the bills, and it often costs more than it’s worth.
Tolerating a violent audience.
Violence at shows makes venues and promoters avoid you, cutting off critical opportunities. Address this issue fast—it’s a career killer.
Comments