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The money aside, you got into music to create something real- something that speaks to your soul and connects with others. But here’s the rub: not every song that speaks to your soul is going to speak to the charts.
And that’s where the frustration kicks in, right? You’re stuck between two worlds: the artist who wants to sing out their heart and the businessperson who knows bills need paying.
You might even be wondering, How do I make something authentic and still get people to actually listen- and buy?
A million others are the same as you. Every artist faces this tension. And the good news? You don’t have to sell out to succeed. You just need to find your balance.
Let’s talk about how
Step 1: Know Your Core
Before you chase trends or try to make "what’s hot," figure out what’s you. Are you a storyteller? A boundary-pusher? A genre-blender? The key is to know your foundation. When you understand your identity, you can adapt without losing yourself.
Step 2: Separate the Personal from the Professional
Not every song you write needs to be a hit, and not every hit needs to be deeply personal. Some songs are passion projects; others are crafted for the masses. And that’s okay. Use the balance to your advantage: let the commercial tracks fund the personal ones. Got it?
Step 3: Study the Hits Without Imitating Them
You don’t have to copy what’s trending, but you can learn from it. Pay attention to song structures, hooks, and production styles that resonate with audiences. Then, make them your own. Authenticity shines when it’s wrapped in a package listeners already understand.
Step 4: Experiment with a Purpose
Test the waters. Drop singles that mix your authentic style with a touch of mainstream appeal. Watch what connects with listeners, and don’t be afraid to pivot if it feels right. Growth doesn’t mean compromise- it’s evolution.
Step 5: Trust Your Gut, but Respect the Game
This industry is as much about strategy as it is about passion. Stay true to your artistic vision, but don’t ignore what audiences respond to. The trick is to meet them halfway.
You can create music that’s authentic and commercially appealing. It’s not about picking a side- it’s about learning the dance. Your music deserves to be heard. Let’s make sure it is.