16 Dec How To Make It In The Music Industry: The Brutal Truth

Let’s get into the reality of how to quickly make it in the music industry and common pitfalls people make.

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I’m going to be direct, the music industry is like a battlefield. If you’re dreaming of fame, millions of streams, and adoring fans screaming your name, then here’s a brutal wake-up call—most people never make it. Why? Because they don’t understand how the game works.

I’m here to give it to you straight, no fluff, no sugar-coating. If you’ve been grinding for years with no progress, chances are you’re doing something wrong. Making it in the music industry isn’t about getting lucky or hopefully meeting the right person at a party. It’s about offering something of value and treating your career like the business it is.

Here’s the brutally honest breakdown of how to actually make it in the music industry.

The Myths That Are Wasting Your Time

First off, forget about all those fairy tales you’ve heard in interviews. That artist who “made it on their own” without a team? Probably lies. That producer who “discovered” a #1 selling artist out of nowhere? Rarely happens.

Most people think the key to breaking into the industry is getting someone important to notice them and fall in love with their music. Maybe you’ve told yourself, “If I can just get this big-name artist to hear my track, they’ll put me on.” Nope. That’s not how it works.

I’ve seen it firsthand. Back when I was a DJ, artists would walk up to me at clubs with stacks of mixtapes, practically begging me to play their music. And you know what happened to most of those tapes? They may or may not have ended up flying out the car window on the freeway.

Here’s the hard truth most won’t tell you. You care about your music because it’s personal to you. But the hard reality? Nobody else cares as much as you do. Your passion doesn’t automatically create value for others.

That’s your first lesson: The industry doesn’t revolve around YOU.

The Reality of the Industry

The music industry is a business. It’s not about talent alone (though you do need to be good). It’s about value—what you can bring to the table.

Record labels aren’t running a charity. They’re looking for artists who already have a following. Gone are the days when a label invested millions to develop talent from scratch. They expect YOU to do that heavy lifting before you even step to them.

Think you can rap or sing your way into a deal? Fine. But do you have an audience? Can you sell out shows, move merch, or get fans to stream your music consistently? No? Then why would they invest in you? There’s nothing in it for them.

This is the cold, hard truth you need to understand—your value has to be apparent from the start.

What It Really Takes to Make It

Luckily, I’m not just here to tear down your illusions. I’m also going to tell you what works. If you want to make it in the music industry, here’s some tips that I’ve learned based on experience.

1. Become a Person of Value

Stop focusing on what YOU want and start thinking about how you can be valuable to someone else. Want to work with a big-name artist, manager, or producer? Figure out how you can make their life easier.

Carry their bags. Help out in their studio. Run errands. Be the person they rely on. That’s how you earn respect—and opportunities.

When I started out, I didn’t walk around demanding people listen to me. I paid my dues. I helped people I looked up to because I genuinely respected their craft. And guess what? They eventually opened doors for me.

2. Build Your Own Fanbase

Don’t wait for someone else to hand you a platform—create your own. Invest time in building a loyal audience. Social media, shows, live streams—wherever your potential fans are, be there too.

These days, having a solid following is non-negotiable. Labels and industry professionals don’t want to take risks on unknowns. If you already have thousands of followers, you’re showing them that partnering with you will also bring value to THEM.

3. Treat Your Music Like a Business

This isn’t just about making music—you’re running a business. Learn how to network, manage your brand, and handle contracts. Build relationships with people who can push your career forward.

And crucially, understand this golden rule of business—it’s not about what others can do for you. It’s about creating mutually beneficial partnerships.

For example, you have a following? Great. A record label has industry connections and resources. Now you’re no longer a dreamy hopeful—they’ll see you as a potential partner.

4. Develop Marketable Skills

Maybe your music is insane, but if you can’t market yourself, you’re toast. Creativity and talent are essential, but the ability to network and pitch yourself are just as critical.

Being good at what you do isn’t enough—you have to be someone people want to work with. No one wants to deal with an egotistical, “I’m the sh-t” guy. Industry veterans can sniff out inexperience and entitlement from miles away.

5. Work. Hustle. Sacrifice.

This industry is unforgiving. If you’re not willing to work crazy hours or make sacrifices, you’re in the wrong game.

Remember, the music industry doesn’t owe you anything. Opportunities only come to those who work for them. And when you do catch a break, don’t waste it by assuming you’ve “made it.” Every success you achieve is just another step in a marathon.

6. Understand the Industry Is About Money

This might sting, but the music industry isn’t about art—it’s about dollars (as are all industries). Labels, managers, and promoters? Their priority is making a profit. If you can’t generate revenue, you’re not worth their investment.

Yes, that means you need to think beyond just making good music. Think about how your art translates into streams, ticket sales, merch, and brand partnerships. Show them the potential for money, not just the music.

The Bottom Line

Here’s the bottom line for anyone asking, “How do I make it in the music industry?”

It’s not about crossing your fingers and hoping someone gives you a shot. It’s not about talent alone. It’s about creating value—for others, for your audience, and for the people who can help you succeed.

And if you’re not willing to put in the work? Go do something else. Because this industry will eat you alive if you come in with a hopeful fantasy mindset.

This isn’t just about music—it’s about business. Hustle hard, bring something to the table, and prove your worth. That’s how you make it in one of the toughest industries in the world.

If you’re still doubting this advice, best of luck to you. But if you’re ready to get serious? Start delivering value, and opportunities will follow.

Welcome to reality—now go make it happen.

 

GI’s unique perspective delivered in a style that is unapologetically honest, straight to the point, and at times a bit brutal. GI SAID IT: Brutally honest, no BS. Click for more GI SAID IT shows and articles.