Don’t Hate.
A couple weeks ago, I talked about not worrying about how you measure up against other musicians, because it’s easy to get discouraged. There’s another side of that that can be equally as damaging, which is criticizing others in order to build yourself up. This is certainly not limited to musicians, but we tend to fall into it pretty easily.
There’s a zillion bands, musicians, songwriters, artists and producers out there trying to “make it”. When someone else is getting the attention… a bigger crowd at their shows, favor in the press, a sweet opening slot at a big concert, or even a record deal… it’s easy to think,“Why not me?! I deserve it more than him! It’s easy to start viewing your peers as competition and criticize them. “They’re not that good!” Arrogance and entitlement show their ugly heads, and bitterness sets in.
I’ve been as guilty of this as anyone. But I’ve learned that it’s counterproductive and damaging all around. It destroys any camaraderie you could have with other artists, and it tends to keep you focused on what other people are doing instead of focusing on what you should be doing, which is making music. I think it comes from insecurity, which I think every artist person has to some degree. We all want to be liked and affirmed, and as artists, we tend to hang our self-worth and credibility on it.
But, if you’re an artist, what does it really matter? Do you believe in what you’re doing? Regardless of whether it’s trendy or popular or commercially viable or has “indie-cred”, can you look at your body of work and take pride in it? Are you creating music that you like, honestly? If so, then forget what anyone else thinks and focus on your own improvement. Keep doing your thing. If it’s real, and honest, there will be people who recognize it and will appreciate it. Encourage and cheer on your peers in their improvement as well, without trying to compete.
Don’t hate. Create.
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