Many people, young and old, harbor a dream of becoming a successful musician. But for every one who succeeds, there are thousands who continue to revolve in the same circle of local clubs, playing for the same people, sending CDs to record labels that ignore them, and hoping to find a contact who can open magic doors. These musicians keep their dreams alive – until they burn out. I wrote my new book, I Don't Need a Record Deal! Your Survival Guide for the Indie Music Revolution, to encourage musicians to empower themselves with all the resources and opportunities that are available for developing a full time musical career, with or with a record deal.

The film Hustle and Flow highlights how musicians struggle to get their precious musical dreams recorded and into the hands of someone who can help them start a career. Passion can push a tired musician on, for a while. But the music industry isn’t welcoming. While a tiny percentage get a break, a great majority chant the musician’s drone – “Why hasn’t anyone discovered me?” The short answer is, because one must first discover him/herself and then create a big enough buzz to get attention.

Ten years ago, putting out a CD meant something. Nowadays record labels complain that new technology makes it so easy and cheap to record and release a CD that they’re swamped with crap and can’t listen to most of what comes in. Musicians with a CD are a dime a dozen. They need a lot more than talent to stand out.

Musicians typically put their energy into trying to find someone with industry contacts. But the music industry rarely helps those who haven’t developed themselves first. The ones who get to the next level are those who take charge of their own careers. When Jay-Z began, he put all his energy into building a name for himself. He went up and down the East Coast Chitlin' Circuit, getting on open mics wherever he could and even grabbing the mic when he wasn't supposed to. This alerted music lovers to his talent. His career grew from there. This is what it takes to create a career in today's market!

With few exceptions, the ONLY way for musicians to get a good manager or a champion at a record label is to get on the road to create a strong buzz around their music in many markets and build a solid fan base. Record labels want to sell records, not develop an unknown artist. Musicians need to understand that this is a business, like any other, not an outlet for creativity. For those who complain about how they just want to do their music, without worrying about business – do it as a hobby! Few products sell without marketing.

Musicians can make their dreams a reality by working hard to get a loud grass roots buzz going. Feeling cushy in a local music scene keeps most stuck, wondering why no one has discovered them. Touring in other regions separates the determined musicians from the wannabees. Most successful artists attribute touring extensively as their catalyst. It’s hard. Leaving the security of hometown fans is uncomfortable. Musicians complain about giving up paid work while possibly losing money on a tour. But it must be done to have the best shot at a long-term music career instead of a hobby. This is a tough business that doesn’t cut slack for those who can’t do what it takes.

Creating alternative musical income streams, such as licensing music, session work, cover gigs, and writing/producing for others, gives musicians more freedom to pursue their original music and helps support touring. There are many opportunities for those who do research and legwork. Independent artists are earning a full time living from tapping into them while they tour. When musicians are making money from music, they’re in a better position to attract people with more opportunities. And they’re happier.