Building a musical career is a complex journey that requires talent, dedication, and strategic planning. Primarily, this process is not merely about producing music but also about creating a sustainable and impactful presence in the music industry. Nigeria for instance has a treasure trove of musical artists and each time, they are scaling the ladder by improving themselves, so as to remain in the eye and admiration of the fans. A similar example of such a person, is Flavour, an Afrobeat and Afropop artist who has continuously stayed in the stage of music for over two decades. This was because his music was central to his culture, language and most importantly his ability to build a fan base by persistently releasing hit-tracks annually.
Firstly, a musical career begins with the cultivation of one’s unique sound and style, which sets an artist apart in a crowded marketplace. One of the American sociologists Richard Peterson, asserts that the concept of “cultural capital” is crucial. Hence, artists must develop a distinctive voice that resonates with audiences, harmonizing creativity with an understanding of prevailing trends. This cultural capital is what initially attracts listeners and helps to build a loyal audience.
Secondly, the most critical steps in building a musical career is through education and skill development. This can’t be emphasized as formal training in music theory, composition, and performance can provide a solid foundation for any artist. No wonder John Sloboda suggests that ‘musical expertise is often the result of a combination of innate talent and extensive practice’. This idea aligns with the “10,000-hour rule” that was popularized by Malcolm Gladwell, which opines that ‘mastery in any field requires roughly 10,000 hours of deliberate practice’. Musicians however must dedicate themselves to continual learning and refinement of their craft, whether through formal education, private lessons, or self-directed study.
Thirdly, networking and collaboration are equally vital in the music industry. Thus, the ability to build relationships with other musicians, producers, and professionals in the industry can open doors to new opportunities and foster the growth of creativity. Moreover, this can be found in the midst of musical brands or labels who are willing to use their image to sell other younger artists who are gradually finding their footing. That’s why ethnomusicologist Timothy D. Taylor underlines the importance of social networks in his research, noting that collaborations often lead to innovative musical forms and successful careers. This is because, it offers a better platform and stage for transformational growth. For example, artists like Beyoncé and Jay-Z have shown how strategic partnerships can amplify an artist’s reach and influence, blending their styles to create new sounds in order to appeal to the broader audience.
Another aspect is marketing and self-promotion which are indispensable elements of a musical career. Our world which has become digitalized, platforms like YouTube, Spotify, Boomplay and social media have democratized music distribution, allowing artists to reach global audiences without traditional gatekeepers. It is on this note that David Hesmondhalgh emphasizes the role of media in shaping musical careers, noting that effective use of these platforms can remarkably boost an artist’s visibility and success. Artists must therefore develop savvy marketing methods, leveraging social media, online streaming, and other digital pathways to promote their music and engage with teeming fans.
To better demonstrate this, resilience and adaptability are inevitable key traits for sustaining a long-term musical career. The music industry is notoriously volatile, with trends and technologies constantly evolving. Keith Negus has this to say; ‘the necessity for artists to remain flexible and responsive to changes within the industry would push the power button of the artist’s identity. This might involve experimenting with new genres, embracing technological advancements, or shifting marketing strategies to stay relevant. Successful musicians like Taylor Swift confirms this adaptability, as she has seamlessly transitioned between country, pop, and indy genres throughout her career, consistently projecting her image and sound to align with current trends and audience preferences.
Therefore, building a musical career is a multifaceted endeavor that requires a combination of openness, determination and flow which provide valuable insights into the various elements that contribute to a successful career in music. With this understanding and by applying these principles, aspiring musicians can navigate the complexities of the industry and work together towards the actualization of their artistic and professional goals.
