The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #154480 Message #3632452
Posted By: Dave the Gnome
12-Jun-14 - 08:50 AM
Thread Name: Why Do Musicians Work For Nothing?
Subject: RE: Why Do Musicians Work For Nothing?
We all know of many talented performers (and composers) who have tried, tried and tried again, yet still failed to make a tolerable living from their craft.
We do indeed, Mike, and it is a very good point. But surely this, and your point about making more abroad, is indicative that the music market in the UK is brimming with talent and only the very best actually make a living at it? Not deriding those that do not make it in the slightest. I have known many who are superb performers but they have lacked that final something that those who have made it display. I don't know what that is. Maybe presence? Going the extra mile? Lucky breaks? The X-Factor? :-)
Surely, as well, there are thousands, if not millions, of people (myself included) who have not made it in our chosen field and have had to work at something else to raise our families, pay our mortgages and put food on the table. Why make a special case for musicians? Why not writers or house decorators or computer programmers? It may be sad but it is true that we have to make compromises. And maybe that is another good reason why some musicians work for free. Because, even though they cannot make enough to get by, they still love music.
Cheers
DtG