There is an income to be made in middle America without being a super star,in many of the arts.This is not to set the bar low, but to show a way of life that encompases making music/art, and at the same time being able to support oneself in what,(in America, but way more in most of the rest of world), would be a humble/adequate lifestyle.Intelligence and discipline has to play a part;for instance, rather than needing extensive health-care, a performer has to actually make taking care of their body/instrument a part of the package.