The Truth About “Making It” in the Music Industry (and Why Talent Isn’t Enough)

How to make it in the music industry?

Those of us who are passionate about the music industry know the journey isn’t easy. We put in long hours—often unpaid, unglamorous, and unseen—because the dream is worth it. Whether your goal is to become an audio engineer, a songwriter, a guitar player, or take on any other music-related role, the path is the same: jump in headfirst and commit to reaching the professional level your dream demands.

When I first moved to Nashville, my goal was to become a professional guitarist. I had done my homework—years of playing local clubs and in recording studios back home had built up my skills to the point where I felt ready. So, I packed up, drove 600 miles, moved into a cramped apartment in Nashville with some like-minded friends, and set my sights on making it in Music City.

I thought I was ready. And honestly, my chops weren’t the issue. But what I didn’t realize at the time was how important networking and word-of-mouth referrals would be. I figured that if I played well enough, the work would come to me. But the truth is, talent is only part of the equation.

Here are 6 key lessons I learned that apply not only to guitar players like me, but also to anyone hoping to break into the music world—whether you’re aiming to be an audio engineer, artist, music producer, or songwriter.

1. Meet the People Who Are Already Making it in the Music Industry

Starting out, no one knows your name. That’s normal—but it means you have to be proactive about building relationships and connecting with industry people. Seek out the people who are doing what you want to do, even if they’re just a few steps ahead of you.

Building strong connections in the music industry is essential for advancing your career.

Want to be a live FOH engineer? Spend time in your local venues. Meet the audio engineers working there. Interested in songwriting? Hit up every Writers Night you can and start meeting the people making it happen.

Be willing to talk to others and engage in conversations—this openness helps you build lasting relationships and expand your network. Talking with industry people keeps you informed about trends and new opportunities.

Being around the right people—and in the right rooms—makes a huge difference. So meeting new people should be done on a regular basis to continually grow your presence in the industry.

2. Check Your Ego at the Door

When you meet new people in this business, your attitude matters just as much as your talent. These qualities matter in the music industry because persistence, humility, and how you treat others can make a lasting impact on your career.

Be kind. Be respectful. Be humble.

In a city like Nashville, everyone is talented. The ones who get hired are often the ones who are great to work with. A little humility and a good attitude go a long way—especially in tight-knit circles that define the music industry.

The point is, your attitude can be just as important as your talent when it comes to making it in the music industry.

In short… Don’t be a jerk! Be likeable! Be a good Hang!

3. Never Say No (Especially at the Start)

Every gig is a stepping stone. When I first came to town, I reached out to a friend who had moved to Nashville a few months earlier. He was a songwriter and it turns out he was recording a demo and needed a guitar player. No budget. No pay. Accepting as many gigs as possible, especially early on, is key to maximizing your exposure and gaining valuable experience.

I could have said, “Sorry, I’m a pro. My time’s worth something.” Instead, I said yes and gave it my all. I walked away without a paycheck, but that one night led to future paid studio sessions—and it opened up a network I wouldn’t have accessed otherwise.

Every job, no matter how small, can help you break into the industry. Breaking into the music business comes with challenges, but taking every opportunity and developing strategies to stand out can make a real difference.

Even unpaid gigs matter—each job, even if it’s not glamorous, is a step toward your goal. Remember, if you’re pursuing a career in the music industry: the free gig today may lead to your dream gig tomorrow.

4. Learn the Music Business Side, Too

You can be the most talented person in the room, but if you don’t understand how the industry works, you’re setting yourself up to be taken advantage of—or passed over.

The music industry is complex. It is a field that requires specific knowledge and skills to navigate successfully. There are many types of music industry work available, from performing on stage to behind-the-scenes roles in management, marketing, and production. The landscape has shifted significantly as distribution channels and technology have evolved. From licensing and royalties to branding and contracts, it pays to understand the mechanics. That’s where a music business school can make a huge impact.

At Dark Horse Institute, for example, the Music Business program offers hands-on, real-world training from actual industry pros. You’ll learn everything from marketing to monetization and you’ll walk away with not just knowledge, but credibility. And if you’re juggling work or other commitments, there’s an online option too.

Whether you’re headed toward a career in audio engineering, audio mixing, music production, or becoming a record producer, or have your sights set on being a guitar player like me, understanding the business side gives you a massive edge.

That understanding is crucial for long-term success in the music industry.

5. Outwork Everyone Around You in the Industry

There’s no substitute for hard work. The “overnight success” stories you read about? Most of them took a decade of behind-the-scenes hustle to get there. Maintaining focus and staying dedicated to your goals is essential if you want to stand out and achieve lasting success.

To succeed in the music industry, you have to live differently—at least for a while. When your friends are out on the town, you might be watching tutorials on new plugins, studying mic placement, finishing that second verse of a song, or tweaking a mix. Passion for music is what drives this hard work and perseverance, helping you push through challenges and setbacks.

For many, making money is also a fundamental goal, and financial considerations often influence career decisions and the opportunities you pursue.There’s a well-known Nashville-based financial advisor who says, “Live like no one else today so you can live like no one else tomorrow.” It’s great finacial advice but it applies perfectly to creative careers as well. Make the sacrifices now. Get the reps in. Consistently making music is crucial for improving your skills and being prepared when big opportunities show up.

6. Staying Ahead of the Curve: Adapting to a Changing Industry

The music industry never stands still. New technologies, trends, and business models are constantly reshaping the way music is created, distributed, and consumed. To succeed in this ever-evolving landscape, artists need to stay adaptable and open to change.

Keep your finger on the pulse by attending industry events, reading up on the latest music business news, and connecting with other professionals who can offer a unique perspective. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new sounds, genres, or ways of releasing your music—sometimes, taking a risk is the only reason you’ll stand out from the crowd.

Success in the music industry often comes to those who are willing to evolve and embrace new opportunities. By staying informed, flexible, and proactive, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges of the business and build a music career that stands the test of time. Remember, the only constant in the industry is change—so make it work for you.

Final Thoughts

If you want to work in music—whether as a music producer, audio engineer, songwriter, artist, member of a band, or independent artist—remember this: talent alone isn’t enough. Be coachable. Be generous. Keep learning. Build your network. And hustle with everything you’ve got.

With the right mindset and work ethic, you can go from local gigs to thriving in the global music industry. It’s also crucial to connect with the general public through your brand and performances to build a lasting career.

Artists like Jay Z and Justin Bieber have shown how mentorship and industry guidance can make a significant difference in an artist’s journey. Performing at live festivals and outdoor events is also a valuable way to gain exposure, build connections, and grow your career.Ready to take that next step? Start building your career today—because someone out there is already looking for what you bring to the table.