- Learn Something New All The Time: Curiosity, Passion, Discipline, Creativity
Every day, or at least every week, try to learn something new. Listen to new music, especially something entirely different from your own style or preferred genres. Perhaps you need to delve deeper into music theory: chords, chord progressions, scales, rhythm, melodies, harmonies—whatever it may be.
It’s essential to learn how to write good songs and continuously improve with each new composition. There are no shortcuts; you learn by doing.
No matter your daily activities, make learning a habit. Spending just 15 minutes a day on learning can make a significant difference over time.
- Opinions from Other People: Feedback, Constructive Criticism, Listen to and Learn from Others
“No man is an island,” John Donne wrote, and it’s true. Even if you think you’re writing just for yourself, you still smile when others enjoy your music. They may have critiques, but remember, that’s just their opinion. Try to see your work from their perspective for a moment.
- Learn to Play Your Instruments Well: Practice, Practice, Practice. Learn. Practice More
Master your instrument, whatever it is. Practice singing or playing regularly. Experiment with other instruments or try playing your guitar upside down with your “wrong” hands.
If your DAW is your instrument, treat it as such. It’s often one of the most critical tools you need to master. Use it, experiment, and continuously learn new techniques.
- Do Many Good Live Shows
Play as many shows as you can. Analyse your performances and learn from your mistakes. Then play more shows.
If live performances aren’t for you, find other ways to promote your music effectively.
- Make Great Recordings
By now, you should be well-prepared. Secure a great record deal, go to a reputable studio, and record your songs meticulously. Mix and master them with care.
If you choose to mix and master your recordings yourself, ensure you have the necessary skills (see #1).
- Be Original
This is the hardest yet most crucial task. Be original. Be yourself. Be unique, different, creative, and innovative. Be a leader, a trendsetter, a game changer, and ultimately, a legend.
- Establish Good Routines
Set up your environment to facilitate creativity. Ensure you can start creating immediately without spending 30 minutes preparing your gear. This way, you won’t lose the magical moment of inspiration.
- Don’t Take It Too Seriously
“Music, it’s just entertainment, folks!” (as Devin Townsend says). “Art is too important to be taken seriously” (as Oscar Wilde notes).
For perspective: in 100 years, no one will remember you personally. However, people may still listen to and remember your music.
- Critics Are Both Right and Wrong
Critics are simply doing their job: listening to music and sharing their feelings about it. Honest reviews benefit everyone, so consider their feedback.
However, a review is just one person’s opinion. A bad review isn’t the end of the world. Some people won’t connect with your music, and that’s okay. Learn from feedback and move forward.
- A Practical Piece of Advice: Back Up Everything
This might be the most underrated yet crucial advice. Always back up your work. Losing a great song because of a computer crash can be devastating. Ensure you have backups to avoid such losses.
Jarmo Puolakanaho 