Many musicians are creating their models of success. Here are some tips on how to collaborate with the local independent music scene rather than limiting yourself to the competitive “solo artist” or “band” structure.

The music industry used to be associated with the idea of pursuing a dream to make it big. This archetype has been idealised by talent shows, corporate-sponsored festivals, and reaching the top of the charts. However, this plan does not seem to fit with independent musicians’ everyday lives, and they are now creating their own models of success.

It’s more important to be a successful musician today than ever before. You need to play live as much as you can, get paid and share your music with people who will appreciate it and support you. Signing up for a record label or landing a sync agreement can help you get on the road to success, but they won’t give you a solid organic foundation that will last. Many musicians have found new ways to work together by creating grassroots networks. Here are some suggestions for working with the local independent music community instead of exclusively remaining within the competitive “solo artist” or “band” structure.

Don’t Paint Yourself Into Any Corners

We often associate our music consumption, project creation, and collaboration with a particular genre, style or brand of music at a given time. You may have noticed that many musicians copy the sound and style of a popular band. Should not try to force you into a corner, and instead, strive for authenticity in all your collaborations with the craft.

Diversity and openness are key to learning new skills.

If you’re open to learning new skills and pay attention to the details of the performance, you are more likely to know them. It is possible to create new music by combining the different elements of a performance. Jazz players, blues musicians, and rappers are among those who have done this for many years, breaking boundaries, pushing borders, and creating incredible tunes. Recently, I attended an improvised performance by an American swing-jazz violinist and a traditional Syrian singer. The result was beautiful music I had never heard before.

Join forces for projects.

Teaming up with musicians and producers to develop ‘one-off projects can be a rewarding experience. This could include recording a song, an EP or even an album, performing a concert, going on tour or making a YouTube video. It doesn’t mean that you need to create a band. You do not have to commit yourself to one band or project. Playing with others is healthy and beneficial in many different ways. It can increase your fan base, boost your income, make contacts in the music industry, and improve your versatility on stage or in the studio. You can both be independent and commit to collaboration.

Find and Connect

I attend many jam sessions, concerts, and open mics, and I enjoy connecting with musicians who don’t have much to prove. You should look for people whom you can learn from, and maybe even collaborate with. Do not just be impressed. You won’t progress as a musician if you don’t find out what you like.

Just Play Music

It’s easy to identify a performer on a “mission from God”. (Blues Brothers reference). The most successful musicians that I’ve met play for the love of making music, and that’s what keeps them going. Be on the lookout for them! Collaboration with someone who is adamant about their agenda and who talks endlessly about plans that are actually missions can be very frustrating.

Know Yourself

Musicians can collaborate in many different ways. Be clear about what you expect from the collaboration and when to draw a line if you feel that your energy and independence are being compromised. If you want to form a band and book a few “one-off” concerts, do not let other members assume you’ll be booking all the concerts you play with them in the future. Be sure to communicate your goals and needs.

Here are some examples that you should check out. Tess Parks, Anton Newcombe and Johnny Marr. Atoms for Peace. Will Oldham, Matt Sweeney and Beck’s Record Club. When it’s time to market your collaborations for that new green car commercial, remember that working on a project is supposed to be fun.