The Dark Side of Making Music

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  • Опубліковано 6 лис 2024
  • Music producers, DJs, and musical artists have a difficult road. It's not all about playing the biggest stages, or making hit records. There's a lot of difficulties a long the way. I've found that most people on youtube are focused on fun tutorials, and motivational topics like "how to get more spotify streams!" And those videos are great! But it's also important to understand the stuff that most people don't like to talk about. The dark side of the Music Business.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 652

  • @TheCosmicAcademy
    @TheCosmicAcademy  11 місяців тому +63

    Stuck with your music career? Need personalized help and development? Apply to our program… www.cosmicacademy.com

    • @delight8888
      @delight8888 10 місяців тому

      Yes i certainly intend to...

    • @MayaJinn
      @MayaJinn 10 місяців тому +1

      Yes. I had to move from Ukraine for all known reasons. Now I'm trying to start my life from scratch and resuming my DJ career is a dream.😇✨️

    • @chanceneck8072
      @chanceneck8072 10 місяців тому

      I've had all these romantic dreams in my early 20s. I started making music in the year 2000 on my Playstation at age 15. 😅
      But nothing ever came out of it. Now, age 38, I've already been through a toxic relationship, death of mother and other beloved friends and family members and addictions. I mean I COULD still technically produce music. I have a creative brain and just the other day, I had a dream about a beautifully sung melody. I actually have such dreams relatively often, at least multiple times a year. They just come out of my soul, I don't know how to explain it. But they are definitely NEW melodies every time. Unless I dream of an already existing song (like a couple of months ago, it was 100% "Robert DeNiro's Waiting" from Bananarama in my dream. 😅 I hadn't heard that song in YEARS prior to my dream. And then, it just pops out!) Today I came up with two other melodies. It's just the "fame", being the "hot new artist", everyone wants to be friends with would be the *LAST* thing I would ever want in this world....

    • @HakiKingEntertainment
      @HakiKingEntertainment 10 місяців тому

      Should really think about what?

    • @bobinscotland
      @bobinscotland 10 місяців тому

      Superb insight into those dark corners... I'm sure your knowledge and attitude will help many people to progress in their chosen music careers.

  • @jonathanthedeceptikon
    @jonathanthedeceptikon 11 місяців тому +603

    I love this real talk. If your focus is creating music and connecting with people, it can be amazing at every level.

    • @TheCosmicAcademy
      @TheCosmicAcademy  11 місяців тому +30

      Focus on the love, the people, the music ❤️

    • @SublimePr1me
      @SublimePr1me 10 місяців тому +7

      this right here, you’re speaking truth, music is healing

    • @WhizPill
      @WhizPill 10 місяців тому +7

      Bro could speak any language and chose to speak facts

    • @HowieRaps
      @HowieRaps 10 місяців тому +7

      I've been lucky enough to connect with some fire ass unknown people, which Im very grateful for. And their support has been so amazing. Hearing an underground artist I think deserves to be famous tell me they love my shit and wanna Collab was a huge confidence booster. I've just been trying to keep the mentality "if I like it, I can't be disappointed in opinions" and just make music I'm proud of and enjoy. It's both helped me get better at it and also not be so hard on myself when ppl don't like a song I make. Everyone has their own tastes and it helps to just focus on if you truly are proud of the song or not. Cheers ❤

    • @cheapshotfishing9239
      @cheapshotfishing9239 10 місяців тому +3

      This is such a refreshing take and what I live for

  • @lalo_mp3
    @lalo_mp3 11 місяців тому +194

    Very dark side of music business is spending hours and hours to create a song that most likely will end up with 20 soundcloud plays, and like 99% of the label wont even hear it. But as you said it’s all about the music for me and that’s why I still make it after 6 years. Recently had my first record signed, felt great. Would love to have my first show soon 🙏🏻 One thing I’ve learned is that hard work always pays off. Keep it up everyone!

    • @TheCosmicAcademy
      @TheCosmicAcademy  11 місяців тому +8

      hard work pays off... it's a tough road and not for everyone

    • @Prodluud
      @Prodluud 10 місяців тому +8

      Focus on making yourself happy with your music, create with your heart.

    • @heavenlypath1065
      @heavenlypath1065 10 місяців тому +5

      If you don't care about labels it gets more enjoyable

    • @OfficialJes.C
      @OfficialJes.C 9 місяців тому

      Facts man, facts.

    • @Impaled_Onion-thatsmine
      @Impaled_Onion-thatsmine 2 місяці тому

      Yeah but I wouldn't pay for it we wanna make this a business just to make your own music we use to listen to music it's a process from making your own album and playing live I don't care how crappy it is

  • @free_xero
    @free_xero 11 місяців тому +451

    As an independent artist myself, making music is extremely stressful no matter what stage of music you are in. Especially as being independent without too much of a following. You are alone, you have no one. Sure there might be inconsistent friends you make who also make music that you will collab with every now and then or share music with for support, but you aren't surrounded by those type of people. At the end of the day, it is you, your beat or a beat you found off youtube, your mic, your voice, and your lyrics. You can't predict if people will like/dislike the song that you're making, only able to take a shot in the dark and when it finally comes out... well... there's nothing. Maybe some people who find it and go "yo I like this" or people who go "this is trash/cringe". Then you restart the process.
    Then when you finally getting support from random people who find your music, you will start to feel obligated and pressure yourself to make more music so they don't leave. You will talk to them until it becomes to much to keep track of every connection and end up shutting down for days or weeks. You will force yourself to record even if your voice is not sounding good or you are not in the right headspace to make good lyrics/melodies. You will find hate wherever you could find support, and that hate might be enough to question if your song is even good or not.
    Realistically, the only way YOU are going to keep going is if YOU push yourself. No one is going to be there to push you, because at the end of the day, what do they get for doing that? I have been so close to giving up several times already, and I KNOW there are countless more times that it will happen. Times I will look online to see nothing new or positive happening with my music, looking on social media to see my videos haven't gotten any more views than the day before. That there is one new DM in my request folder on Instagram to find it just being a bot asking me to buy their clothes/jewelry.
    It is so easy for you to surround yourself in toxic environments. Senseless arguing in comments sections, 'roasts' against each other. Trash talking other peoples music/lack of success because you dislike them/their music or how they might be progressing differently than you. It is so easy to find a reason to dislike others and view them as competition or haters rather than find a reason to want to listen to them or block them out.
    That's why I try my best to just not do anything to anyone as much as possible, stay in my corner and don't talk badly to people for no reason.

    • @TheCosmicAcademy
      @TheCosmicAcademy  11 місяців тому +68

      You sound like you’re doing great. I know we don’t know each other- but I want to say- im proud of you. ❤️

    • @free_xero
      @free_xero 11 місяців тому +31

      @@TheCosmicAcademy Thank you so much, that honestly means so much to me.

    • @XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXNXTYZXXXX
      @XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXNXTYZXXXX 11 місяців тому +9

      good mindset ❤

    • @Quarantus
      @Quarantus 11 місяців тому +1

      Yeah I agree with this idea 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

    • @idobahalul
      @idobahalul 11 місяців тому +5

      This comment got me a bit emotional 🥲

  • @MelihKorOfficial
    @MelihKorOfficial 11 місяців тому +166

    What you said with the ego thing is 100% true.
    I remember being backstage on a festival with a lot of legendary artists. Artists I looked up for years and whom music inspired me in my life.
    I was talking to one, who is not well known, but has a couple successful records in the scene. Told him how amazing his one particular track was and helped me through dark times.
    While I was talking to him, he basically turned away from me, ignoring me and started talking to another guy. I was standing there speechless and ultra disrespected. Apparently I was not worth his time.
    Later the day I was on the table eating with the other DJs. Then Armin van Buuren came into the room. He saw everybody on the tables, but I was the only unknown to him. He walked towards my direction and introduced himself! Later we had a really nice conversation and he showed me his idea on how he made a track of his back then.
    That's something what you mentioned in you video and I learned that day. And I heard the same good things about David Guetta as well.
    This is just one of the stories from my experience in the music scene/business.
    I came into this music world, because only for the immense love and passion for electronic music.
    When I saw how much ego, politics, envious people and other stuff was happening, it kinda made me fall out of love. Because I thought everybody else was also there just for the music and having a great time together.
    Gladly I have my spark back, because there are still a bunch of lovers of my music, who get inspired by the craft I do.
    And I still do it because of them.
    If I can inspire just one person and make their life better, then I will happily continue doing what I love to do.
    Amazing video, made me reflect again about a lot of things!
    All the best!

    • @TheCosmicAcademy
      @TheCosmicAcademy  11 місяців тому +11

      Love hearing your experience. Yes David is great!!! very interesting stuff. Appreacite. you sharing :)

    • @the_bottomfragger
      @the_bottomfragger 10 місяців тому +3

      Of course the rule can't be applied at all times but I've experienced the same. Usually people who have worked so hard to be one of the best in the world are very humble while many people struggling think they can make up for a lack of work ethic or talent by punching down.
      As I said there are lots of exceptions as well. You tend to find the right people to surround yourself with after a while.
      Btw good to hear that with Armin, he seems like a genuinely good dude.

    • @CrackBabyZaches
      @CrackBabyZaches 10 місяців тому +3

      Just to be the devil's advocate - the same artist has likely heard a story similar to yours a hundred times before. The thing with fame is that it quickly starts feeling like extra unpaid work you have to do while you are already struggling financially. Most artists aren't millionaires, but have to act like they are to maintain the image. One of the things that strips all happiness from people is the feeling of having no agency in your own life. A lot of artists feel like puppets for their label, fans, etc.
      Look how Doja Cat started and how she is now, 180 degree turn. Some will say it's because of demon worship or whatever, but to me it's obvious she suffered multiple mental breaks and decided to alienate her fan base. For the record, she used to do some strange livestreams where she would engage in race play where random dudes would objectify her and call her racist shit. As weird as it was, it was obviously the kink she enjoyed doing and getting shamed for it in front of whole world didn't do her mental health any service.

    • @Moodboard39
      @Moodboard39 10 місяців тому

      ⁠that's what u get when u hang with many people.

    • @ketz_165
      @ketz_165 9 місяців тому

      What artist were you talking to that disrespected you? I’m curious.

  • @kappawam
    @kappawam 11 місяців тому +156

    I came on to UA-cam to watch sound design tutorials but I found this. This is exactly the sound design tutorial I needed.

    • @TheCosmicAcademy
      @TheCosmicAcademy  11 місяців тому +10

      We’re here for whatever you need 🙏

    • @rsdsindy
      @rsdsindy 10 місяців тому +2

      same fr.

    • @SevenVeilsMusic
      @SevenVeilsMusic 10 місяців тому

      Exactly the same. Glad I found this!

    • @Aviiram_
      @Aviiram_ 4 місяці тому

      Same 😂

  • @krisumusic
    @krisumusic 10 місяців тому +74

    As someone who broke out in the Chillstep scene in 2013 with millions of streams and made producing a fulltime job since 2015 this hit me hard. I've seen all of this over and over. But I'm trying my best to focus on writing and producing songs I personally want to hear. I truly love composing. I'm 31 years old and time has gone by so fast. I fell in love with composing at age 17. I would never recommend pursuing music unless it is a passion. If it is a passion, then you don't need any convincing, you'd do it anyway, as a job or hobby.

  • @artwmbepoppin
    @artwmbepoppin 10 місяців тому +20

    As a non-existent artist, I'm surprised how not disappointed and not depressed I am after this video. It's kind of what I already expected from the industry.

  • @eierdiebs6388
    @eierdiebs6388 10 місяців тому +31

    Yes. You are absolutely right. I had a band and a Indie label with a bit internal success but it fell apart after over 10 years of hard work. Now I work a normal job, playing in a few bands and my children are all artist themselves. I love making music but the music industry I stay away from. And I’m happy with that.
    Thank you for telling others about it.

  • @herumusicman8200
    @herumusicman8200 10 місяців тому +32

    For anyone relate to this, don't be disheartened don't stop now. You are great, you achieved your talent by thousand of hours practicing your thing. You honed your skill for so long it becomes part of your identity. Music is your identity, Don't discard your identity.
    *Pardon my bad English

  • @au66621
    @au66621 11 місяців тому +24

    You don’t have to be in the music industry to experience the same problems. It is the same everywhere. We are all driver by ego and try to exploit each other on different scales. The earlier you realise this and get your own ego under control the happier you become. The rest is out of your control and the quicker you realise that you are not in control the happier you become.

  • @------YeahOK------
    @------YeahOK------ 11 місяців тому +39

    I know that you are 100% right about this mate.
    I am now 43 and had moderate success from age 25-30, I was supported by pretty much all the top DJs and i got to do lots of gigs abroad. My songs were uploaded to UA-cam by fans, I almost didn't have to do anything and it snowballed. I am tempted to get back out there, but the idea of social media scares me a lot 😅 every man and their dog has an opinion nowadays - and it's always been cut throat online, even my local peers can't be trusted. One thing is for sure, i love making music at home - even though nobody will hear it.

    • @TheCosmicAcademy
      @TheCosmicAcademy  11 місяців тому +8

      here's my tip on social media - remind yourself - - it's no big deal :)... no one is going to look too deep into it... give it a try!

  • @KristenMcNamara
    @KristenMcNamara 9 місяців тому +10

    I’ve been in the “music business” for 25 years. One thing I can tell anyone who needs light at the end of the tunnel is…. Your love for making music has to stand on its own because the ups and downs are inevitable. It’s about making a new blue print of how you define success in music. Stop comparing yourself to others versions of success, it will forever change and evolve and that is normal❤

  • @Jesseleerealmusic
    @Jesseleerealmusic 9 місяців тому +3

    My struggle is money to afford a producer. I don’t have any equipment to make my own beats and I have learning disabilities. But I refuse to stop because music is my only solace. But it’s frustrating having learning disabilities and being overwhelmed by computers and DAWs and all that stuff. Wish me luck!🙏

  • @prodbytarantino
    @prodbytarantino 10 місяців тому +9

    There was a dude I was friends with in high school my freshmen year, who would get made fun of a lot for making music. I always felt for him as a producer, because I had been clowned on by those same people for doing a presentation on music production. This was back in the og 2015-2016 SoundCloud days when even X was still trying to come up. He had mad connections with other SoundCloud OGs like 6dogs and Peep. He finally went on his first world tour just last year, and had only signed with a label in 2021. That’s 7 years of hard work and dedication. It’s irritating that people now are hopping on the music trend thinking they’re gonna have an instant big blowup and get tons of money from it when that’s not the case. Imo it just takes recognition away from all the people who are genuinely in this/have been here for the long haul.

  • @Very-Relaxing.Soundscapes
    @Very-Relaxing.Soundscapes 9 місяців тому +2

    Thanks - as a Musician that's played in a few Bands. done 20-30 Shows/Festivals over the years & pulled back a few times for Family things... I could see Many things mentioned, apply to me & others I know. --- Spot On - Thank you!

  • @Iqbd1204
    @Iqbd1204 11 місяців тому +31

    It's very true what you said, which is why I've already shifted my priority from music production to software engineering. I used to be a professional DJ based in London, but I began my journey playing for free. That's when I realized something was wrong with the world. Doctors, engineers, chefs-none of them work for free, so why should musicians? The music profession worldwide isn't stable at all. You can't properly feed your family or save for the next generation through this profession-most can't!
    I have some great unreleased songs that I'll release at some point. I don't worry about fame at all, but relying solely on the music industry sucks. Exceptions can't make an average living.
    Now, I'm happily back studying software engineering at university as a mature student. I know I can make millions or even billions-it's not that difficult. Considering the effort a producer puts into music 24/7, including when we're asleep, applying just 25% of that energy to any other sector can bring unbelievable success, guaranteed!
    After I become rich, then I'll release my music. At least then, no one will dare to manipulate me!!

    • @pavelmolchanov7156
      @pavelmolchanov7156 10 місяців тому +2

      Rich developer ? How ?

    • @ThatsJoshTyler
      @ThatsJoshTyler 10 місяців тому +6

      No one will hear your music without marketing and no one will download your app without marketing

    • @sleuth-hb4ht
      @sleuth-hb4ht 10 місяців тому

      @@ThatsJoshTyler how did lil baby market himself

    • @kimhornhem5399
      @kimhornhem5399 10 місяців тому +1

      I read somewhere that software engineers could be taken over AI one day, might wanna look into that.

  • @paulnationmusic
    @paulnationmusic 11 місяців тому +30

    This was actually very inspirational. There is a dark side in every industry, that's the world we live in. But we as musicians/producers have the power to make people feel something different.
    Thanks for the video!

  • @officialcodyrogers
    @officialcodyrogers 9 місяців тому +2

    I can vouch for this, after selling 2 albums nation wide i backed out. I was being manipulated, used and made to believe my "image" was most important and how much money i was willing to constantly give (not the message in the music). I took all my music off itunes, amazon ect and stop paying for people to mix music. I dont do features anymore and i focus on the message in songs for therapy and to help others. I felt exhausted and stressed constantly with kewping up with things i didnt even wanna do and spending money i could have fed my family with for years. It is not worth it. Once i backed away and wemt silemt for about 6 months, everyone acted like they never knew me when i was highly "loved" as they stated. It will crush you if your not careful. I appreciate this honesty bro, keep making these videos

  • @justasgriskevicius3492
    @justasgriskevicius3492 10 місяців тому +7

    One thing that's been driven hard in my family is the importance of creating art, that's really why i started to make music. Some way to express yourself, some mark to make in this world, even if it's just a tiny one - everything is tiny in the eyes of the universe. So I've never really been bothered by the greediness or egos in the music industry because I truly don't care whether I'll blow up or not. Even if someone convinced me 100% that i'll never make it big, I wouldn't stop. The things that you are describing are not necessarily unique to the music industry, it's pretty common in all kinds of other entertainment industries - actors having big egos, making a working nightmare, youtubers and streamers being greedy scamming their fans and plenty more. There are even "friends" in your circle who will strangely only hang out with you when there's a favor you can do for them. It is what it is. Some people are wired that way. And also yes, standing in front of a stage, having everyone smile and stare at you is a big ego boost, so there's no surprise that some people will get corrupted by that. Maybe those who make it to the very top realize that there's nothing that special being at the top, so they stop being opportunists and start to view everyone else differently. The important this is, like you said, to truly enjoy making music. Whether it's one person listening, or a thousand - you're creating art. The one thing that makes us human, that separates us from everyone else on Earth.

  • @Tilldrawn
    @Tilldrawn 9 місяців тому +4

    im not even planning on going anywhere with my music. i make it just as a hobby with a strong passion. but i like watching videos like these because it does help me get a better idea of what its like out there for artists who are in the actual game. its relieving to know that the biggest artists like guetta are actually the genuine people they appear to be and its not all just an act.
    currently, i have the mindset for simply continuing to make music that i like no matter the popularity it gains. even though ive never been popular for any of it, i continue to simply just do what i enjoy and share my work, no matter who sees it. its like i have to disect myself from that aspect of social validation.
    to this day, after years, nothing has come in the way of my passion for music and, to be honest, im thanking that mindset for it. anyway just wanted to share. have nice day ^^

  • @lorcamusic
    @lorcamusic 10 місяців тому +5

    This was very much my experience and it totally put me off trying to build a career in the music business.
    I remember meeting one DJ at a gig i was playing at, he was a hero of mine. I asked what synth he used on a track and he completely lied to my face saying it was a toy synth. I understand if you dont want to give away your secrets but there are nocer ways yo say that. It was pure, 100% ego i felt, no warmth at all.
    I have also had 'friends' that i knew for years that i came up with in the industry with that now dont even reply to emails, or stop in the street to say hello as im no longer involved in the business.
    Ive never worked with so many egos and people that pretend to be your friend when its convienent for them.
    Im glad to now treat music as a hobby that i do for myself and no on elae, and everytime aomeone tells me im talented or shouldnt have gave up and my ego is triggered, remember these times and those people and i know its not for me.

  • @aidanviets7286
    @aidanviets7286 10 місяців тому +9

    This is why i love the scene where i am in now. I am talking about the Psytrance scene. The focus there is the music and the vibe and the people on the dancefloor. It feels like a family who comes together everytine. There are not soo many people in this scene but the people who are in it, are enjoying the music for the rest of their lives.

    • @MH-et5sn
      @MH-et5sn 10 місяців тому +3

      Yeah the Psytrance scene is one of the few grassroots scenes left.

  • @sebastienknight9249
    @sebastienknight9249 11 місяців тому +15

    One thing I keep saying to myself to not be used in a negative way by someone is that I tell myself that I'm not a doormat. Ex: someone used to be nice to me just to get close to a producer friend of mine.

  • @OfficialJes.C
    @OfficialJes.C 9 місяців тому +1

    This is true. I have rebranded under a new name after pursuing music for 10+ years, doing sold out shows, collaborations, getting screwed over on tour by promotors, selling 10k in merch, the whole 9 yards. The artist gets screwed the most out of the producers, dj's and engineers. You truly do have to love it to keep going because the business is going to play its part regardless. Its a messed up system and something needs to change.

  • @mattwillems5158
    @mattwillems5158 11 місяців тому +9

    This video is super on point and aimed at all of us frustrated producers/DJs/engineers. It's a great marketing tool as it pulls at our heartstrings. David and his team are nice because they made it, have money, are not frustrated, and understand how hard it was to get there. David actually likes sharing some tips as well, which is always fulfilling for him as a human. Good dude. But was he always that way, or rather, his team that way? think 2009-2015... hahaha.. nahhhh... The smaller cranky artists, like some of us reading this, are this way because we have been abused for 2 to 10 years and are frustrated with being rejected almost every day for each idea or innovation we have, show pitch, song demo, blah blah blah... general failure. 95% of ideas we have failed because of "the system," and if one breaks through, one will be used, forgotten, and discarded. The key is, to make your own brand, generate your own following, create your own team through hard work, education, automation, mentors, schools, or just plain old UA-cam videos. If it doesn't work out for you, then at least you tried. If it does, good lord, you are talented and hard working and lucky, and please do whatever you can to change the industry to help others succeed like you did by avoiding the users. - Matthew Anthony [Perfect Driver Music]

    • @TheCosmicAcademy
      @TheCosmicAcademy  10 місяців тому

      thanks for this breakdown! really interesting to hear this take :)

  • @chuckmoment
    @chuckmoment 10 місяців тому +2

    dude im not even in the music business or anything but i absolutely loved the reality you shared in this, the story telling is so powerful. I feel like this can be transferred to other genres as well

  • @TenToTu
    @TenToTu 10 місяців тому +3

    i started making music because i just wanted to make something of my own. it's been only about 5 years but i still enjoy it. all i want is to open my daw and talk to it about my feelings.

  • @360driftentryguy8
    @360driftentryguy8 10 місяців тому +4

    I'm a young producer and DJ and after watching this it truly lifted my spirits because right now music is the only option I have in life and I am happy to know that I'm going on the right track cause I mostly make music because I love my music and don't care what anyone else has to say about it but ever since I started no one has hated my music and everyone that has heard it like it and that only, helps me keep pushing in life and never give up on my dreams and goals of helping my family throughout the rest of our lives🙏🙏

  • @taylortorrenceofficial
    @taylortorrenceofficial 11 місяців тому +6

    This is incredible. Thank you Justin

  • @AncientlightInsights
    @AncientlightInsights 9 місяців тому +1

    Thank you so much for your authentic share on this sad truth about the music industry. If I didn’t absolutely love making music so much I would have honestly quit.
    I will continue to make music for the right reasons and with honest intentions without getting caught up in the dark & egocentric side of it that makes me sick.
    Bless your good heart. ❤️

  • @bryandodson1595
    @bryandodson1595 11 місяців тому +5

    Really appreciate you covering the dark truths of the music business, not just the glamour and hustle 👏👏

    • @TheCosmicAcademy
      @TheCosmicAcademy  11 місяців тому +1

      i try to keep it motivating and positive on this channel... but sometimes we gotta talk about the bad stuff

  • @deepvan9796
    @deepvan9796 11 місяців тому +9

    That "friend" you produced for free will spend $2k on one song in a "real" studio only to come back crying begging you to do a better job than what that "real" studio gave them... and they'll beg you to do it for free... again. That's pretty much the theme of the music industry on your way up. Invest in yourself. Become as independent as you possibly can (write, produce, book, promote, photography, etc...). Artist development can be helpful as long as the developer is wanting you to succeed and not just wanting your money.

    • @TheCosmicAcademy
      @TheCosmicAcademy  11 місяців тому +1

      Lot of fakeness on the business. Keep your head up no matter what 👊

  • @brandontadday6288
    @brandontadday6288 10 місяців тому +4

    That point made at 3:35 - 3:44 is so true. On the whole, I have had more positive experiences when I’ve had the pleasure of meeting or interacting with successful artists at the top of their game than I have had when dealing with ‘moderately’ successful artists. There exists a toxic goldilocks zone between obscurity and “I’ve made it” where people are just successful enough to feel like they are special and worthy of praise but not successful enough to avoid developing a complex about potentially losing said success and deciding to take that insecurity out on those around them. Of course, that’s not to say that there aren’t plenty of artists at all levels of success that are awesome, humble and down-to-earth people and vice versa.

  • @themeanmachine84
    @themeanmachine84 10 місяців тому +5

    "you can't play it cause I'm gonna play it" - after hearing this, you go to the stage, take the mike, you say EXACTLY what happened via the mike... then greet all the people who came in, dedicate this song to all those people and play your thing. Do not EVER let shit like this slide, cause if you do it once, it's game over for you. And I know that someone will now say "yeah well it's easy to say...", I know that it's not easy to do but it needs to be done. Cause otherwise things will never change, you will get to another gig and you will very likely hear the same thing, over and over again. Make the change, be the change.

    • @ddeafner
      @ddeafner 16 днів тому

      💯 exactly what I would do!

  • @thisguyrools2807
    @thisguyrools2807 11 місяців тому +8

    I have been into electronic music since I was 15. I’m now 30, it’s sad to see so many artists who just disappeared and fell off. Artists who are constantly involving and innovating will usually stick around, Kaskade, Tiesto, Deadmau5, Carl Cox, Chris Lake are some artists who remain relevant but a lot of the big room or electro artists just kind of faded away. I can definitely see it happening to tech house in a few years, John Sunmit, Fisher and Fred again (not tech house but still good) are definitely artist who will still be relevant in 10 years but the other generic tech house artist need to innovate and expand to new genres.

  • @marven7699
    @marven7699 6 місяців тому

    This is one of the best video I ever seen on UA-cam because it's very important that we know all this things about the music business and so glad to see someone like you talking so honest and so clearly about this subject and thank you so much for this beautiful video 🙏🏻❤️

  • @JozsefWittek
    @JozsefWittek 10 місяців тому +2

    Thank you for your exceptional video about the reality of the music business. Being 50 I have definately experienced my share...good and bad, top and bottom...
    I love the humble approach you guys imbue at Cosmic Academy, it says a lot about your school and community. Really glad I stumbled upon your socials when I got back to producing after a long gap... Wishing you guys all the best in 2024! And looking forward to more of your positive motivational content!

  • @diamonddonut
    @diamonddonut 10 місяців тому +2

    GREAT INFO Justin... this is amazing for new artists so they won't be shocked of the ego they will find in almost everywhere including fashion, and even banking...
    Few years ago i was with one of my friends, he is a DIY indie singer as he creates his own music and invest in himself with his own money. He hired 2 instrumentals for a gig and i was with them just as a company. Anyway, everytime he sings while in practicing sessions the 2 instrumentals were too stiff and overly focusing on every single thing they do, till one mistake came up, then one of the musicians were in an afraid tune "sorry sorry, i didn't mean to", my friend reply instantly "WTH, we are here to have fun not to be a perfectionists" and accompanied it with loud laugh. The 2 musicians were kind of confused and since that moment they became relaxed, happy, and very smooth players... i didn't figured out why!
    After the practice session my friend told the 2 instrumentals "where u going next", one of them replied "we will go smashing with the band ( i don't remember the word exactly but i believe it's coming up with songs session), my friend replied "NICEE, so you already have a band, and main vocalist", he replied indifferently "ya, yes", my friend said "how is the vocalist, must be a good one", then he replied "he's ok", and i was shocked when he mumbled to his friend without my friend hearing him "wish he was as amazingly ethical, talent, & kind as you are".... i was shocked, and just now i realized the connection between that situation and what you said in this video... Thank you Justin for lighten this up

  • @CarlitoProductions
    @CarlitoProductions 10 місяців тому +2

    I remember burning out from doing music and doing something else. I recently got back into music but doing it more for myself. To make it, you have to compete in a toxic environment, and it's not something I'd be down for again.

  • @samitama21
    @samitama21 11 місяців тому +3

    Thank you for this video. Ive been watching videos about the music industry to be mindful of what im getting into. I love music and ive had a little taste of how people will use you for money but at the end the ones with genuine intentions that do it for the love of it will always win

  • @HeyItsUSM4N
    @HeyItsUSM4N 11 місяців тому +4

    I think kindness always prevails! And watching this fckn makes me wanna further prove that! No one’s better than us and we’re no better than every1 else. :) and i think something super important is dont let ppl push u into uncomfortable situation. Ya u may lose that gig but ur gonna surpass em one day

  • @elhombredelsuelo4720
    @elhombredelsuelo4720 10 місяців тому +2

    Hey mate thanks for this video, it seems like we don't talk enough about why we're doing things in those times~
    I'm sure before our era, music took magical shapes and serve incredible purposes, there's so many layers we could explore...
    I'm still having a fight with my mind about giving myself to my tracks, for what purpose etc.
    I'm a bit scared about what the industry represents and also the fact that today it seems that being an artist means being extremely visible, it's hard to make the right choices to be happy ! Because I feel like I want to invest all my time, my life into it

  • @isaiasgomez9266
    @isaiasgomez9266 10 місяців тому +3

    Im 23 years old.. i discovered electronic music just the last year.. I started studying on a Musical production academy, and now im starting a Dj career...
    I have so much anxiety cause im working very hard and still not in the place where i want to be. i have big dreams and a plan. and i decided, i want to take this path for the rest of my life, no matter what.

    • @IslamcomesfromHell
      @IslamcomesfromHell 9 місяців тому

      Yeah that's not gonna end up well if you don't have an alternative be more realistic

    • @isaiasgomez9266
      @isaiasgomez9266 9 місяців тому

      @@IslamcomesfromHell It will end up good, i have no doubt

    • @IslamcomesfromHell
      @IslamcomesfromHell 9 місяців тому

      @@isaiasgomez9266 good for you, who are you trying to prove?

  • @SonerAvcu
    @SonerAvcu 8 місяців тому

    Wow, these are the exact reasons i got depressed and gave a break after my last released album. I thought it's all happening only in my country but its kinda relieving that these issues are global and some people are talking about it bravely and try to make a community which is against that brutal and drainig so called system. I hope some day music will wipe all this poison out since its source is pure love. Cheers to everybody who loves making music just because they love it.

  • @abrahamsaleh7682
    @abrahamsaleh7682 10 місяців тому +3

    Im short of words...
    You really opened my mind to allot of things..
    I haven't kick started my music career and this was very educating ..
    Thank you cosmic academy

  • @Dextermoon1
    @Dextermoon1 10 місяців тому +1

    Every young artist and musician needs to see this well done

  • @NeoComicus
    @NeoComicus 10 місяців тому

    Nice to hear the truth for a change. Most folks like to brush this under the carpet, so kudos for bringing it out in the open.

  • @24086
    @24086 8 місяців тому

    Thank you Justin for always telling it like it is. From what I’ve seen so far I don’t think there are enough people in the industry who do this.

  • @RhiannonRoze
    @RhiannonRoze 11 місяців тому +2

    I found this video reassuring! I'm glad I'm not crazy. Ha. I've experienced all of this and even after 20 years in the biz I'm still experiencing it. And that's ok. It absolutely comes down to our core intentions for being here. If anything, this sh*t just stokes my fire. Right now I'm DJing less than I have since I started gigging in 2001 and I'm really happy because I'm 100% committed to what I really want to do right now and that's produce my own music. Thanks to Cosmic Academy, I know the steps I need to take to do this properly and I'm working on it daily. Being in the process itself feels fantastic! I can straight-up say that I felt completely lost before joining Cosmic. There were a lot of missing pieces in my music production process & music business education & colleague community. Cosmic filled me in on so many things and I'm super grateful. Now it's up to me...but I'm not alone on the journey, I'm with amazing people that I found through Cosmic that I see online on a weekly basis when we give each other feedback on our productions. Makes such a huge difference!! Thanks for creating this. Fkn brilliant.

  • @draviswubs
    @draviswubs 10 місяців тому

    Clicked on this just at random. Didnt even want to get past a few seconds. Got me hooked and finished it. Good talk man. I appreciate the insight

  • @eliosix
    @eliosix 11 місяців тому +3

    Well, that was depressing af, but well put. I appreciate the raw honesty in these videos. 👌

    • @TheCosmicAcademy
      @TheCosmicAcademy  11 місяців тому +1

      had to keep it real... but there is some light in the industry if you keep true to yourself

  • @monty510
    @monty510 10 місяців тому

    Awesome. It makes me sad seeing these people online chasing clout on some beats they bought online. Thanks for this video!

  • @Baschdi3108
    @Baschdi3108 9 місяців тому

    100% agree. Kinda needed this. Somehow it is giving me motivation to go on and it doesn't depress me at all. At the end of the day, human beings are being used in any job - sometimes a bit more, sometimes a bit less. And at least for me making music is something that makes fun and total sense.

  • @MayaJinn
    @MayaJinn 10 місяців тому

    Wow..a truth that I have had to go through and face throughout my career. Happy New Year and may your dreams come true!🎉

  • @rosesprog1722
    @rosesprog1722 9 місяців тому

    I've been a stage hand for most of my life and there isn't anything more sad than seeing an artist on the downhill trying to survive, having to deal with rejection when being loved and appreciated is at the core of your very existence makes the spark of creation extremely difficult to find and slip through the cracks of that existential pain you didn't expect and that is now in control of most of your brain waves.
    Therefore, keeping the words music and business in the same sentence is often a difficult balancing act between being and doing but with teachers who are not hiding the difficulties lying ahead like this young man here seems to be doing, your chances are much better than with those who can't believe how good you are and are making promises that will keep you up at night. So, listen to him, otherwise you can always do music, and keep the business out of it, just to be safe. : ) Good luck to all.

  • @MrX-bh1ij
    @MrX-bh1ij 11 місяців тому +5

    Making music is my real passion. I want, and I can create my signature sound and the project with my own vision. My dream is to become a midtempo artist, play at big festivals.. but I live in Eastern Europe and here aren't even a local events in my genre.. I've no possibility to move to US or Canada in the nearest future. So I almost gave up cause I don't know what to do.

    • @TheCosmicAcademy
      @TheCosmicAcademy  11 місяців тому +2

      Keep grinding!! Your location doesn’t matter so much because you have a worldwide audience through social media!! 👊♥️ you got this

  • @Castafer
    @Castafer 10 місяців тому

    I understand this. The founder of Spitfire Audio, Christian Henson talked about this on his UA-cam blog. Many artists don't know about this until it happens to them. I'm happy to see you discuss this.

  • @connoisseuroftigolbitts
    @connoisseuroftigolbitts 10 місяців тому +1

    This was so real.
    You forgot to add about the wicked side, trickery && Evil but these were great valid points

  • @IanSolano
    @IanSolano 10 місяців тому +1

    As sad as this video is it is still really important that the next generation of producers realise this dartk truth about our scene. Make sure you're doing it for the right reasons and this will give you so much more than you put out. Thank you, Justin.

  • @znaj7335
    @znaj7335 9 місяців тому

    When I started YT a friend of mine started too. I helped him out where I could and I stood beside him, still do. Now while I slowly managed to get 40 subs he managed to reach 600+ in the same time and I'm happy for him. That's what lets me remember that I would never let the fame rise to my head should I make the breakthrough. This video is just another reinforcement of that, when you're in it for the passion and not just the reward, eventually the reward will just feel like an added bonus to the feeling of knowing you excited the lives of others more with your own creations. That's why I do the things I do.

  • @KYDUH
    @KYDUH 10 місяців тому +1

    All facts. Loved this video. I can confirm there are very ego driving horrible people at the top as well.

  • @HowieRaps
    @HowieRaps 10 місяців тому +2

    I strive to keep the vibe positive and righteous til the end ❤ best of luck to everyone on this journey, a lot of people suck.

  • @maquisarto
    @maquisarto 21 день тому

    Speechless...
    So relevant. You're a good person and a Real music lover. Thank you 👌

  • @jalex.musica
    @jalex.musica 11 місяців тому +2

    I appreciate this video, Justin. Needed to see it today.

    • @TheCosmicAcademy
      @TheCosmicAcademy  11 місяців тому

      Really happy it helps!! Always appreciate you watching 👊♥️

  • @vivaofficial7372
    @vivaofficial7372 10 місяців тому +1

    Just stumbled on this video and I absolutely appreciate you brother. You said exactly what I've always been saying to my peers and have been feeling since I started writing, getting into recording and producing. It really is a uphill battle if theres no love for it or passion.

  • @lisan1010
    @lisan1010 10 місяців тому +1

    Beautiful reflexions Justin, and deeply spiritual. This world needs more people like you.

  • @abasement666
    @abasement666 9 місяців тому

    Sometimes i wonder if i actually just want to make music as a passion and stay working a day job until i die (like i always tell people) or if im terrified at the disheartening state of music as a "business". I cant fathom making dollar signs out of art.
    When i was 17 a label sold out a physical run of my album and used my artwork as the labels logo (to this day) and i never saw a penny from it.
    They took my word which was "ill just do it for exposure and the love of music" but i was a kid. Their bandcamp has way more ($10+ each) purchases of my music than mine does.
    That was my introduction to music as a business.
    Great video! as much as i dont like to, i needed to hear this.

  • @jojceecer87202
    @jojceecer87202 8 місяців тому

    The end of the video is chopped too early at the end, just a remark because this video is superb in general.
    Most importantly , I really loved this video and it got me a bit teary but as someone who is looking to start making music I needed to see this, Thanks!

  • @djordjezivkovic7199
    @djordjezivkovic7199 10 місяців тому

    This is maybe the best music video I've seen this year. Agree 101% on everything..

  • @EvrintBless
    @EvrintBless 10 місяців тому

    Great video!!! Always guessed the same things since day one. Everyone needs to be aware of this; musicians life’s a roller coaster 🎢✊🏼

  • @blowniron
    @blowniron 11 місяців тому +2

    Eye opening- truth is what we want to hear and you delivered !

  • @ZanetwiceTV
    @ZanetwiceTV 10 місяців тому

    Thank you for this message full of truth and love! I wish you a Merry Christmas and a wonderful end-of-year celebration!

  • @by_vzino
    @by_vzino 10 місяців тому +2

    The third point is undeniable, with a prominent example in the industry being Skrillex, universally recognized as the "king of dubstep" and a multiple Grammy Award winner. However, he went through a significant period of hiatus and mental rest due to discomfort with the direction of his career. During this time, he fell into obscurity for many, missing out on major events and even being overlooked by his most loyal fans.
    During this hiatus, Skrillex chose to explore new creative facets, resulting in a double album filled with innovation. As a devoted follower, I witnessed how many people criticized his music and himself, claiming he was no longer "cool" and was merely recognized as the dubstep icon. However, now that he has successfully returned to the stage, these same individuals have fallen silent and speak of him as if they had always supported him.
    This situation is both sad and impactful, as it highlights a common issue in the music industry. If someone as prominent as Skrillex can go through similar experiences, it's challenging to imagine the struggles faced by lesser-known DJs who have gone through or will go through similar situations.

  • @namidanoko3221
    @namidanoko3221 10 місяців тому

    much love bro. this video is such a big realtalk ❤

  • @OfficialAceAura
    @OfficialAceAura 10 місяців тому

    Just popping in to say that everything in this video is 100% facts from my own experience. Thank you so much for being the one to talk about the side of the industry that nobody else will.

  • @SouthernEmperor
    @SouthernEmperor 10 місяців тому

    I love this video. You have to love music and seek to invest in your music and yourself to get other people to hear it, not to look for a deal because it's all based on usury. That stuck out.
    However, if you're in the business you can't really say what you want to say but, it's not what most people think it is. You have to be sure of yourself, and keep it superficial and transactional, and your personal business personal and private, keep your paperwork tight and keep you a couple attorney's on retainer like you pay your light bill every month.
    My real friends are not in the music business. That's just what it is. No sweat off my back, you just have to know what it is before you step up.
    Do your music for you and others will genuinely love your music (if it's excellent) and spend your own money through keeping a 9-5 to pay for your journey in music on your own. I've been doing music professionally since 1996, and I've "always" kept me a 9-5 and a few side hustles so when I need to pay for something, I handle it and I call my own shots. If I don't get a call back, I don't care, all my whips still paid for and I'm debt free and I can buy whatever I want, when I want it, because I was determined to put fail safes in place for my own life and music career.
    The music business is a place for strong minded people and money can never be your god. I make money alot of different ways and I'm NEVER dependent on another person nor desperate for someone else to open a door for me. I'll create my own door to walk through, and around another way to get where I want to be.

  • @ZÆŁ-s6g
    @ZÆŁ-s6g 10 місяців тому

    Wow, wow, wow. Amazing. Thank you a million for this. However, just like anything else or in any industry, you are a stock in life. Your value on the market place rises & falls according to your abilities. It is all up to you! But most importantly you got to love what you do first & your intent.

  • @gini879
    @gini879 10 місяців тому

    Nice one man ! Good to hear what you say. I hear you !

  • @GrimsGhostG59
    @GrimsGhostG59 10 місяців тому

    This video really opened my eyes thank u. I’ll keep this in mind while I produce.

  • @teeceedee
    @teeceedee 10 місяців тому

    as a dj producer in barcelona i feel you sooooo much . so many people that are just their ego no real friends at all

  • @djqbaofficial
    @djqbaofficial 10 місяців тому

    Thank you for speaking the truth,everything start by never forgetting who we are.

  • @bigfootcris
    @bigfootcris 10 місяців тому

    thank you man for sharing and having the courage to say this

  • @fabbro.chillout
    @fabbro.chillout 6 місяців тому

    Thank you for this video! I haven't seen such a valuable message in a long time as in this clip. 🙏

  • @Nik_Rubin
    @Nik_Rubin 11 місяців тому +2

    Music business needs more people like Justin! I wish every school was like Cosmic Academy, there’d sure be more people whose philosophy is to give more than they take❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

  • @JSMTHAILAND
    @JSMTHAILAND 10 місяців тому

    I appreciate you covering this topic, it's not talked about enough!

  • @nethercords
    @nethercords 10 місяців тому

    this podcast is a godsend and something ive made my label and producer career ethos about.

  • @frodekambo
    @frodekambo 10 місяців тому

    This video really hit home with me. Its the reason why the scene "destroyed" me after 10 years..due to the dark sides you described so well. Recently I have returned, but I feel like a "has been". The pecking order is so clear, but Im now doing more for the music, and rest is a bonus.

  • @BEBURI
    @BEBURI 11 місяців тому +1

    so far best video on this channel, besides the topic, video production is top-notch. thanks a lot for amazing content

  • @baggpagg2014
    @baggpagg2014 10 місяців тому

    Nice cut at the end, keep it up!

  • @mxymusic
    @mxymusic 10 місяців тому

    Real talk...I'm so glad you made this video. THANK YOU ❤

  • @xxomnicosmicxx
    @xxomnicosmicxx 10 місяців тому +1

    This is the type of content the music world needs. Blessings. 🙏

  • @Shivaniemusic
    @Shivaniemusic 10 місяців тому

    Thank you so much! I really needed this insight.❤

  • @FreedomB
    @FreedomB 10 місяців тому

    very powerful words man. thank you for sharing and above all summarizing in a short time, the current state of a corrupt scene for the benefit of a few. Big Love!!

  • @Skanoh
    @Skanoh 11 місяців тому +2

    Thank you for this genuine talk!

  •  10 місяців тому

    I stay in the community Stage Academy Sweden. It's fortunate it exists. Because I know the music business can be brutal, but this is built on community and friendship. Finding genuinely good friends is essential.

  • @Nathan_budel
    @Nathan_budel 10 місяців тому

    You didn’t make me depressed. You more confirmed my beliefs of the industry and why I’d rather not be apart of a label. Reality wise I play for me and whoever is willing to listen and I’m happy with that. Good video, keep em coming.

  • @theodouvas
    @theodouvas 10 місяців тому

    We need more ppl like u in the music industry

  • @nosikujoshua3648
    @nosikujoshua3648 10 місяців тому

    ❤ not what you'd want to hear but what you need to hear and you did a great job of telling the reality a lot of us bypass

  • @keeone20
    @keeone20 10 місяців тому

    I love the courage of you talking about these topics.You need a high level of confidence to face these problems,just like the most of of the situation in our lifes.I mean if you are willing to do something unusual or a thing that is risky for average,you should understand the consequences of this action too.Personally I really want to make music inside but I try not to make my success in music a matter of life and death,especially if you don't have the economic background for affording the risks of this industry you should put music in behind until it starts to look like something.Don't get discouraged by obsctacles and hardships cause these two will be in every part of your life.