10 Things EVERY Artist Should Apply To Their Career Pt. 1

Here's a List of 10 Things every artist and/or musician should apply to their career and maybe to their life as a whole. It's a little lengthy but it's because I like to be thorough trust me you will not be disappointed if you take a few minutes out to read and understand these first 5 of 10 things.

1.) It's a Simple one but lots of people don't do it and that is.... ANSWER YOUR EMAILS !!!!

Show some respect and answer your emails, if you can't get back to someone right away at least let the person know that you've received it. You NEVER know what information someone would like to pass on to you or what opportunity they may have for you. It's really bad if you don't answer an email from someone because you assumed that they can't do anything for you. Remember relationships are key in this industry and just because someone may not be in a position to help you today doesn't mean that they won't be next week or months down the line.

2.) BE ON TIME OR GIVE A HEADS UP

Let's face it we all know that shit happens, car trouble, overslept, mom made you run to the store first, whatever. We also know that these days we as a human race are VERY accessible when it comes to communication. I'm going to keep this one short and simply say if you're running late to a show, a studio session, a meeting, any activity where someone is taking time out to help you PLEASE CALL/TEXT/TWEET/ whatever it is you need to do.

3.) HAVE THE GUTS TO ADDRESS CONCERNS/QUESTIONS

This applies to anything if someone has contacted you about something and you're not 100% clear or sure about it then either DON'T DO IT or ASK QUESTIONS. I've seen producers, artist, and regular people get scammed or taken advantacge of just because they were too afraid to ask questions. Even if your fav. promoter asks you to perform if the agreement doesn't seem right then asks questions or don't do it.

4.) BE CONFIDENT BUT NOT ARROGANT

Having confidence in your abilities is a wonderful assest but being arrogant can close doors and make opportunites that once were deceased. Keep the arrogant talk for friends and show the confidence when speaking with label execs, promoters, etc. If you're strong, quietly confident, and not over the top then you will be a breathe of fresh air for these people. Even if nothing comes out of it whomever you spoke with will at least remember your humility. If you need to practice with family and friends speaking to them with confidence but not arrogance. Also if EVERYONE tells you that you come off as a asshole then you may want to listen.

5.) STOP TALKING SHIT ABOUT OTHER ARTIST !!!!

We've all seen what being a new artist and talking shit about another artist can do. Bottom line is that it doesn't work anymore. You don't want to have a reputation as an artist who talks about everyone. It's a bad reputation to have and it won't help when you need a contact or when trying to network. YOU NEVER KNOW WHO KNOWS WHO in this business and talking too much about the wrong things or person in a negative light can end your career before it even begins.

Since this is a little long I'll give you guys the first 5 and let it marinate in your brains for a day or two and give you the other 5 on Monday...Stay Positive, Stay Blessed, and Stay Tuned to what's next on The Toss Up !!