I often have a tough debate between whether I should go out to events or stay home and work on music.
It’s easy to think that when you’re going to other people’s parties that you’re working on their dreams rather than yours. And on some levels this is true, because without you (and many others) being in attendance, the party flops and the promoters might even lose money.
But it’s also nice when you can treat these outings for what they are: a good chance to hear some new music, meet new people and maybe grab a drink or two to unwind from your daily work.
I’m not one for networking in the traditional sense. I rarely go to an event with the intention of making an impression on a performer or promoter, but no one can deny that once in a while it’s part of the process.
One thing’s for sure though, when you’re starting out you can’t turn your nose to the outside world and think you’re getting ahead of everyone. Finishing off a recording or a new section of your website on a Saturday night is only a small piece of the puzzle here.
One tip I have is to try to spread out the need to work on your career throughout the the week so your weekend isn’t such a balancing act. You have more than two opportunities to make a beat or go hear music in a seven day span. Find them.
How do you balance these things?