1.8 Million Subscribers (and no one cares)

[@BrazenNL]

I don't care about your upload schedule, I care about quality, and you have _always_ delivered. Thanks for that.

[@Exspazament]

Upload schedules are b.s. unrealistic and anotherr thing the algorithm will use against you.

[@CarlSong]

Happy to see this as the top comment because this is exactly how I felt at the end of this video. I don't care how long I have to wait for his next video essay because I know I'll learn something from it.

[@jaspermooren5883]

​@@Exspazamentand I don't even know how much it is true. Oversimplified dropped a new video a few days ago and everyone got it recommended, eventhough it was like a year since the last video. If you make something good enough it doesn't matter. If you want to earn your likelihood with KZbin though, yeah, just like everything else, you need to work most days to deliver something.

[@aliensporebomb]

Plus all the Sungazer music is just as good in terms of quality and I buy music that exhibits quality. So yeah, Sungazer rules.

[@WangleLine]

Exactly, yeah. Most of my current favorite youtubers upload once every few months. Obviously there are extra challenges there if the person wants to make a living, but if KZbin isn't your primary source of income you can totally ramp down your schedule and everything will be fine

[@AdamNeely]

I love all of you guys, and thank you truly for CARING, haha. ❤ Ever upwards and onwards!

[@manyvibes1540]

Found you by word of mouth…not Ai. We care💜👍

[@MarkWladika]

We adore your videos, and we will keep watching as long as you keep posting. A sparse schedule is fine. Thank you for your work.

[@uacce]

Love you too, Adam

[@porkyminch2231]

Of course, you’re amazing Adam!

[@paulhermann2956]

Glad you took the time to make this video! I think you provide some really valuable insights into the whole "a creative person on KZbin as a career" spiel. I am a teacher in training and I have heard from colleagues that apparently a lot of children want to become youtubers or streamers when they get older. Now, thanks to your insights, I feel like I can provide them with some worthwhile advice! I will definitely recommend your video in the future, if alone for the fact that your passion for music really shines through and that it matters to find something you love doing and do that for as long as you can.

[@TheHatMusic]

You're a music educator, a musician, and a music theorist. KZbin is a tool, which you use. Your content has been a huge source of inspiration to me, and to many other people, and we apprciate it immensely. So thank you. People genuinely *do* care.

[@chuckaudio3191]

I second that emotion. You took the words right out of my brain.

[@johnnyzmusic]

I care. Deeply. You have reignited the creative spark deep within, helping me to reclaim the musician I am. If only there was a way for you to see/hear/feel/experience the profound impact you have on us-your audience-the notion that no one cares would never cross your mind. The world is a better place because of you.

[@gunther4024]

I’m with these guys. And I care, a lot.

[@variancewithin]

100%

[@TheHatMusic]

@@pandasArmy Even if Adam reduced the release schedule to one video a year, I'd still watch them with the same level of enthusiasm as I do now. I love well made things, whetever they are, and Adam's videos really fit the bill.

[@wheezywaiter]

I feel this video in my bones. For me, it's more about filmmaking than music. It's surprising how little anyone in the traditional industry cares about any skills you show here. Probably for many reasons, but part of it is likely that gaining these skills isn't that hard. Just takes practice. Really what you're displaying if you've found success on KZbin is your work ethic and social media savvy. Finding success in traditional media requires a different kind of savvy (and an equal amount of work ethic). Being so focused on KZbin might actually make it seem like you're NOT savvy in the ways of traditional media, and that's probably true. I don't know. I still want to make movies. This video is going to rattle around in my head for a while.

[@lennartjakobs1213]

I believe, you're falling for industry arguments here. It IS really hard to gain these skills through practice. If anyone could do it, then why can't everyone play an instrument or make movies? The truth of the matter is that as creatives who actually create something you're stuck between media companies fighting with each other. "who are you making money for" will always be the relevant question because no one will ever just fund your passion without making their cut. That's basically true for every industry there is

[@errea1203]

Its a slow migration and formation of these media. It is interesting to follow what people like Tom Segura and Kristina Pazsitzky are doing, pushing away and bringing in old/new formats. You have been setting the path (as epic as it sounds). A lot to think about indeed. First generation is like a first season but stretched.

[@zachdewitt7911]

I love u wheezywaiter

[@jeffbloke2157]

ALL skills are attained through practice.

[@stephenraybrown]

@@jeffbloke2157 That's what she said.

[@oldmanfran5523]

Of course 1.8m subscribers care. That's why Sungazer can play to packed venues in Germany, or why I couldn't get a ticket to the UK show. I don't know many other fusion Jazz bands that do that. Actually, I don't know any other fusion jazz bands...

[@MarineIguanafromgalapagos]

so you went to a gig because of an online personality instead of going there for music? that's not very flattering to a musician, you know

[@astromancer]

@@MarineIguanafromgalapagos He went to the gig because he found music through Adam's channel that he wouldn't have discovered otherwise.

[@M3RKMUS1C]

Your videos have always been so interesting and entertaining to watch, but man, your perspective on KZbinr/creator culture is really spot on and scarily accurate. I think it's important for all of us to be able to recognize what our true passions/talents are and be able to apply that to other fields in order to really feel fulfilled. Also *BASS*

[@saiーツ]

I have been watching you and Adam Neely for over 12 years, and I never would've thought I'd see your comment on one of his videos. Love you merk!

[@wade2999]

True that

[@MM-vs2et]

I've always had a sneaking suspicion that you follow the music side of yt. Great to see you here Merk.

[@cornycarl]

Wtf, is that Merk Boosic?

[@katabatica]

Hey Google. How about doing the right thing by your talent?

[@FoolishFrankie]

I feel this so hard. I’ve always thought I want to be a musician that makes videos on KZbin, not a KZbinr that plays music

[@janczyzewski649]

"did you make anyone any money? did you win anyone any awards?" valid questions and yet I would add: "did you affect anyone's lives?" and I'd answer "yes". watching your videos was a great source of knowledge, entertainment as well as an inspiration (being a professional classical musician) so, thank you, Adam! 😊 if you prefer to approach KZbin this way, we'll be happy to watch your videos whenever you feel like making them!

[@mschmidt62]

Adam has definitely affected my life, for the better. I understand the pivot but am glad that you'll still be putting out the occasional video. Even better, you'll do it when you definitely have something to say.

[@Mutiny960]

Yeah and NO ONE CARES. "U aFfecTed Muh LyFe" What is that worth in the real world? ZERO that's what. If Neely just stops making new content tomorrow, his career is over in a matter of weeks. He will be forgotten b/c he's not current, and his library of content will no longer be pushed by the algorithm which means no more revenue. It takes a long time and a lot of consistency to get back into the algorithm once you're out.....(if you're a not a rich corporation).

[@sharpieman2035]

Adam’s point is the industry doesn’t care if you were a trailblazer like Freddie Wong or shared things you put a lot of effort into like he has. Even if you affect people’s lives for the better the industry doesn’t care. To them, making money and awards is all that matters.

[@romanthegambler6966]

@@Mutiny960 that isn't exactly the case. it would've been, should've Adam been a variety content creator or a trend chaser of any other kind, but he has a community and a considerable amount of educational and inspiring videos in his catalogue. I continued to recommend people his channel when asked to list any good music theory teachers even at times when the uploads halted due to touring and whatnot, there is a monumental well of knowledge that would be useful to people, unlike the content of some afforementioned algorhithm chasers.

[@alexisborden3191]

No the point is that in music industry or film industry that pesky art shit doesn't matter, its not run by artists its run by businessmen who want money printers. It doesn't matter if its good affects people, it only matters that it made money. That's the criticism.

[@JoshTurnerGuitar]

Man can I relate to this. Thanks for the thoughtful meditation man.

[@Alvinsch]

Great video!!! I think we're on the same boat lol

[@sebastiangudino9377]

Dude, are you doing better now? I remember you disappeared for a while and you were in one heck of a rough spot

[@gracebevill]

Adam, about a year ago you featured one of my songs in a video and quite a few of your viewers went to my channel to listen - I had less than 50 listeners at the time and your feature gave me such a boost. Your viewers are delightful and the whole response just made me feel like what I was making was worth something after all. I hate the mercenary nature of the music industry, but I have so much respect for people who stick by their art despite the reduction of everything to money. I also fucking love sungazer!! Congratulations on this milestone and here's to a lifetime of music! 🥂❤️

[@swancrunch]

what video was that, do you remember? He also introduced me to Tigran Hamasyan and I've been a fan ever since.

[@joemucchiello4542]

I've said this on Rick Beato's channel. If these 1+ million channels did a few "boost" videos of other musicians, there'd be a lot more people making money as musicians on KZbin.

[@swancrunch]

​@@joemucchiello4542 but why would they do it? Don't get me wrong, i'd love me some free promo as much as the next guy, but the second they put out the sentiment that it's ok to contact them with "pls senpai check my mixtape" sort of message they'd be flooded by a deluge of bullshit, so it's only fair that they boost things they personally know and enjoy. Rudy Ayob does (sorta) this with his "roast your music" series, but AFAIK not only does it not really have that much of an impact on reviewee's popularity, but those videos don't perform that good. You'd want to sink your channel and get into a slog of reviewing for the sake of thankless charity? I'm not. So yeah. Nobody owes you shit.

[@swancrunch]

@@joemucchiello4542 weird, I though I've already commented on it. (Welp, maybe filters ate it) Thing is - I don't think it's really a viable option unless they want to be specifically "new music discovery" channel. As it stands now - they "boost" music they personally enjoy, and it's understandable and fair. As soon as they open the option "look at my music" into their inbox - they open the floodgates of every soundcloud rapper who thinks they're genius to send them their work. It just doesn't scale well unless you are prepared to hire people for specific job of combing through thousands of suggestions, or put up that option behind (maybe even unreasonably high) a paywall. Neither option sounds like a good decision.

[@swancrunch]

@@joemucchiello4542 hm, my comments keep going missing. It seems I am unwelcomed here. Welp, no point staying then.

[@davidholcomb1087]

Man. Eighteen years! That's a career. We'll miss you like hell if you go, but nobody can say you haven't given it your all.

[@edubs9828]

I'm in the process of watching the video and it's so laughable that the "music industry" doesn't see channels like this as making them money. Bro, Adam Neely is literally out here telling people why you (the music industry) has value. That is mind blowing to me that you get resistance like you do. K. I'm going to keep watching, because it's Adam friggin Neely!

[@fjbz3737]

Exactly, I’m not a musician yet I love his videos

[@bernardi5919]

Adam Neely's channel has probably benefited a lot of people a little, which is a lot harder to notice/appreciate than if you benefit a few people a lot

[@turnerjazz7872]

It's even crazier when you look at a channel like Rick Beato who literally is driving people to specific albums to go listen to music they don't know and yet he seems to have a very antagonistic relationship with the industry.

[@isaiahr3368]

a lot of music channels like Adam's have gotten me seriously hooked on whole genres, the fact that the music industry doesn't recognize this is sad

[@DragnWolfe]

In fairness, it seems Rick's relationship with the industry has been antagonistic longer than he's been on KZbin.

[@wofi784]

As a university student, I (and my lecturers) have used your videos as sources and inspiration. You are a gift to the worlds of music education, musicology, and music itself. Thank you for everything you've done!

[@comradestannis]

Yeah

[@akirathedog777]

Lmao

[@sherifahmed9156]

So true, same here

[@sherifahmed9156]

So true, same here

[@LynnDavidNewton]

Adam, FWIW, I have listened to every video you make for quite a few years now, and I value your output. To put my fandom in a context: I'm 80 years old, a lot hipper musically than most people might think about someone my age, and was in my day a composer. I still compose, play keyboards, guitar, bass, and other things, and was a pretty good bass trombone player but gave up that instrument in about 1984. I was spread too thin. I haven't made my living in music since about 1982, but I've been around great music since the day I was born. (My dad was an A-list violist and conductor.) I watch what I want to watch, and one of things I like is an insightful discussion on music theory, particularly harmony. My background is classical but I love jazz, fusion (I greatly enjoy what I've heard of Sungazer), and most music that is "modern" to most people's ears, and I still practice Beethoven, Brahms, Ravel, Bach and others daily. As Chris Thile says: "Embrace *everything*!" There is far more content that I find worthy on KZbin than I can possibly keep up with (my current Watch Later queue is 117 items). And I think Taylor Swift is fun, so there. I've missed seeing your videos as regularly as I once did and wish there were more. But that's OK. In their absence, there is other good stuff to watch, too.

[@christopherszuba1555]

Your "rhythm is pitch is light" talk has changed an entire generation of my students' perspectives on the value of the study of music, life, philosophy, and the natural world. God bless you, Adam. :-)

[@josephm.benoit9202]

I'll tell you what's longevity, I'll tell you: 18 years on YT, out there with your own camera and your own editing. That's longevity. Adam, what you have shared all this time, has been of great, good, importance to me. Thank you, Buddy.

[@johnatyoutube]

Very few TV shows last more than a decade. KZbinrs don't understand that most viewers are mostly interested in novelty. You've done some fantastic teaching and that's stored out there forever. Hopefully, one day KZbin will be made easier to use for research, and your hard work will live on and be more accessible. For now, pursuing music is probably a really good choice for you, especially if you're being called to express yourself musically. You'll knock whatever you do out of the park!

[@TheArtofGuitar]

I’ll be 98 and still making videos. People will watch out of pity and morbid curiosity, but dammit I’m uploading from the nursing home! 🤣

[@raifaustino]

I would’ve gone insane during the pandemic if it wasn’t for your videos. No matter what the future holds, we, the viewers, care deeply! Thank you for your dedication all these years

[@onemerlin]

I don't (didn't) watch you because you had a reliable update schedule. I watch you because I always learn something. You and the theoretical understanding you've taught me have made my appreciation of music deeper and stronger, both new music and old favorites I revisit. Posting what moves you, when it moves you, is exactly what I'm here for. And Sungazer rocks too, so I expect to hang out here as long as you have anything to share.

[@HylianAlph]

Everyone always asks what you're doing for the music industry, but nobody ever asks *how* you're doing for the music industry

[@swancrunch]

and what music industry is doing for you

[@timmyc9915]

heck even why you're in the music industry

[@Nickshreds890]

YES the music industry should be doing things for us ! Why are we only doing things for them ?? 😂 I have dedicated more than 12 years to guitar . It's what I love the most in life . I still want to become a music teacher because I remember the teacher who helped me a lot when I started playing and she has inspired me so much. By the way, my current guitar teacher is someone I look up to as well. Anyway I plan to become a music teacher and release my own original music on the side purely for my own entertainment ( it will be a mix of prog metal , rock , alternative rock and maybe some classical influences so I don't expect it to be popular but at the very least it will mean a lot to me because it's what i wrote. )

[@mikemiddleton5229]

The music industry gives you...music...that's...that's why...it's called...the music industry

[@immortalx50]

or who the hell thought 'industry' and 'music' go together.

[@sebastianxu9084]

Hey Adam! I have been following you channel for about 7 years now (since my senior year in high school). I later got into the field of music cognition because of your video essays (especially the one-leg video, on which I based my undergrad thesis); now, I’m an aspiring music cog scholar trying to make his way into the academia because I found my calling. I’m sure I’m definitely not in the minority when it comes to being positively of influenced by your contents. Gotta say, regardless of what the secular standards place KZbin content, you have done one of the most noble thing, and that is to bring inspiration to people all around ❤

[@artursknope8927]

Thank you from Latvia, from school of rock. My lessons And discussion’s would lack the depth without your work. Probably it is hard to see the impact that you have made but you know that you are GOAT of musical KZbin. And maybe it is good that not everybody cares, so it would not blow up your ego. I am happy to hear that you feel deeply about tradition of making people happy through sound and present moment and time signatures that makes heart pump in more than one way. Creations freedom promises my own 🙏☀️💛

[@iitsukami]

ayyy Latvian brothers hi from Lithuania

[@MrKenJammin]

Your confidence in your everlasting passion for music is both inspiring and reassuring.

[@TramboneKing]

Adam Neely mentioning Corridor’s and Freddy’s content is a clash of 2 different sides of KZbin I never expected. And I love it. Edit: keep up the damn good work btw!

[@weakw1ll]

Ohhh yeah so fuckin nice to see corridors sick rocket jump back in the day too

[@hosemarino]

I got hooked to youtube because of FreddieW. Sad to see him gone from the site, but well, the videos are still there.

[@TheChillMelodist]

I can't even begin to explain just how important Freddie Wong is in the history of KZbin. He really is one of the OG guys that set the blueprint on how to film, produce, grow and maintain a youtube channel in the modern era and one of the first to understand the importantce of a channel driven by a strong personality. He set the standard for top tier production quality in an era where most youtubers were vlogging with their crappy phone cameras. He (along with guys like Corridor) influenced an entire generation to be aspiring VFX artists or something tangentially related. He broke barriers and did things nobody else did at the time such as collaborating with those in the Hollywood sphere, crowd funded a very successful webseries and even expanded into doing shows on streaming networks like hulu. More recently he's even built up a hugely succesful DnD podcast called Dungeons and Daddies which at one point was one of the top podcasts on Patreon. It's sad that he no longer does KZbin, but his legacy will never be forgotten

[@FriedlichChiller]

I'd really like to hear the Corridor Crew's take on the whole "KZbin" vs "Industry" thing. From my perspective they're also very much trying to straddle both.

[@arunthebuffoon4554]

I think both Freddy and Adam himself are kind of forgetting how impactful they were to millennials, and internet culture as a whole. Vsauce, for example, will probably be part of collective consciousness for years and years.

[@Eva-c9p6q]

No one cares is incorrect. I care. I'm a 48 year old professional musician still slogging in the bar scene, making original music when I can, trying to support my family. blah blah blah. You are greatly appreciated and I greatly appreciated this video. Keep doing what you love, and thank you.

[@dovisbellwood]

Can I just say kudos on 18 years on KZbin, like that's insane!?? Give this man an award pls

[@Carrylikemariah]

As well as him and his benifactors some money.

[@tremor1001]

Amazing to me how much these youtubers self loathe the platform thats the only real reason they are rich and famous and even able to do some of these side gigs lol. Like even the example your using or in the example of your band "if i wasnt doing youtube id be way ahead in the industry" sure theres a chance.. theres also a chance without being in the right place at the right time for youtube you would have done nothing.... odd that they don't look at it this way when he in the same videos talks about the gatekeepers of hollywood and the music industry.. sure your 1.8 million viewers and no one in the music industry cares.. but if you had NO follow the music industry would very likely not even know who you are...

[@Dylaniated]

Hold up, the question wouldn't be "will I be a KZbinr when I'm 80?" But instead "will my videos from when I was 30 still be making me money when I'm 80"

[@MrBoredom33]

I never really comment on youtube videos but felt i had to share this. Your videos are embedded in my mind, so thoughtful & eye opening. I dont have a career in music but i have a music journey, and you have been significant & influential at times along that journey. I hope this means something to you Adam!

[@unconcernedsalad2]

honestly i think you made the right move. it doesn’t really sound like a youtube career can have the kind of longevity as a music career, and it sounds like the choice you made a is a balanced medium between the two.

[@toddgunther8272]

As a person who isn't a musician, doesn't care for jazz fusion, I just want to thank you for sharing some of your intellect with us through this medium. Do what helps you grow, but if you have things to say, do say them here -- I appreciate listening to you.

[@NashCreekIndustries]

This comment could have started after the second comma with, “I just want to thank …” Opening up with the personal qualifying statement doesn’t add any value.

[@Thedrummersalmanac]

This is a great video, Adam. Sorry for the long reply. It particularly resonates just getting back from NAMM where a dogmatic music industry is still struggling to understand the value of musicians on social media. I graduated Music School in NY in 1998 and have been a sideman, a session drummer, a teacher, a weekend warrior… everything I could do to survive as a working musician alone. I really went all in on social in 2019 and only recently started getting traction, recently. But, because of that… this is really the first time that the “industry” has ever taken notice… and that is due to the tool of social media. I’m not a songwriter.. but my videos and lessons are “my music” …my creative outlet. Now I am an old dog… and got into content creation kicking and screaming… but very thankful to have learned, changed and adapted to social media. Keep doing what you do, my friend. You are an inspiration to myself and many others.

[@AndreaMott-k5i]

Your videos have literally revolutionized the way I listen to music!! You've taught me SO MUCH on my journey of learning music

[@lucascerbasi4518]

We care. And we will be supporting whatever type of content you decide to create. I hope Sungazer, and your music career in general, lasts as long as it can!

[@leo_backyarddinner]

Adam, all of us are so so happy for every upload even if it’s not “weekly”. You’ve made music theory and knowledge so much more accessible for the general public which is more than anybody else could do.

[@Calverin]

I got to meet you at the last Sungazer (Plus) concert in New York last year which was such an awesome experience! The videos you make are some of the best on the platform and are always interesting and informative. You make great stuff and I'm glad there's more coming (for the time being)!

[@pickledparsleyparty]

Making someone money. Making someone look good ("winning awards"). That's what every career really turns out to be. Really clicks by the time many of us are in our mid 30s, I think. I'm in marketing. When I started 20 years ago, I thought it was "discover and satisfy human wants and needs." It's really only that when we start and run our own business and we're really only successful if we find real customers. When working for an established company, it's really helping your boss and coworkers keep their jobs and advance. Which is what literally all jobs end up being in a corporate environment. To the 20-year-olds out there: this is why you see morons you work with mysteriously rocket to the top of your org. The part you can't see is that they're making key people around them look really good, not doing the job you think they're paid to do.

[@TheMullerClan]

I use the BASS sample from your videos as the notification sound on my phone for some years now. Still don't plan to change that as every time I hear it I'm reminded at the power of music, wich is kind of the general theme of what I take home from any of your videos. Thanks for letting me know again and again ♥

[@infanterambles]

Let me just give you one more perspective. You say you don't want to be a youtuber, but in my eyes you have been an educator. And you having 1.8 milion subscribers means your messages can have a widespread impact. It means that literally hundred thousands of people care about what you have to say and are impacted from your message. Do you see yourself spreading more construtive critiques, shedding light on obscure topics you find worthy of attention, drawing the general public closer to the artform you deeply care about? That's the question I think you should really be asking KZbin is just a platform. Bernstein had tv, that was just a different platform. And look at how big his heritage as an educator still is nowadays... Good luck on your journey!

[@TheVideoChatter]

Your channel is amazing, and I do happen to care! I’ve learned so much about music theory and arrangements here. Congratulations 🎉

[@Blutzen]

Hey Adam, I've been a subscriber of yours for going on 9 years now, so only _nearly_ half of your KZbin career, and I'd just like to take the time to thank you for bringing me, and all of us, along on this wild ride of yours. I am not a _musician,_ I can stumble my way through a couple of songs on the piano that I 'taught myself' by watching people play them on KZbin videos, but your videos have always been something I've enjoyed watching. I got a Nebula subscription because of you. So, hey, I care.

[@thealtereddestiny5326]

Here's the thing and this really needs to be said and addressed by ALL creatives: Why do we all measure what we do by the metric of an "industry"? Anyone who has ever seriously wanted to build their life around being creative knows that all of these "industries" could care less about the artists and creatives that end up being the products of these industries. Creatives complained and formed alliances and then the heavens heard the cries and sent us THE INTERNET. Now so many creatives have been able to build whole lives and some even legitimate riches from going it alone and still turn around and complain about not being accepted and by the industry that wasn't going to care any way. So are we all just here online to try and get approval from this industry or are we here genuinely wanting to share with the world? I think creatives as whole have to address this with themselves. Both that film maker and Adam have most likely made more money on youtube than many people "working" in the traditional industry and are way more famous than they most likely would have been following the " traditional" route which has an extremely low probability of acceptance let alone success yet on some level these guys still care to some degree about that "industry". These guys are famous and make money doing what they love so maybe the "industry" isn't really the industry. Maybe each us individually are our own industry and the internet has enabled people to live their dreams thus cancelling out the "industry"... Just a thought......

[@GetYourSaxTogether]

Adam - you're wrong dude. People DO care. I care. I'm a pro musician and (relatively) successful KZbinr myself, with a still active pro career gigging round the word, and I care about your KZbin videos. Even as a pro I've learned a tonne from you about music, as well as being majorly challenged and stimulated by your insights in your more thoughtful essay pieces. So who cares if the INDUSTRY doesn't care? That might be true, for sure, but there are literally millions of unseen music fans like me that care about your KZbin videos. Deeply. Something to actually look forward to and get excited about. And not all of them necessarily Sungazer fans. Just saying man! 😊

[@PearlPaisley]

Us, the viewers care and you care. That should really be all that matters. No matter how long you choose to continue. We are here. Listening. Learning. Being inspired. Loving music. That's it.

[@excelente81]

What I care about is that the people I like wathing on KZbin don't become unhappy for doing less of the thing they like the most. So kudos for you for making your life about yourself! All success for Sungazer!!

[@MonkeyAndChicken]

Adam, you're a fantastic music educator. I grew up in a jazz household with master musicians playing in my living room several nights a week. Most of those musicians, no matter how successful in their recording or performance careers, have ended up spending at least some of their time as teachers or professors. I see absolutely zero reason why you couldn't use your channel as a springboard into academics as you continue playing and creating. You clearly have a passion for it, and speaking as an educator myself, you also have a gift for it. I know you'll find your next niche once KZbin has lost its ability to sustain and challenge you, but I'm glad that future generations will have access to the body of work you've already created. It's not something to be dismissed because of the platform it lives on.

[@dizgil6881]

I feel like we grew up together, im 30 and been watching your vids for as long as i can remember. I dont know if 2006 but surely before 2010. Absolute goat of music youtube, and youve always had interesting ideas and a different insight which I love.

[@quailstudios]

This video only has 181,000 views as of January 27, 2024. You must feel pretty depressed about that Adam. 😉

[@misterscottintheway]

Truly sorry to hear this Adam. It feels like losing an old friend who you didn't realize was already gone. Thanks for so many thoughtful and insightful videos. I wish you all the luck in the world.

[@dominicstar1]

Your videos have had a massive influence on my life/art/music career, but I'd only want them to continue being made if it made you happy and fulfilled. You do you!

[@alvaroalainluna7567]

I feel there's a general feeling amongst us (your subs, followers, etc.) that you have been so impactful on us. Be it on our creative, educational, philosophical or even personal relationship to music. I started watching your videos about 7 years ago and still to this day I revisit them when I'm stuck, when I feel inspired, when I'm frustrated, when I doubt. You have been my greatest music teacher to date and I will forever be grateful. Also, I have learned so so much from your music! Sungazer, Jazz School, Massive extinction event, inside/outside, even the little things you've done for some of your videos like the Jay-Z acapella, the polytonal lo-fi, the 7/11 thing. Man, you've taught me so much, so so much.

[@ProductionExpert]

Well said Adam. We’re one of the biggest sites in the audio space and we gave up on thinking KZbin was helping us a long time ago. We just use it as a video hosting service these days. Anyone trying to make money from KZbin is working for KZbin. Keep up the good work. 🙏🏻

[@bettersax]

Great video Adam. This is exactly what we spoke about the other night and articulated so well.

[@LzqxPC]

FreddieW got me into filmmaking and KZbin... You got me into bass guitar, music creation and theory. So far I can't ever see losing interest in these 2 passions, so maybe it seems like no one cares, but you (and other creators like Freddie and Corridor) inspire more people to get into the art form. I always loved music but never really saw myself getting into learning an instrument and making music until I found you, Andrew Huang and Rob Scallon. I disagree with Freddie here, people do care. Sure the people who get rich and win awards care, but so do the people who were introduced to a new art form which changes the course of their life as a result do too. Thanks for sharing your passion and love for music and bass with us. We care!

[@pacolopez9577]

You channel has drastically changed the way I experience, study and play music. I'll be forever grateful to you. Thank you Adam, truly.

[@TheBeatMakersGuild]

prove it

[@BetterCallJohn]

I know the feeling of finding barriers everywhere, but if you hadn't made all these amazing videos on KZbin, I would never have imagined using all my savings to fly halfway around the world just to listen to your music and say thank you in person. If it wasn't for everything you did I would never have started making content on KZbin, you inspired me and gave me strength. For this reason, as long as you want to do it, it will always matter to me.

[@JacobRestituto]

this was a really interesting concept about sustainability. also, very interesting on the gatekeepers & making them money

[@garrynorman903]

Your authenticity made a huge difference with me. Thank you for taking the risk of being vulnerable and telling it that way it actually is for you. The magic of live music is where it is at for us dedicated musicians as far as I can tell. blessings.

[@CugnoBrasso]

College totally killed my passion for music and you re-ignited it Adam, I now play in bands as I was always supposed to! The influence your channel had on my life was massive, and I don't want youtube to drain your passion like college did with mine. Just do what you want, and thank you for everything!

[@LYNDEofficial]

I've learned so much from you. Thank you so much, Adam! ❤

[@JCGErvin]

I think your approach now is appropriate, which sounds a lot like Rick Beato’s. But making videos when you want makes perfect sense. This is here for you, and we are here for you, too. Your videos are excellent… Truly. The latest video on Wayne Shorter and The Girl from Ipanema are unique and Awesome! (See the capital A?) We will always look out for your videos… You’re one of the best! And seeing Sungazer is on my list… Of course you’re always welcome here in North Carolina. Above all, Thank You for all of your videos!

[@WewbaccaTheChookie]

1:58 Anyone else notice how the two Adam’s hand gestures are almost in sync?

[@ScottRycroft]

I love that in addition to the "I'm quitting KZbin" genre, we now have the "Thoughts on KZbinrs quitting" genre

[@tsunami6082]

For me, this channel is a great body of work. It need not be thought of merely in terms of the latest video. It is more like a band's discography or the episodes of a tv show. Whenever it ends it ends. I hope it remains on KZbin forever.

[@jdavis.fw303]

While I think you made plenty of valid points, the fact that KZbin is about 20 years old and plenty of musicans don't make it to 10 years in their career, means that we have no idea if people can manage a lifelong career making videos. Someone probably will, but that isn't to take from: do what makes you happy.🙌

[@pedroscoponi4905]

I was thinking the same thing. There are definitely some creators here that I _can_ see working well into their elder years. Maybe not in _youtube_ specifically, certainly not with a consistent upload schedule, but definitely making videos for the internet.

[@Christopher_Wheeler]

As someone who has been following you for a long, long time, it is good to see you step out into what you are really excited about. I've seen you play twice in Cleveland, and your energy in those shows far exceeds any energy in a KZbin video. Can't wait to see what is next!

[@Audio_Titan]

First time commenting on one of your videos. Just want to say thank you. However frequently or infrequently you upload, all good. My gratitude is immense no matter what. You have touched many lives and I wish you all the best

[@TheBeatMakersGuild]

i need proof

[@nicholasinzunza8887]

Freddie's a legend. Hope he knows that. Adam you're also a legend. Whatever happens, know that.

[@TheBeatMakersGuild]

so is hgil

[@GeorgeVazquez]

I've got 300 subscribers and my mom is very proud of me.

[@tmrtyn]

I'm not sure how one can quantify the viewers "caring" as it relates to youtube success....but rest assured Adam, I CARE DEEPLY about your videos, and I'm truly thankful for all you've given us ❤

[@SteffyCush]

adam u r one of the best to ever do it my man

[@quailstudios]

Quitting KZbin… I'm not going to make a video about that.

[@onkelpappkov2666]

Thank you for your contribution, . By uploading this content, you are maintaining your brand and your online presence. Market research shows that various demographics respond favorably to , which leads to increased interest. We recommend that you and to increase audience participation. Our generative algorithm suggests the following title change: "$$$ MONEY - ADAM NEELY QUITS?! 😱" If you do not comply within 7 days, your content will be considered unmarketable and will not be recommended to other users. Thank you for your continued participation, subject . Regards, your A.I. overlords

[@nigelbass]

Adam Neely has nutured my love of music consistently for about 6 years and i appreciate the insane effort he puts into his scripts and videos ❤

[@dbkinghorn]

No! More people care than you will ever know! The video makes perfect sense! Stay true to yourself, do what you love. Sharing the music and knowledge the way you do is wonderfully human. Best wishes for whatever the future bring to you!

[@GuntherBaganz]

You are the only KZbinr I watch nearly every video of. (MI look forward to your content. I don’t care about a schedule - I care about how you put complex concepts into words and how you combine them with contemporary pop/web culture, insights of a professional musician‘s life and music history all the time. I have learned so much and it changed the way I approach my hobby music making. I don’t care if you make anybody any money except the people that are involved in creating your content. And after all, I would not know about Sungazer, if it wasn’t for your videos.

[@chadgarber]

Great stuff. As a fellow musician, it is so frustrating!

[@seangardner4968]

I started a KZbin channel a few months ago and am stoked to have 100+ subscribers much less 1.8 million. Success in anything is subjective but to me I would love to get paid for what I do instead of working a dead end 9-5 job (which I'm sure you haven't had to do in many years). Even in the "traditional" music industry it's almost impossible to get noticed nowadays so we should appreciate what we have. I don't care if I have 1K, 100K, or 1M subs I would do it anyway because I get to do what I love and what has inspired me from other creators on the platform.

[@autribasu]

This was a beautiful video, and really made me think differently about the longevity of KZbin creating. Thank you for being here for the past few years, and good luck!

[@memoryfound9208]

WE APPRECIATE YOU ADAM!!!

[@LoftyAssertions]

Wouldn't your 1.8 million subscribers really help out the band in securing venues and it's general image? I'm really happy to hear this by the way because it seems like the right path for you. Live well brother!

[@lostmastersmusic]

I'm friends with a few stand up comedians and it's definitely happening in that industry. Influencers that do comedic content get booked at stand up clubs based on their popularity online even if they don't really do stand up. Sometimes they're ok, sometimes they eat shit. This might start happening at music venues but I feel like music bookers are a bit more hipster / gatekeepy though.

[@douglasboyle6544]

As Adam said though there isn't a correlation between people who subscribe to his channel and people who enjoy his band because his channel isn't about his band.

[@ebolutionate]

Thankful for all the videos you made,especially for musicians like me who didn't get any formal music education. You're videos are always enjoyable to me.

[@dumpsterDeity]

​@@douglasboyle6544 he should do a community poll where he asks people whether they would go to the live performance if his band if it was nearby or not

[@FacePomagranate]

@@douglasboyle6544 There's got to be some overlap between people who like complicated jazz fusion and people who like music theory videos about clapping 7:11 polyrhythms

[@oceanradiostation3146]

Yesssss, I havent got millions of followers on YT but I understood it lately and switched to Patreon... and.... checking if it's actually working better, or just different

[@andreiionescu4420]

So glad to hear you are happy, Adam! We'll miss you but your happiness should always take priority

[@DominoPivot]

It made a lot of sense, and honestly came as no surprise. Your videos during the covid pandemic have changed the way I consume art and perceive artists, and I've been enjoying whatever you put out on Nebula, no matter the pace. Here's hoping I can find myself in your crowd at some point before you turn 98, haha!

[@jeremiebrodeur8774]

Thank you Adam, you are one of the reasons I have a career in music now. I remember watching your videos in 2016-2017. I'm grateful for your presence in my life.

[@chrislashley]

Good on you, Adam. I'll pay attention to whatever you do.

[@juliansantaguida6225]

Adam don't listen to the haters ok this is your channel your subscribers are skyrocketing please don't be negative this is your work your videos are so good and you talked about music theory even the one about the devil in music

[@auradmg]

The concept of the algorithmic gatekeeper is so much more dangerous than any Hollywood lizardman, because by design there is no space for taking a punt on something different at any level. There's no space for an unknown artist to convince some manager to give them a shot or for a fresh-blood manager to want to shake things up. It's strictly *re*active to what users are already doing, so it's easy to game. There's none of the typical Hollywood/Music Industry evil that at least hides behind a presentable exterior or is kept in check by a board of directors; there is no exterior and no effective safeguards, so algorithms go straight for the instant, short-term gratification and base instincts. What we consume is now (or, will eventually be) entirely controlled by the zeitgeist, nothing more. Paused your doomscrolling over a photo of a pretty girl a few times? Congrats, now your algorithm will fill your timeline with vapid titty-shaking. Watched in horror at a car-crash compilation for a few seconds too long before scrolling away, disgusted with yourself for that weird instinct to see what happens? You're *into that* now, enjoy your new feed full of people getting injured and anxiety-inducing dashcam road rage footage! The saddest thing is that it's winning, and making excellent creators feel like there's no future in creating deep, engaging, community-driven work. There isn't really any way to fight it because like with the whole ContentID thing, the only way to fight it is to leave. That said, I'm fucking stoked to see Sungazer at Radar Festival in the UK this year. The show will have a lot more meaning for me having seen this and heard your thoughts, Adam.

[@The8BitPianist]

The relationship I have both with listening to and making music is deeply influenced by your videos. And that is an important part of my life. Sure, my music isn't making anyone money either, but the non-monetary value, the impact, of your work is as immesurable as it is huge.

[@veblenrules]

Erudite, thoughtful, impactful. I have been watching your videos for years. You remain one of the true insightful voices on the nature of music and its role in our lives. Thankyou Adam.

[@richardlevasseur6771]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! You are one of the few U Tubers that I would pay for the content! Your knowledge of music is amazing. I have learned so much. Good luck in whatever you decide!

[@vingr]

In my humble opinion as a viewer i have a lot of respect from people that i learn from , especially Artist And everyone from some who have a lot of wisdom to give to the World , then from the rest of Normal Viral KZbinrs who is simply making funny or viral videos or something similar. Eg I will not miss any of Tech KZbinrs , Bloggers But it will make a Big Hole in My Heart if any Artist KZbinrs Quits Like espcially Musicians or Creative Arts . I think its the same for all Viewers .

[@ersp1]

A lot of my favorite musicians play smallish clubs, and probably will until they can't tour any more. I worry about them. I worry about what will happen to them if they get sick or injured, or if their van gets stolen with their instruments in side. I worry about them grinding through sets when arthritis has gnarled their hands and their joints all burn and ache. I think about the fabulously successful artists like Prince and Tom Petty who ended up accidentally overdosing as they tried to manage the pains of years on stage. Adam has taken a look at his options, and he thinks that the music industry offers a better future than KZbin. That's pretty damning. I don't think Adam is wrong, but I hope he's clear-eyed about all the people who have left the music industry. His elders stand out because they are survivors. The people who quietly get "real jobs" or become the stay-at-home parent, etc, may not be as obvious.

[@DiegoElizondo]

The amount of insightful conversations and wonderful memories that watching your videos with my friends in music school has resulted in, is too many to count. Even if KZbin isn't your main focus in the future Adam, I'll always appreciate all your effort and care that you put into your channel. 🙏

[@andrewmicone99]

Holy hell, I've been watching you for eighteen years? Great journey.

[@Leomusicalheart]

It does makes sense Adam! Thank you very much for your content and for sharing your perspective about being a KZbinr and a musician🙏🏽☺️greetings from Peru 🇵🇪

[@AdrianJazzAdventures]

This is the reason I don't give a shit if YT disappears one day. Professionals like you will be on other platforms by that time and this is fine. I'd rather pay to see your content on Nebulas or elsewhere and never again hear about shady algorithm manipulations, "leave me comments below and likes, and activate all notifications and buy my stuff and stuff of my afilliates and...") and other corporate bullshit that destroys effectively all forms of art - by converting them to copyrighted commodities equal to diapers and toilet papers. Because for music industry it is about the profit and that's it. This is how all industries work.

[@senoreverything6366]

Youre missing the key point here: influence. Why do all of those hollywood investors want money? Influence. Youve reached an audience most hollywood movies would kill for with a fraction of their budget.