Don't do this if you want a successful music career.

[@VirtualRiot]

This is an amazingly informative video and also motivates me to start getting into my own KZbin channel again. :)

[@andrewhuang]

Need those VR vids 🔥

[@arjunpal6303]

Pls do so

[@QrchackOfficial]

please do, we're all ready for more

[@kwick_music]

Teminite has already started a YT channel, now we just need you. If you start uploading, my life will be complete.

[@ThrillSeekerVR]

@@andrewhuang Did you say VR vids? ;)

[@RickBeato]

These are my favorite videos of yours. Your honesty is so refreshing and insightful. Thanks Andrew🙏🏻

[@queenpurple8433]

BEATO

[@EricGranata]

Love your videos, too!

[@WarmVoice]

High praise. Thank you for a million production tips and insights Rick.

[@snowscape]

Rick, have you had Andrew on your channel yet? I'd love to hear you put Andrew in the room with some other musicians you know or otherwise chat with him; I love the conversations each of you foster so skillfully!

[@makeshift_battlefield_music]

Rick!!

[@LLusion]

man, i feel this 1000%. a major thing i fumbled with my channel was that I got cocky really fast and thought i was going to continue growing as fast as i was, and being able to make any type of content at my own rate and thinking everyone was gonna rock with me. I had to face the sad reality of this, but it also taught me a lot and excited for the future to come. Thank you for this video Andrew, great stuff!

[@emilygreen853]

it’s the longevity that’s important, loved your 2020 tiktok vibes bro miss them

[@ariel.verses]

Okay, but you’re doing amazing periodt 💅🏾

[@pbbbht]

“The weirdo who’s always experimenting with music” is why you’re one of my very favorite channels, music or otherwise.

[@argh01hass]

💯

[@danielsmith9619]

Weird is different people smart people like weird....be smart love weird...drink beer! Be kind! Thus is the wisdom!

[@ColeRolland]

Late to the party here but man, Andrew, this is a phenemonal video! Love your insight so much!

[@EnergeticSpark63]

hey

[@Hainbach]

Good to hear you reflect and see your new approach. Such a journey it’s been following your channel, looking forward to the future!

[@diegomolinaf]

When I listen to an incredible analog device, I always think: "this is Hainbach territory" 😅. You have managed to create your own brand, quite successfully. Cheers for that!

[@cryptout]

I’ve been following both your channels, from the start. You should do a nice deep ambient collab album together and release a few videos of the process.

[@lema1337]

Hianbach and Andrew Huang collab when?

[@blackdog6969]

Haven't seen you in a bit. Gotta see what you have going on, Hainbach. Good to see you still around and active in the muso community

[@snowscape]

Hainbach! I feel the same as you said it for both of your channels! Fantastic content creators, you and Andrew both

[@insaneintherainmusic]

As someone who just exited that period of hyper focus in their music career, I really appreciate this video, Andrew. Maybe it’s the kind of thing where you need some long periods of focus and long periods of diffuse searching… just in the same way the creative process works, but at a larger scale. Thanks for making this!

[@JACKSONPRYORBENNETT]

I think this statement shows a great level of awareness man

[@martytables]

Insaneintherain, your music is awesome man! Have been listening to sinnohvation for hours!

[@NathanJamesLarsen]

The choice to do something that would make you LESS successful to find deeper satisfaction in life is something that requires a lot of maturity - super cool to hear that thought. You've been a solid inspiration to me for several years - keep doing you

[@GoneAfterMidnight]

Nathan x Andrew collab 👀👀👀

[@NathanJamesLarsen]

@@GoneAfterMidnight I'd so be down

[@ploopybear]

I guess that trashcore artists are really mature

[@Holobrine]

Maturity and also a steady enough income even without maximum success

[@Rhythmattica]

So with ya. Money is Money. Music is a language, and one that can last past your own lifetime.

[@exyl_sounds]

Literally everything said here is sooo true and relatable. I learnt a lot of new perspective and it also reinforced some things I was doing right. Andrew huang just woke up that day and decided to spit pure uncontaminated facts.

[@Gamecraft2525]

flute?

[@z-boss]

Right on, everything he says is so relatable..

[@z-boss]

Your music is awesome btw. Got a new sub! 😊

[@ThrillSeekerVR]

Love this message. Totally a different outlook on my part. I unfortunately don't have a music based channel, but I still make music on the side wanting to pursue a music career in the future- but the fine focus needed pulls me away from both music and my channel. It's a struggle

[@goodtyme]

wasnt expecting to see you here lol

[@nateslack1205]

Thrillseeker virtual concert incoming??? We could get a bunch of people together and jam in vrchat

[@rysea9855]

Wasn't expecting you here, but I'm not surprised either lol

[@wafflebuddy0319]

Saturday Songday!

[@eiryna4560]

yooo was completely unexpected to see u here

[@PutingPinoy]

_Thank you for all the care with which you have used your influence for good!_

[@RickyTinez]

Great video Andrew! A fun question I'll ask myself sometimes is "What can I do less of?" and then tag on "for my career" like you ask in this video. I find it helps a lot with focus since you let go of things that aren't the most helpful! Miss you!

[@wraggal]

Ricky, I watch your videos with a hint of jealously that you've got a dope day job and still manage to be in the top % of quality production youtubers. I hope you recognise that where your at is a really good place and don't burn yourself out too much! Thanks man

[@andrewhuang]

That’s a great perspective man!

[@808_trumpet]

@@andrewhuang pov - you just made all of the fnf Community mad and we are going to doxs you plus we had a massive mod come out last week name indie cross so go have fun burning in hell Sans-

[@jonc8561]

@@wraggal What's his day job?

[@Doublejones]

@@jonc8561 focusrite

[@makeshift_battlefield_music]

I had to take a deep breath before watching this video. I've been recording music for nearly 20 years, recorded 15 albums, hundreds of songs, been on youtube since 2008, but performed in maybe only 10 gigs and made about $500 from my music in my entire career. Sometimes I feel like I've failed, but I remember that small handful of fans who really enjoy my work, and I keep in mind that recognition and praise are not why I create music- I do it mostly for my own mental health. I'm lucky to have a good day job lol. I really dig the wisdom and insight that you share in this video Andrew.

[@osirisofthesouth2853]

What’s your artist name on Spotify ?

[@logiarhythm6285]

Just went to your channel and listened to In Your Dreams, I really like it, sweet breaks and harmonies!

[@logiarhythm6285]

@@osirisofthesouth2853 every small artist crying hearing this question... Spotify is made for mainstream, not for the love of music

[@osirisofthesouth2853]

@@logiarhythm6285 then your all dumb fools who can’t afford £30 a year to upload anytime EVERYWHERE with Distrokid

[@ItsJustAdrean]

Do you have any networks aside from YT? I'd gladly follow you. Most of my fans are on Newgrounds

[@Catthepunk]

I think I'll be that weirdo that experiments with music. I can't imagine becoming a one genre artist. It would be so infuriating. I love too many genres to be boxed in.

[@LaMontMartiaN]

Create a “new” one, incorporating your favorite parts of your favorite genres to create something refreshing

[@Creator_Veeto_PAEACP]

True, same here. The thing is, you will get your name out there much faster focusing on a single genre because of how the algorithms also work. They try to figure out who u are and who ur audience is. Fear not, you can still make a variety of music, but provide a single genre u think you’re good at for free as advertisement. Even drug dealers give some free to get you interested.

[@Catthepunk]

@@Creator_Veeto_PAEACP makes sense!

[@trainpushingtutorials2822]

​@@LaMontMartiaN Kikuo approves

[@Mr.Marbles]

I think a good way would be to just make multiple names. So the people know what they will get with each name but you can still make whatever you want

[@danwentz]

My only question is why did YT wait 10 months to put this in my recommended list? Dude, I absolutely agree. Intense singular focus should be a motto for anyone aspiring to succeed in life

[@yakkocmn]

Been following you since (practically) the beginning, and I've found that becoming a big enough fan of an artist allows me to remove my own interests or preconceptions of "what they should be making" and support them in whatever they're interested in creating. You being the "everything music guy" introduced me to so many genres & styles I probably wouldn't have found growing up otherwise, so although you picked the "not traditionally successful option," I guess that led to you becoming one of my favorite artists :) I'm still personally trying to figure out how to find time for artistic pursuits outside of my career, though, especially when KZbin can lead to putting in as many hours as possible until I burn out - it's often easy to find the "focus" on video creation, but a bit harder to find more hours in the day to pursue music and other interests on the side

[@TomboFry]

Right?! I tend to appreciate music for music's sake, so I don't get too attached to one genre. As a result, Andrew's music is a blessing and I've *really* enjoyed nearly all of the music he's released so far 🤩

[@AlexRome]

Yes!!!! The first tip is the one I live by. Don't spread yourself too thin by doing too many things. The harder you go at one thing, the better chance you'll have at becoming successful at it.

[@antonholmberg911]

this is something im struggling with atm since i am interested in a couple things and am not sure what to pursue fully

[@vincentdanopoulos]

I feel like this approach not only applies to the music industry, but to all creatives who are looking to gain income from their work. It certainly helped me lots. Thanks for making this Andrew!

[@myheadisempty]

This is exactly the self awareness i always wished you had, and to hear you essentially describe what i’ve felt about this channel for so long in better words then i ever could is something else. Respect Andrew. It takes a big man to say this. When you said that you know your videos are more popular then your music, man. I know that one hurts, but it takes a man to accept it and roll with it. Big love. Keep being highly self aware and definitely share more of your mind too. As it turns out it’s just as interesting as your work.

[@Tekl]

I found this channel with the "4 producers flip the same sample" series. Those videos blew my mind and I start following and watching your different videos, always trying to use something I've learn from them. But this, my friend, this video has been resonating in me differently. It feels like almost made for me (of course is a common thing the video mentions, but still). I loved this video and it was the little push I needed.

[@joelkulesha8284]

I'm gonna be honest. Just keep doing your thing, I'll never stop watching. I remember first finding your channel back in like 2012-2013, and I have watched every upload (I think) since. As much as you may not be the next Beyonce, you are still successful and in doing what you did, you created a successful career that brought in your audience of people who, like you, also like every kind of music, and exploring, and having fun with it. Your channel really is so wholly unique on KZbin because of that ever changing nature. You found your audience, you built your skills, and cultivated a community that had similar values. Sure you may not be the most successful when you try to do whatever you want. But at least you'll die knowing you did what you enjoyed and felt was important. That's how I look at it at least. Im in a similar enough situation, I wanted to make music and be a musician etc, but it's just not realistic. But I can make music for myself and enjoy it and maybe release some. And I can have a more steady job as an audio engineer where I still get to work with music. Idk, I can see myself looking back on a life like that and feeling pretty happy. Anyway. I'm very excited for that eurora k prototype! Also that tape echo? That doesn't look vintage!

[@andrewhuang]

Thank you so much. People like you have made this the best journey ever :)

[@Drenius]

@@andrewhuang you are one of the best KZbinrs AND musicians I've ever seen, and one of the channels I've been subscribed for the longest! You made me dig new modern music basically.

[@lizard_girl]

amazing message in the video! this 100% applies to more than the music industry as well and opened my eyes about some stuff I'm doing personally. great video!

[@Jorf88]

One of my favorite pieces of your content is 4 producers, 1 sample. There's nothing else like it, and it's a conglomeration of so many different appealing parts of your content. It's eclectic musicality, it's weird gear, it's abstract approaches to music creation, and it's not just your opinion, but also those of other musicians whose opinions YOU value (and that carries weight). I generally agree with the big message here... Working hard and focused will help you build your foundation. After that, it's up to you... You can keep on that super focused path for the biggest chance at success (and also burnout), or decide what level of conventional "success" that you're comfortable with, and then enjoy what you have and explore some other avenues. Life is certainly about trying new things, in all ways.

[@tnbee]

HOLY MOLY THANK YOU FOR THE TIPS ANDREW!

[@au5music]

Fantastic insight and song at the end!

[@jakhow6641]

For the people who want to do many things while still retaining that focus Andrew talks about, I’d recommend creating a “world” or concept in which all of your work revolves around. This allows you to move that focus into that world / concept itself and branching off from there.

[@Masked_SVincent]

That’s kind of how my music is, that came from not being sure which name to use so I just kind of combined them. So I go by Saint Vincent, but I’ll also use CjL (Chaotic justified Loyalty). Saint Vincent’s the spiritual darker personality where as CjL is the more personal music and standard hip hoppy stuff. They’re the same person, but two different personalities that Vincent is constantly switching too, sometimes mixing in the same song. Then there’s another side of Saint Vincent which I like to call “the cannon version” which is where the really spiritual experimental music will go and has a full story to it. I get way thorough with my stuff, even without releasing really any music, I have so much written and laid out and they’re set up in a way that they have to be released at certain times.

[@IanKnowland]

In the immortal words of Ron Swanson: "Never half-ass two things; whole-ass one thing." Great video and exactly something I'm dealing with right now. I started going to school full-time right as a great long term music opportunity landed in my lap and I'm coming up on a crossroads where this is desperately what I need to consider. I'm one of those people who tries to whole-ass several unrelated things so I'm ready for any opportunity...but that just makes me less prepared when any of those opportunities actually knocks on my door.

[@ProdYear3000]

How the hell do you define "things" tho? Like I am trying to get a Norwegian rap/producer career going and then I sell leftover beats here cause what else should I do with them? But that involves marketing and video editing but I mean that's translatable to a rap career tho

[@IanKnowland]

@@ProdYear3000 Well sure, "thing" is going to mean something different to everyone. It can be a tiny specific thing or a much broader basket of things. I think the big point to consider is whether any of those things take away from the others you're trying to juggle. If you are sacrificing your ability to advance your rap career because you also want to write music for television, for example, those don't have as much overlap and will probably require you to choose a path at some point. Marketing and video editing are great skills and they're in alignment with your rap career, but even then you might want to outsource those skills down the road if they end up giving you less time to do the thing you're using them for. But if it adds to your career, then I wouldn't say it's a separate thing. It just goes in that rap career basket.

[@HofTheStage]

Dude, you hit me so hard with this video! I'm constantly thinking about how to best "brand" myself and my music on KZbin. I love making videos, and I love a lot of different sounds and ideas, although my music would probably best fit in the pop-rock genre, even though I do like putting electronic music touches here and there, and I have a degree in opera singing so, yeah haha, it's a bit all over the place too. I wonder if I should put a big focus like you on KZbin and later explore different revenue streams and stuff. Definitely a lot to figure out still, but I love the idea of making a list of all the videos I wanna make and just hammering them one by one. Thanks for sharing this video, it got me thinking in the right direction.

[@Ferrichrome]

yeah, I'm in the same boat. I love making videos, but then I'm focusing more on being a KZbinr, and not on music. I can do both at the same time, but then I won't have as much time to get better at making music. Maybe the best way is just posting my music while also adding tutorials, video essays and things like that to pad out the time between releases.

[@MaxYourTracks]

@@Ferrichrome well having clicked and started playing your last EP, i would say keep that stuff coming and focus on the joy of releasing the music!

[@BosomNogomPanjIzvali]

me too bro... It's like - more you are talented and more you want to make different stuff - it's harder haha

[@LionHrodgari]

I don't think he is saying "don't bring your own touch into a genre". It's more like "don't release pure EDM in your first album and then suddenly release a pure folk rock album" because your listeners came for EDM so they are going to leave. Adding electronic touches to pop-rock is different to that imo. As long as you stay consistent with it then people who like that are going to get what they expect and are going to keep coming back to your music.

[@Ferrichrome]

@@MaxYourTracks thanks so much!♥️

[@HenrikHarrell]

It's so true, it's really important to focus on one thing at the time and keep going no matter what happens. I think if a person believes in what he/she is doing, he/she will eventually succeed one day. I really needed to see a video like this one, especially at this moment of my life, where I'm deciding to either go all in here on KZbin or not. I need to make that list too, put it on schedule and delivery it to the Internet. Thank you, Andrews, for these videos. They are so inspiring! :)

[@RobVice]

This is the same principle that is applied to growing a new business - focus, focus, focus... Great video!

[@brandonw2471]

It's so unpredictable how people will respond to even a slight shift in "branding". I remember when Andrew did the Spacetime series and a bunch of people were turned off because they "just weren't into the space stuff". I would have never thought people would have that reaction! That series was maybe the coolest thing on this channel so far!

[@NiceJem1989]

the space stuff was out of this world!

[@darbling311]

i am one of those people tbh, i watch for music insight, not for the... erm, aesthetic.

[@brandonw2471]

@@darbling311 It's understandable because all the videos on the channel have a certain ratio of entertainment to information, and some people's preferred ratio is different than others'.

[@darbling311]

@@brandonw2471 true, that's a good way to look at it.

[@_nimrod92]

The space stuff amazing work but just like Beethoven said it's not made for this generation yet

[@conduit_edm]

Love this vid, Andrew. Can't begin to tell you how much your focus and artistry has changed my life. Thanks for being you homie ⚡

[@morningbell3690]

I think a master of this cohesion is David Bowie, a man who changed his concepts and characters all the time but remained consistent.

[@whataboutit1430]

^ Exactly! Some artists just need to explore more material to stay sane. At some point someone asked Miles Davis why does he keep creating different styles of music, to which he said: 'I always change. It's like a curse.' I think Andrew is totally that kind of musician that needs to experiment with his sound in order to not feel stagnation. And that's normal when you're super creative! :-P

[@zephaniahmcdaniels]

This is true. The thing that makes Bowie different though is that he focused on a singular concept and expanded on it for each individual project. Those projects then were marketed for years. In Andrew's case he releases so much so often that it's hard to keep up with, hence the dilemma presented in this video

[@Bati_]

Radiohead released one of their most commercially successful albums, "In Rainbows" as a pay-what-you-want release yet they didn't see a decrease in their albums' sale but an increase (even more so than an album that is marketed in a traditional sense in today's world.). I think this is a good example of the difference between marketing and branding because even though they didn't need to market their work in order to maximize their profits, people still trusted them and bought their albums as they created an esteemed brand over the years. It's all about trust and how you would want to create a version of yourself in public opinion I think...

[@Bati_]

Another example is the album OK Computer. Capitol Records warned Radiohead at the time of release that, after The Bends, their new experimental album was a "career suicide". The band decided to release it and the rest is history...

[@MrElectricNick]

IMO the idea of "unified sound" with an artist is changing. It used to be based on genre, now I'd say it's a sonic signature of songwriting or production that transcends genre. I still think Andrew has a unified sound because of 1. His Voice and 2. His personal songwriting style. Genre is becoming less relevant in the wider music industry.

[@TheR6R6R]

A little late but I'm here to share the same opinion. Especially with how music is being consumed and spread nowadays through TikTok and streaming services. Genres still function as a baseline for how music could be classified, but it's far more reliable to find what you might enjoy by looking at names instead of genres. I psrsonally have found so many new artists just through my favorite musician's own playlists, radio shows, or interviews. I'll be using your term from now on. Thanks!

[@freashty]

It is insane how much you do for the internet music community - I don't think there's another single channel that offers this much value to such a wide audience

[@monkeyfarm]

As long as you continue the '4 producers' series, we all good! :)

[@vasiliskofficial]

+1 that's how I got to know this channel in first place. Dope series

[@thrownstair]

A cool extension of that project - would be a big time investment but could be a good finale episode some time in the future - 4 PRODUCERS 4 ALBUMS. Each participant makes 10 samples into a song demo, those songs become four ten-track albums.

[@user-rb7ns9yj5y]

@@thrownstair you ever worked in a group of 4 producers ? Seems nearly impossible yo agree on anything lol

[@ScottsSynthStuff]

My suggestion if you enjoy producing different types of music is what I (and several of my friends do) - continue to do it, but release each music type under a different name/brand. McDonald's doesn't sell donuts. But they do own Krispy Kreme, so they can sell donuts without diluting the McDonald's brand. That way they can sell salty hot stuff AND fatty sweet stuff, and reap the benefits(?) of both.

[@squiddyowlbairn1028]

Andrew actually did that for a while. Songstowearpantsto for the comedy stuff and song requests, Your Heart for folk rock, VS for ... I think that was his rap project? But he's brought everything back in under just his name.

[@bidetbothways]

This resonates so much with me, I've been struggling with musical identity my entire life. I love creating as many genres of music as possible, back when I was like 15 I remember making reggae songs, hip hop beats, synth pop, and country music. I'm 31 now and still not too incredibly far into my career, so clearly this isn't the best game plan haha. I am finally starting to feel like I'm getting somewhere now and it's all because I've started to apply this mindset of focusing on one, singular endeavor, and trimming the fat everywhere else. I have vowed to never make another stupid royalty-free corporate rock song for audiojungle as long as I live (unless I really want to). I'll never stop playing my fiddle and banjo, and I'll always have a place in my heart for making pop-punk music, but in the end I have to just stick with what works best for me and go, go, go. Thanks for the validation, you are a true inspiration!

[@lai_raw]

I feel this 100%

[@KimStennabbCaesar]

Keep doing what you do man!

[@lacollinenordest]

just curious, what genre did you end up sticking with?

[@matenorth]

Combine all that and make your own genre salad. Why not?

[@FreakingOutWithBillyHume]

Great video and good advice! Someone once told me that to be really good and successful at something you had to be alright with being not so good at a lot of other things you might want to do or be. Focus. 🎯

[@theecube1]

As someone who's been following you work for a loooooong time (we're talking back in the "I made a STWPT song my flip-phone ringtone" days), it's been an absolute joy getting to experience the art and music that you've gifted us over all these years! The passion and joy you have for music has always shone thru no matter what you're working on, and at the end of the day, that's why we're here for YOU - it turns out "music and videos made with love" is a pretty awesome brand

[@ahtngm8265]

Dear Andrew, You have been the most inspiring producer I ever came across on KZbin. Every video I have watched of yours has given me so much inspiration. Thank You.

[@MatthewRayFlicks]

To be honest, Andrew… I think the biggest part of your brand I respect and admire is your consistent honesty. We can always trust that everything you do will be genuine and something you believe in.

[@reggiep75]

One of the biggest issues with KZbin channels is that NOBODY wants to admit that they are burnt out, having a difficult time or are actually sick of doing videos that are stuck to a rigid style/concept. The sooner people admit they're not enjoying as much as they once did and adapt to a new plan then they feel better and actually relieved.

[@soultekkamusic115]

Too many trying to sound like someone else or using some media reference for views

[@joshuaBrooks.nicholas]

Facts tho I listen to couple local artist on the internet they all sound the same,and it’s annoying.I’m trying to get people to play my material to,but the music I’m hearing isn’t it.

[@joshuaBrooks.nicholas]

@@soultekkamusic115 You are correct man

[@exitse7en]

I've watched your videos for years, and I had no idea that you were multi-genre! All I've ever seen was more sample and synth related (which is cool enough, but not really a musical passion of mine), so I apparently missed a lot. I love this, though. I come back to your videos because of exactly what you're saying here. And what you're describing with focusing your brand on your character as the center of the multi-genre madness is exactly the same idea that I had and am currently working toward. Now I'm going to actually have to look up your music too. Hah, my bad!

[@i_make_sounds]

This is one of the best music channel subjects I've seen in a long time. Every one talks about WHAT they do, no one seems to talk about how they approach it or even why they do it. Thanks for bringing us along for the ride with your brand.

[@KCRambles]

I've always been drawn to your variety of interests/genres/aspects of music and sound, but what has kept me coming here for years has been the consistency of you. Your personality and openness and un-ironic enthusiasm for all things audio. Plus you've got a pretty killer sense of humour to boot! :) Keep On Keepin' On sir!

[@achtube85]

Can so relate to this!

[@delsings]

Maybe I'm an outlier, but I personally have always loved the variety that you dive into, and it's super inspiring. Thank you for this video Andrew, I've been on a health hiatus for some years while I plan my restructuring and hone/expand...these insights will help me decide a little more on how to handle my multifocused creativity all together! You rock dude

[@samuelng6441]

He's innovating tbh. Whether or not we like his taste or choice, it doesn't matter. At least it's respectable to continue pushing the boundaries. Else, how do new music form if everyone focused on the same exact thing over and over again? Braindead sheeples have an attention span as well despite it being non-existent. They just need innovators to tell them what to get stuck on next, and we're gonna be the ones to do that. Idc if I fail in the process of doing so tbh, at least I earnestly enjoyed all of it. I just don't want to be unhappy while everyone else is happy over my music; what's the point then?

[@delsings]

@@samuelng6441 hey well said friend! And yeah what really shines through is seeing him be so into what he is doing. The enjoyment is contagious! Like... oh man the space saga stuff. He's a great teacher nowadays too!

[@GuacJohnson]

@@samuelng6441 this comment doesn't really makes sense to me, I'm a huge fan of Andrews but in what ways has he innovated anything?

[@-aexc-]

@@GuacJohnson yeah I don't get it either

[@MakeSomething]

Unless you're Jack White who actually reupholsters furniture in his spare time while making some of the best music in the world. Hehe! Great vid! This applies to all careers!

[@whatskraken3886]

Jack White is not a comparable person in this analogy, he’s already reached the highest level of success in this industry

[@sanriodawg3569]

Jack Black = Jack White

[@MalinaImport]

also Benn Jordan :)

[@gargantula3274]

@@whatskraken3886 Jack White has been reupholstering furniture since long before he became one of the most successful guitarists of his time. Of course, at the same time, he wasn't trying to make a living with upholstery while trying to build his music career, he chose music as his main focus and brilliantly sculpted his brand. But the dude is also an absolute monster, so maybe it's still not fair, who knows?

[@nateshaw1424]

@@sanriodawg3569 yin and yang

[@Adamvmusicofficial]

Thanks!

[@kattracksmusic]

commenting because that little banjo part at 13:10 the end is my absolute favorite. cant believe how in love i am with it. Thank you so much Andrew! hope to take your class online soon

[@sutton2582]

“I’m still just a person who likes to make stuff”. It really does tame your existential dread. Thanks Andrew 💛

[@andiherzog]

Amazing video. It's doesn't happen often when I can feel the honesty of the creator through a video. Much respect, Andrew!

[@HawkWorley]

I really needed someone else to say this, thank you. That trying to tread water with subscribers is all encompassing and its nice to know others are feeling the same.

[@thebasics512]

This is some of the best advice I have heard over the years from various musicians. I myself am basically in that position, but more on the ends of not sure if I am wanting to continue on as a career as I have been doing it since I was about 13 and am 41 now. I have thought of this over the years and followed some of the advice you put out, but hearing everything you shared it makes me think of different approaches that maybe I didn’t pay attention to too much that I probably should. Thank you so much Andrew!!

[@stupidmatua]

more videos about music/entertainment career advice please! as a small streamer and diy songwriter, i found your insight as a musician and youtuber really insightful

[@chordprogressionautodidact5188]

Literally started with a catchy jam to hook the viewers. 🔥

[@Caesar_Online]

Love this video, really interesting points! I agree on the "artist making different sounds" part, since I also work with different genres and even try to invent new ones. What I use as a loophole for this is that every different sound got its own artist name, and personality. It's harder to build a following as a whole, but I prefer people liking that specific sound being able to follow just that project instead of having to see different music all the time.

[@KNARD]

This is literally the video every aspiring artist, creator or "influencer" needs to watch.

[@kinadabambino6872]

This is what I needed to hear, thank you Andrew. You’re advice and videos have helped me so much over the years, I truthfully hope to repay you back someday🤞🏾

[@Bangastarch]

Absolute gems….. I think it’s important that you’re content in what you’ve got going .. signs of true success..

[@The_Musical_Cartograph]

I really think it's when an artist breaks their "specific" sound that they get the opportunity to break new grounds to experiment and set a new standard ^^ Thanks you for every burst of inspiration i've been having watching and re-watching your vids ^^

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

Yes but He is right and there is a book about "do one thing" cant remember who wrote it but a friend told Me the key to all success is start by doing the one thing. Choose that one thing you are good at but also what you see has the biggest effect on people. For Me it's when I show people My music what tracks or songs do everyone always say "Owww this ones good" that's the music I should focus on, that's My sound.

[@antonfeirer]

I think I'm regularly listening to dozens of your songs from all genres and all times and I really enjoy that I can listen to a playlist by just one artist and still get every genre that I like. You're the best, please never change! ... Or rather change as much as you like if that gives us even more different styles :D

[@chandlermiller3944]

This is a great video on how to be profitable for people who are on the come up. I will never be there. Ive decided that if I make music it will be for me, if someone else enjoys it thats great but not really my point.

[@christopherdhill2354]

It’s hard to disagree with you. I think the message here is spot on, for just about everyone. Except very possibly for you personally. Because while you’ve maybe been scattered in your output, what I see is focus on a craft. I find myself referencing your work when someone says “Well what about …” and I respond by saying “Actually do you mean something like this ?” Your breadth makes you a catalog of craft that is honestly unique in its ubiquity. That’s not nothing.

[@roogrey]

This is massively useful. I identify with a lot of what you're saying, especially having an ocean of influences that pull one all over the place! I'll focus up.

[@RockerGirl]

Thank you for sharing your journey and guidance Andrew! You are a huge inspiration to me and a fellow Canadian!

[@znyxdrØme]

damn rocker girl?

[@DopamineOverload]

Excellent advice. I, too, am a weirdo who loves infinite things: music, film, video games (specifically vr)….. my channel is simply “me”. Never try to be anything but my ADHD-self. Love all your videos man. Thanks for the endless inspiration. Killer song at the end, too.

[@timoratus_music]

As a metal band that tried that whole "we're gonna release a black metal EP, then death metal, then doom, then grindcore ..." angle, you are absolutely correct! Have a focus and get better at that. When we went the comedy metal route we honed in on a sound and have seen far much more success than anything we've ever previously done.

[@fuziontonygaming]

Being involved with Hip-hop I’m indecisive if I should make Boom Bap, Drill, or Trap since Hip-hop always is changing. And I started with Comedy Rap and find more enjoyment with that.

[@jonc8561]

Do you enjoy creating comedy metal though?

[@timoratus_music]

@@jonc8561 I do, truly. I love to laugh. But comedy metal is a tough sell sometimes.

[@Lvl3NPC]

2 months late on this comment, I started watching you in the Pink Fluffy Unicorns era and your song challenges were when I watched you the most. You've changed so much about what you do over the years and I don't always follow what you're up to because only the occasional video catches me where my interests line up , but I've always respected and admired what you bring to your music and your videos. It's a little sad to think of all those old videos now unlisted but those are memories that I'll always carry with me. You're an awesome musician and genuine seeming dude and I appreciate what you've done :)

[@v47k1t44r]

Great advice here! This is man deserves more subs.

[@yo-ha]

It's so hard to focus on one specific thing as it can become boring but I do understand your ideas. I have a problem where I still don't know what genres I like the most as I like to create different styles as I always try to experiment different genres but I bet I'm just alienating people for each time I release a song that is way too different from last time. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas to us :)

[@SubL3v3ls]

I feel conflicted because all my favourite artists genre-bend and change their sound over different projects. But I always hear people saying this that you need to stick to one sound... Being true to my self feels like combining my different influences

[@ibisflower5918]

In my early life, I chose a practical career over music, but now that I'm stable, I want to fully devote myself to music. I'm learning as much as I can as quickly as I can and making music as much as possible. I don't know whaty life would be like if I'd chosen differently all those years ago, but I know going forward, I will pour myself into music and make it my life.

[@dudedude365]

What kind of job currently you are doing

[@BMOLRECRNR]

Thank you so much for this video. I was honestly going to do the "Any Genre Guy" thing because I love all music and such. I wanted to not be in the box that had been set for me. I have been watching you forever and you inspire me the most out of any artist tbh. I almost never comment on videos either, but I just had to here. Thank you so much for not only the inspiration but also all the advice and tips 'n' tricks and entertainment over the years.

[@Baywoodmusic]

You're so right about focusing on one thing! Focus on building business and then use that to invest into your creative brand.

[@itselisharoy]

Loved the genuineness of this video. Much Love man❤

[@TheSecretProvider]

I feel this video so much. I've probably ruined my career by spreading myself too thin. Always loved every style of music, and pretty much every part of making music, so I tried all of it. Because of this I soured connections with those who didn't understand I do music in their style, or showed up with the wrong type of set and turned audiences off, or been so esoteric no one got what I was going for, or made stuff that was too typical and people thought I was boring, and after my small amount of connections dried up when the pandemic started, I've been so burnt out that sometimes I wonder if I'll ever get back into trying to make music my career. It's pretty much the only thing I still love in life, but branding has always been my biggest weakness, it feels so pointless.

[@kirtandreamrezzer]

Extremely important observations. Thank you! This could possibly catch on and create a more open appreciation of an "Experimental" genre for music artist fans. Trying to maintain to the same branding style, can also kill an artist's freshness after a few albums, it starts sounding like the same old drill and they get dropped for being boring, no uniqueness, no innovation.

[@chrishall5176]

As a fellow artist with musical ADD i understand the desire not to "paint yourself into a corner" where you can only make a certain style of music. I mostly make rock and metal but also enjoy creating some electronic driven music as well. I work with other people online for my metal and rock projects. The electronic driven ones I can do while I wait for tracks to get finished in other ends. I am not "successful " since I don't have a real platform built but you inspire me to try new things all the time

[@bratislavabr]

Awesome video, Andrew! Sharing right now with my bandmates! Love and cheers from Brazil!

[@realSeanMcMahon]

Really appreciate this vid bud. We have a similar thing - I’m all over the place musically too, though not as much as you! And I mean that as a compliment. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@kaneaccordionist4047]

I am 14 and I want a career In music more than anything, thanks for posting this, it’s helpful to hear it from someone who has been successful in music. 👍

[@musicvida3309]

im 17 and feel the same way, i wish u the best with all u do!

[@kaneaccordionist4047]

@@musicvida3309 Good luck to you as well!

[@joshuastclairmusic]

I love this advice - it applies to me to a ridiculous extent. It’s advice I’ve always refused to follow on a broader level. In music I compose all kinds of music, neo-soul grooves to orchestral fantasy music. But then outside of music I’m also trying to build a career as a writer, and grow KZbin channels (2 of them..) I can’t possibly focus on one thing, it would be artistic death for me. But then, strangely, I am more productive and I make more progress across the board when I have more on my plate. Regardless, it’s such good advice on branding - a lot to think about here!

[@duncansmith69]

The acoustic riff you play at the end is delicious! Also great video in general. Wise words.

[@matfreeman]

Not a musician but really needed this video today. Applies to my ridiculous searching self as well and I'm always trying to narrow the path. Even when I think I have, I back out and see that I've buried myself in too much again. Thanks for this honest and helpful video! It's also beautifully done.

[@bipedal_earth_roamer]

@3:53 I like how messy your cables are. It makes me happy.

[@polyphonico]

Really what I needed to hear at this point in my musical journey. Thanks for sharing!

[@base99498]

Andrew your diversity makes you… the advice is BE YOURSELF and do it for YOU Success is meaningless without cultivation Your message is something like Don’t be afraid to explore the possibilities Thanks for showing me this🙏🏽

[@lazsynth]

Thank you for this Andrew! I had started out back in the early 2010s with a different, very unfocused channel that was just an assortment of music covers, chiptune stuff, and KZbin poops (one of which exploded in popularity way more than the content I actually wanted attention on 🤦), though somehow that channel did get quite a bit of attention over the years, but KZbin was also a very different site back then. Now I'm starting fresh with this very new one for my music with the purpose of keeping it a lot more focused cause I want it to actually be y'know, successful as you said haha, I can at least plan out in the right direction.

[@KateBrunotts]

your hard work is so evident. Thank you so much!

[@autocratdaddyjones]

I love the way you just casually drop an endorsement for a £3k microphone! :-)

[@sihplak]

One of my favorite things from your channel was the "song in 26 genres in alphabetical order"; that got me hooked early on based on the variety, diverse, and depth, though I also recognize that I'm in the minority in having hyper diverse listening interests.

[@YVZSTUDIOS]

well hello there fellow radiohead enjoyer, who also has hyper diverse listening interests 😄🎵

[@fajal01]

❤ I think this may be an issue for a lots of music artists, what to focus on. I really enjoyed realizing that the focus must be on me and the things I think my music is about. It isn’t just about doing some new sound… It is more like my philosophy, and all the process that leads me into my musical ideas!

[@pendulumdistinction2494]

An absolute gift. Thank you Andrew.

[@Gymae]

My person has experienced sum of this issue with a brand. But ... The deliberate brand. Or the experimental concept of finding who u r as artist. Not all will follow such ride. But the question really for all is how do u grab a audience and have an audience go thru twist & turns with u. Much love brother!!! Keep inspiring. I will continue to support and watch. Working on my own sound too. Hopefully I will have something for listening soon.

[@petervoglmusic2517]

So great to hear you talk about this. I am a Classically trained guitar player who played in a blues and funk band for decades, lots of session work, and came to music production much later. My musical interests are as wide as they can be and pursuing that angle myself. Fortunately I'm not trying to go out and perform live shows or sell myself to a label. Always battling the time thing though of how to get the most production/music out of my day. Thanks for all you do. I recently took your online course and have followed you for a little while now. The positive energy you bring is so helpful and I try to bring the same to all my music clients. Rock on with your bad self.

[@AdamNicholsMusic]

I'm so lost right now with music. This really helped. Took a long break from music due to mental health and this really gave me some guidance to get back on track and think about the direction I need to go. Having brand/identity is something I really struggled with I would just write whatever came to mind and not care about genre/image/brand

[@StrawsPulledAtRandom]

Same here, years of working in different aspects of music (moreover living in a Latin American country without a stable musical movement) had made a dark feeling and a lot of mental issues inside my head. Reading that.a lot of people is also suffering the same, helps me to gain perspective and keep going on. I also feel like the "non genre weirdo" is my main brand, but really based on metal-experimental stuff hahaha. Carry on, dude!

[@conabot]

dude.. isn't "getting the most attention and trying to please people" the thing we all go through as musicians and then start to realize we are all best at what WE like to do?! You're so right.. people underestimate the effort it takes to just focus on one thing only, to hopefully then be successful with that one thing but it also is so random if you blow up or not.. so my take is do what you like to do. We all have to put food on our plates and pay for our lives but one advice I can give to all those who are struggling to be successful with their music would be not to focus on one thing that seems to make you successful but to focus on what you love. Do the thing regardless of success and you will feel successful automatically.. sounds cheesy AF, I know, but that's based on my experiences.. Love those honest and straight to the point videos of yours Andrew! ✌

[@falconshield]

Relatable. I've always been exploring and trying out different genres and styles, but I just don't have the... KZbin personality to make myself a brand 😅 BTW been a follower since songstowearpantsto, found the genre fluidity very inspiring.

[@nachodiaz4837]

been watching you for a lot of years; not many times i've agreed with you; but this one is one of the greatest ones ever. thank you andrew! lovely take on creation

[@lunarguava]

Very inspiring. This focus is something I've been aware of for a long time but unable to find the right avenue. But that feeling is part of the journey for building the foundation and strength that helps form the vision and passion. I think it's time to commit with clarity. Thanks dude.