The #1 Mistake Artists Make (and How It Kills Your Chances at Music Success)

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Many artists have lofty goals for their music - massive fanbase, massive contracts, massive streams and sales and tours, massive bank account… But the vast majority don’t come close to achieving those goals!
In today’s video, Disc Makers CEO Tony van Veen tackles the principal reason for that lack of success. More specifically, he discussed the #1 mistake artists make.
If you avoid this mistake, you’ll become a much better artist. Guaranteed!
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[@markpulsipher5799]

My Debut Solo EP isn't everyone cup of tea & there is an audience for everyone out there. I just keep stepping forward, reaching out to people & keep pushing myself to get better.

[@timn5008]

Good mindset.

[@freddiesinger2506]

Back in the 70's I sat with my manager in the office with the president of RCA records. My manager said this band is great. The reply to that was there's no such thing as great unless you're Elvis Presley or the Beatles. That really sunk in. Later in life I played piano in a great upscale restaurant. I asked the bartender why the last pianist left he said "someone told him he was great and he believed it." Never heard from again. Never stop learning, and don't forget, you can learn from anyone.

[@tonyvv]

Amen!

[@GregHill7876]

The word Great is a relative term and means different things to others. Most bands and artists use the "great" word to give them the attitude to get on stage and give a performance. Some performers say the biggest mistake is they make is the "pay-to-play" scheme. Although that is a tool in the tool box, it is giving away time but, you do get the opportunity to get Infront of people, sell merch, and you never know who is in the audience. For me, the biggest mistake is thinking that you are ever make enough to pay for the instruments that you use.

[@jimmydee2024]

Nice talk! To be a great artist you need to tap into universal energy; get out of your head and into your heart. ❤

[@gregparrott8370]

Growth Mindset! Spot On, Tony! It's not just about making it in the Music Business, but also about making it in ANY business.

[@timn5008]

Huh? That sounds like something Tony Robbins would say. It's revealing that you say an artist (for that is what we are, the people making music) perhaps should think about "making it" in any Business. Business is Business, and Art must only go into Business under duress. Very few people, no matter how good they are, are going to succeed in the Music Business.

[@shellhammergallery]

I write and make music for myself as a hobby and share it with the audience. I do focus on making improvements, working on sound and chords as a personal challenge and it is a lot of fun. I know I am not great; no one really is and those who are fall in the right time and the right place succeeded. Otherwise by luck. I understand his point of view, it is simple, don't let your ego in your way and enjoy your music professionally or as a hobby.

[@stevengovorchin]

You are right! That is exactly what I was thinking when you asked the question at the start of the video. Actually, I am not great and never will be. But for a long time, I have been looking for local artists who might be great so I can incorporate their work into my video products. I found that most local artists think they are great, but they are actually fair or good. I did find two local artists that WERE great and they never claimed to be.

[@Devoted2as]

My daughter gives music lessons. Its surprising how many people, even kids, say, "I know how to sing already." NO, they don't! They are not breathing properly, their jaw and tongue placement is off, they are not attacking notes properly, their posture is poor, they are not pronouncing words so they can be understood with out sub titles. And the list goes on. How much better they could become! Even the most famous opera singers still take lessons and/or coaching throughout their entire careers!

[@KyleJon]

I saw this guy interviewing 6 year olds on the bench at a hockey rink. He asked them if they thought they were better than NHL players. Every kid said “Yea.” Then he asked them to name someone they are better than. “ Conner McDavid, Austin Mathew’s, Sydney Crosby” 😂

[@27726689]

The biggest mistake is….The music business is not “the field of dreams” the music business is in fact “a BUSINESS!” Fun is the reason why we do it but Fun should be the last thing on the list.

[@jasondidner]

And the gig is way more fun if you're in a 2-way conversation with a growing fanbase than if you're convinced your music is so great you don't have to bother giving an audience a way in to what you're doing.

[@user-jk7dk1hs8m]

Thanks, Tony! You nailed it, whether in music, business, marriage, spiritual growth, humility and work ethic are the pillars or success. Keep on bringing us reality anytime you like!

[@KoryYinger]

I agree to a point and recognize that your experience far out weighs mine. But I think also as artists we listen to the industry maybe a bit to much. Also attempting to do everything yourself is counter productive. Outside of muaic I had a company that I built frim scratch, I was determined to do it all. It was overly ripe ego on my part. Can it all be DIY? Of course but the greats all have had a team surrounding them. I think that's one of the biggest mistakes, thinking that it can all be done by yourself. It's slow and un productive thinking. IMO.

[@LisaLeitl]

Loved this Tony! Truth through and through. We never know how others will hear and receive what we have created - the only thing we have control over is the discipline to keep showing up and doing work everyday to get better. Then definitely listen to what others share their insights can make all the difference in how we improve our skills as an artist. Plus if they took the time to listen that is a true gift!!!! Thanks!❤

[@JamieKSims]

Well said! Exactly what I was going to say, but you put it better than I came up with. WORK ETHIC! Thanks for all of these -

[@MarcosFicarelli]

You are 100% right. Every moment in a music carreer must be very well measured, rehearsed, produced, and if we Do The Job (inbound and outbound) , even in bad times you can sleep well for success will come. There is no other.

[@omarrodrigues6610]

I think that is a great mindset to have and know you need improvement. To go after that improvement is the best mindset to have and I want to thank you for that message. Though this might not make me great but it will definitely make me better..

[@jamesshoemaker8784]

This is a terrific presentation. Thank you for your honesty and for the inspiration of this well constructed video.

[@Bernz66]

Greatness is what we try to achieve without most of us obtaining it….. it’s the journey of music creation that’s fulfilling…. What we learn from others…. I’ve always love working/jamming with those who are better than me… and in my mind, everyone is way better than me….

[@MrJmack46]

I am not and will never be great on Saxophone. I know I'm good though. After 30+ years of jamming by ear and what not. I play scales everyday. No jamming..I'm listening to others besides my favorites. This is something I can do now that I am retired. I should have did this earlier but I had to eat and put a roof over my family head.

[@anthonymcmorran]

Love this! Mostly people don't give a shit about what we're doing, but do WE?! I make music that I like to hear, that's enough for me. Chances are that occasionally someone else will like it and the rest will be on their phones. Gotta do it because I love it and stay unattached to the results as much as possible, that's my philosophy....and always try to get better. Thanks!

[@hitmanbluesband]

Great video. One thing to remember, though, is this: Being great does not mean you'll be successful. You can have great songs, great stage presence, great performances, and be great (not a virtuoso, but great) on your instrument. It still doesn't guarantee success, depending on your definition of the word. If you're a songwriter, you want to get better so that you can do justice to your songs. The same is true if you're a performer, or combination of the two. That's the only reason for improving is to do a better job of communicating your music. Being on the road for months doesn't make you more successful. Neither does neglecting other areas of your life - this isn't about selling toothpaste where the product already exists and you want to knock Crest off the top of the heap. Your product is constantly being created, and part of the creative process is some form of balance. 5% may be the number of truly "great" acts. Now understand that there are tens of millions of creators. 5% of 100 million is 5,000,000 truly great creators. With more coming every day. There are 20 slots for Top 20 radio play. Lots of great, truly wonderful, creators will never get a shot. A large percentage of that 5% will never make a living off their creations or their performances. It's NOT BECAUSE THEY SUCK. Don't put yourself down because you aren't where you thought you would be, especially if you've been constantly trying different promotions, working to keep creating, putting things out there, following up leads, trying to build a fanbase (which is a road filled with scams and ripoffs), and everything else needed these days. Be honest with yourself, but don't discount what your fans say. If they say they love what you're doing, believe them. If it feels right to you, if you're communicating and feel you have something worth saying, keep doing it. One day, you won't be able to do it anymore. When that day comes, know that you've tried your best and be proud.

[@tonyvv]

Beautiful... 🥲

[@KyleJon]

You NAILED this Tony. I came up with the same answer as you in 6 seconds. Most of it comes down to Dunning Kruger Effect. (The less you know, the more you think you know) It’s weird how most people think they can sing, play drums, play bass and especially songwrite without taking lessons or studying. When I know 0%, I put my head down and STUDY. Another aspect of it is the record company used to be the gatekeeper of who got to release work. So that eliminated 90% right there. Then if you got that far, there were producers and engineers, & studio musicians trying to keep an artist on point, and commercial. (Record cos want their money back right?) But now anyone with $$ can basically do an album,with no input from experts.Finally, as much as DKruger Effect messes with people’s minds.. it’s those very people who have “fans” telling them “I really liked that song. That was some good song right there.” And I would ask “Would you spend $200 to see that song in concert? Would you buy a $40 T-shirt? Would you spend $20 on an album of songs like that? Would you buy that song for $1.29?” When the answer comes back “No, no, no and no,” we know the song really wasn’t good enough, and you are really lying to the person, because lying didn’t COST you anything. Inversely, I have an album coming that is really, really good, and all I hear is how much I should change this and change that, and why I suck. Here’s the kicker. When I get my songs thru ALL that negativity, I think the world is going to go “Yea! This is great!” Time will tell.

[@timn5008]

I'm not sure how one would "study" in order to become a good song writer. I've been listening to pop and rock music for over fifty years, initially as a fan, and then as a fan AND maker of music, so I've absorbed an awful lot of information and am able, sometimes, to use that information to inform my songwriting and playing. Everyone knows, or should know, that you don't have to be a really good player to both succeed at playing and songwriting in certain genres. Let's face it: there are some mediocrities that have succeeded in the Business* despite their, um, shortcomings. If I put out a record that I think has good music on it, and no one in a very small circle wants to pay money to buy a tee shirt with my face on it, does that mean I and my music suck? No, of course not. No "input from experts?" What does that mean? An expert at what? Marketing? Playing the guitar? Writing charts out for a horn section? What? The fact is is that music production has been democratized, for good or ill, mostly for good, in my opinion. Those "gatekeepers" back in the day thwarted a lot of good music from ever getting off the ground floor, and it makes me shudder to imagine all the wasted talent that got pushed out back in the day. Anyway, the music Business is all about Business, and making money. I'm not a Business. I'm just a musician making my own (and others') music, and if it succeeds, well then. Tony is right to always be saying one needs to market one's music, to get more fans. But failure to garner fans and make money is not indicative of bad music. *It's a Business, and Business doesn't care if you are talented or if you can write good songs (whatever that means, right?). It just wants to make money.

[@KyleJon]

@@timn5008 Well of COURSE you can write music for YOUR pleasure, and not care if it sells, or if anyone likes it. It’s art. It’s subjective to a degree. What you are telling me, sounds like the guy who asks “What do you think of my song, and why isn’t it selling?” Then when Tony says the 3 minute guitar intro usually doesn’t lend itself to popular music,” and then he says “But my fans like that 3 minute intro” 😂 So what are you trying to do? You want to be heard, be popular? Have people hear your song and have it change their life?

[@KyleJon]

@@timn5008Well then there are rules for songwriting that should at least be learnt, and then discarded when you see fit. I have a friend. They put out an album. They were like you. Listened to music, played in bands. So they KINDA know how a song goes, but never STUDIED. So the song would start. Maybe the intro is short enough. Maybe the verse is good. But then the pre chorus is boring, or typical, or didn’t build to a crescendo. Then the chorus would suck. Then back to the verse that was good. There wasn’t one solid song, front to back that was a solid track, and def nothing that would be considered a hit.

[@KyleJon]

@@timn5008Pro studio, packaging, players. But the album went nowhere. So if they STUDIED with books etc, they would have a bette way to filter what is good enough, and what isn’t. (Which is what I was getting at with pro studios/a&R guys, producers etc. Someone would have stepped in, and given them help. I guess it’s just about consistency. A guy like Desmond Child is going to be WAY more consistent than my friends band. He has studied and learnt.

[@KyleJon]

But at least listen to the best of the best. Mutt Lange. Desmond. Jeff Steele. The lady that wrote “Don’t want to miss a thing. “ Dua Lipas writing and producing team. Morgan Wallen s new album. Keep an OPEN MIND and learn. Or not…. Peace

[@D.Battle]

Very very helpful. Thanks for always being informative and truthful.👍🏿

[@jadreza8182]

Fantastic points made here. Thank you so much 👍🙏😊

[@ModusVivendiMedia]

Good point. "Great" is relative. Being "great" means being UNUSUALLY good, as in much better than average. Being excellent on some absolute scale could mean being just average, if everyone else is also excellent. Everyone can't be better than average, even though most people think they are. The important point you made is that hard work and scrappy initiative and persistence are more important for success than talent on its own, and especially important if your talent is just ordinarily good! I work with an artist that this applies to (she IS undeniably far, far more talented than average, but without the hard work, her career won't be the success it could otherwise be), so your video is giving me ideas that I may need to talk to her about.

[@Bruce147]

Well said. Thank you for doing this and being here.

[@mikevolpe4851]

It goes back to the old 'too close to the forest to see the fire' mentality in some aspects....you are your own worst critic, and your own worse enemy.

[@ChristiandeMesones]

I prefer the term "worthy " over great. I enjoyed today's message.

[@tyblalock2727]

The biggest mistake, I believe is lack humility on some artist end

[@steveide2062]

You speak the sober truth Tony. It’s taken me 40yrs to truly understand the importance of having reputable A&R, manager, and producer types behind your music. These are the people who want to make money in the business of music. So they don’t mess around with anything they don’t believe has something special, unique or appealing they can sell. So as an artist, those are the people you have to convince on you way to becoming a name in the music industry. Some people have god given raw talent, but most have to sacrifice and put in the blood sweat and tears in hopes of being discovered. And even then, some are just shooting stars or one hit wonders. Places like KZbin hold many talented artists, but they’re flooded with mediocre to bad ones too. If you want to make money from your music, then think like a business person. If you just enjoy performing for personal enjoyment, get a day job and gig locally on the side. That was my choice because some things cost too much.

[@CFM7]

Sometimes music needs to be made more than it needs to be great in marketability & statistical capitalization. Sometimes music has purposes outside that system, and the greatness of music itself will always outlive the paradigm of business.

[@tonyvv]

Of course. I really love lots of music that is not great by mainstream standards. My point is not about music being great, but about the lack of growth that comes with an artist who thinks THEY have already achieved greatness.

[@robertkeats4985]

Thanks, Tony, for an objective assessment. I have found that taking singing classes has improved my vocals. Not all teachers are great, but the good ones can be very helpful, and the comaraderie with the other members of the class is enjoyable as well. Instrument lessons can be helpful, too. Particularly with the guitar, it seems like there's always more to learn.

[@ryanshaneowen]

you have some excellent points, and I applaud you for that, but just to add my '2 cents', it is so relative. I realize you are not trying to equate success with greatness, but it would be good to add that aspect. A lot of artists who don't push themselves to learn and improve definitely need to hear your message (I've worked with fellow artists in the past who don't believe they even need to bother learning to read music for example). At the same time, regardless of financial success, people have such different tastes in music and what they consider 'great' music. There is one massively popular and critically acclaimed Canadian band that I personally can't stand listening to. But lots of people love them! Some people would never listen to or understand the greats of classical music. To some people, electronic dance music is utterly banal, and yet to some, it's great. As someone who has done music in many different styles, I've experienced this first hand. I will put out a dance track, and some people will say, that is awesome, you need to do more of that! Then I will put out an acoustic/vocal song, and other people will say, that is awesome, I prefer that to the electronic music. I admire you for jumping into this topic, however, it's very complex, with many aspects, and very difficult to present an objective viewpoint that applies to every artist on the spectrum.

[@DimitrisNezisofficial]

I absolutely enjoyed watching this video. Very well said!! Realistic and inspiring words🤗

[@gypsycat26]

Hi Tony, Thanks for the video. It has so much truth to it. Artists should always believe there's room for improvement. Some people get stuck being legends in their own mind.

[@HelensWillowWind]

Thank you for all you do for us!!!

[@corporaterobotslave400]

I've been in over a dozen bands, and my experience is exactly the opposite: most "artists" don't believe in themselves. I've had too many wannabes sabotage my bands because they have unresolved issues with traumas they've never bothered to conquer. Most artists don't take themselves seriously enough, therefore, they don't do the WORK it takes to become successful because they don't believe they can be. It's quite pathetic. What you're actually describing in this video is narcissism; I earned a Psych degree in '88 and have studied Psych ever since.

[@KyleJon]

Hey Corp. I kinda know what you are talking about. But “If they don’t go all in,” they aren’t exposing themselves to massive criticism. They can always say “I never made it because I didn’t try” etc. I would call that fear, but I guess it could be based in narcissism as well. Sounds like a convo where 🍺 are needed. 😀

[@AndreaGerakSinger]

That's what I was going to say.

[@shadowsearcy]

Thank you Tony! 1.) Using the "metal guy" as an example, Pop Music is an abbreviation for Popular Music and most artists spend too much time attempting to "educate" when their job is to ENTERTAIN. If you want your music to be as successful pop music, it needs to sound more like pop music and less metal or prog rock. 2.) There are 2 types of people in this world; those who are humble and those who soon will be...

[@redoctopusgames]

right. It's a long way to the top, if you want to rock and roll.

[@mitodesotochannel]

Agreed, Tony. As per usual another well thought-out video. Personally, it took several years for me to even believe most of music was really good, always thought that most of it nice or ok. No illusions/delusions of grandeur here. I have made a comfortable living at it until recent years, but that has diminished in the last decade, especially after the simple rumba of the Gipsy Kings has waned in popularity. To addendum something you addressed about 90 sec intros, etc., in american genres (metal/pop, etc)… in the Flamenco genre long intros are common and are quite hoped for and expected. But again, I know your perspective is from the music popular in the U.S. There are very few Flamenco greats over the past century, so there are very few present day flamencos who are self deluded. 👋 👍

[@blueskyads]

A+ for honesty Tony. You nailed it! I paused the video and basically came up with the same answer.

[@nikht0]

A drummer I knew once played a gig at a local club on a Sunday night. The promoter put his band last as the headliner. But by the time they played most of the crowd had left, presumably because they had to work on Monday. The band was furious at the promoter for putting them on last. I watched their meltdown, knowing that people would have stayed to watch them play no matter how late it was if they were truly a great band. One day that guy asked me if I wanted to start a band with him. I said no thanks.

[@jasondidner]

My mindset is toward improvement with each project I create. I can hear the difference in the quality and consistency of my records from 2003 to now. Just as importantly, I'm improving at making my music useful to somebody. Give someone a laugh on a Monday morning, help someone who's feeling insecure or lonely to feel more connected. My communication to the public through social media aligns with the music and its purpose. This has not resulted in financial success or massive streams. But I get way more replies to my email blasts than I used to. More comments on my videos. My music starting conversations. It takes lots of work to develop even a casual fan. But those fans can give you clues as to what your music can do if you keep the conversation 2-way. If you're convinced that you're perfect as you are, you're not open to what your budding fanbase is telling you.

[@adamholzmanofficial]

Lots of good points Tony.

[@lytletonlisson9377]

Well said, spot on Tony. Thanks very much

[@timbranniganmusic3458]

I call it magical thinking and I’m pretty sure unicorns come with it. It’s an epidemic. Thanks Tony!✌️❤️🤘

[@Feltexperience]

Preparation and review with other genres of music

[@SergioVettoremusicista]

bravo, i completely agree on what you've sad

[@entropylosangelespunkrockb3522]

wow I was floored- how could I have been so naive to think we were great and that was the end of that!!! Reminds me of a great documentary on the Descendents and how their drummer (Bill Stevenson) beat them into greatness- so amazing!

[@NatureFolklore]

Excellent! Recently saw an interview with Robert Fripp when he was asked in King Crimson will ever tour one more time. He replied something like ‘’Well, King Crimson is not easy music to play. With my limitations I would need at least three months to learn to play the music again. I’m still not good enough to just have a practice and go on stage.”

[@georgebalams8679]

You are a great speaker.

[@Lachenmann7]

It’s a false question. As soon as a composer documents their work to their own satisfaction, they are in possession of ultimate satisfaction, and true “success”. Discussion over.

[@rgwilliamson]

This is a great, "tell it like it is", "non sugar-coated" editorial for sure. I've always tried to expand my knowledge and talent of music and I have never been one to think of myself as great but let's be real, beauty is in the eyes (or ears in this case) of the beholder. As an artist myself I have always accepted criticism, so long as it's constructive and not destructive. After more than 35 years in the business I have gathered enough knowledge/insight to know where or what I need to build upon. Thank you for being frank about this topic but I think the real killer of music success isn't "delusions of grandeur" but rather a poor attitude towards learning and aspiring to be great.

[@tonyvv]

💯%

[@buckdown2464]

the #1 mistake i see is BEING LATE. you can overcome a LOT of the artistic shortcomings of your music simply by showing up ON TIME, and making a habit of saying please and thank you to whoever you are inerfacing with in the studio,venue, etc, most venues, studios etc deal with dozens of artists a week, and what will stick out in memory is who was punctual, easy to work with and most importantly didn't create more work for the people who deal with would be rock stars EVERY DAY. Also - another favor you can do yourself is answer phone calls and emails as close to immediately as possible

[@tonyvv]

Good one… 👍🏻

[@rogerbourne4377]

Thanks Tony. My problem is lack of computer training. I haven't done gigs for years so now I'm not an artist, just a songwriter. Now I've found my 'True North', Know what I'm good at and like what I do--I'm happy. Now I look for the right artists to sing and play them I'll pay for studio recordings but I also know they are unlikely to get much radio play in todays music market because they are not teeny bopper pop.

[@rileylee9261]

Good point and something that we all need to be reminded of constantly. Of course it's a matter of definition, but IMO, a 'great' musician/artist/athlete/person (as opposed to a 'successful' one) by definition is self-aware enough to know that 'the more you know, the more you realise how much you don't know', and would say that what you are saying goes without saying. 🙂

[@rhsilverberg]

This was a very good video, Tony. I feel compelled to pose the question of "How is it that so many "successful" artists today are, subjectively, mediocre"? Translation: Why don't I see the greatness? Yes, it's an emperor's new clothes scenario. One can do a lot of things well but still not ring the bell. (FYI, I don't claim to be great but I do try to do my own thing with total commitment.). Luck is still 50 percent of the equation.

[@tonyvv]

That’s a different question from the point I make in the video. It’s not up to me to define great or good or mediocre. When Elvis and Chuck Berry and Miles Davis and Led Zeppelin were artists during THEIR time, there were plenty of people who thought that was crappy noise. But was it? Many others (especially today) would argue they were great. It’s all relative. And in the eye of the beholder.

[@uponcripplecreek1]

@@tonyvv Sometimes, when multiple people make the same point, it’s good to actually consider it’s possible for you to be wrong. You clearly spoke about the quality of people’s music. I would say you should listen to your gut instinct saying to avoid a topic next time. You’re probably a decent guy but the video came off a bit disrespectfully and ignoring of fact based realities. Often CEO’s are surrounded by people afraid to speak the truth and disagree with them. Wise leaders listen, especially when there’s a kernel of truth, instead of deflecting and arguing out of instinct. Good luck to you.

[@wheezyharp]

Your videos are always well thought out and helpful, Tony. My biggest regret with my music is that I used very poor-quality recording equipment. When I've asked curators for their opinions of my songs, they say a lot about the poor sound quality. Much of their critique is very encouraging, however. I agree with you; hard work is essential in the music business, as in any endeavor. There is a fine line, although, separating our perceived musical abilities from reality. We have to believe in ourselves, or we would never begin our musical journey. I have virtually failed at everything that I have tried in this life. But I keep going. I'm not sure why, on some days. When I listen to one of my songs, there I find my answer. Good job, Mr. Tony! I like your work and your company (Disc Makers)!

[@rogerbourne4377]

I sent some top studio recordings to Taxi some years ago. Reply was great songs but songs not broadcast quality--can't use them. Simply NOT true.

[@wheezyharp]

@@rogerbourne4377 What finally happened? Your songs were obviously recorded with high quality equipment? Were the companies just wrong about your music or were they not being honest with you on purpose?

[@KateStantonSings]

Artists, what is your personal definition of success? This is more the question. Keep a growth mindset that your version of success may be different than another's. Comparison is the thief of joy.

[@blacklovefreshrap6616]

❤❤❤🔥🔥Facts

[@paulwubbena6809]

I think alot of it can be is a lot of artists are stuck on gimmicks and antics passed become really good. I honestly don't think really any of us as artist are really great. I'm my experience of watching things play out over the years, it's the more inexperienced players of notes and musical knowledge that are more experienced in writing that make all of the great music. But honestly I really think I'm fighting an uphill battle and that I am definitely not great at all because well I'm not making money at it. Or atleast yet. But I'm still going even after all of these years and it is a hard business.

[@strass2u]

I thought you'd say the number 1 mistake would be ":giving up".

[@tonyvv]

That’s certainly one mistake.

[@davidmoskowitz1801]

Naaaaaaileeeed it!

[@fekkyb]

The more you work on improving the closer you get to improving. 😉

[@tonyvv]

Deep.... 😉

[@RaiderLeo1]

Those record albums you'd buy and listen to over and over. 3 or 4 hit singles you'd be waiting for the album tracks to finish. After awhile the album tracks sounded better and better. Before you knew an album track became your favourite. Greatness lol? How many listens before a track/ or your music becomes great?

[@goodchaun]

I do believe people with low view and sub counts that are actively trying to engage and connect should take advantage of quality advice. No shortage of “veteran” advisors on this little app

[@MitchRossMusician]

You’re right of course, but conversely an artist has to feel that what they do is good enough to be heard. It’s easier for many people to fall into a mindset that says they are not good enough and to languish there. Like everything else, a person needs to have a balance in how they view their work.

[@fluffythepitbull]

P.S. I think the person who said their metal fans liked the long intros should probably target those songs to that market if that's where they're getting positive responses. If they're trying to get it featured on a baby food commercial...😳? Uhhh.. Not so much.

[@LiberalArtz]

I think it's poor spending. That is the lack of setting up as a business structure the right way and spending money in the right places.

[@bethanyjames1461]

💯

[@BrianKlobyGuitar]

A good perpective 🎸☕

[@cfriskme]

The music business is full of leaches. Only when you become mature and wise with time will you be able to identify the leaches. The best thing that has happened is Home Studios, Independency from major labels, social media, and the ability to put your music on Spotify and other radio stations and the ability to sell your music on different sites. One thing you must do is retain a good music attorney.

[@GigaTodd]

I agree. I think my rap music is fair.

[@MyMusicapture]

Perfectly said!

[@tonyvv]

Then keep growing, brother!

[@ronnyron007]

I listen to the radio.... 90% bad to mediocre songs

[@1headzan]

🙏🙏🙏

[@brightworldmusic2114]

Yes ! Maybe you’re great at becoming great. That would be …. um… perfect

[@jonwcs5842]

Also - the order of songs played on an album can help. Think DJs just throw on songs w out thinking of each songs feel or energy? Order is important

[@fluffythepitbull]

I don't know what to think anymore. I think I do good work, but TBH I'm not sure about what greatness really is. I hear somebody in my songwriting group perform this killer song with a solid melody, smooth, flow-off-the-tongue lyrics, and a can't-stay-sitting-down beat, IOW, a masterfully crafted song. Yet, this song ISN'T on the radio, but a song with a blah melody, empty repetitious lyrics and a generic beat gets a Juno or a Grammy. I'm confused! IMHO a lot of great songs get overlooked and a lot of dreck gets overhyped, but who am I? However, I still persevere listening to a variety of genres and styles and experimenting by writing in them. (Some of these experiments, which don't make it to the recording stage, are more like a musical version of the Island Of Dr. Moreau 😆 but they're a good way to figure out what I am and am not good at and how I can improve.) I really enjoy your videos and always find them engaging and thought provoking. Thanks for putting them out.

[@tonyvv]

Well... a hit takes more than just great songwriting. Sometimes it's a catchy hook, or a unique sound element, or a promo angle, or... who knows? Weird or less than great songs can certainly become hits, but writing great songs will definitely increase your odds. Just because a composition is great doesn't guarantee it's a hit.

[@user-ij7on6xn6l]

Anyone who wants to create has to be open to learning and expanding their horizons. If not what is the fun of it. Music creation is a set of stepping stones and hours of work and editing. A great song or great performance comes with time and practice and learning. Listen back to old recordings and realize how far you have come will only inform you on how much further you need to travel. There are no great songs just great performances and great arrangements. Learn to improve every aspect of a production and like tennis look for as good musicians, engineers and recordists as you can and listen to them. But there is a caveat, one cannot become a great artis, songwriter or whatever without a strong belief in their abilities. It just doesn't happen.

[@Justdannyjay]

Ok I already have an issue with this. So essentially you're saying indirectly, the artists who've "made it" are great? That's patently untrue. I do agree that only a handful of artists and even songs are truly great. But I wouldn't equate great with successful. There's a LOT of big name artists who've benefited from luck, timing, who they knew, viral marketing, etc to be successful in this industry over actual talent and ability.

[@tonyvv]

Great is definitely not the same as successful. And successful certainly doesn’t mean great!

[@ryanshaneowen]

yup, well said

[@Justdannyjay]

Great is incredibly hard to accomplish. Michael Jordan was great. LeBron is great. My point is there's no need to be great when you can be very good and still be wildly successful

[@tonyvv]

@@Justdannyjay Agreed. But that was not my original point. My point is not to debate who is or isn't great. It is that artists who THINK they're great (whether they are or not) are less likely to pursue further growth -- or hustle as hard -- as artists who aspire to achieving greatness.

[@parispiscesdreamer]

Totally disagree! I am GREAT at being me! No, I don't think every song of mine is great--no artist, no matter how huge, is always great or has all great songs. Think about the album/CD days and the one hit song versus the other nine? Right? In life, we go from ok, to good to great, and, isn't it truly the audience that will determine greatness--in the public eye. But c'mon, when we're alone doing our thing, you got to feel great about yourself. Oh, and my songs(I have over 325 recorded and available to stream) have been streamed/purchased in over 90 countries and 400 cities! And that's just according to Apple Music. Does that mean I am great? Well, f**k yeah! In my mind that's a great feeling. Cheers!

[@kidsensation471]

Lotta grey area in this topic. There are many GREAT artists who never break through. There are artists who are not great but marketed well and they do. This assessment is in a general sense accurate but somewhat incomplete

[@richarrisandtheheatmerchan2697]

What if someone follows what you say - continuing to grow, building an audience, working with others, etc. - but can find no one willing to take a chance on them?

[@tonyvv]

Then they have to keep going themselves. Your destiny is in your own hands. If others don’t see it, but you do, keep believing and keep grinding.

[@richarrisandtheheatmerchan2697]

Thank you.

[@user-fj6ru2vs5t]

Good or popular? How do you know the difference?

[@tonyvv]

The charts tell you popular. Your heart tells you good.

[@user-jr3he8ys4r]

Tony, I believe you may be watching too much "American Idol" & "The Voice" bro

[@tonyvv]

lol I literally never watch that stuff… There’s no career building that goes on there. Only a lottery with one lucky winner (who more often than not flames out because they didn’t achieve their fame through hard work and solid fundamentals.

[@mathew3267]

What about that growling metal stuff? Everybody knows it sucks so bad but yet somehow theres a ton of it with a bunch of fans.

[@tonyvv]

Don’t be judgy… 😉 Just because we don’t like a particular type of music (in my case, country) or a particular artist (in my case, Taylor Swift) doesn’t mean it doesn’t suit others’ tastes.

[@tyronebirkett1161]

A good but incomplete assessment. You're conflating marketability with artistic prowess. I haven't got a million streams or sold out venues all the time, but I have received tens of thousands in grants, awards and honors for my music.

[@tonyvv]

Actually, this isn’t at all about commercial success. It’s about what happens to your brain (and attitude) once an artist thinks they’ve achieved greatness.

[@ColleenKitchen]

Haha My initial answer was "EGO"

[@louiswhite1543]

I guess it's catgorically true if one these big wheel 'decision maker"- type people decides that independent artists have egos too big for their britches.. It doesn't resonate with me, though. Most of them I know are humble folks.

[@tigerman1120]

All true...related to that are musicians that are waaay too interested in what everybody else is doing, instead of searching for their own unique sound. Nothing wrong with 'influences' but, running around trying to copy the latest fad or your favorite band is a recipe for ending up in the dreaded "Cover Band". So stop spending hours and hours learning every note of every Jimi Hendrix song and DO YOUR OWN THING !....then, if you don't have a "THING", you can go back to your "Nikkleback" cover band or trying to be the next Taylor Swift.

[@ronnyron007]

not enough Luck on peoples side.

[@GuillermoCuellarTrovAutor]

Not to believe in yourself.

[@user-hy7se1yw5u]

One comment that at least some may heed: I'm speaking to certain Christian artists who are actually successful to at least some degree. I have heard your music, done by you, on the radio while driving. And I've heard the same music done by good musicians in churches. You write some good stuff, but you perform it badly, and the only reason you sell anything is that young people in your audiences don't know what is musically good because they haven't been taught. And, again, I speak to those who are actually selling - so I construe there are others in the same case who do write well, but perform unmusically, are not selling, and don't have a label doing heavy promotion. Think about it.

[@timn5008]

It seems like Tony is conflating "being great" with "being successful."

[@davidmoskowitz1801]

There’s a reason why there’s only ONE Taylor Swift for every 100 million people.

[@axpanthia]

Number one mistake artists make ? Getting into the music business.!!! LOL. Stick with creating music. Leave the marketing to the experts. As long as songs like Trio's Da Da Da make it on the radio I'll never figure this game out.! I guess they are great ?

[@donaldhaldenbaughman5967]

I think it is poor recording equipment

[@stonesmyth]

what a waste

[@muskegmudsuck]

#1. They try to sound like something other than themselves

[@uponcripplecreek1]

Who defines great? Only 50% of people think The Beatles are great. Also, a lot of popular, financially successful artists aren’t great at all. In addition, some genres are far less popular than others. I get what you’re saying but it sounds like you’re talking to the lowest common denominator. It also sounds like you’re minimizing financially difficult realities of today’s music “business”. I personally know several GREAT artists that are either broke or forced to earn a living through other means. Also, how “great” would famous past artists have been without the investment, support, and talented collaborators the music industry used to offer? Personally, I think the quality of your company’s work is good but not great. I use Groove House because the quality is noticeably superior.

[@tonyvv]

In the video I’m not arguing “what is great?” My point is that when an artist thinks THEY are great they stop seeking growth and improvement, and that is detrimental to their success.

[@uponcripplecreek1]

@@tonyvv You clearly spoke about the quality of people’s music.