Free Advice

Email Marketing? A mailing list…really? That notepad on the merch table at the show?

Why bother if I’m connecting with fans on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Bandsintown, etc?

Well, it’s simple – people might fluctuate on their social media platform of choice, and in how much time they spend scrolling through them – but most people still check their email – and you don’t have to pay to reach your fans.

Your email marketing list is one of the few marketing platforms you own outright. While social media is great, you don’t have any control over their platforms. Look at how quickly they change their algorithms and how much it costs to run ads to reach people who have already opted in as your fans.

The bottom line is – the number one way to sell to fans is through email marketing. E-mail subscribers are 15x more likely to buy than Twitter followers.

Going on tour? Announcing a new release? Pre-order? Highlighting a dream piece of press? New merch drop? Anything and everything you want to share with your fans – an email marketing list is the best way to reach your audience directly.

There are a few ways to go about building your mailing list – here are a few to try (the merch table notepad is still a valid option – just don’t make it your ONLY approach)!

Our entertainment lawyer, John Seay, explains how to copyright your new music without a lawyer (and how to save yourself some money.)

ALSO – check out our Music Rookie Podcast interview with John: Do you really need an Entertainment Lawyer?

Whenever a client asks me to submit copyright registration for them, I always answer, “I’m happy to do it for you, but if you’re looking to save money, this is something you can do yourself if you figure out the application yourself.”

The cost of filing a copyright application is between $45 and $85 if you file online. You’d spend at least another $100 paying someone to do the registration for you. That may make sense if you value your time accordingly, but it’s most likely a waste of limited resources. The application isn’t difficult. However, it can be intimidating to get started without a little guidance. The purpose of this step-by-step guide, replete with screenshots, is to provide a whole lot of guidance.

So, what does it mean to copyright something? Thanks to the Copyright Act of 1976, your “original works of authorship,” i.e., songs, photographs, etc., are protected by copyright law the second they’re “fixed in any tangible medium or expression,” i.e., recorded, written down, etc. There’s technically nothing else you have to do to copyright your works. Something you should consider doing is registering that copyright with the Copyright Office.

Why register? First of all, registration creates presumption of ownership and validity. It allows you to sue for certain types of unauthorized uses of your work. If your work is registered when infringement occurs, you may be entitled to statutory damages and attorney’s fees, the latter a gamechanger when enforcing copyright.

Assuming you’re on board, go to the Copyright Office website, and let’s begin.

The Brutal Truth About Achieving Your Ambitions

We’ve all envisioned that life-changing dream – landing your dream job, owning that beach house, or pulling off a body transformation that makes Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson swoon. But how many of us actually get there? More importantly, why do so many passionate goal-setters stumble just steps away from glory? Daily goals can help bridge the gap.

Here’s the cold hard fact: Your lofty long-term ambitions mean dick without strategic daily goals to incrementally conquer them. It’s about using short, 24-hour sprints of hyper-focus to ultimately crush your objectives over the long haul. Don’t believe me? Let’s break it down.

Why Going Big-Picture Alone is Doomed

Sure, having that North Star career or lifestyle target provides general direction. But leaving it at just the huge, overarching objective is a surefire way to get lost in the weeds along the journey. It’s too damn easy for the grind of every day responsibilities to divert your limited attention and momentum.

That’s where we start dropping balls, procrastinating, and slowly convincing ourselves that achieving “The Dream” just isn’t realistic. A lame excuse dripping in self-doubt to avoid admitting you haven’t mapped out the footsteps to actually reach your f*cking goals.

Unleashing Daily Goals as a Secret Weapon

Now, complement that bigger ambition with a regiment of short-term daily goals, and suddenly that pie-in-the-sky fantasy kicks into an executable, adaptive, ever-evolving game plan.

By chunking your master plan into bite-sized 24-hour sprints, you create a consistent schedule of small wins to propel you forward. Those mini-achievements string together into serious progress over weeks, months, and years while keeping your permanent endgame in sight.

Plus, daily goals impose a productive sense of scarcity and urgency. They force you to prioritize high-impact action steps over aimlessly letting another day go to waste. When you only have one rotation around the sun to operate, you tend to apply laser focus on executing instead of procrastinating.

Keys to Dominating With Daily Goals

Sounds simple enough, but maximizing this technique takes a bit of strategy too:

• Ensure your daily goals harmonize with your deepest principles and natural skillset – tackling tasks that feel purposeful and leveraging your strengths is far more satisfying than chasing shallow busy work
• Aim for binary, process-oriented goals that live inside your control like “invest two hours practicing guitar” – not vague outcome-based targets like “become a famous musician” that leaves too much up to chance
• Always attach stakes – allocated rewards for achieving your goals, and real consequences for falling short of them
• Stay keenly self-aware; use experiences to refine your approach based on what’s working and what isn’t
• Build mandatory recovery periods into your goal schedules to avoid burnout

The endgame? Fulfilling any ambition through strategically-paced daily progress, rather than toxic hustle-porn you can never sustain. Master this method, and you master the cheat codes to the game of life itself.

Bottom Line

Don’t just idly fantasize about your biggest desires. Map the maze, lace up, and start making that sh*t happen through ruthless execution of daily goals and objectives. After enough resolved short hurdles, you’ll penetrate even your most intimidating long-term endgame. The choice? Become a gear in someone else’s machine, or architect your own supreme self-actualization. Not so complicated when you have the blueprint, is it?

Alright, let’s get real for a second. As a musician, you’ve probably heard all the cliché advice about “following your dreams” and “never giving up.” But here’s the thing – while passion and perseverance are important, they won’t mean shit if you’re constantly sabotaging your own success with rookie mistakes.

I’ve seen it happen time and time again – talented artists who have the potential to make it big, but end up fizzling out because they’re too stubborn (or too oblivious) to recognize the errors of their ways. And trust me, in this cutthroat industry, you can’t afford to be making the same mistakes as everyone else.

So, consider this your wake-up call. I’m here to challenge you to take a long, hard look at your music career and identify the pitfalls that are holding you back. It won’t be easy, and it sure as hell won’t be comfortable. But if you’re serious about making it as a musician, it’s a challenge you need to accept.

Key Takeaways on Musician Mistakes:

• Failing to treat your music career as a business is a surefire way to fail
• Copying other artists instead of developing your own unique style is a mistake
• Neglecting to build relationships and network within the industry will hold you back
• Underestimating the power of live performances and stage presence is a costly error
• Focusing on vanity metrics instead of building a genuine fanbase will stunt your growth

Challenge #1: Are You Treating Your Music Like a Hobby?

Here’s a harsh truth that many musicians don’t want to hear: if you’re not treating your music career like a business, you’re setting yourself up for failure. I don’t care how talented you are or how much you love making music – if you’re not willing to put in the work and make smart, strategic decisions, you’re never going to make it to the big leagues.

So, ask yourself – are you treating your music like a hobby or a profession? Are you investing time and money into your craft, or are you just winging it and hoping for the best? Are you educating yourself about the industry and staying up-to-date with the latest trends, or are you stubbornly clinging to outdated ideas and methods?

If you’re not approaching your music career with the same level of dedication and professionalism as you would any other business, it’s time to make a change. Start by creating a solid business plan, setting realistic goals, and investing in your own development as an artist and entrepreneur.

Challenge #2: Are You a Copycat or an Original?

In the age of social media and streaming, it’s easier than ever to fall into the trap of copying other artists’ styles and sounds in an attempt to gain popularity. But here’s the thing – while riding on someone else’s coattails might get you some short-term attention, it’s not a sustainable strategy for long-term success.

Think about it – the musicians who really make it big are the ones who have a unique voice and perspective. They’re not afraid to take risks, push boundaries, and create something that’s entirely their own. They’re not trying to be the next Beatles or Beyoncé – they’re trying to be the first version of themselves.

So, take a hard look at your music and ask yourself – are you truly being authentic, or are you just imitating what’s already been done? Are you taking inspiration from a wide range of sources and putting your own spin on things, or are you just hopping on the latest bandwagon?

Remember, originality is key in this industry. Don’t be afraid to experiment, take risks, and develop your own signature style – even if it means going against the grain.

Challenge #3: Are You a Lone Wolf or a Networker?

As a musician, it’s easy to get caught up in the romantic idea of being a “starving artist” who’s too cool for the mainstream industry. But the reality is, no matter how talented you are, you’re not going to get very far if you’re not willing to play the game and build relationships with the right people.

Networking is essential in the music industry – from forming connections with other artists and producers to getting your foot in the door with labels and promoters. But it’s not just about schmoozing and handing out business cards – it’s about building genuine, mutually beneficial relationships based on trust and respect.

So, ask yourself – are you actively seeking out opportunities to connect with others in the industry, or are you just sitting back and waiting for things to happen? Are you attending events, joining online communities, and collaborating with other artists, or are you stuck in your own little bubble?

If you’re not putting yourself out there and building a strong network of supporters and collaborators, you’re missing out on countless opportunities to take your career to the next level. Start by identifying the key players in your niche and finding ways to add value to their lives and careers – whether that’s through collaborations, cross-promotions, or just being a genuine, supportive friend.

Challenge #4: Are You Neglecting Your Live Shows?

In the age of streaming and digital downloads, it’s easy to forget about the power of live performances. But as any seasoned musician knows, there’s nothing quite like the energy and connection of playing in front of a live audience.

Your stage presence and live show are often the first (and sometimes only) impression that potential fans and industry professionals will have of you. If you’re not putting in the effort to create a compelling, memorable live experience, you’re doing yourself a huge disservice.

So, ask yourself – are you putting as much thought and preparation into your live shows as you are into your recordings? Are you rehearsing regularly, developing a strong setlist, and working on your stage presence and crowd interaction? Are you treating each performance as an opportunity to win over new fans and make a lasting impact?

If you’re neglecting your live shows or just going through the motions, it’s time to step up your game. Invest in quality equipment, hire a professional sound engineer, and put in the hours of practice and preparation needed to create a truly unforgettable live experience.

Challenge #5: Are You Chasing Vanity Metrics or Building a Real Fanbase?

It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers game – obsessing over your follower count, likes, and streams. But here’s the thing – while vanity metrics might give you a temporary ego boost, they don’t necessarily translate into long-term success or sustainability. Most of the people who click the button to become a fan are really just looky-loos – not people who will actually come to your shows and buy your wares.

As a musician, your ultimate goal should be to build a loyal, engaged fanbase of people who genuinely connect with your music and message. These are the fans who will show up to your shows, buy your merch, and support you through thick and thin – not just the ones who mindlessly hit “like” on your latest Instagram post.

Are you focusing too much on superficial metrics and not enough on building real relationships with your fans? Are you creating content and experiences that truly resonate with your target audience, or are you just trying to game the algorithm and go viral?

If you’re not putting in the work to cultivate a genuine, lasting connection with your fanbase, you’re missing out on the most important aspect of being a successful musician. Start by really listening to your fans, engaging with them on a personal level, and creating art that speaks to their hearts and minds.

FAQs on Musician Mistakes:

1. What if I’m not naturally business-minded? Can I still succeed as a musician? Absolutely. While having a head for business certainly helps, it’s a skill that can be learned and developed over time. Start by educating yourself on the basics of marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship, and don’t be afraid to seek out mentors or resources to help guide you along the way.
2. How do I find my unique voice and style as an artist? Finding your unique voice and style takes time, experimentation, and a willingness to take risks. Start by exploring a wide range of influences and inspirations, both within and outside of your genre. Don’t be afraid to try new things and fail – that’s how you’ll eventually land on something that feels authentic and true to you.
3. What if I’m an introvert and struggle with networking? Networking doesn’t have to mean being the loudest or most outgoing person in the room. Focus on building genuine, one-on-one connections with people who share your values and interests. Start small by attending local events or joining online communities, and gradually work your way up to larger industry gatherings.

Being a successful musician isn’t easy – it takes talent, hard work, and a willingness to constantly challenge yourself and grow. By identifying and overcoming the common mistakes that hold so many artists back, you’ll be well on your way to building a sustainable, fulfilling career in the music industry.

But don’t just take my word for it – take action. Accept the challenge to honestly assess your own music career and make the necessary changes to set yourself up for success. It won’t happen overnight, and it sure as hell won’t be easy. But if you’re willing to put in the work and stay true to yourself, there’s no limit to what you can achieve.

So, get out there and start making the music that only you can make. And remember – the world needs your unique voice and perspective, now more than ever.

Source Links:

• https://www.musicindustryhowto.com/top-10-mistakes-made-by-independent-artists/
• https://heroic.academy/5-biggest-mistakes-musicians-make-online/
• https://www.dittomusic.com/blog/the-7-deadly-sins-musicians-make-on-social-media

MORE FREE ADVICE

One of the most important things you can do as a musician is connect with your audience. But what happens when you feel like you’re about as interesting as a wet paper bag? It’s a common problem, especially for newer artists who haven’t quite found their voice or their niche.

But here’s the thing – being interesting isn’t some magical quality that you’re born with. It’s a skill that you can develop, just like playing an instrument or writing a song. And the secret to becoming more interesting? It’s simple: become more interested.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But how the hell do I become more interested? I’m just a boring-ass musician trying to make it in this crazy industry.” Well, listen up. As a certified interesting person, I’m about to drop some knowledge that will help you level up your interesting factor and start connecting with your audience like never before.

Key Takeaways About Being Interesting:

• Being interesting is a skill that can be developed, not an innate quality
• Becoming genuinely interested in more things can make you a more interesting and engaging person
• Curiosity, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn are key to becoming more interested
• Incorporating your diverse interests into your music and persona can help you stand out and connect with your audience
• Continuously learning and growing as a person is essential for long-term success as an artist

The Power of Curiosity

The first step to becoming more interesting is to cultivate a sense of curiosity about the world around you. And I’m not just talking about music – I’m talking about everything. Art, science, politics, sports, philosophy, you name it.

The more you expose yourself to new ideas and perspectives, the more fodder you have for your own creative pursuits. And the more genuinely interested you are in a wide range of topics, the more interesting you become to others.

Think about it – when you meet someone who’s passionate about something, even if it’s not your particular cup of tea, their enthusiasm is contagious. You can’t help but be drawn in by their energy and their knowledge.

So how do you cultivate curiosity? It’s simple:

1. Read widely. Books, articles, blogs – consume information on a variety of topics, even if they’re outside your comfort zone.
2. Ask questions. When you encounter something you don’t understand, don’t just nod and smile – ask questions and seek to understand.
3. Seek out new experiences. Travel, attend workshops and conferences, take a class in something completely unrelated to music.
4. Surround yourself with curious people. Hang out with folks who are passionate about learning and exploring new ideas. Their energy will rub off on you.

The more you feed your curiosity, the more interesting you’ll become – both to yourself and to others.

Open Your Mind, Change Your Life

Of course, curiosity alone isn’t enough – you also need to approach new ideas and experiences with an open mind. It’s easy to get stuck in your own little bubble, especially as a musician. You have your genre, your scene, your way of doing things.

However, being open to new perspectives and ways of thinking is essential for personal and creative growth. When you approach the world with a sense of openness and a willingness to learn, you start to see things in a whole new light.

And here’s the thing – being open-minded doesn’t mean you have to agree with everything you encounter. It just means being willing to consider new ideas and viewpoints, even if they challenge your own.

Some tips for cultivating open-mindedness:

1. Practice active listening. When someone is sharing their perspective, really listen to what they’re saying without judgment or interruption.
2. Seek out diverse perspectives. Read books and articles by authors from different backgrounds, listen to music from genres you’re not familiar with, attend events and gatherings outside your usual circle.
3. Challenge your own assumptions. When you find yourself making a snap judgment or having a knee-jerk reaction to something, take a step back and examine why you feel that way.
4. Embrace discomfort. Growth often happens outside our comfort zones. Be willing to feel a little uncomfortable in the pursuit of new knowledge and experiences.

By approaching the world with an open mind, you’ll not only become more interesting – you’ll also become a better musician, a better communicator, and a better human being.

Incorporate Your Interests Into Your Art

Alright, so you’ve cultivated curiosity and open-mindedness – now what? How do you actually use your newfound interests to become a more interesting musician and connect with your audience?

The key is to find ways to incorporate your diverse interests into your music and your persona. This doesn’t mean you have to start writing songs about quantum physics or 18th-century French literature (although if that’s your jam, go for it). It just means finding ways to let your personality and your passions shine through in your art.

Some ideas:

1. Write lyrics that reflect your interests and experiences. If you’re passionate about social justice, write songs that tackle those issues. If you’re a science nerd, use scientific concepts as metaphors in your lyrics.
2. Collaborate with artists from different genres or disciplines. If you’re a rapper who’s interested in classical music, team up with a string quartet for a unique performance. If you’re a folk singer who loves visual art, collaborate with a painter on a music video.
3. Use your stage presence and persona to showcase your personality. If you’re a funny, sarcastic person, let that come through in your banter with the audience. If you’re a deep thinker, share some of your philosophical musings between songs.
4. Create content that reflects your interests. If you’re a foodie, start a YouTube series where you cook your favorite dishes and talk about the music that inspires you. If you’re a film buff, create a podcast where you analyze your favorite movies and how they influence your songwriting.

The more you let your true self shine through in your music and your persona, the more interesting and engaging you’ll become to your audience.

The Journey Never Ends

Here’s the thing – becoming more interesting isn’t a one-and-done deal. It’s a lifelong journey of learning, growing, and evolving as a person and as an artist.

The world is constantly changing, and so are you. What interests you today may not interest you tomorrow, and that’s okay. The key is to stay curious, stay open-minded, and keep seeking out new experiences and perspectives.

And here’s the beautiful part – the more you grow and evolve as a person, the more your music will grow and evolve as well. You’ll find new sources of inspiration, new ways of expressing yourself, and new ways of connecting with your audience.

So don’t get discouraged if you feel like you’re not the most interesting person in the room. Remember, being interesting isn’t about being the loudest or the most outrageous – it’s about being authentic, curious, and open to the world around you.

FAQs on Being Interesting:

1. What if I’m not naturally curious or open-minded? Curiosity and open-mindedness are skills that can be developed with practice. Start small – read one article on a topic you’re not familiar with, or attend one event outside your comfort zone. Over time, it will become more natural.
2. How do I know if my interests are actually interesting to other people? The truth is, not everyone will be interested in everything you’re interested in – and that’s okay. The key is to find ways to connect your interests to your music in a way that feels authentic and engaging to you. If you’re passionate about something, that passion will shine through and attract others who share your interests.
3. What if I’m afraid of being judged for my interests or perspectives? It’s natural to feel vulnerable when sharing your true self with the world. But remember – the people who matter will appreciate and respect you for being authentic and true to yourself. And the ones who judge you? Fuck ’em. They’re not your audience anyway.

Look, I know it’s easy to feel like you’re not interesting enough, especially in an industry that’s all about image and persona. But the truth is, being interesting isn’t about fitting into some preconceived mold or being the coolest kid on the block.

It’s about being genuinely curious about the world around you, opening your mind to new perspectives and experiences, and letting your true self shine through in your music and your interactions with others.

And the beautiful thing is, the more interested you become, the more interesting you become – not just to your audience, but to yourself. You’ll start to see the world in a whole new way, and that newfound perspective will infuse your music with depth, authenticity, and soul.

So go forth and cultivate your curiosity. Seek out new ideas and experiences, challenge your assumptions, and let your freak flag fly. The world needs more interesting musicians like you.

And who knows – maybe one day, you’ll be the one inspiring others to become more interested, more open-minded, and more authentic in their own lives and art.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some obscure Japanese avant-garde jazz records to go listen to while I ponder the meaning of life.

Source Links:

• https://www.musicindustryhowto.com/how-to-be-an-interesting-music-artist-its-not-about-the-music/
• https://www.musicthinktank.com/blog/the-dos-and-donts-of-being-an-interesting-musician.html
• https://www.musicradar.com/news/7-things-successful-musicians-do-differently

MORE FREE ADVICE

I’m always surprised at how many musicians sleep on forming an LLC. I know, I know – you got into this business to make music, not to deal with boring legal stuff. But trust me when I say that setting up an LLC is one of the smartest moves you can make for your career, your finances, and your peace of mind.

Now, before you start picturing stuffy boardrooms and mountains of paperwork, let me assure you – forming an LLC is not as complicated or intimidating as it might seem. In fact, it’s a relatively simple process that can provide a whole host of benefits for musicians at any stage of their career.

So, what exactly is an LLC, and why should you care? ::cracks knuckles::

Forming an LLC Key Takeaways:

• An LLC (limited liability company) is a business structure that provides legal protection for your personal assets
• Forming an LLC can help you save money on taxes and simplify your accounting
• An LLC can give you more credibility and professionalism in the eyes of clients and collaborators
• Setting up an LLC is a relatively simple and affordable process, especially compared to other business structures
• An LLC can provide peace of mind and help you focus on what really matters – making great music

Protect Your Assets, Protect Yourself

First and foremost, forming an LLC is all about protecting your personal assets. As a musician, you’re putting yourself out there – both creatively and financially. You’re investing in gear, recording time, merch, and all sorts of other expenses that can add up quickly. And if something goes wrong – like a lawsuit or a contract dispute – you could be putting your personal savings, your home, and even your future earnings at risk.

But when you form an LLC, you create a separate legal entity that’s distinct from you as an individual. This means that if your music business gets sued or goes into debt, your personal assets are shielded from liability. In other words, if shit hits the fan, you won’t lose everything you’ve worked so hard for.

Now, I know what you might be thinking – “But I’m just a small-time musician, not some big corporation. Do I really need an LLC?” The answer is a resounding yes. In fact, small businesses and freelancers are often at the greatest risk for liability issues, precisely because they don’t have the same legal protections as larger companies.

Think about it – as a musician, you’re constantly collaborating with other artists, hiring session players, renting studio space, and entering into all sorts of contracts and agreements. Any one of these situations could potentially lead to a legal dispute, even if you’ve done nothing wrong. By forming an LLC, you’re giving yourself a valuable layer of protection and peace of mind.

Save Money, Simplify Your Taxes

Let’s be real – earning the big bucks as a musician can be hit or miss. But that doesn’t mean you should be leaving money on the table when it comes to your finances. Forming an LLC can actually help you save some serious cash in the long run, especially when it comes to taxes.

When you operate as a sole proprietor (which is what most freelance musicians do by default), you’re essentially taxed as an individual. This means you’re subject to self-employment taxes, which can be a real kick in the nuts – we’re talking 15.3% of your net income, on top of your regular income taxes.

However, when you form an LLC, you have the option to be taxed as an S-corporation or a partnership, which can provide some serious tax benefits. For example, as an S-corp, you can pay yourself a salary and then take the rest of your income as distributions, which are taxed at a lower rate than self-employment income. This can add up to thousands of dollars in tax savings each year, depending on your income level.

Plus, forming an LLC can help simplify your accounting and bookkeeping, which is a huge relief come tax time. Instead of trying to keep track of all your business expenses and income as an individual, you can keep everything separate under your LLC’s name. This makes it easier to track your cash flow, claim deductions, and stay on top of your finances throughout the year.

Look Like a Pro, Act Like a Pro

In addition to the financial and legal benefits, forming an LLC can also give you a serious credibility boost in the eyes of clients, collaborators, and industry professionals. When you operate under an LLC, you’re sending a clear message that you take your music business seriously, and you’re in it for the long haul.

Think about it – would you rather hire a musician who’s operating as a random individual, or one who has a professional business entity behind them? An LLC shows that you’re organized, responsible, and committed to your craft. It can open doors to higher-paying gigs, better collaborations, and more opportunities to grow your career.

Plus, forming an LLC can help you establish a clear brand identity for your music business. Instead of just going by your personal name, you can create a business name that reflects your unique style and vision. This can make it easier to market yourself, build a fanbase, and stand out in a crowded industry.

It’s Easier Than You Think

In most states, you can form an LLC online in just a few simple steps. You’ll need to choose a business name (make sure it’s not already taken), file some basic paperwork, and pay a small filing fee (usually around $100-200). You may also need to obtain a business license or permit, depending on your location and the nature of your music business.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about the process, there are plenty of resources available to help you out. You can hire a lawyer or accountant to guide you through the steps, or use an online LLC formation service like LegalZoom or IncFile. These services can handle all the paperwork for you and provide ongoing support and guidance as you grow your business.

The bottom line is this – forming an LLC is a smart, proactive step that every serious musician should consider. It’s a small investment of time and money that can pay off big in terms of asset protection, tax savings, and professional credibility.

FAQs on Forming an LLC:

1. What if I’m just starting out and not making much money yet? Even if you’re not raking in the big bucks yet, forming an LLC can still provide valuable legal protection for your personal assets.
2. Do I need to hire a lawyer to form an LLC? While it’s always a good idea to seek legal advice, you don’t necessarily need to hire a lawyer to form an LLC. Many states allow you to file the paperwork yourself online, and there are plenty of affordable LLC formation services available to help guide you through the process.
3. Can I still operate under my personal name if I form an LLC? Yes, you can still use your personal name as a musician even if you form an LLC. However, you’ll need to make sure to keep your personal and business finances separate, and use your LLC’s name on any contracts or agreements related to your music business.

Sure, forming an LLC might not be the sexiest topic in the world of music. It’s not as exciting as writing a hit song or playing a sold-out show. But here’s the truth – if you want to build a sustainable, successful career in this industry, you need to treat your music like a business. And that means taking proactive steps to protect your assets, save money, and establish yourself as a professional.

Forming an LLC is one of the smartest investments you can make in your music career. It provides a valuable layer of legal protection, can help you save thousands of dollars on taxes, and gives you a professional edge in a competitive industry. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not a complicated, expensive process that only big corporations can afford.

So, what are you waiting for?

Source Links:

• https://www.legalzoom.com/articles/should-your-band-form-an-llc
• https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/limited-liability-company-llc-musicians.html
• https://www.musicianwages.com/why-musicians-should-form-an-llc/

MORE FREE ADVICE