We live in a world that loves formulas — a step-by-step guide to success in the music industry.

Sign here, join this program, follow these strategies, and you’ll have a thriving career. At least, that’s the promise.

But what if the traditional ways we’ve approached artist development and career growth are flawed?

An Unconventional Path

I remember sitting in meetings with music executives, listening to their well-worn advice on breaking an artist. The same recycled playbook:

• Get a viral hit.
• Grow your following.
• Chase trends.

I’ll never forget one executive telling me, “If we just buy enough Instagram ads, this artist will blow up.” I couldn’t help but smirk.

Looking around the room, I thought to myself, “Am I the only one who sees how disconnected this is from what artists actually need?”

It wasn’t long after that I realized something important: real growth as an artist doesn’t come from cookie-cutter strategies.

We learn the most — and grow the fastest — when we take action, experiment, and embrace the messiness of the process.

Because here’s the truth: conventional wisdom isn’t always wise.

The Skeptic’s Guide to Artist Development

If the old way isn’t working, what does artist development look like when we toss conventional wisdom out the window?

Here’s what I’ve found:

1. Question Everything

Don’t take advice at face value just because it’s coming from someone “in the industry.” Ask questions. Challenge assumptions.

Why does every artist need to follow the same release schedule? Why should you prioritize algorithms over authentic connection?

The music industry changes every day. What worked five years ago (or even last year) might not work for you now. Stay curious and critical.

2. Use Trial and Error

Failure is one of the best teachers. Every artist’s journey is unique, and the only way to find what works for you is to try, fail, and try again.

Experiment with how you write, record, and release. Test different ways of engaging with your audience. You’ll learn more from your missteps than any industry handbook.

3. Find Your Own Path

Mentors, books, and courses can be helpful, but no one has all the answers for your career. The key is putting what you learn into action.

Want to know if a new strategy will work for you? Try it. Want to build a stronger connection with your fans? Show up consistently and see how they respond. Your path is yours to create, step by step.

4. Integrate Learning into Your Process

Here’s a secret: growth and learning aren’t separate from your daily work. They’re the same thing.

Every time you write a song, release a track, or step on stage, you’re learning. Pay attention. Reflect on what works and what doesn’t. Build systems to capture those lessons so you can keep improving.

5. Redefine Success

Forget the industry’s definition of success. It’s time to build your own.

Maybe success for you means playing intimate shows for 100 people who truly connect with your music. Maybe it’s releasing one album a year that feels like your soul on vinyl. Or maybe it’s building a sustainable career that lets you focus on your art.

Whatever it is, make it yours.

Changing the Culture of Artist Development

This approach isn’t easy.

It’s uncomfortable to step away from traditional paths. People will tell you, “This is just how it’s done.”

But let me ask you: Are you satisfied with the status quo? Do you really want to follow the same playbook that leaves so many artists frustrated and unfulfilled?

There’s a better way.

It’s about individuality, curiosity, and the creative spirit that brought you to music in the first place. It’s about owning your development, taking control, and creating your own best practices.

In Summary

The traditional path to artist development is comfortable, but it doesn’t work for everyone.

I didn’t learn how to help artists succeed by following the rulebook. I learned by doing — writing songs, releasing music, building projects, and learning from what worked (and what didn’t).

So maybe it’s time to start questioning, experimenting, and taking action on your own terms.

The best investment you can make is in yourself — your unique journey, your art, and your growth.

And here’s the thing: your story will always be one worth telling.