Tuesday, February 27th, 2024.
Hey, it’s TJ Miller, “You want some game?” Let's #tipundathehat!
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Unda The Hat is now doing affiliate marketing for Amazon. “As an Amazon Associate, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases.” We feature musical equipment, OG music band Tees & merch, games, and books. This week's Amazon feature is MD Stokes.
Every business needs a Mission & Vision - Let’s Geaux -
I’m going to start right here, creating a mission and vision statement is biblical. That’s right, in Habakkuk 2:2. The verse reads: “Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.
Now with that said, if you're involved in any aspect of the music industry, whether as an artist, producer, manager, or marketing, you are in the music business. It doesn't matter if you have a "regular 9-5" job or not. This is not a hobby or a side hustle.
The music business encompasses a wide range of activities, from development and recording to marketing and distribution. It's a complex and ever-changing industry, but it's also a vibrant and rewarding one.
If you're serious about making a career in music, it's important to treat it as a business. That means having a clear understanding of the industry, setting goals, and developing a strategy for success.
It also means being prepared to work hard and make sacrifices. The music business is not for the faint of heart. But if you're passionate about music and you're willing to put in the work, it can be a very rewarding career.
Okay, so now that you know you're in the music business, (business being the operative word), it's time to get serious. You need to have a clear idea of what you're trying to do and how you're going to do it. This is called a mission and a vision statement. A mission statement is like a roadmap for your business—it tells people what you're all about and how you plan to get there. A vision statement is like a dream board—it shows you where you want to be in the future. So, what's your reason for being a musician? What do you want to achieve in the next few years, who do you want to collab with, where do you want to gig?
Crafting a mission statement can be a powerful tool for artists seeking to bring their dreams to life. It serves as a concise summary of your identity as an artist, your values, and your aspirations, both personally and professionally.
In today's competitive industry, it's essential to stand out and define your unique qualities as a performer. A mission statement allows you to do just that, setting the foundation for your artistic journey.
Beyond practical applications, a mission statement also serves as a source of inspiration, guiding your decision-making process when faced with artistic, promotional, or career-related choices. It helps you align your actions with your larger goals, ensuring that you're on a path that feels authentic and fulfilling.
As an Indie musician, having a strong foundation and a clear understanding of your niche, audience, vibe, goals, and values is crucial for long-term success. This is where your Mission and Vision Statement come in handy.
Your Mission Statement outlines your overall career aspirations and purposes, while your Vision Statement describes your unique style, flow, influences, and creative intentions. These statements work together to keep you focused and motivated, even when it seems a little dark and the creative juices just aren’t flowing like you want them to.
Crafting a Mission Statement and Artist Statement may not be easy, but it is a necessary step in your business journey, and to quote Jay-Z you aren’t a businessman you ARE a BUSINESS - Man!! That goes for you females as well. Here’s what you can get from standing on business,
- Clarity and Direction: These statements provide a roadmap that guides your decision-making process, ensuring every choice aligns with your artistic vision and personal values.
- Motivation and Inspiration: They act as a source of motivation, reminding you of your purpose and inspiring you to persevere in the face of obstacles.
- Communication and Collaboration: Sharing your Mission Statement and Artist Statement with others can effectively communicate your artistic identity, making it easier to connect with potential collaborators and audiences.
- Branding and Marketing: These statements contribute to developing a strong brand identity, allowing you to stand out in a competitive industry and attract the right opportunities.
Your vision is what sets you apart and makes you special, unique, and valuable in your niche, the studio, and the gig circuit. Use your Mission and Vision Statements as a guide on your journey, and never lose sight of your dreams and goals. With patience, persistence, and a clear vision, you can be all you can be as an independent DIY musician.
This week's #IAOTW - Independent Artists Of The Week is - MD Stokes.
Considered a musical maestro, MD emerged from humble beginnings in Colia, Mississippi, and Augusta, Georgia. Now living in Sierra Vista Arizona, his musical prowess extends across genres such as jazz, pop, country, and R&B. However, his true passion lies in the transformative power of gospel music. His adaptability and versatility have garnered him recognition as a highly sought-after songwriter and producer.
Click on the name link, scroll down to the picture, and then click, and support. For more information on this or to hire Unda The Hat as your brand or label consultant send a message via undathehat.com. If you are an Indie artist and want to be featured, hit me up. See you next week!!