How to refine your career

westside · #1 02-15-2010, 09:13 PM

Hi Janek,

Like most bassists, I have always really enjoyed your bass playing. However, I also really admire the way you move through the music business in various ways. You seem to have your hands in a lot of things (most, if not all of which seem to be at a high level). I was wondering if you could expound a bit of advice on how to refine my career.

I'm 26, have been in NYC for a couple years now and by most standards have done very well so far. I studied jazz in college, play upright and electric (although mostly electric professionally), can read/play by ear...etc. I've done a few relatively major pop gigs since relocating, some sessions, small "tours," and tons of gigs around town (songwriter, jazz, rock, salsa, gospel etc...basically the usual freelance stuff). All in all, I'm pretty busy as a freelance bassist and financially comfortable living alone in a nice Manhattan apartment.

I'm pretty sure all musicians go through this from time to time, but currently I've been finding myself in a bit of a rut professionally. I always enjoy playing the bass, but I'm getting frustrated playing in mediocre bands with bad players (despite always getting paid pretty well). I sometimes feel like my life if just a series of bad drummers! I know that is part of the music business and I have no intention of ever doing something else for a living....but I want to do what I'm doing on a higher level (without sacrificing income).

I'm not sure if what I'm asking is clear...but basically, I want to play with better musicians and still make a good living (or a better one). Although I do consider myself a jazz player, I don't really care if I play lots of it for money...just good music of any kind with good musicians. I'm sure with your experience on the NY scene you have a reference to what I'm talking about.

Any insight would be very appreciated!

Raiven · #2 02-16-2010, 06:08 AM

If you're not doing so already I would form your own group. I mean it seems like you've played with some good musicians over the years so give them a call and see if you can organise a group with amazing people playing amazing music that makes you wake up in the morning desperate to play it.

You could do the rubbish gigs on the side for money as they won't matter so much or may even become more fun as you start to enjoy things a bit more.

ethompson2 · #3 02-16-2010, 08:28 AM

I would like to at least get to the level you are at above and I'm not really sure how to go about it without just up and moving somewhere. I need to get my name out there and I'm not sure the best way to go about it.

bassy7 · #4 02-16-2010, 08:40 AM

I can't give you any advice specifically pertaining to you the music industry, I played in a locally successful band years ago- but just got back into playing recently...

However, I found myself in a general rut with work for several years- I had thought like this....."What should I do? i can't keep doing this thing forever? I can't wake up and go do this everyday! This sucks, life has to better than this, i can't be so defined by my crappy job situation."

I started my own business and I haven't looked back. For you, start your own band- or find a band that lacks direction and give it some direction. Take the reigns and steer the music and band in the direction you want to go. It will definitely be really hard, stressful and trying at times, but it will build your character make you more confident. If the first project doesn't work out, then just keep on moving. You will be better at it the second time aorund. Promote your band and be passsionate about it.

good luck to you