A few questions for a school project

[Anonymous7]

Hi Justin,
I'm doing a school project on how to get into, and be successful in the music and sound design industry. As part of it I have to interview someone already in said field, and you seem like just the kind of person who would have some answers to my questions.
-What made want to get you into music?
-How did you get your start in the industry?
-Is it better to learn many music related skills or master one craft?
-Why do you make music?
-What advice would you give someone looking to do something with music professionally?
Thank you,
James

 

[ETThompson]

Time to write a memoir JMJ! I'd read it...

Btw, do you think Beck will write one someday? I love reading musicians' memoirs...currently enjoying the brilliantly titled "Brothas be, Yo like George, Ain't That Funkin Hard on You?" (George Clinton) I even read ones by musicians whose music I don't particularly like, just to find out about that musical era or culture or whatever...

 

[ETThompson]

Btw, huge George Clinton fan... that wasn't my example...

 

[jmjbassplayer]

Hi James:

1) The albums I listened to as a kid were the point of entry to wanting to get into music. My parents listened to music (good music, I might add) 24/7 throughout my childhood, and I quickly developed my own tastes. Another pivotal moment was actually seeing bands perform when I was very young.

2) Playing in local bands around LA, then eventually getting asked to work on some recordings.

3) I believe diversity is quite important, but that's just a personal opinion. If you have enough passion for one particular craft, then you have a chance to be extremely notable for that thing if you are dedicated enough. I'm envious of people that are driven with a simple, focused passion. So frankly: it's hard for me to say whether or not one approach is more ideal. It really depends on you.

4) Because I actually feel very strongly that music makes things better. Plus I like it for personal, aesthetic reasons.

5) Never stop learning. Find something to appreciate in every situation you find yourself in, no matter how dire. Be excellent. Play for a greater good than oneself. Do it for the right reasons only. Maintain your integrity regardless of consequence. Give. Love all.

 

[Anonymous7]

Thanks for answering, now I can graduate.