Who I Am?
I am a singer by nature. And I say by nature because I’m not trying to be a singer. I sing. I write songs. I’ve only recorded one of those songs and put it on the market.
I often get asked what kind of singer I am. Well, my answer is I am me. And I sing. I have a challenging time explaining to people I’m not trying to be something I’m not. I just want to be my unique authentic self and sing these songs in my heart.
I perform cover songs. But I sing them as if they are my own songs. With covers, I need to feel the song. It needs to resonate with me in some way for me to sing it successfully.
For the last few years understanding who I am as a music artist has been a journey of self-discovery. I had to ask myself who am I?
I’ll be transparent here. I am an evolving music artist. I’m still learning and figuring myself out. I am becoming acceptant of myself as a singer who sings various genres of music. I’m not in the box that everyone wants to put me in. I’m not even in a box.
In this blog post, I want you to examine who you are and learn how to find yourself as a musician is my focus today. It is the lifeblood of the musician’s existence. Regardless of their skill level or popularity.
How To Find Yourself as a Musician
Your Integrity as a Person is Crucial.
Not all musicians live their lives aloud. Some prefer to keep their identity hidden. And has several reasons for keeping their identity unknown.
It is to protect them from personal criticism. Many musicians let it all hang out and care less about what people know or think they know.
But what I’ve discovered is many music artists have no idea who they are. From the instruments, vocals, production, etc.
Maintaining your integrity in the music industry can be tough. Particularly when you’re a new artist trying to become established. And while there will be countless people who allegedly know what’s best for your career. It’s important to stick to your guns.
As a result, many musicians perish because of a lack of knowledge. Yes, about themselves. It is important as a human being. But specifically, a music artist should always take the time to self-reflect. Where we are and where we want to go.
Who is a Music Artist?
A music artist is an individual or group who creates, performs, and produces music. Music artists can encompass a wide range of genres, styles, and roles. Within the music industry.
They are responsible for composing songs, writing lyrics, and recording tracks. And often perform their music live for audiences.
Music artists can be solo performers, bands, duos, or even larger ensembles. They may specialize in various genres. Such as pop, rock, hip-hop, electronic, classical, jazz, country, R&B, and more.
The role of a music artist has evolved with the advancement of technology and the digital age. Which has enabled artists to share their music globally through various platforms. Like streaming services, social media, and online distribution.
Why Should I Become a Music Artist?
Becoming a music artist is a path filled with passion and creativity. And the potential for personal and professional growth.
In a world that thrives on the universal language of music. Aspiring musicians are presented with a unique opportunity to share their stories. Emotions, and perspectives with a global audience. While the journey might be challenging. The rewards of becoming a music artist extend far beyond the spotlight.
Why Are You Doing This?
If you desire to make music for your full-time gig, it is not for the faint of heart. One thing you must do is know yourself. Be true to who you are and your unique style of performance.
Have you stopped to think about why you’re on this path?
Is it because you want to be famous?
Is it for the girls/guys/drugs/parties?
Is it for the money?
Or
Is it because music is your life, and you can’t see yourself doing anything else?
Or is it something like my reason? I am a natural-born singer. I grew up singing. It’s natural for me to like breathing.
It’s not something I’m trying to become. I am what I am.
Take a few minutes and write down why YOU want to take music seriously.
Who Are You?
James Brown is the Godfather of Soul. Michael Jackson is the King of Pop. Aretha Franklin is the Queen of Soul!
All the renowned artists of the 20th century had a clear idea of who they were. And were able to communicate that to their fans. Those artists are the definition of authenticity.
As a result, it translated into strong connections with their fans. Authenticity revealed itself through everything they did.
The evidence of musicians who are true to themselves.
When you think of Nicki Minaj you think of corporate. When you think of Remy Ma you think of independence.
You have the bands and artists who are anti-corporate and only want to keep the music true to form.
Even if that doesn’t mean constant mainstream attention, then so be it.
Artists like Nicki Minaj want to stay famous and relevant as a pop-culture symbol, so she’ll do what it takes.
If you’re not sure about what you’re about yet, the first step is to remember why music speaks to you. Take the time to remember why you picked up an instrument, started singing, or put ideas to verse in the first place.
Think about that for a moment, reflect, and let’s do an exercise together. Gather pen and paper or take notes on your phone or electronic device.
Question #1
Who are your all-time top five artists? I’ll share my top five artists of all time too.
My all-time top five artist picks are:
- Michael Jackson
- Natalie Cole
- Lauryn Hill
- Bruno Mars
- Nina Simone
Every artist on your list connected with you in some kind of inspiring way. Take note of why each artist is on your list.
There is a reason they affected you more than others. Think about why those artists are there and what you admire about each of them. It tells you something about yourself and what you should strive for in impacting others with your music.
How to Find Yourself as a Musician
All people are born creatives. The art of performing does a few things, it’s fun and it’s the fastest form of learning known to man.
As we grow up, we tend to want to fit in with everyone and stop wearing our capes with the big yellow S on our chests. Which is normal.
People like you and I, with this intellect of imaginary play. Remaining a key factor of our identity as individuals, it just comes out in diverse ways.
The unique battle we all face is keeping our inner child and fusing it with our adult work. Until it is instantaneously one-in-the-same and seen with positive reinforcement from our peers.
Think about it. Every artist, entrepreneur, sports athlete, musician, inventor, and ruler, since the origin of man. Has waged an aggressive battle against that last sentence.
To find yourself as a musician. Take the information you learned about yourself from the questions above. And imagine who you desire to be. Infuse it with the necessary steps required to help you become your true authentic self.
I want to be a singer who inspires people’s souls through music. I want to keep my independence and I have no desire to do things the way everyone else does them.
I want to sing whatever I want to sing. No limitations. I want to stretch my ability as far as I can go.
Tips to find yourself… In this article, we will delve into some compelling tips to find yourself. While embarking on this exciting journey of self-discovery.
Find Yourself Through Your Work.
You find yourself. Instead of thinking about what you want to become or what you can do, you become it. You live in that moment by working in that moment as your true self.
Ignore everyone.
What we consider good or bad advice comes from years of evolution.
As we evolve, so does what we consider normal, also evolve. We can subjectively put out who we are to others without remorse.
As musicians, they are a little different.
Not only do we have our social behaviors that have evolved, but so has our music.
As you grow as a music artist, we enter a new phase. At this point, it’s best to be cautious of who you listen to and what you listen to.
We care too much about what people think. Thus, it makes us afraid to mess up doing the wrong thing or make mistakes. We are afraid of being judged. To hell with all that! Listen when you need to listen and ignore what you need to ignore.
More than anything else, accept yourself.
When we’re repetitively overcome by our insecurities. The light of our authentic self does not shine. And it’s that light that attracts every person, experience, and opportunity
Perfect is not real.
Nothing’s perfect. Nobody is. Everything we consider a flaw about ourselves someone else might find appealing. Just get real and let that lead the way.
Accept everything.
Stop judging. Find the lesson in everything. The tough stuff, the people who challenge us. – They are our greatest teachers. As they force us to unravel the layers that cover our authentic selves.
Be selfish.
Find the balance between 50% selflessness, and 50% selfishness. Take your “me” time, know when you need it, and learn how to give it to yourself. Figure out what motivates you, what makes you happy, and how you connect to yourself. Don’t sacrifice those things – put them first. In the end, you can’t rely on anyone but yourself to bring you true happiness.
Use everyone else as a mirror.
If you allow yourself to recognize in other people that which exists within you. You will become aware of how and where to shift. If it’s positive, enhance it. If it’s negative, appreciate that it reared its ugly head so you could see it. But make a note to yourself that you’re cool to move on without it. And then move on if necessary.
Impact Change Your Way
Throughout history, music has played a pivotal role in social and cultural movements. Music artists often use their platform to raise awareness about critical issues. Advocate for change and inspire action. Through your music, you can amplify voices that need to be heard and shine a light on social injustices.
Embrace Personal Growth and Resilience.
In today’s digital age, the opportunities for music artists have expanded exponentially. With the rise of streaming platforms, social media, and online distribution. Artists can reach a global audience without the traditional barriers of the past.
This means that you can connect with fans from all corners of the world. Transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences.
Becoming a successful music artist requires dedication. Challenging work, and a willingness to embrace challenges.
The journey will undoubtedly evaluate your patience and resilience. But it will also foster personal growth.
You’ll learn to manage rejection, criticism, and setbacks. While developing a powerful sense of determination and thick skin.
Overcoming obstacles in your music career. Can translate to resilience in other aspects of your life as well.
Building a Unique Brand.
Being a music artist isn’t about the music itself; it’s also about crafting a unique brand and identity. One that is true to who you are. And what you believe in.
From your image and style to your visual aesthetics and messaging. Every aspect of your brand contributes to your persona.
Creating a distinctive brand not only helps you stand out in a crowded industry. But it also gives fans a cohesive experience that extends beyond the music.
Live Performances and Connection.
While digital platforms are essential. The experience of performing live is a defining aspect of a music artist’s journey.
Live performances allow you to connect directly with your fans. Witnessing their reactions and building a loyal following.
Continue Learning and Collaborating.
The music industry is filled with opportunities to learn and grow. Whether it’s through formal education, mentorship, or hands-on experience.
Collaborating with other artists, producers, and songwriters. Can expose you to new perspectives and ideas, pushing your creative boundaries.
The process of co-creating can lead to unexpected and exciting outcomes. That you might not have discovered on your own.
Leaving a Legacy.
Music has the remarkable ability to outlive its creator. Leaving a legacy for generations to come.
Think about the iconic musicians and bands. Whose music still resonates decades after their prime. As music artists, we have the potential to create songs that become timeless classics. Leaving an indelible mark on the world long after you’re gone. Your music can continue to inspire, uplift, and bring joy to people for years to come.
Conclusion
Get to Know yourself. Accept who you are as a music artist, musician, band, or performer. Know why you’re pursuing music. Don’t be afraid to be different and stand out from the crowd. Embrace your unique qualities and celebrate what sets you apart from others.
Know why your favorite artists are your favorite artists. What is it about them that draws you to their music? Get inspired by whatever that is and implement it in your journey as an artist.
Surround yourself with positive people who assist and encourage you. Practice self-care and try new things to grow and thrive in your journey of self-discovery and self-love.
Be Authentic. Be your unique self. I hope I’ve inspired you to
Shine bright while you find yourself. And don’t stop evolving into who you are. Don’t stop performing the music that has evolved right along with you.
Please share your thoughts on the topic and feel free to leave your comments below. Your feedback is highly appreciated and welcomed.
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This is such an inspiring read! I love how you emphasize the importance of self-discovery in a musician’s journey, and how it’s more about the process than the destination. Your point about embracing vulnerability really stood out to me—it’s something I’ve found essential in connecting with both my music and my audience.
As someone who’s also navigating the path of finding my musical identity, I’ve noticed that influences from different genres sometimes pull me in multiple directions. Do you have any advice for balancing diverse musical inspirations while staying true to your own voice? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Hi, info/cos,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment! I’m delighted the post resonated with you, especially the parts about self-discovery and vulnerability—foundational aspects of the creative journey, especially for musicians like us.
Navigating multiple musical influences while staying true to your voice can sometimes feel like a tightrope. The beauty of music is that it expresses who you are, including all the different genres and styles that inspire you. I advise embracing those influences fully and giving yourself the space to let your unique sound emerge from them. Think of it as a mosaic—each piece matters, but the whole is distinctively yours.
Here’s something that’s worked for me: spend time exploring and experimenting with those genres without worrying too much about coherence. Let yourself freely absorb what speaks to you. Then, as you reflect on what you’re creating, start to notice patterns—what feels most authentic to you? What elements of those influences feel like they genuinely align with your voice? That’s where your sound lives, in that sweet spot between inspiration and authenticity.
Balancing multiple genres is less about “choosing” one and more about finding harmony in how they reflect different aspects of your musical identity. And remember, your voice will naturally evolve as you grow, so don’t be afraid to let your sound shift over time.
I’d love to hear more about your journey and how you’re integrating your influences. Keep trusting the process; I’m sure your voice will shine through!
Warmly,
Jamie London Clay