This question may seem very simple but it is the most important question that an artist will ever answer. The way you answer this question will determine your future. It will mean the difference between failure and success. A record producer walks up to you and asks, “Why are you in the entertainment business?” You have five seconds to respond. 

The following are three of the most common responses to this question: 1) Money 2) Fame and 3) Women (for the fellas), Attention (for the ladies). Passion (love for the game) is the only correct answer. If it is not, as an artist, you will be in for a rude awakening. Money is usually the last thing that on acquires; and there are many people that get paid before the artist. (We will revisit that topic in the near future.)

Fame, well that is a whole different ball game because it is temporary. You will be hot one day and cold the next. Also, depending on how strong a person you are, you might not survive mentally. The fact that you are no longer famous, your fans have deserted you, and your recording label has put you on the back burner; all these things may cause an artist to doubt his or herself.

Finally, the women and attention, they are every artist’s dream. Unfortunately, these dreams are usually accompanied by negative situations. The average Joe is not equipped to deal with these circumstances. Decisions will be made in a few minutes that could last a lifetime. Don’t get me wrong; there is nothing wrong with enjoying the attention, just do it responsibly. This is why it is very important for an artist to stay grounded and remember why you are here. This is a business and it should be treated as such and those that are capable of helping your career can tell if you are sincere and serious about it. So don’t fool yourself in to thinking that you cannot be replaced because you are entering into a business that is already crowded and over saturated.

As a former artist, I speak from experience and I have dealt with all these situations that were just addressed. I understand the business from both ends; one as an artist and one as an owner of a record label. This is why I sympathize with other artists and try my best to steer them in the right direction. It is hard to find balance in this business but it is very necessary. So, after reading this article, please take a few minutes to answer the question honestly. Once you know why you are in the business and you are serious and passionate about it; proceed with caution but by all means, do proceed.

Ya Boy

Anthony “Big Amp” Parker

Earthwake Entertainment