Entertainment is hard work so where do you start? By Philip Burks

 

I have written several articles in the past on the music industry and the preparation that is necessitated to get involved in this business. Please note “business” boldly in your written and mental notes.

 

Many have started careers only to see them fall shortly thereafter, why you might ask. Well there are many avenues that one could point to, but preparation for what you are about to get involved in is the key.

 

Many think raw talent is all that is required and a connection or a break. However, there is much more to it, in order to stand the ever evolving changes of this business, called entertainment.

 

The real answer is education, utilize those degrees. Once you have worked your way in, if not from the very onset to launch a real position in this wild but exciting business of entertainment. Everyone has to pay dues but that occurs in every occupation that one would enter. Just learn from those dues paid; get a mentor that is willing to enlighten you about this business of entertainment - be it Recording, Television, Motion Pictures, Radio etc.

 

If you are looking at institutions of higher learning that can prepare you and open doors for you after graduation, do your home work first.  Investigate schools that are respected in the industry in regards to preparing students best for this business. Check out past graduates, see what and where they are in their careers. Check for staff that are still working in the industry while still teaching.  It can help you later down the road or maybe sooner via intern positions to get your feet wet.

 

Be prepared to do your part. I have a client named Paul Allen, no not the co-founder of Micro-Soft but Paul Allen the drummer. Paul grew up playing drums, passed on an education in the field of dentistry, only to pursue his dream of making a great living as an artist. He enrolled in a very prestigious music school that would prepare him to become a professional musician, give him contacts and offer opportunities. Paul did one other thing that all of you who are thinking of such a career should do   - Take charge. He networks with everyone and he stays in contact with them. Education is a must, preparation, dedication, commitment and people skills go a long way to get doors opened and to keep them open.

 

The industry is changing constantly and so must the attitude of every artist today. These artists are not waiting for doors to open they are opening them while preparing themselves to become profitable independent artists. Allowing control in their personal lives and greater input into their projects direction, production and a greater percentage of monetary gain without the mammoth record labels walking away with the greater share of profits from their creativity.

 

A very famous artist once said: “As an artist, you have got to learn to do 90% business and 10% show - the real trick is to make that 10% look like 100%.”

 

Nothing beats education, preparation and determination when combined with common sense. Never lose your dreams - work hard to show others how they can benefit from you.

 

Philip Burks II is Chief Operations Officer of Your Music Network i.e. Integy Entertainment in Seattle, Washington/Hollywood, California