ijustwannasing wrote:Ok, so I feel like I have a dilemma. I know I probably shouldn't but I really just need to get this out there and get peoples' opinions. So I am 20 years old (will be 21 later this year) and even though that's still young...sometimes I wish...I was younger when I got started with trying to start a band. I've wanted to since I was in 8th grade, but it just never happened. It's not that I wasn't serious about it-I guess I was just scared and it didn't help that none of my friends wanted to and I didn't know other people who were in bands or wrote and played music. As much as I don't want to dwell on this I just keep coming back to it. I'm in songwriters' club at my school and pretty much every other member got started with making music when they were in middle school or high school. I know I shouldn't be comparing myself to other people-this is my life and I was kind of dealing with a lot of personal issues (not to mention a very strict mother) but now I almost feel like giving up, and I feel like I'm at a disadvantage I almost did before but something told me not to. I don't know I guess I just want advice or a reason to keep believing. Or someone to just tell me to chill haha. Any advice/opinions/questions? I'll try to respond if someone leaves something.
Just chill
21 is still young - and be patient, of all things. Musical talent doesn't just spring up over night. The number one killer of aspiring musicians is not sticking with it. After a few years, the feeling of not making progress sets in, and ultimately leads to giving up for those who lack discipline and patience. Perseverance is key.
Finding / putting together a band is NOT easy. Keeping one together is also NOT easy - because of the patience and perseverance I noted above. There will always be a sense of "I'm not getting there fast enough", which is why many band member jump ship looking for another band in hopes of getting there quicker.
Look for a studio that gives lessons in your area, and ask them if they have any programs where you learn in a band setting. That type of program is actually catching on here in my area - possibly yours too? It's a great way to get up on stage in a band-setting, and will give you a great resume, so to speak. Most bands want experience, and want to see that you do to. Just the nature of the beast. Another thing is to be sure to record yourself singing - pick some cover songs and record them - it's something you can either present to a band, or use to attract people to yours. When it comes to music and bands, bands don't want to commit to someone whose talent is a complete black box - they need to hear what you can do, and if your singing style matches what they want to do.
Be patient, persistent and, as a singer, self confident. You'll be fronting any band you join or create - so grab that mirror and see what you look like singing, then practice your stage presence. record yourself, critique yourself and get others to critique you as well. you gain confidence through experience, and all of these things help you gain it.
Keep on keepin' on.
