How to (Really) Make It in the Music Industry:An Unconventional Guide

Forget the traditional rulebook, because if a recent viral reel is anything to go by, success in the music industry might just come down to a blend of fierce persistence, bold authenticity, and surrounding yourself with the right kind of people (not necessarily the “big office” kind!).

Inspired by the wonderfully blunt and humorous advice shared by Chloe Chaidez, here’s an unconventional guide to making your mark:

1. Never, Ever Give Up (Seriously, Ever)

This is the golden rule. The music industry is tough, full of ups and downs, and more “nos” than “yesses.” The reel cuts straight to it: “Don’t give up ever, and you’ll make it at some point.” It sounds simple, but unwavering persistence is your superpower. Keep creating, keep pushing, and keep believing in your art.

2. “Grab Your Balls, Swing ‘Em Around!”

Be unapologetically you. This is where the advice gets wonderfully wild and to the point. The speakers in the reel humorously suggest being so authentically, brazenly yourself that some people might even “unfollow you.” The core message here is to embrace your unique identity, take risks, and don’t be afraid to stand out, even if it means some folks don’t get it. New, more aligned fans will come!

3. Don’t Lick Anyone Else’s Balls

Maintain your integrity. Following the previous point, this gem of advice translates to: stay true to your vision and your values. Don’t compromise your art or yourself just to appease others or climb the ladder. Authenticity resonates far more than conformity ever will.

✧ 4. Prioritize Great Friendships ✧

ESPECIALLY WITH OTHER ARTISTS

This is a surprisingly earnest and crucial piece of advice from the reel. Forget chasing connections only in “big offices.” The real magic happens when you build genuine relationships with other artists. They’re your peers, your collaborators, your support system, and your biggest cheerleaders.

“Make friends with other artists. Period.”

These are the lifelong artistic bonds that will sustain you.

5. Don’t Be Bummed If It Doesn’t Happen Right Away

Success rarely happens overnight, and the music industry is a marathon, not a sprint. Go into it with the mindset that it’s “going to be a great lifelong artistic cool friendship.” Embrace the journey, the creative process, and the community you build along the way. The rewards are in the work and the connections, not just the destination.

So, there you have it: an inspiring, slightly cheeky, and very real perspective on how to make it in the music industry. It’s about passion, authenticity, resilience, and surrounding yourself with your fellow artists.

Now go out there and “let them dangle!”


✨ The Five Unconventional Rules ✨

  • 🔁 1. Never give up — ever
  • ⚡ 2. Be brazenly, unfilteredly you
  • 🛡️ 3. Keep your integrity intact
  • 🤝 4. Make friends with other artists
  • 🌱 5. Enjoy the lifelong journey

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