In a few weeks I'll be 71. You were speaking directly to that very young man still inside me, who at one time, had similar dreams and desires. You really captured those early days of dashing about, stumbling at times, but always pushing to build a road to where you wanted to be. With no regrets, my path ended way too short like so many others, but it's allowed me to understand what you've gone through and what you are accomplishing. You really are the complete package, and I wish you the very best.
Oh, I forgot to mention when you said "your the complete package". My wife was the complete package and my soulmate. But the age difference destroyed it as she just got better looking and father time was catching up with me. But I still have no regrets.
omg the "follow and then unfollow once they follow you back" thing is real! I never knew that's a thing and when it happened to me for the first time, I was utterly confused about it. I thought it was unintentional and had no idea it was sort of a strategy to create the illusion of having followers.
I’m pleased you mentioned the team that has to be paid too! The healthy 100k gross gets whittled away quickly with running costs. My net music earnings are close to 25% - I must tighten up my spending - but I’m keen to try this true fan connection concept.
I loved your fathers' advice! I, too, believe is that philosophy. I think I found a gem of a TH-cam channel. I am a musician as well but a bit on in age, no longer any range in vocals. Started doing music as a means to complete a dream of just recording and putting out music before my big day happens. I wish you all the luck!
I should have contacted A&R like you did but pride got in the way - telling myself "they wouldn't get it", "I'll get criticised" etc. I did get two very small indie label deals which were productive, but I'd have loved to sign with a major. However, they don't even accept unsolicited material anymore.
I had to smile when you said “If you need an answer right now, then the answer is no”. I’ve learned that, too, but I was a lot older than 31 when I did. It does take some self-confidence. And your father sounds like a wise man. I always hated it when mine turned out to be right. Like when he thought I was getting married too young (it lasted 4 years) or when he said the first thing you lose in cycling as you age is your climbing fitness. Damn him! ;-) Cheers!
I find what you do very interesting and very supportive … count me as one of your 1000 true fans. Thank you for all your good work and persistence. By the way, I’m about to turn 75 and still feel as If my journey is about to begin. Happy to discover people like you for inspiration and a common perspective.
no shit, I always thought I was too old with almost 30 to pick up a guitar, a few years ago, found your channel, you inspired me, I bought your beginners course. 2 years later and i hope next week my first ever electric guitar will come. i want to write my own music as well and I am still at the very start of a long journey, but my life goal is to manage to record at least one album before i bite the dust. i dont care if anyone else cares, i just want to to do that.
Kudos for carving your own path. I am a wannabe singer and just turned 67. Wish I'd had your vision and courage. I have been watching you for a few years now and admire you so much. You are are talented and courageous. Onward and upward Mary. Cheers, Mark
I'm a fan, Mary, and want nothing but for you to prevail, do well, and have a good, fun life full of great work. That's enough. It's your work that reaches me, no need for any further personal (ish) relationship.
I'm 37 and I'm the only provider for my family. Decided to start my business as an insurance agent which is a good job but I'm musician and that's what I do best and feel best doing. Even some major pop and jazz stars I played with in my country told me to make my own music as I have talent and personality, I still cannot believe that I can do it. I feel that language barrier is also taking me away from the place I'd like to be. I know the life of musician and it's not the kind of life that gets you to be with your kid and wife. I'm still hoping to change that some day but as time passes I feel that the dream I once was chasing is fading away. I'm really happy for you Mary and keep my fingers crossed for your development, you have great voice, great songs and great ability to connect with the audience both singing and vlogging. Bless!
So good! Thank you Mary. I want my family to see this. My son is a songwriter and artist who just moved to LA. He’s doing well, but as you know the arts are a hard way to make a living. So again thank you. 🔥❤️💯
I appreciate your view, i recently looked for you on spotify and was listening. I found you through TH-cam. I am horrible at music as a craft even after 20 years lol. In a small way, you helped me pick up and start writing stories again! Thanks for being you!
You are an absolute inspiration. I’ve enjoyed playing music all my life and I’m 71, retired and playing and singing in various Praise and Worship bands. I enjoy this and although it lacks in monetary value, the reward is worth every note played and verse sung. I will never give it up.
Well done Mary, very well explained. I admire your determination and persistence to have brought your career to where you are now because it is extremely hard work in the music business. I think you are better off remaining independent so that you keep control of what you do as well as how and when you do it. As long as you continue to enjoy it keep on keeping on.
On a whole separate note on a whole separate craft: I really like the video production here. Dividing different aspects of the video’s script into different locations/ camera setups to add visual contrast and keep engagement is clever and it flows very well. It’s almost akin to a call & response for the storytelling.
thank you for the fresh advice and motivation, Mary. content creators really need to hear things like this. the accessibility of content today means we can express ourselves more naturally than ever, and still make a living.
Mary's channel is an in-depth view of the mind-set it takes to succeed in any artform. I'm 54 and am on the verge of starting a new band. You know, that stage where a couple of people are working on a few songs and someone says; "Drums and a good Bass Line would sound great on this." This 'Rule of 1000 True Fans' makes it all seem possible. Thanks for that, Mary.
You're so genuine, nothing you said here particularly surprised me but I absolutely loved the way you put it, couldn't have possibly said it better. I hope for your continuous prosperity.
Thank you devleloping our online presence as we speak, and building true fan base. Love what you are saying here, glad that I am on the right path!! Playing live each gig we get more follows. Being true to the music and playing covers as if they are originals also helps build a good following, when they can't tell the songs are yours, that's when you know you are getting on. Thanks again!!
Excellent advice and so generous of you to share your story. It's real, honest and down to earth musicians like you, who are the foundation of the music industry these days. I salute you, well done Mary.
Solicitation done right! Mary's story is exactly what Patron was built for. I kind of stumbled into her channel (her review of guitars that have touch screens) and was impressed by her polish and presentation. Being curious I held on to a couple other videos that looked interesting from her channel and this video was one... Even if I'm not a patron, I am interested enough to subscribe to this channel. Thanks for sharing this story!
I’m sure you’ll have a stellar career through music. If you don’t, you’ll still be spending time doing something you love. And you can always earn some money doing voice. Your diction is prefect and very soothing tone.
I have had fans loyal far back as 1970s. In 1983 I started a little record co . No internet . Worked the media . Gigged constantly and am still at it . IT WORKS!
Mary, I came across your video with Leo M., and loved it ! You and Leo have motivated me to take guitar back up after 3 years off (my hands and body were injured badly during a head on collision/car accident), you have a true fan here! Thank you for helping me see some light at the end of the tunnel.... !!!!
Good for you staying true to yourself. I found you because you posted the viola video. I am a church musician (viola, violin and cello) who doesn't aspire to be famous or earn a living playing music. I did play guitar and multiple other instruments in my younger years and was a music teacher for several years before becoming a nurse. I appreciate you sharing your journey to become a professional full-time musician. I hope other young musicians see this and don't compromise their vision for a paycheck. Good luck in the future.😊
Hi Mary, I don't normally make comments...however, I feel this was the most valuable and down to earth business video I have heard you or anyone else has put out concerning the current state of business and music and life in this said profession. The music business if far different than the music industry. Keep up the great work. Thank you...Randee Lee
Mary, I love your determination, independence, and your willingness to share your musical journey with your followers. In my mind, you have already “made it,” major labels notwithstanding. You are the epitome of poise, polish, and class. The problem with the music business is the combination of those two words: music and business. It’s the incompatible mix of art and commerce. You have to stay true to your own musical vision. I can tell from this video that you will ❤️
I have been a fan of yours since seeing you on tge Frog Leap videos. You are a true artist and I love your music! You are truly talented and I look forward to all of your videos.
I'm content right now to have picked up a musical instrument again. Also going through a vocal academy course of instruction. Currently this activity will go a long way to satisfying my bucket list such as it is. Your musical journey is fascinating and if it ever comes to past a valuable insight to continuing my own musical journey 🙂
Hi Mary, I have been a fan for quite some time. When I was in high school, and college too, I had a dream of becoming a singer "in a Rock 'n' Roll band". The life experiences and advice you just shared are invaluable. For me, it came as a bitter pill when I realized, that I simply did not have the talent to do what I wanted. I found an equally rewarding profession. Today I am a foreign language teacher. When one door closes, the Lord will open another for you. 😊
A somewhat inspiring monologue,a clear indication of the love and desire to get better . The future is still a mystery , the journey has started, fortunately the desire is strong , the talent is apparent but most of all the owner of the talent does not need to prove a thing . I’m a believer
You got me with the duet with Josh!!! And the eyebrow lift when you went into the shed to do the 'other' version of Sultans, so cool. Mary, I'm on a fixed income and I have to watch my pennies, so I can't support you financially, but I want you to know that I am still a true fan. We are so lucky to have TH-cam to bring us you, and Josh Turner, and Carson McGee and Allison Young and Foxes and Fossils, et al, you are true entertainers, thank you....
Great advice! Thanks for sharing your experience. In every era there has always been perceived overnight sensations and bubblegum artists...but TH-cam, while hard work, is the perfect platform to earn those true fans who really appreciate your efforts. Your journey is inspiring. Thank you.
thanks for that insight Mary. I'm sure it resonated with many. What a great songwriter and player you are. also thanks to P Rigley for his comment. I'm 61 and still wondering what to do with my music. But now have a few ideas after listening to you Mary.
Very good business plan, especially if you want to maintain your independence. Hard work while being a given, is not a guarantee to get signed. To me, the 1000 true fans is a much better, realistic, and obtainable goal, but you have to be all in. Just my unqualified two cents along with my great appreciation for this and the other videos you have posted Mary.
Building an devoted fanbase will also put you in a much stronger position if you want to partner with a label to raise the bar. Thats kind of a proof of concept seen from the label, meaning you are more likely to be allowed to do things you way. The best example I know showing how powerful a small but devoted fanbase can be, are the upcomming mexican rock trio The Warning. They have put a huge effort into connecting with the people that showed interest for the band and it have really payed off. Like they have been able to release albums, despite being basically teenagers, while saying no thanks to bad offers from labels. Their latest Kickstarter campaign resulted in like $150K ... thats what you can do with a small devoted fanbase. Now they have nearly 2k paying members on Patreon and have also signed with Lava Records.
I could add that Lava was the first of the labels that actually came with an "usable" offer. But the band have told it still took 7 months of negotiations, before they had an agreement they would sign. The people from Lava have in public said that the strong following the band have bulid through social medias, was a main point of them wanting to sign the band. I guess being allowed to keep Patreon by the label, tell a lot about how strong this little band had build their brand on their own. But they have also used way more time connecting with fans that any other band I've ever seen. A nearly daily flow of "backstage" content, QAs and live streaming with fans on basically all the SM platforms out there.
Since I discovered your channel you have inspired me to pick up a guitar again for the first time in 30 years. You're such a genuine person and your progression has been a joy to follow. This was a brilliant grounded video, and one more young people should see, as many get down hearted when they can't reach the heights of the people they follow on social media. It's a shame more successful creatives don't put out stories of their long paths to earning a living at what they love doing. I at 55 am happy to just pick up my guitar and chill out, escaping,once again, into my happy place.
I like you. Your story, the whole idea of the 21st century musician, your unwillingness to sign a crappy contract, your willingness to listen to your father's advice. Yep, I like you. I've subscribed, And I'm going to tell my son about you. He shall wants a career in music but what he wants signed a lot like what you world creek a 21st century musician😊. I only found you when I was looking for the meaning of 1000 true fans, but now I want to learn more about your music. Thank you for the way you presented this information and yourself. Thank you for sharing your story. I would like to support you when I am able. Congratulations on getting where you are. God bless you and your family / team
I was in the Air Force and we had a saying much like your father's; "Early is on time, on time is late and late is unacceptable". We also had "hurry up and wait". I still feel the need to be 15 minutes early for any appointment. LOL
I had a First Sergeant while mobilizing to Iraq, OIF 05-06, that would say; "We wait on them, They don't wait on us." That attitude got us smoothly through the mobilization process. We were so early that when another Company did not show up on time (which happened a lot), we were ushered right in. He would also say; "If you're on time, You're 15 minutes late." I've kept that attitude ever since.
^ ^ Well Mary..I think that you deserve to be a superstar! Its not like you havn t tried hard enough. This video puts people like me to shame . In the 70s we all just assumed that we would be rockstars. Well.. the dream came half true for me and I still love music and play music but its a " sair fecht" as we say in Scotland. You have a beautiful voice ..keep using it! Foxy love fae Scotland VVxx
I want to be one of your true 1,000 fans. But all my computers and technology equipment were stolen. But I have money and want your albums. Great advice. You help people with every video and bring great pleasure with all your musical videos.
Great video and excellent points. I've been doing this for the last 3 and a half years myself. It takes time, effort, and probably some kind of x-factor that we are not necessarily in control of, but it is gratifying to feel you touch individual people's lives and make a difference. You could never get that with a major label deal :)
In a few weeks I'll be 71. You were speaking directly to that very young man still inside me, who at one time, had similar dreams and desires. You really captured those early days of dashing about, stumbling at times, but always pushing to build a road to where you wanted to be. With no regrets, my path ended way too short like so many others, but it's allowed me to understand what you've gone through and what you are accomplishing. You really are the complete package, and I wish you the very best.
Im 73 today and I agree ☝️
Amen
I'm 62 and a muso in my younger years. Mary really speaks to our generation.
And I'm 68 and your comment is spot on!!
Oh, I forgot to mention when you said "your the complete package". My wife was the complete package and my soulmate. But the age difference destroyed it as she just got better looking and father time was catching up with me. But I still have no regrets.
omg the "follow and then unfollow once they follow you back" thing is real! I never knew that's a thing and when it happened to me for the first time, I was utterly confused about it. I thought it was unintentional and had no idea it was sort of a strategy to create the illusion of having followers.
I’m pleased you mentioned the team that has to be paid too!
The healthy 100k gross gets whittled away quickly with running costs.
My net music earnings are close to 25% - I must tighten up my spending - but I’m keen to try this true fan connection concept.
A very mature, patient and sensible approach. Well done young lady.
I loved your fathers' advice! I, too, believe is that philosophy. I think I found a gem of a TH-cam channel. I am a musician as well but a bit on in age, no longer any range in vocals. Started doing music as a means to complete a dream of just recording and putting out music before my big day happens. I wish you all the luck!
I should have contacted A&R like you did but pride got in the way - telling myself "they wouldn't get it", "I'll get criticised" etc. I did get two very small indie label deals which were productive, but I'd have loved to sign with a major. However, they don't even accept unsolicited material anymore.
Great advice. You’ve come a long way from the days of broken camcorders and MySpace pages. Rock on girl, you’ve totally earned it 🤘
As a fellow independent artist I must say you are a true inspiration, thank you for this advice.
I had to smile when you said “If you need an answer right now, then the answer is no”. I’ve learned that, too, but I was a lot older than 31 when I did. It does take some self-confidence. And your father sounds like a wise man. I always hated it when mine turned out to be right. Like when he thought I was getting married too young (it lasted 4 years) or when he said the first thing you lose in cycling as you age is your climbing fitness. Damn him! ;-) Cheers!
This has really given me a sense of calm about capturing a true audience. And embodying 'authentic' too. Tough but worth it.
Such a great treatment of the concept of "1000 True Fans"! Very well done!
I find what you do very interesting and very supportive … count me as one of your 1000 true fans. Thank you for all your good work and persistence. By the way, I’m about to turn 75 and still feel as If my journey is about to begin. Happy to discover people like you for inspiration and a common perspective.
no shit, I always thought I was too old with almost 30 to pick up a guitar, a few years ago, found your channel, you inspired me, I bought your beginners course. 2 years later and i hope next week my first ever electric guitar will come. i want to write my own music as well and I am still at the very start of a long journey, but my life goal is to manage to record at least one album before i bite the dust. i dont care if anyone else cares, i just want to to do that.
You got this man
Great advice-especially for the nascent TH-camr trying to stay afloat. Thank you 🙏🏽
Kudos for carving your own path. I am a wannabe singer and just turned 67. Wish I'd had your vision and courage. I have been watching you for a few years now and admire you so much. You are are talented and courageous. Onward and upward Mary. Cheers, Mark
I'm a fan, Mary, and want nothing but for you to prevail, do well, and have a good, fun life full of great work. That's enough. It's your work that reaches me, no need for any further personal (ish) relationship.
Mary Spender, you are amazing and a go-getter! My hat is off to you! I am glad Rick Beato gave you a plug!
I'm 37 and I'm the only provider for my family. Decided to start my business as an insurance agent which is a good job but I'm musician and that's what I do best and feel best doing. Even some major pop and jazz stars I played with in my country told me to make my own music as I have talent and personality, I still cannot believe that I can do it. I feel that language barrier is also taking me away from the place I'd like to be. I know the life of musician and it's not the kind of life that gets you to be with your kid and wife. I'm still hoping to change that some day but as time passes I feel that the dream I once was chasing is fading away. I'm really happy for you Mary and keep my fingers crossed for your development, you have great voice, great songs and great ability to connect with the audience both singing and vlogging. Bless!
♥️♥️♥️♥️
Thank you for sharing and caring Mary ♥️
So good! Thank you Mary. I want my family to see this. My son is a songwriter and artist who just moved to LA. He’s doing well, but as you know the arts are a hard way to make a living. So again thank you. 🔥❤️💯
Great content. If you come to Los Angeles I’ll gladly go see your show. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Outstanding, just outstanding. Go you.
What a terrific gal you are and a talent. All good things and good fortune to you!
Thanks Mary. Very believable! Blessings to you!
I appreciate your view, i recently looked for you on spotify and was listening. I found you through TH-cam. I am horrible at music as a craft even after 20 years lol. In a small way, you helped me pick up and start writing stories again! Thanks for being you!
You have worked hard and put in the time. You have earned your success. Thanks.
Wow, this is the best advice ever! Found your channel through your Sultans of Swing duo (awesome!!!), but love the TH-cam advice. Thank you.
you have had quite a journey, congratulations on how far you have come
Sounds like you had a great father. Great advice!
Mary: You are just fabulous! In every way!
You are an absolute inspiration. I’ve enjoyed playing music all my life and I’m 71, retired and playing and singing in various Praise and Worship bands. I enjoy this and although it lacks in monetary value, the reward is worth every note played and verse sung. I will never give it up.
Good for you, good advice, thank you!
Thank Mary, for this video.
Well done Mary, very well explained. I admire your determination and persistence to have brought your career to where you are now because it is extremely hard work in the music business. I think you are better off remaining independent so that you keep control of what you do as well as how and when you do it. As long as you continue to enjoy it keep on keeping on.
On a whole separate note on a whole separate craft:
I really like the video production here. Dividing different aspects of the video’s script into different locations/ camera setups to add visual contrast and keep engagement is clever and it flows very well.
It’s almost akin to a call & response for the storytelling.
Your dad gave great advice. You not only took it but it maybe helped you with strong convictions and an amazing attitude.
.👏👏👏👏👏
Brilliant video with a brilliant message . Knocked it out of the park again, Mary.
I love your dad's advice, thanks for sharing 🙏🏾
one thousand true fans, thank you, Mary
Thanks Mary, this was very good !!!
thank you for the fresh advice and motivation, Mary. content creators really need to hear things like this. the accessibility of content today means we can express ourselves more naturally than ever, and still make a living.
A truly fantastic post. Heartfelt and informative.
Thank You! Mary
"There's no fun doing this alone..." damn... that one hit me. I really share those same sentiments, but am currently, doing it alone
This is 🔥🔥 Mary. You work hard and take care of your fans. Good on you for wanting to be a blueprint for others to follow 👏👏👏
Inspirational, thank you.
Absolutely spot on for any art form anyone wishes to pursue! I'm glad I supscribed to Mary's channel!
Thank you for this! More of the world needs to hear this for any career they may be choosing. Especially anything in the creative industry.
You´re the best Mary! Thank you for sharing
Thank you for sharing! Fantastic advice and could be applied to other areas as well. Thank you!
Mary's channel is an in-depth view of the mind-set it takes to succeed in any artform.
I'm 54 and am on the verge of starting a new band. You know, that stage where a couple of people are working on a few songs and someone says; "Drums and a good Bass Line would sound great on this."
This 'Rule of 1000 True Fans' makes it all seem possible. Thanks for that, Mary.
Wow.. She's honest, humble and frank. Thank u for the insights.
You're so genuine, nothing you said here particularly surprised me but I absolutely loved the way you put it, couldn't have possibly said it better. I hope for your continuous prosperity.
This is bloody brilliant.
Thank you devleloping our online presence as we speak, and building true fan base. Love what you are saying here, glad that I am on the right path!! Playing live each gig we get more follows. Being true to the music and playing covers as if they are originals also helps build a good following, when they can't tell the songs are yours, that's when you know you are getting on. Thanks again!!
Wish you the best my Girl, you deserve it 👏 ❤
Go Mary! Go Mary! great video, very inspiring, have a lovely day, all the best.
Really useful info Mary. I'm at the beginning of the same journey and excited to attempt to find my 1000 true fans. Thanks for sharing!
Excellent advice and so generous of you to share your story. It's real, honest and down to earth musicians like you, who are the foundation of the music industry these days. I salute you, well done Mary.
Solicitation done right!
Mary's story is exactly what Patron was built for.
I kind of stumbled into her channel (her review of guitars that have touch screens) and was impressed by her polish and presentation. Being curious I held on to a couple other videos that looked interesting from her channel and this video was one...
Even if I'm not a patron, I am interested enough to subscribe to this channel.
Thanks for sharing this story!
I normally don’t write comments but this was an amazing video that compelled me to say Thank you Mary. Great advice all around.
This is timely and absolutely what I needed to hear right now, its not always easy at the beginning but we grow along the line. Thanks 😍
I’m sure you’ll have a stellar career through music. If you don’t, you’ll still be spending time doing something you love. And you can always earn some money doing voice. Your diction is prefect and very soothing tone.
Very interesting video! I appreciate the honesty in your story.
I have had fans loyal far back as 1970s. In 1983 I started a little record co . No internet . Worked the media . Gigged constantly and am still at it . IT WORKS!
You are awesome 🤘🏻
Mary, I came across your video with Leo M., and loved it ! You and Leo have motivated me to take guitar back up after 3 years off (my hands and body were injured badly during a head on collision/car accident), you have a true fan here! Thank you for helping me see some light at the end of the tunnel.... !!!!
Good for you staying true to yourself. I found you because you posted the viola video. I am a church musician (viola, violin and cello) who doesn't aspire to be famous or earn a living playing music. I did play guitar and multiple other instruments in my younger years and was a music teacher for several years before becoming a nurse. I appreciate you sharing your journey to become a professional full-time musician. I hope other young musicians see this and don't compromise their vision for a paycheck. Good luck in the future.😊
Hi Mary, I don't normally make comments...however, I feel this was the most valuable and down to earth business video
I have heard you or anyone else has put out concerning the current state of business and music and life in this said profession. The music business if far different than the music industry. Keep up the great work. Thank you...Randee Lee
Fantastic story Mary, and well told. Your channel is really impressive--subscribed.
Mary, I love your determination, independence, and your willingness to share your musical journey with your followers. In my mind, you have already “made it,” major labels notwithstanding. You are the epitome of poise, polish, and class. The problem with the music business is the combination of those two words: music and business. It’s the incompatible mix of art and commerce. You have to stay true to your own musical vision. I can tell from this video that you will ❤️
I have been a fan of yours since seeing you on tge Frog Leap videos. You are a true artist and I love your music! You are truly talented and I look forward to all of your videos.
Excellent advice!!!
I'm content right now to have picked up a musical instrument again. Also going through a vocal academy course of instruction. Currently this activity will go a long way to satisfying my bucket list such as it is. Your musical journey is fascinating and if it ever comes to past a valuable insight to continuing my own musical journey 🙂
U make me feel less lonely. Your approach, demeanor, values and principles are alot like mine 🙂
Hi Mary,
I have been a fan for quite some time. When I was in high school, and college too, I had a dream of becoming a singer "in a Rock 'n' Roll band". The life experiences and advice you just shared are invaluable. For me, it came as a bitter pill when I realized, that I simply did not have the talent to do what I wanted. I found an equally rewarding profession. Today I am a foreign language teacher. When one door closes, the Lord will open another for you. 😊
I sense a depth in you that reaches deeply into the hearts of people and gives them courage to try.
A somewhat inspiring monologue,a clear indication of the love and desire to get better .
The future is still a mystery , the journey has started, fortunately the desire is strong , the talent is apparent but most of all the owner of the talent does not need to prove a thing . I’m a believer
You got me with the duet with Josh!!! And the eyebrow lift when you went into the shed to do the 'other' version of Sultans, so cool.
Mary, I'm on a fixed income and I have to watch my pennies, so I can't support you financially, but I want you to know that I am still a true fan. We are so lucky to have TH-cam to bring us you, and Josh Turner, and Carson McGee and Allison Young and Foxes and Fossils, et al, you are true entertainers, thank you....
Great advice! Thanks for sharing your experience. In every era there has always been perceived overnight sensations and bubblegum artists...but TH-cam, while hard work, is the perfect platform to earn those true fans who really appreciate your efforts. Your journey is inspiring. Thank you.
Superb as always 👌
Thank you for the inspiring words!
thanks for that insight Mary. I'm sure it resonated with many. What a great songwriter and player you are. also thanks to P Rigley for his comment. I'm 61 and still wondering what to do with my music. But now have a few ideas after listening to you Mary.
Very good business plan, especially if you want to maintain your independence. Hard work while being a given, is not a guarantee to get signed. To me, the 1000 true fans is a much better, realistic, and obtainable goal, but you have to be all in. Just my unqualified two cents along with my great appreciation for this and the other videos you have posted Mary.
thank u so much 4 the inspiration!!
True wisdom and insight! Thank you Mary.
Building an devoted fanbase will also put you in a much stronger position if you want to partner with a label to raise the bar. Thats kind of a proof of concept seen from the label, meaning you are more likely to be allowed to do things you way.
The best example I know showing how powerful a small but devoted fanbase can be, are the upcomming mexican rock trio The Warning. They have put a huge effort into connecting with the people that showed interest for the band and it have really payed off. Like they have been able to release albums, despite being basically teenagers, while saying no thanks to bad offers from labels. Their latest Kickstarter campaign resulted in like $150K ... thats what you can do with a small devoted fanbase. Now they have nearly 2k paying members on Patreon and have also signed with Lava Records.
I could add that Lava was the first of the labels that actually came with an "usable" offer. But the band have told it still took 7 months of negotiations, before they had an agreement they would sign. The people from Lava have in public said that the strong following the band have bulid through social medias, was a main point of them wanting to sign the band. I guess being allowed to keep Patreon by the label, tell a lot about how strong this little band had build their brand on their own. But they have also used way more time connecting with fans that any other band I've ever seen. A nearly daily flow of "backstage" content, QAs and live streaming with fans on basically all the SM platforms out there.
Beautifully done Mary thank you, a real inspiration you are!
Walking away from pressure is such a great piece of advice.
So so so inspiring, thank you Mary!
Since I discovered your channel you have inspired me to pick up a guitar again for the first time in 30 years. You're such a genuine person and your progression has been a joy to follow. This was a brilliant grounded video, and one more young people should see, as many get down hearted when they can't reach the heights of the people they follow on social media. It's a shame more successful creatives don't put out stories of their long paths to earning a living at what they love doing. I at 55 am happy to just pick up my guitar and chill out, escaping,once again, into my happy place.
I'm a fan of yours Mary , i just need to Purchase some of your Music, thanks for Tuesday Talk
I like you. Your story, the whole idea of the 21st century musician, your unwillingness to sign a crappy contract, your willingness to listen to your father's advice. Yep, I like you. I've subscribed, And I'm going to tell my son about you. He shall wants a career in music but what he wants signed a lot like what you world creek a 21st century musician😊. I only found you when I was looking for the meaning of 1000 true fans, but now I want to learn more about your music. Thank you for the way you presented this information and yourself. Thank you for sharing your story. I would like to support you when I am able. Congratulations on getting where you are. God bless you and your family / team
Ur so wise at ur age keep going ur music is amazing
I was in the Air Force and we had a saying much like your father's; "Early is on time, on time is late and late is unacceptable". We also had "hurry up and wait". I still feel the need to be 15 minutes early for any appointment. LOL
My father was a 20 year USAF NCO…
I had a First Sergeant while mobilizing to Iraq, OIF 05-06, that would say; "We wait on them, They don't wait on us." That attitude got us smoothly through the mobilization process. We were so early that when another Company did not show up on time (which happened a lot), we were ushered right in.
He would also say; "If you're on time, You're 15 minutes late." I've kept that attitude ever since.
^ ^ Well Mary..I think that you deserve to be a superstar! Its not like you havn t tried hard enough. This video puts people like me to shame . In the 70s we all just assumed that we would be rockstars. Well.. the dream came half true for me and I still love music and play music but its a " sair fecht" as we say in Scotland. You have a beautiful voice ..keep using it! Foxy love fae Scotland VVxx
Your Awesome,, Cleveland Ohio here 👍👍
I want to be one of your true 1,000 fans. But all my computers and technology equipment were stolen. But I have money and want your albums. Great advice. You help people with every video and bring great pleasure with all your musical videos.
Great video and excellent points.
I've been doing this for the last 3 and a half years myself. It takes time, effort, and probably some kind of x-factor that we are not necessarily in control of, but it is gratifying to feel you touch individual people's lives and make a difference.
You could never get that with a major label deal :)
this video feels so warm