In my experience in today’s music business, I often come across artists/producers who want something for nothing! I think the hustle mentality has fallen off. I’m talking about a true hustle… one that requires investment, time and creativity (another blog’s brewing on this one). The internet has opened up a ton of opportunities which has also made it easy to boldly beg ask for what you want in exchange for everything other than money. There’s often a promise associated with a ‘this or that’ which is usually a potential pay-you-later effort. I’ve heard it so much…it’s lame noize!

If we all have businesses and we all give away our services, who gets paid? Oh wait! I know one that does…That person who got the track for free, bootlegged the software, recorded it amateurishly on that same bootleg software, performed a couple free shows, made a lil’ noise, sold the joint on the streets and stacked a lil change.

If you’re in business to make money, you also have to be prepared to spend money! When you cut corners, you always end up back to the drawing board. I’ve personally had people get antsy at me for charging them, as if I owed them something. As I randomly provide free services as any business would relative to promotions – it’s not my standard of operations to provide free services to every mo-joe that comes along. The lights would get shut off… therefore I can’t operate this equipment and out of business. Now let’s keep in mind, I’m not talking about professional affiliations and collaborations. These entities are often organized with proven results. This is networking! There’s a big difference between expecting a hand-out and receiving a helping hand.

Those that are charging cheap ridiculous prices for your services; changing this could also change this gimme evolution. Price your work for what it is worth – you are the service provider. You know you’ve got skills… right? Over-the-top cheap pricing reflects your worth. Stand behind your product and find your market that will pay! I can’t tell you how to run your business…but if you are serious about engaging in this music business… you must develop worthy standards!

About the Contributor Lady Tha ProducHer is an entrepreneur who loves people, plays piano, produces music in her production studio, loves to write, and does graphic and web design. Visit her Official Website at www.ladythaproducher.com