10 Lessons Learned from a Decade in the Music Industry
I first started working in a small music venue back in 2014 when I was still in high school. After studying audio engineering, I gained experience working in multiple studios, including an incredible six-year stint at Studios 301. Eventually, I branched out to run my independent studio. My work in the industry was recognised when I was nominated for Mastering Engineer of the Year at the MPEG Music Awards this year. Reflecting on my decade in the industry I’ve collated 10 key lessons I've learnt.
The first photo taken of me in a recording studio
Rejection Isn't Personal
Facing rejection from an artist can be tough in the early days of your career, but it’s important to remember that it's not a reflection of your abilities. Each artist has their creative style, and sometimes your style might not align with theirs when working collaboratively on a project. Accept early rejections as an opportunity to grow and lean into your craft, not a personal failure. Develop your creative niche, and the artists who resonate will gravitate towards it.
Mentoring Won't Cost You Your Spot in the Industry
Sharing your knowledge and experience with newcomers doesn't mean they will take your place. Mentoring can strengthen your position in the industry by building a supportive network and fostering mutual respect. Many professionals guard their spot in the industry, fearing younger professionals will take their place. However, supporting and mentoring others is crucial for growth. By helping others succeed, you contribute to the overall vitality of the music community. Without the mentoring I received at the start of my career, I doubt I would be half the engineer I am today.
Just Because It's Technically Right Doesn't Mean It Sounds Good
The ultimate goal is to create music that resonates with listeners. Sometimes, the best-sounding tracks bend the rules or embrace imperfections. It took me a few years to push boundaries in mixing and mastering. Initially, I stuck to what I was told, but it wasn't until I started pushing boundaries that my work truly improved.
A few years ago I read Here, There and Everywhere: My Life Recording the Music of the Beatles by Geoff Emerick. Emerick introduced groundbreaking methods that forever changed the landscape of recording technology and studio production. His willingness to break the rules to achieve new sounds will forever be a big inspiration in my work.
Establish Boundaries and Prioritise Your Safety
It's crucial to establish your boundaries early in your career and learn to speak up when you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Knowing your limits and standing firm on them is important for maintaining your mental health and passion for your career. I've stayed in situations that made me feel unsafe, purely for the sake of credits or work experience. In hindsight, it wasn't worth it. My career would have thrived just the same if I had prioritised my well-being over chasing credits.
The More You Grow, the More You Learn
As you advance in your career, you'll realise there's always more to learn. Embrace the mindset of continuous growth and remain open to new ideas and techniques (trust me, I know AI is scary, but give it a chance). This attitude will keep you adaptable and innovative, allowing you to stay relevant in a constantly evolving industry. Each year, I try to learn a new area to continue adding to my expertise, last year it was singing, and this year it’s guitar. Who knows what 2025 will bring…
Charge What You're Worth
For years, I charged far less than my worth, feeling the need to charge less because I was young, female, and eager to attract clients. Charging what you're worth reflects your confidence in your craft and business. It encourages artists to pay the true value of your services. Perhaps conduct a cost analysis of running your freelancing business and the overheads you may have. Consider your experience and qualifications to make an accurate assessment of your market value, and set your rates accordingly.
Interpersonal Skills Often Outshine Technical Skills
While technical proficiency is important, interpersonal skills are crucial to your ongoing success. The best ongoing relationships I have with artists are not only due to my technical skills but also because I foster a safe and comfortable environment where artistic vulnerability can be expressed freely. Being the best mix engineer, but a difficult person to work with will not support your success, the industry in Australia is small and word gets around fast if you are problematic.
Gender Inequality Still Prevails
Gender inequality remains a challenge in the music industry. You may need to work harder to achieve the same recognition as your male counterparts. Recognising these barriers early on and establishing a supportive community can help you push through and eventually break the glass ceiling. I've often worked twice as hard to get half as far as my peers. It can be disappointing at times, however, my saving grace has been the powerful women I’ve surrounded myself with in the industry. Their support and leadership encourages me to push forward daily.
Mental Health Over Portfolio: Take Care of Yourself
Your mental health is more important than any accolade or portfolio piece. Prioritise self-care and seek help when you feel it’s needed. Seeing a psychologist once a year is akin to an annual GP check-up. This industry is tough, with high rates of poor mental health. Organisations such as Support Act and Black Dog Institute are excellent. A healthy mind allows you to perform better, maintain creativity, and sustain a long, fulfilling career.
Have an Escape: Balance Life Beyond Music
Having interests and connections outside the music industry is essential for maintaining a balanced life. Whether it’s a different job, hobbies, or friendships unrelated to music, these aspects can provide much-needed respite and perspective. The music industry can be claustrophobic. Taking extended breaks and spending time out of the Industry has reignited my passion for my craft. If you can't take a full break, dial back your efforts and focus only on your work. Assess how much of your week you should spend participating in other areas of your life, recognising that music is work and you can't pour your entire heart and soul into it 24/7.
