According to a study conducted by Toolroom Academy, 76% of new artists say their music career is financially unsustainable. The report, titled ‘From Mix to Mainstage – The Blueprint for Emerging Electronic Artists’, was created in collaboration with Audience Strategies. The objective of the study was to identify and understand the barriers that emerging artists face and provide actionable strategies for overcoming these challenges, ultimately paving the way for sustainable careers in the industry.
More than 250 ‘new’ artists participated in the survey, while established artists, educators, and industry professionals were interviewed for the report. It investigated personal, professional, and financial barriers, with mental health cited as a key deterrent to success. Struggles with self-confidence and the pressure to succeed were identified as common issues for artists, with 50% of those surveyed found to regularly compare themselves to others.
The report also revealed that 82% of the surveyed artists rely on jobs unrelated to electronic music to support themselves. Of these, 56% work full-time, while 26% work part-time jobs to make ends meet. However, it suggested strategies for growth and success within the music industry.
Key findings focused on an artist’s brand and ability to use social media in an organic and exciting way. The report also emphasized the importance of building up a support network with genuine relationships and participating in competitions. In response to the findings of the report, Toolroom Academy announced the launch of a new 12-month Artist Development Masterclass. The programme has been designed to help artists create a complete business plan while covering topics like music law, basic strategy, and networking.
The report helped Toolroom Academy quantify what it had learned through running its academy, working out that “there is a significant gap between talent and recognition.” The launch of the Artist Development Masterclass is aimed at closing this gap, helping new artists create sustainable careers in the music industry. To view the full report, visit the Toolroom Academy website
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