Today, I want to share a thought on a secret practice that many successful musicians engage in: it’s the ability to create songs that are smart, innovative, catchy, and, on top of that, “good for business.”

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Great Work, No Pay?

For many artists, at least subconsciously, there’s a belief that music and art shouldn’t be created with the intent to generate profits. This mindset, influenced by cultural and environmental factors, has evolved into the idea that the fewer profits involved in your work, the purer your music or performance. This way of thinking has distorted how artists perceive their own value. It’s also shaped how the public differentiates “real” artists from “sellouts.”

Terms like “sellout,” “product,” or “formulaic” are often attached to artists seen as profit-driven, and these labels carry a lot of shame. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

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Developing Music That Opens Doors – A Skill We All Need

In my view, it’s always a good idea to adapt, edit, and reimagine your work to create music that can potentially open new business opportunities. Knowing how much you’re willing to “sacrifice” to advance your music career or business is a conversation that, in my experience, musicians often avoid. Take this for example:

“Why don’t we just speed up the song’s BPM a little bit, since the song is about dancing and feeling alive?“

This is a typical suggestion from music producers like me, aimed at elevating a song. But often, the response is “NO,” because that’s not how the song was “originally imagined.” When this happens, many producers think to themselves, “Well, the DJ’s won’t play it,” and we carry on, wishing the artist would be more open to suggestions. Operating in that space of slight uncertainty and detachment from what you think your art should be is often where growth and development happen. I understand it’s a difficult task, one that requires maturity, but it’s a skill all musicians need to develop.

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SOLUTION 1: Ask the Right Questions

I want to propose something new—a tip I often share with people seeking my mentorship:

Start making creative decisions based on questions that align with your big goals.

These goals can vary: getting a sync deal, collaborating with a particular artist, being commissioned to create a movie soundtrack, or performing at your dream event. When creating a new song, ask yourself questions that keep you focused and moving toward your goal—something rare among up-and-coming artists launching their careers.

EXAMPLES:

• What am I adding to my music that could open opportunities in the gaming industry?
• Which type of movie scene could this song beautifully match with?
• Which location, country or city needs to hear this song urgently (could be a market)
• Should I care about BPM’s that DJ’s, movie producers like, for this project?
• Which age group do I want to reach through this song? Am I speaking their language?

The goal isn’t to become overly strategic; it’s to see how your music can become more than just a song. Aim to create music that acts as a bridge, taking you closer to a defined goal in a focused, intentional way.

Here’s a simple example: if a scandal breaks on the internet, and you’re suddenly inspired to impulsively write a song about it—STOP! Ask yourself: Do I need this? Does this idea represent me? Will this take me one step closer to my big business goal? If yes, go ahead.

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Solution 2: Create Music for Others – The Best Way to Open Doors

A trendy belief these days is to never write or create music with the audience in mind. When I hear this, I ask: “Well, if that’s the case, why publish your music for them to hear? Why do we mix songs for the human ear? Why hire beatmakers or sing beautifully? Your album could just be grunting and farting if you don’t care, right?”

I remind artists that music is a form of beauty and goodness that people want to incorporate into their daily lives. It’s a service that musicians provide, to people. Music serves a function in society and culture; it’s a vital part of group rituals in every group you can think of.

Proudly create music for others, and you’ll be amazed at how many doors open for you.

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Summing up

To conclude, I want to encourage all musicians: Don’t let shame get in the way. Be a proud entrepreneur, artist, and scientist. Write music for people to enjoy.

Look at your hook and ask if it could promote a restaurant chain. Listen to your instrumental and consider whether it could work for a workout playlist. No matter how unique or different your music is, there’s a place for it in people’s hearts and in the marketplace. They’re the ones who will support your growth.

Give it a try!