Same but 47. My backing band members range in age from 23-26. They don’t care about my age. My highest listener by age demographic on spotify is a tie between 23-27 and 27-34. If you go looking for excuses to not be where you want to be, you will find them.
No excuses. I'm chomping at the bit, lol. I found when we were looking for drummers last summer, this one guy who was 33 balked at our ages (40, 47, 48, 49).
He basically said we're too fucking old. Why? Because he still wanted to party like a teenager.
You run into morons like that every so often locally.
On top of that he lives in a trailer becuase he wants to be ready to tour. We dodged a huge bullet with him.
He was shitfaced before we met up and continued to be get more shit faced during our meeting. Dude even forgot I was a band member and thought I was a wife just tagging along.
I wanted to punch him out. But I digress. You don't want that kind of person in a band.
yeah, being good at music means not "partying"
I do not even touch alcohol on the day of (and often day before) a show. My routine is physical activity, meditation session, light food and lots of water. I'm there to work, and perform. I was an athlete before. And I'm a medical professional now. This is work, even if were having fun. You don't show up to work shitfaced. That's just juvenile. When I get on stage I'm there to perform and be as good as I can possibly be, especially because people paid to see me. And after the show I'm there to talk to people who want to talk to me and entertain them that way too. I'm there for my bandmates, and them, our fans and audience. not me. And I love every freaking second of it.
Check out the video of Matt Heafy's AM routine on tour. It's inspiring on how to do this right.
I’m about to be 33 this May and I can tell you 100% that I had to stop acting like that. Musics about the passion, not about the partying, getting wasted etc. I’m giving that bs up for good and getting back to music for the love of it. And age doesn’t matter at all. It’s about the talent! If you got that the sky’s the limit
I gave up alcohol before i got more serious about this hobby/passion and I can tell you, I get way more opportunities because I did that and don't miss those days, ever.
Also 33. people increasingly want to go out without drinking. It's a thing rn.
Oh yeah that dude is a hack. I say that about excuses because that’s what I did for too long. When I put them aside I realized they were made up things to “protect” myself. There are lots of things I wish I could make happen. But all I know I can do is write & release music and play shows. So I base my success on that. And I’m having an effing blast doing it!! I certainly feel younger because I do it. Thanks for posting! Keep it up
I think of bands like this all the time. You need a few folks to be the responsible adult and keep it all in line, and it really helps set the tone that you're serious and everyone benefits from a little maturity. We treat each other with a ton of respect in my band and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Never forget, probably the most famous example of someone getting a late start was Susan Boyle. Her singing career got launched at 47 so although rare, it does happen. Good luck!
Bro this gives me so much life. I’m 38 and gave up playing a decade ago. Last year I picked it up again and am writing new songs and I have the bug, but have been worried that it’s all pointless because I’m too old or something. Doesn’t stop me, but hearing stuff like this makes me think it’s not too late to least have some fun on stage.
Congrats, that's awesome!! And I definitely hear you there. I got back into guitar and skateboarding in the past year and both are making me feel 10 years younger (except when I fall off the skateboard).
Hey thanks for that! I'm female, just turned 70 & have been playing & singing old stuff I learned years ago on my guitar.. (About 10 yrs. ago I started taking Blues Bass Guitar lessons for about 6 1/2 yrs. [until Covid happened & shut everything down]. I'd been playing Blues Bass in some Jam sessions downtown w/the Blues school's school band). I'd like to play music again in some kind of venue but I'm sort of shy (I think I'm actually just 'scared' of putting myself "out there". But I'm not scared about being onstage in certain venues. Maybe I'm just scared to take the next step in my musical evolution...
I’m 39 dude and I just finally found that “right group of friends” this past year. We’re not huge or anything, but we’re making strides better than I ever did when I was younger. We have families, but we also have resources like we never had before either. All of our skills are honed too, so we can actually focus on other aspects of the music. Only ever as old as you let yourself be
That’s awesome dude, I feel like I’m hitting that point where I need to start pulling in other musicians but am hesitant due to my time constraints - 3 kids, full time job, etc, so I’m just writing and recording demos right now, but I’m having so much fun with what is coming out
Bro, I get it. I have a career, one kid/wife,79yr old pops I take care of, and small extended family. My drummer and guitarist both have 2 kids each, bassist has one, and my other guitarist is the only one without a kid, but we all have jobs, families, etc. Don’t give it up though man! Ever feel like sharing those demos, hit me up! I’m the vocalist in my band (cleans/screams), but I play guitar, bass, drums, and other instruments. I’d love to hear what you’ve got going on
38 and about to hit 39 in a few weeks. I started playing guitar at 28 and finally joined a group as a bass player last year. This post speaks to me very much as the dudes in my band are around my age, though I'm the only one with kids. I gigged for the first time last year (and played 2 more) and have more lined up. Local stuff, but its a blast and we're even about to get a record out because we have the resources like you mentioned.
All I’ve got to say is take those demos, polish them up and release them. It’ll sell if you promote them right. And don’t worry, as you release stuff, the quality will improve as you get more experience.
ummm most of them I had from before the decade-long hiatus to be honest...but I've met a lot of new people in the music world while out playing shows since being back at it. I didn't actually start completely over, it just feels that way sometimes....before the hiatus I was touring the country a few times a year while simultaneously running a small indie label all for like 7-8 years...
Oh, I'm in my 40s and still trying to figure out how to find bandmates to play/tour with like I was in my 20s. Always wanted to start a label but how do you do that when you can't even find other musicians to work with and have to do literally everything by youself?
I can't even start over as that would imply I had something other than a false start with this 25-30 years ago.
This stuff is impossible, you are so lucky.
I was able to do that to an extent when I was young, but I have crippling anxiety and the music scene wasre I was at so toxic I never made it far. Then i started moving to other places seeking opportunity, but now I don't know anyone and I'm too poor to live anywhere with musicians or shows, or even leave my house.
I really wish this whole thing could have worked out for me. Shit, I wish ANYTHING would have worked ot for me. Sorry, things are really rough lately I need to just shut up.
Oh that's what I did, I decided in about 1995 that if I can't find people to play with I'll just try to be like Trent Reznor and do it all myself. Except its now almost 30 years and 5 cities later I still can't figure out how to meet other musicians. People don't like me because I'm weird/autistic and the decades of rejection has made me too anxious/shy to keep trying. I'll likely never play in a band or with other musicians again, it sucks but oh well. I keep grinding anyway because i have nothing else to do with myself.
What about just finding one more person and having a two man band? Less pressure than finding 3-4 others. Once you have a partner they can hopefully handle the social networking stuff. Try putting up flyers at colleges and record stores.
Have you looked on Craigslist? I have heard of a few people getting bands from there or posting an ad that you're looking for people to play with. Then again I live in a city full of musicians.
It's not impossible and luck has little to do with it. It's all in the attitude and outlook. If you feel it's impossible it will be. If you think that you'll never find other musicians who share your taste and drive them you won't ever find them. But if you are steadfast in your resolve and believe in yourself so will others. They'll be drawn to you and vice versa.
So write your song, play it over and over til it becomes as much a part of you as it was when you wrote it. There's a reason you feel compelled to write, to play, to let the world hear what you have to say. It's your language, it's who you are and how your true self communicates it's message. It truly is the universal language so speak the word!!!
its a shame reddit doesnt have that money reward thing anymore..
You realize posts like this have the power to inspire hundreds, but listen.. to those of us who are already inspired and older , it pushes me MORE MORE...
Whoever you are internet stranger know this, ive been listening to Arnold Schwarzenegger speaches all day long to push for the last REP OR SET... but its posts like this that actually commit me to act.
The times sure are different, but not nearly as hopeless as some would make it to be, wouldn't you say?
55 and in between gigs but feeling good about my prospects. I just got an offer to join a local band yesterday. I may take it.
Same here 48 just put out my 3rd EP in a year. Hadn’t produced anything in over a decade. Figure I’m gonna be 50 anyway, might as well be 50 with some more music memorialized.
Thank you. I’m 30 and have been struggling with mental health for the last decade. It’s really put a hiatus on my dream. I finally got some help from a doctor recently, got some new found motivation and released my first song a couple weeks ago! Sometimes it’s hard for me to realize that 30 is still pretty young
Death Grips started in their 30s and theor demographic early on was 16-25 year olds. No one really cares about age anymore if the music is interesting. Honestly don’t worry about it and do what you love.
All the nostalgia bands having touring success are “old AF” by former outdated standards, and you’ll def find 18 year olds at any MBV show (who don’t care they’re seeing aging Gen X’rs)
I think many elder millenials are getting late starts in music too due to everything they’ve been thru (economically etc). Unless you come from a rich fam, saving up for studio/music equipment takes a very long time, especially if you’re working another gig to survive rent, medical insurance (USA), etc.
The people I’ve known that have “made it” or whatever in music in their 20s ALL had rich parents who bought all their gear and connections, paid their bills, and lined up publishing deals. Saves a decade of struggle for sure!
Edit: typo: 30s
Typo. Saw the “reformed” DG again in 2023 and they still got it. It’s so cool to still see 18 year olds and the 40s/50s crowd are still going insane at their shows.
Yep. Slowdive is much bigger now that there were the first time around, and the play to just as young of a crowd. Your examples of Deathgrips and MBV reminded me. GBV, too. Robert Pollard is in his mid 60’s and wasn’t on anyone’s radar until he was well into his mid 30’s.
I still think you need to be somewhat young and attractive for some genres, but definitely not all. And the younger generations seem to be way less concerned with the age of the musicians they like, provided they’re making interesting music, as you said.
I’m very much not famous and didn’t really get a proper home studio together until I was 26. Recently turned 30, nowhere close to where I want to be despite releasing music weekly for the past 16 weeks.
Most\* musicians don't make a "living" making music. Most painters don't make a living painting. Music is weird because, like pop culture, it worships youth and "newness".
Make your art. If it connects and you get lucky, great. If not, then at least you have the art.
American society generally means “original recording artist” when they say “musician.” The reality is that most people who make a living with music skills are teaching or playing music they didn’t write in a wide variety of contexts.
Yes, supporting yourself with your own original art has always been extremely difficult and the few that make a comfortable living at it often don’t have a very long run before they need to find another job.
The double whammy there is that if they are only good at their own material, they might not have the versatility to shift into another part of the industry. For instance, the best rock musicians probably wouldn’t be able to teach at Berkeley, or even at elementary school. They probably can’t sight read.
I think people who really want a career in music should focus on virtuosity in a specific discipline so that they can apply or teach it in any setting, then branch out. Most people just want money and validation that their songs are nice. That’s not what it’s about if you want a real career.
Also, even if you land that career, it will likely not be super lucrative, and it will be an unusual hustle of a lifestyle. Don’t get me wrong, it’s awesome for a lot of people, but it’s a slog, a commitment, and I’ve met more than a few people questioning if they are happy ending up there even when they had skills to pay the bills.
Agree with much of that.
Making your "passion" your job is a tough gig. Job is still a job, and the hustle is 24/7.
The musicians I know that currently make a living (and I use that term loosely) mostly pivoted to teaching with gigs on the weekend. Most artists of any nature end up doing the same, teaching classes and selling work on the side.
Also, the dirty little secret among pro musicians is that a huge number have seasonal side jobs, realtors, construction, or anything you can do sporadically.
Yeah I met a world famous metal guitarist at a bar once. The guitarist in my band at the time as there too and asked the famous guy if he could get lessons, and the response was yes, but there is a wait list to become a student. This was decades ago before video conferencing worked.
Yes , I had similar stories from friends of mine they were taking lessons from very famous rock musicians who literally had to do this to pay the bills in between tours.
I remember listening to the hair metal DJ Eddy Trunk talk on his podcast about how listeners would be absolutely shocked how many famous recording artists actually have day jobs to pay the bills , and they swear him to secrecy because they don’t want to ruin their “ rockstar “ image . I have read the same thing about many famous EDM artists . If you’re a musician these days, you have to have a day job to support it.
yeah. They don't want to kill the rock and roll fantasy, when in fact, it's mostly fantasy.
It's actually been like that for quite a long time.
I was an eye opener for me and should really be talked about more, especially for people thinking they can make a living.
This is a reasonable and grounded account of the reality of the business. I can make a living performing and entertaining for small rooms, restaurants, pubs and senior living facilities. And can do so fairly easily but I've been at it a long time. That is me sharing my skill.
I write and record music. I don't make very much money from these activities. But it's a chance for me to share my creations. It's me sharing my art.
The former helps me to be able to do the latter. I have no regrets. Also I'm 44 and been at it a while.
this is 100% true. I studied jazz and classical in college for 7 years and since then have had to play in tons of pop, swing, country and rock bands and I supplement everything by teaching about 50 lessons a week. as far as creative projects go, recording stuff at home is great but i'm not recording original music with any expectation of it taking off, and i see that unfortunately a lot on here. a good creative release valve is important, but make music because it's love it and you believe in your ideas, not because you want to make it big. it definitely has to be your passion though because working all day and week and then gigging for four hours after work or on a day off can get exhausting, especially if you're in it for the wrong reasons.
Yeah, it's a tough lesson to learn.
It's why every artists out there does relentless social media posts, vids of the process, or gear and constantly asking people to join their Patreon.
Pre file sharing I sold enough CD's to pay for the process, not to live off of, but it was something. With a few weekend gigs a month I could buy new gear, or pay a couple of bills.
Now, you do it for the "likes" or some local gigs if you live in a spot that actually has a music scene.
Until you realize you will never ever make it, you never have true artistic freedom to do what you want. Big difference between knowing the odds and accepting the odds. Everyone knows the odds, few accept it.
There are a bunch of people who started later. One of my fave bands didn't blow up until many years past how old you are. Leonard cohen was basically geriatric when he blew up. Some people tried and tried and didn't get popular ever. Some just take longer.
The age thing is a myth; many people don't even mature as artists until their 40s and 50s. Many of the songwriters I know who are just starting to find real success are in their 50s and 60s. I am turning 37 this month, and I feel that I've just written my 5 or 6 best songs in the past six months, even though I've been seriously writing songs and performing since I was 14.
Stevie Ray Vaughan is considered to be one of the greatest guitarists and he didn’t record his first studio album until he was 31. Bill Withers (Ain’t No Sunshine) recorded his first studio album at 32. Chris Stapleton was 37 for his debut album. Willie Nelson was 40. Sheryl Crow was 31. Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead was 30. The list could go on and on. They weren’t special, they were regular people who loved what they did, always tried to improve, and didn’t stop.
The societal idea of starting “too late” is bullshit. I’ve seen people well into their 50s go to college, learn to skateboard, pick up an instrument, take off in their side hustles, etc. when most of society would have told them “it’s too late”
If you love what you do, do it as long as you can *because* you love it. If you put love into what you do, people will take notice. Maybe it will never be a full time gig, maybe no one will ever care, but when it comes down to it, you spent your time in this life doing what you loved. Not many people can say that.
it's never too late to start.. however you should recognize that if you don't start .. your feelings of discouragement will strengthen and persist rather than your skills..
I definitely relate to this. I’ve had bad age anxiety since I was probably 24 which is crazy to think back on now 😂. Ageism in the industry is real, especially if your aspiration is to be a pop act. But! I think things are changing for the better to a degree— there’s been a cultural pendulum swing towards embracing aging in the past few years. Older artists blowing up on TikTok, older models in runways shows, etc etc. I think, ultimately, if the music is good enough people don’t care about your age.
It depends what your ambitions are.
I’ve been a musician since my teenage years but just started playing gigs as a solo singer songwriter a couple years ago in my early 30s.
It’s grown to where I’m doing 3-4 gigs a month as a side hustle and it’s been amazing. I have a day job that keeps me financially secure but I get to have fun and indulge my passion on the side, and make money while doing it.
It’s the best I could hope for. Way better than scrapping to make a living earning less money, having to cover my own healthcare, benefits, etc.
I don’t want to be a superstar. I want to be what I am.
It depends on what you consider “success.” Most working musicians I know are not “known.”
There are so many avenues for musicians. Like my cousin is an in-house musician for a couple local theaters and gets paid to play for whatever productions they put on. He’s also a part of the city’s music union so he finds work through them for big concerts if an artist is in need of a brass player.
I have friends who make music specifically for commercials, tv shows, and video games
Another of my friends is in a band and they just travel state to state to do small shows. Picked up popularity by doing open mics all over the country.
Another musician friend of mine teaches music and is the music director at one of the top colleges in my state
I used to, but at least here in the UK the demographic for indie/alt music has changed a lot. The ‘radio 6’ crowd dominate gig-going, alongside younger people, early 20s. It doesn’t seem to matter what age the new bands are, take IDLES or Sleaford Mods for example. Also, no-one is gonna know how old you are anyway, unless you look 45+ but even then for some genres it works.
I’m 51. I’m not too old, just probably not talented enough — which partially may be a function of being my age and no longer caring about cultivating a music career. 🤷♂️
Making music for yourself seems fruitless until you look back at the progress you have made, molding something that it is unique to you and equally a part of a great collective. That in of itself makes it worth it. If you made fans along the way them that's just extra.
Fame shouldn't be the goal. Making art should be.
I’ll be 39 next week and just played my 4th show with a band I helped start less than a year ago, all with other 30 year olds. One of the other bands was all 20 year olds. Nothing was weird about it at all. Transcend your own limited beliefs and make the art that brings you joy.
I started playing bass at 33, put a record out with my band at 36, now I'm 38 and we're putting out our next singles and planning more shows.
I didn't grow up playing music much (messed around with a cello in my 20s), and I definitely feel the late-bloomer-ness hard sometimes, so I feel you on that. But I just keep thinking that I'll be the same age "when I accomplish x/y/z" that I'll be if I don't, so may as well just keep at it as long as it makes me feel good.
My band is not making a living doing this - we're lucky if we make \*anything\* at all, but it's fun to get out and play and grow my musicianship.
It's easy to get discouraged but comparison is the thief of joy (telling myself that too here, haha). If you want to be a part of the music community, you need to help build it - go to other people's shows, buy their merch, share their work on social media, bring other people to their shows. You'll get there :)
Famous musicians who didn’t get started until after their 30s
Bill Withers
Sharon Jones
Leonard Cohen
Bobby mcferrin
Mark Sandman
You’ll never get there if you don’t start
the only true failure is giving up. it takes time and it's probably gonna get frustrating at points, but if you work with people that you love working with and put yourself out there consistently enough, you will find success.
Killer Mike took home a Grammy at 48. The rules are different now. It’s about the quality of the music. And if you’re 40, don’t make music for 18 year olds. There’s plenty of people your own age out there wanting something real.
You can be any age. Forming a band is different though. Most people try to start bands in the 16-25 range. Your band forming options disappear rapidly over 30. You can be a solo artist at any age though.
I saw Charles Bradley perform before he passed away.
Sure, he had been performing on and off as a James Brown impersonator at various stages in his life, but he only started recording and performing his own music when he was *in his 60s*, and he did so rather succesfully.
If it is possible to start a music career at an age most people are beginning to eye their retirement, it is certainly possible in your early 30s.
Some of the most successful people around me are just now getting their footing as they enter their late 20s early 30s. Just keep doing what you love brother
It’s completely doable for anyone IMO.
But frankly a lot of musicians make the same mistakes
Having great music and often showmanship is part of it
But other things like marketing / PR, presentation (hygiene, good outfits), relationships off-stage, etc, also play a big role and I see a lot of people ignoring those. You shouldn’t.
Good luck!
Guided by Voices didn’t break out until Robert Pollard was 36. However, that was 1993 and the industry was very different. People bought physical media and red magazines. The web wasn’t much of a thing, far less a viable tool for downloading music. Magazine websites were mostly just previews for upcoming issues. You get the idea.
Focus on your craft. If you have the fire in the belly for your art, cultivate it and the network when you can.
Depends on what you see as being a successful music career. I’ve got students who didn’t start learning their instrument until they were in their 40s/50s/60s who are now going down a storm playing gigs every weekend with their bands.
It’s never been easy to have a career in music. It doesn’t matter how old you are when you start it’s difficult, time-consuming, and relies a lot on being in the right place at the right time. Age has never been less of a barrier to entry than it is today. You’ve just got to get your music out there and hope it strikes a chord (intentional pun) with enough people.
Age 65. Solo pianist. Decades of gigging. Now semi retired. Once a week or so I perform an afternoon solo set at cool little brewery downtown that has a baby grand piano in the house. I walk in with a piece of paper that has about 50 song titles on it and a cushion for the bench. Over a couple hours I have time to hit about 20 songs from the list, picking and choosing as I read the room. It is by far my favorite 2 hours of any given week. Pure joy in playing. So thankful that my body is still holding up (though it's sometimes a challenge). Sending love and support to all fellow musicians of all ages. Your time is now.
never too old to pursue a life you love. seems to me that the industry is only fickle about age if you’re trying to be the face of some mainstream pop music empire, ie young talent like olivia rodrigo and how her youth and talents are the whole package to feed that beast of the industry/ commodifying everything about a person and creating a larger than life entity, like how taylor swift is now. but there’s room for everyone of all ages in every corner of the industry outside of that very specific fame machine!
i started late. having a blast, 32 and i don’t feel like any doors are closed except ^ that one which i am totally fine with haha
Love these kind of threads.
Ric and Ben of The Cars were 34 and 31 when the first cars record dropped. Andy Summers of The police was 36 when they took off. Alex and Nick of Franz Ferdinand were 32 and 30 on their first record. Robert Pollard was 34 when Guided By Voices finally started getting some traction, 38/39 when they actually had bigger success. James Murphy (LCD Soundsystem) was 32 when Losing My Edge single dropped, 35 when first record dropped. Debbie Harry was 32 when Blondie took off.
Shall I keep going? And those are just rock and rock adjacent examples, genres where youth is somewhat fetishized. Country, folk, blues, soul etc it matters even less if at all.
I’m 31 as well and getting a band going after 3 years off. I’m hungrier now and more disciplined now, and the band ranges in age from 22 to my age. We’re all just trying to rock dangit.
Use your age/experience to write better/more interesting songs. Think about the difference between early Beatles and late period Beatles.
What do you consider a music career? I have lots of musician friends that are around the same age as me 40, and all of them have alternate revenue streams other than performing music. One of my friends just moved down to Florida a few years ago because he accepted a full time teaching position at a school down there, although his brother is still in New York. I know both of them teach on the side. Now, the people that I know are still making new music, but that's not the only aspect of their career.
Fun fact, you can be a musician on broadway, which requires you to be part of the union, and you only have to be there for half the performances because they expect for you to use the other time for doing things outside of your day job. That's actually written into their contract because they know that as a musician, you're probably not playing as your sole means of income.
When fred joined taking back sunday at 29 and was with them at their biggest record at 32. Never too late but then again dont put your eggs in one basket
I don't want a music career, but I still what my music to be heard. I just don't feel like people are in the mood for a 32 woman whining about failed relationships using pop rock and pop punk.
So yes.
I do feel that way.
I think it’s ok to feel like this due to how much younger artists are marketed in the mainstream media. But, Artistry takes time and your point of view is unique at all stages of life.
At my first show, there was a judges panel and they asked me how old i was.
I said I was 28. They an the audience gasped like I said I had terminal cancer lol. *They were like it’s it’s ok it’s ok!! she got time!!*
Lucky for me I am not milk, and I don’t expire when I turn 30. :)
I was like *guys don’t panic, I have a baby face and I wear sunscreen!!* It was funny.
Now I am 33 and honestly I’m glad I didn’t gain success at a younger age. I wanted to create art for myself first and I enjoyed inventing and discovering it without the pressure of a label or false fans. I learned a lot producing music and releasing music myself, working with different artists, and evolving my sound. As music makers, let’s Enjoy the journey!
Sometimes I get discouraged doing it alone, or I stress about not releasing new music enough. Sometimes I feel like I am losing time because I am “aging.” Then I remind myself that is crazy and I don’t need to pressure myself or measure success in that way. I am cute at any age and I need to have faith in divine timing.
Gentle reminder that we are on no one else’s timeline but our own. Your music will resonate with others no matter your age! Embrace it :)
Yeah yours too old to make it big but fuck it. Make the music that comes from your soil and love doing it. Everything else is polishing thr brass on the titantic....it's sll going down man.
I'm 62. Muddy Waters didn't quit until 70. Willie Dixon was 76. Ronnie Wood is 76. Keith Richards, Mick Jagger, and Charlie Musslewhite are all 80. Elvin Bishop is 81. Bill Monroe was 84. Earl Scruggs was 88. Doc Watson was 89.
Buddy Guy is 87 years old and still fucking touring.
Get the fuck out of here with that too old bullshit
I’m turning 38 this year and in the process of making my first EP. Do what makes you happy. If you don’t try now, you will never stop wondering if you could have had a successful music career.
My supervisor is older than me (im 50) and her and her husband’s band are starting to take off. Getting gigs modt wekends. I just got them a night at a big event in May that I volunteer for. So no you’re not too old.
I think some of it, at least in the relation being a commercial success, would be youth often have an easier time tapping into the cultural zeitgeist.
I'm 41 now, the last time I actually spent the effort to produce out my music or play with anyone was in my early 20's. Despite that I've still been creating and singing/song writing since then, and keep telling myself I just need to put the time into sitting down and recording. Plenty of stuff in the backlog and I know at least a few of the songs would find a niche and an audience. The thought that I'm "too old" is always there, but as long as I love creating and playing the age thing is just a tidbit.
I’m 62 and a lead singer in a psychedelic blues rock covers band. Most of the band members are anywhere from 20 to 40 years old. I’m slim and don’t look my age so that helps. Our audiences love our band. Some people get discovered in their 60s 70s and 80s. If you love what you’re doing just do it - don’t worry about your age.
You’re not too old. I’m 64, had a pretty decent full time career in music. I still play gigs n ask myself: do you still wanna play in bars? I see people older than me playing in bar bands n it’s kinda creepy to me but you, 31, no do your thing as long as it doesn’t hold you back in life
No, the results of society making children famous has been nothing but terrible. Children are too young to handle fame and most of the time they are abused by adults in the industry who just want to take advantage of them. Drake Bell Says He Was Sexually Abused as a Child Actor by Nickelodeon Dialogue Coach: https://time.com/6852899/drake-bell-nickelodeon-sexual-abuse-quiet-on-set/
All the successful artists might have had some obligation before they started off!! This might be yours! Break the myth. Nothing can stop art unless you think it can. Keep working on your art and keep releasing on platforms you can afford. Never lose hope. If it impresses the biggies, you'll never regret starting off.
No matter how old, you’ve got things to share and your own way, you got this! Btw if anyone needs, i’m a mixing and mastering producer also struggling to make end’s meet aha 😅 DM me if you need
I started touring across the state at the age of 30. Prior to then, it was only a dream. Don’t let popular beliefs dictate your life. You can do whatever the fuck you want. Hell, on a separate topic, I might be the next RA Dickey. I’ve got a mean knuckleball. Probably not, but if probability was taken into account for, I never would have started gigging in the first place.
Do yo thang mang.
I'm 46 and definitely feeling it. :(
I wasn't able to find any success in my 20s, my 30s were even worse so I moved to California hoping for better opportunity, but then that made things even worse again since i can no longer even afford to live in an urban area where I might find other musicians.
I've always struggled to find other people into music, and now its impossible. I record music by myself at home that no one will ver hear.
I went to school and tried so hard to find a career in audio, but never managed to get a foot in the door.
Music has been a detriment to my life, but now its literally the only thing I have left.
i dont think im too old, but i also dont think my demographic is on the radar for music fans to get excited about, (experimental music started in the 90s but now am 47) but i also dont care and will keep making what i make and releasing/performing as i can
and to think, I’ve been biding my time. Slowly building up the supplies needed for music world domination, only I’m 33, my belly hurts and I’m still not good recording….but one day….ONE DAY SOON…..
Just get to work, there's nothing you can do to change the past. And the future is an illusion, it's anything you imagine. So you have right now to act. Produce something, find a way to make it public, find partners to work with, plan projects and do them for the audience that comes. Think big,aim high. What kind of life would make you happy in terms of music involvement? Take "quit my job and play my rock and roll music for a living" and put it at the back of the list, behind the thing you intend to DO. Once you do that thing well enough, long enough and smart enough to make serious money,you can think about changing what you do for your rent and food money.
I don't think so. I practice every day, constantly and I'm learning new DAW's and a lot about acoustics. artists who didn't get popular until they were older. Look at Leonard Cohen, he was amazing and didn't really get popular until like his 30's or something like that. I still listen to lots of skate punk and stuff and I'm 43. played music for a long time, but just now getting serious and pretty much a full time music and audio production student at community college. It's not your age, it's how much work you put into it. I'm 100% committed. I also work out, do yoga, look pretty young for my age, probably pass for someone 33 years old or so. I also listen to a lot of new music and that keeps me in the loop. Main thing is hard work though. Keep that in mind and you will be fine.
I know a number of excellent musicians who had to hold off while they raised their families. Now they're getting out there in the 50's and 60's. They aren't trying to make a living on it, but they are getting lots of gigs and having a great time.
I'm a similar age and had the same feelings. I make a lot of house music which isnt a genre that cares too much for age but i think if I was making pop, rock or hip hop I would struggle because of the people in their 20's.
Ric Ocasek was 34 when The Cars released their debut album.
But those who are "successful" are only a tiny percentage anyway, and most likely you'll need a job to support your art. Do it because it feeds your soul and makes you feel alive.
Yeah it’s tough when I remind myself that the Beatles came and went by the time the oldest 2 were 30 years old.. but I look at a lot of musicians in my city who are fighting for recognition in their 30’s and 40’s and it makes me feel less hopeless.
I don’t think age matters that much. We all have different timelines. I think it comes down to talent and how willing you are to hustle. Also a bit of luck always helps.
I'm fifty years old and my band is really starting to hit hard and make good money. Not sure what you mean by successful music career but I'm doing well. We play all over Texas and get good money for shows and perks everywhere we play. We don't get out of bed for less than a grand. Is it paying all my bills or is my first job? No. But is it a side hustle that pays great money and get me insane perks like meals, drinks and hotel rooms? Hell ya it is. Oh yeah and I get to play music and travel to a new town every damn weekend.
Fuck no. Sharon Jones broke out at 40. And I understand that if one could make a living doing what they love is the goal, maybe even being famous is a desire, but if you really love music does it matter?
31 is absolutely not too old. Unless you have a wife and kids stopping you, there shouldn’t be any reason not to go for it. Sure, record labels want younger talent but you don’t need a record label in this day and age. I promise if you make good art people don’t care how old you are.
Yes, age is a factor. Not for making music, but for selling it. The people selling music have a target audience of streamers and listeners. The target audience is an age bracket and therefore will always exist, because after a person ages-out of the demographic, someone will turn 11 and remain for the next ten years. FACT: The new artist of the year Grammy has never gone to an old person, and industry old and chronological age are two different things. People can't hear your voice when they see your picture and it is the picture that makes them want to hear you. Yes, you can make money in a cover band or by working to make money selling product that includes music by recruiting a teenage face to sing your songs.
55 and learned decades ago that the idea of a “career in music” is a bit of a misnomer.
I’ll be playing, writing, listening, recording, practicing, learning, and open to opportunities until I’m dead.
Currently work as a clinical psychotherapist in private practice, but my passion is my studio, wherein I play multiple instruments, write, record, and plot and scheme.
I always think of the list of people who were successful later in life. For example the colonel started KFC in his 40's, sold it in his 60's, and started another restaurant business in his late 60's. Alan Rickman was 42 when he got his first film role. You're as old as you feel.
Music is result of expressions born, in transformation, growth, and or endingin any & every walk of life, & style of living, where culture is shaped with life shared through a invisible vibrant string of emotional force that can stop a person in their tracks and change the direction of their heart.
MUSIC KNOWS NO AGE & IS TIMELESS. IF YOU HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO ADD MUSIC IN ANY LIFE and they like it? It will not matter how old or young you are unless your a Marketing agent.
This is just my opinion but I hope this gives you clarity.
PS, I am a musician, I NEED a band that NEEDS me! This is a link to some work in competitions, but in NO way does it come close to the amount of material I have that is unmistakably better. www.soundclick.com/ahazard
This said to one track listed here, "Beautiful" made #18, & #8 place in over 500,000.
I'm in southern California, inland valley.
I currently make GRUNGE, and even ppl that don't like me, will acknowledge, my voice, my expression, and my vibe, in the words of others, "just like Kurt Cobain in Nirvana".
Contact me Plz!
I’m 25 rn I feel behind too. Or like ima never be where I wanna be. Idk i don’t got some silver lining for you besides you just gotta lock in and go crazy. Wherever and whenever you saw urself moving up the most, just lock in that mode again.
Age used to be a thing .. it’s not anymore. I’m 40 and doing better than ever. I only see it going up from here.
Cultivate a following with people who connect with what you do. If you make grunge music and wish you had 22 year old pop fans… it’ll never be a good fit. Find people who resonate with the what you do and build from the ground up.
Also. Younger fans have no social context for music like many of us did. They year music for what it is in that moment and like it or don’t. It’s not tied to cultural moments like in the pas, so there’s more opportunity across ages than ever.
Just keep at it…
Keep at it as long as you enjoy it. My brother became well known in the city he lived in, he passed away at age 68 but never stopped writing playing and singing. I know he got discouraged but he kept on with it. I just write lyrics. I probably won’t get anywhere but I’m a senior citizen and enjoy that part. I have a few songs on social medias but I don’t sing or perform. It’s hard because there are so many artists. You’re still young!
A lot of people are in their prime in their 30s making the best music they have when making it so don’t give up most of the greats are in their 30s to 40s and are still making music there’s a list your not to old your good keep making good music that connects to people is the main thing you should focus on not the age it also depends on what sub genre your in other than that your good
I always stop and think about the greats that started late. Google some. It'll comfort you a bit.
But also, a career in music doesn't need to follow the same chronological path as everyone else's. You will get there when you get there and it'll be right because thats when it's supposed to happen. At 28, I often imagine myself at 18 having made the big time and laugh my ass off because i was nowhere near fully baked yet. It wouldve been poor timing. I like to think that I'm still cooking, ya know? And I also realize that I get to navigate those decisions within my music journey, so I shouldn't feel hopeless about "why hasn't it happened yet for me?" It's moreso, that's just a part of the journey I may or may not reach and I get to decide on the things right now in front of me that may or may not get me there. At the end of the day, I still get to make music.
Run your own race! That’s advice I always have to beat into my brain too. Sometimes you just gotta wait for the things to happen. Doesn’t mean you can’t be working towards a goal in the meantime, but everyone’s time for their “big break,” whatever that may be, is different. As long as you’re pursuing your craft with love, devotion, and respect you can’t go wrong.
Sometimes the best songs are written after gaining life experience, the older you get the more chances you have at telling a compelling story with your music
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bonnie_Raitt
Bonnie Raitt was 22 when she released her first album, but didn't come to real prominence until she was 40 (1989) with her TENTH STUDIO ALBUM, Nick of Time.
She won Song of the Year in the 2023 Grammys at age 74.
Good things take time. ;) Give yourself some grace.
I dunno… niche music is so accessible these days and so many listeners are willing to expand into new things that I think it’s still possible to carve out a fan base even if you’re a bit older. It might depend on the genre and how it’s promoted though. Work with the situation rather than against it.
I wouldn’t lose heart… just do it for the love. If it’s quality you’ll figure out how to get attention.
31 is still plenty young. I’m 40 and considering dusting off some instruments to make an album. I’m a music lover, and I only speak for myself but I’m willing to listen to anything by anyone and age doesn’t come into it at all.
How about Leonard Cohen? He started his music career fairly old and became an international icon. If anything that extra maturity when he started may be part of the reason he didn’t burn out and continued to create quality as the decades passed. LCD Soundsystem… debut album released when James Murphy was 35. Plenty of other examples.
The rarity of older debutants in the music scene probably has as much to do with less older people taking the risk as it does to do with any (lack of) “sex appeal”.
If you build it, they will come.
This comment section is making me feel way better because society convinced me I have to be stalking producers to their homes by the time I’m 13 to do anything
Also 31 here. I don’t gig much but do on occasion. While a lot of more recent grads from my college are getting tons of gigs, I also see lots of older people gigging a ton. Even some folks around retirement age that have taken it up more permanently as a source of income. So I’d say you could get into gigging at twice your age if you wanted.
This would be like someone interested in painting worrying that their art won’t end up in MoMa.
Odds of any individual making it big are minuscule. Just have fun making some cool stuff and do it for you. Maybe, if you’re lucky enough, other people will like it
Unless you play 200-300 shows a year, isn’t the music industry just a lottery? I mean I could go to any church and find better singers than Beyoncé and Taylor.
Rodney Dangerfield was a tin salesman for 20 or so years before he was discovered. Some people don’t lose their virginity until after high school, some people become stars in their 50s, it all happens in its own time. Or never at all. I wish you luck and as much fame as is healthy for you personally.
I understand, but if I were ever to feel that way, I look at Pete and bas. Those guys are in their 80s. Age doesn’t matter if what music you have to offer to the world is good. the best example I have (sorry I’m a hip hop head) is MF DOOM he started rapping again with a style that was decades behind him, in an industry that was much younger than him (he was almost 30 when he made a new album, 32 when he dropped his best album) but still made incredible music and people loved him because of it.
I’m 52 and just bought a ukulele and walking back from my first lesson a guy stopped me and said their uke player wrecked into a pineapple stand and asked if I wanted to play on Saturday night and I TOTALLY bombed the whole ordeal. But to answer your question, no.
I just started learning piano as a new years resolution at 32. Im 34 now. Being a "late beginner" on the cusp of early intermediate, I know that in all likeliness it is too late for many things. I would love to be a music teacher. I would head over heels love to be a lounge pianist. But first and foremost, I am happy that I am finally taking music seriously, because I always wanted to be a musician. I took forever to make it an actual goal to pursue due to severe self-esteem issues, and alcoholism.
There are ways to make a solid living as a musician without shooting for pop/rock stardom. I fed a family of four and got two kids through college writing jingles, scoring corporate video and writing and producing radio commercials. Never got famous or wildly rich, but I had a fantastic time, made my own hours, worked in my own home studio… and didn’t have to tour, which I learned as a young fellow that I hated.
I'm 48 now & booking my summer tour dates right now. I came out of a decade long hiatus in 2022 at the age of 46 so if you're too old I'm screwed lol
I'm 48 and starting over.
Same but 47. My backing band members range in age from 23-26. They don’t care about my age. My highest listener by age demographic on spotify is a tie between 23-27 and 27-34. If you go looking for excuses to not be where you want to be, you will find them.
No excuses. I'm chomping at the bit, lol. I found when we were looking for drummers last summer, this one guy who was 33 balked at our ages (40, 47, 48, 49). He basically said we're too fucking old. Why? Because he still wanted to party like a teenager. You run into morons like that every so often locally.
Dodged a bullet. If a 33 year old wants to party like a teenager they aren’t about playing music seriously
On top of that he lives in a trailer becuase he wants to be ready to tour. We dodged a huge bullet with him. He was shitfaced before we met up and continued to be get more shit faced during our meeting. Dude even forgot I was a band member and thought I was a wife just tagging along. I wanted to punch him out. But I digress. You don't want that kind of person in a band.
yeah, being good at music means not "partying" I do not even touch alcohol on the day of (and often day before) a show. My routine is physical activity, meditation session, light food and lots of water. I'm there to work, and perform. I was an athlete before. And I'm a medical professional now. This is work, even if were having fun. You don't show up to work shitfaced. That's just juvenile. When I get on stage I'm there to perform and be as good as I can possibly be, especially because people paid to see me. And after the show I'm there to talk to people who want to talk to me and entertain them that way too. I'm there for my bandmates, and them, our fans and audience. not me. And I love every freaking second of it. Check out the video of Matt Heafy's AM routine on tour. It's inspiring on how to do this right.
I’m about to be 33 this May and I can tell you 100% that I had to stop acting like that. Musics about the passion, not about the partying, getting wasted etc. I’m giving that bs up for good and getting back to music for the love of it. And age doesn’t matter at all. It’s about the talent! If you got that the sky’s the limit
I gave up alcohol before i got more serious about this hobby/passion and I can tell you, I get way more opportunities because I did that and don't miss those days, ever. Also 33. people increasingly want to go out without drinking. It's a thing rn.
Oh yeah that dude is a hack. I say that about excuses because that’s what I did for too long. When I put them aside I realized they were made up things to “protect” myself. There are lots of things I wish I could make happen. But all I know I can do is write & release music and play shows. So I base my success on that. And I’m having an effing blast doing it!! I certainly feel younger because I do it. Thanks for posting! Keep it up
40 and have probably played more shows this year already than any of the 25 years I've been playing live.
I think of bands like this all the time. You need a few folks to be the responsible adult and keep it all in line, and it really helps set the tone that you're serious and everyone benefits from a little maturity. We treat each other with a ton of respect in my band and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Never forget, probably the most famous example of someone getting a late start was Susan Boyle. Her singing career got launched at 47 so although rare, it does happen. Good luck!
Bro this gives me so much life. I’m 38 and gave up playing a decade ago. Last year I picked it up again and am writing new songs and I have the bug, but have been worried that it’s all pointless because I’m too old or something. Doesn’t stop me, but hearing stuff like this makes me think it’s not too late to least have some fun on stage.
I’m 71 and Im headed for 1,000,000 impressions (streams, album sales, etc) in the past 3 yrs. You’re only as old as you feel.
Congrats, that's awesome!! And I definitely hear you there. I got back into guitar and skateboarding in the past year and both are making me feel 10 years younger (except when I fall off the skateboard).
Hey thanks for that! I'm female, just turned 70 & have been playing & singing old stuff I learned years ago on my guitar.. (About 10 yrs. ago I started taking Blues Bass Guitar lessons for about 6 1/2 yrs. [until Covid happened & shut everything down]. I'd been playing Blues Bass in some Jam sessions downtown w/the Blues school's school band). I'd like to play music again in some kind of venue but I'm sort of shy (I think I'm actually just 'scared' of putting myself "out there". But I'm not scared about being onstage in certain venues. Maybe I'm just scared to take the next step in my musical evolution...
I’m 39 dude and I just finally found that “right group of friends” this past year. We’re not huge or anything, but we’re making strides better than I ever did when I was younger. We have families, but we also have resources like we never had before either. All of our skills are honed too, so we can actually focus on other aspects of the music. Only ever as old as you let yourself be
That’s awesome dude, I feel like I’m hitting that point where I need to start pulling in other musicians but am hesitant due to my time constraints - 3 kids, full time job, etc, so I’m just writing and recording demos right now, but I’m having so much fun with what is coming out
Bro, I get it. I have a career, one kid/wife,79yr old pops I take care of, and small extended family. My drummer and guitarist both have 2 kids each, bassist has one, and my other guitarist is the only one without a kid, but we all have jobs, families, etc. Don’t give it up though man! Ever feel like sharing those demos, hit me up! I’m the vocalist in my band (cleans/screams), but I play guitar, bass, drums, and other instruments. I’d love to hear what you’ve got going on
38 and about to hit 39 in a few weeks. I started playing guitar at 28 and finally joined a group as a bass player last year. This post speaks to me very much as the dudes in my band are around my age, though I'm the only one with kids. I gigged for the first time last year (and played 2 more) and have more lined up. Local stuff, but its a blast and we're even about to get a record out because we have the resources like you mentioned.
All I’ve got to say is take those demos, polish them up and release them. It’ll sell if you promote them right. And don’t worry, as you release stuff, the quality will improve as you get more experience.
You get better with age imo, so never give up.
How did you do that? How do you even find friends at this age, let alone musicians? Are you fortunate enough to live in a big city?
ummm most of them I had from before the decade-long hiatus to be honest...but I've met a lot of new people in the music world while out playing shows since being back at it. I didn't actually start completely over, it just feels that way sometimes....before the hiatus I was touring the country a few times a year while simultaneously running a small indie label all for like 7-8 years...
Oh, I'm in my 40s and still trying to figure out how to find bandmates to play/tour with like I was in my 20s. Always wanted to start a label but how do you do that when you can't even find other musicians to work with and have to do literally everything by youself? I can't even start over as that would imply I had something other than a false start with this 25-30 years ago. This stuff is impossible, you are so lucky.
When I was young I made 99% of my music scene friends by just going out to shows
I was able to do that to an extent when I was young, but I have crippling anxiety and the music scene wasre I was at so toxic I never made it far. Then i started moving to other places seeking opportunity, but now I don't know anyone and I'm too poor to live anywhere with musicians or shows, or even leave my house. I really wish this whole thing could have worked out for me. Shit, I wish ANYTHING would have worked ot for me. Sorry, things are really rough lately I need to just shut up.
Do home recordings until you can get a band that way you will have songs to bring to the table.
Oh that's what I did, I decided in about 1995 that if I can't find people to play with I'll just try to be like Trent Reznor and do it all myself. Except its now almost 30 years and 5 cities later I still can't figure out how to meet other musicians. People don't like me because I'm weird/autistic and the decades of rejection has made me too anxious/shy to keep trying. I'll likely never play in a band or with other musicians again, it sucks but oh well. I keep grinding anyway because i have nothing else to do with myself.
What about just finding one more person and having a two man band? Less pressure than finding 3-4 others. Once you have a partner they can hopefully handle the social networking stuff. Try putting up flyers at colleges and record stores.
Have you looked on Craigslist? I have heard of a few people getting bands from there or posting an ad that you're looking for people to play with. Then again I live in a city full of musicians.
No, you don't need to shut up; thanks a lot for what you wrote. Good luck to you!
It's not impossible and luck has little to do with it. It's all in the attitude and outlook. If you feel it's impossible it will be. If you think that you'll never find other musicians who share your taste and drive them you won't ever find them. But if you are steadfast in your resolve and believe in yourself so will others. They'll be drawn to you and vice versa. So write your song, play it over and over til it becomes as much a part of you as it was when you wrote it. There's a reason you feel compelled to write, to play, to let the world hear what you have to say. It's your language, it's who you are and how your true self communicates it's message. It truly is the universal language so speak the word!!!
its a shame reddit doesnt have that money reward thing anymore.. You realize posts like this have the power to inspire hundreds, but listen.. to those of us who are already inspired and older , it pushes me MORE MORE... Whoever you are internet stranger know this, ive been listening to Arnold Schwarzenegger speaches all day long to push for the last REP OR SET... but its posts like this that actually commit me to act.
Exactly. I really needed this today
The times sure are different, but not nearly as hopeless as some would make it to be, wouldn't you say? 55 and in between gigs but feeling good about my prospects. I just got an offer to join a local band yesterday. I may take it.
Same here 48 just put out my 3rd EP in a year. Hadn’t produced anything in over a decade. Figure I’m gonna be 50 anyway, might as well be 50 with some more music memorialized.
One of my best friends signed his first record deal at 45!! And they tour constantly now. I actually don't know he does it lol
Same age and started my own band last year after years of joining other peoples bands
36 and just did a world tour. If I had quit, I’d never have this opportunity
I'm 48 and still have hope. Hey my dad is 82 and still booking concerts.
Think less and work more, you’re young.
Thank you. I’m 30 and have been struggling with mental health for the last decade. It’s really put a hiatus on my dream. I finally got some help from a doctor recently, got some new found motivation and released my first song a couple weeks ago! Sometimes it’s hard for me to realize that 30 is still pretty young
Death Grips started in their 30s and theor demographic early on was 16-25 year olds. No one really cares about age anymore if the music is interesting. Honestly don’t worry about it and do what you love. All the nostalgia bands having touring success are “old AF” by former outdated standards, and you’ll def find 18 year olds at any MBV show (who don’t care they’re seeing aging Gen X’rs) I think many elder millenials are getting late starts in music too due to everything they’ve been thru (economically etc). Unless you come from a rich fam, saving up for studio/music equipment takes a very long time, especially if you’re working another gig to survive rent, medical insurance (USA), etc. The people I’ve known that have “made it” or whatever in music in their 20s ALL had rich parents who bought all their gear and connections, paid their bills, and lined up publishing deals. Saves a decade of struggle for sure! Edit: typo: 30s
death grips ended in their 40s if youre talking about zach and stephan
Typo. Saw the “reformed” DG again in 2023 and they still got it. It’s so cool to still see 18 year olds and the 40s/50s crowd are still going insane at their shows.
Also RP Boo is a great example of someone who was building for 20 years before he got record deals in his 40s
Yep. Slowdive is much bigger now that there were the first time around, and the play to just as young of a crowd. Your examples of Deathgrips and MBV reminded me. GBV, too. Robert Pollard is in his mid 60’s and wasn’t on anyone’s radar until he was well into his mid 30’s. I still think you need to be somewhat young and attractive for some genres, but definitely not all. And the younger generations seem to be way less concerned with the age of the musicians they like, provided they’re making interesting music, as you said.
I’m very much not famous and didn’t really get a proper home studio together until I was 26. Recently turned 30, nowhere close to where I want to be despite releasing music weekly for the past 16 weeks.
Most\* musicians don't make a "living" making music. Most painters don't make a living painting. Music is weird because, like pop culture, it worships youth and "newness". Make your art. If it connects and you get lucky, great. If not, then at least you have the art.
American society generally means “original recording artist” when they say “musician.” The reality is that most people who make a living with music skills are teaching or playing music they didn’t write in a wide variety of contexts. Yes, supporting yourself with your own original art has always been extremely difficult and the few that make a comfortable living at it often don’t have a very long run before they need to find another job. The double whammy there is that if they are only good at their own material, they might not have the versatility to shift into another part of the industry. For instance, the best rock musicians probably wouldn’t be able to teach at Berkeley, or even at elementary school. They probably can’t sight read. I think people who really want a career in music should focus on virtuosity in a specific discipline so that they can apply or teach it in any setting, then branch out. Most people just want money and validation that their songs are nice. That’s not what it’s about if you want a real career. Also, even if you land that career, it will likely not be super lucrative, and it will be an unusual hustle of a lifestyle. Don’t get me wrong, it’s awesome for a lot of people, but it’s a slog, a commitment, and I’ve met more than a few people questioning if they are happy ending up there even when they had skills to pay the bills.
Agree with much of that. Making your "passion" your job is a tough gig. Job is still a job, and the hustle is 24/7. The musicians I know that currently make a living (and I use that term loosely) mostly pivoted to teaching with gigs on the weekend. Most artists of any nature end up doing the same, teaching classes and selling work on the side. Also, the dirty little secret among pro musicians is that a huge number have seasonal side jobs, realtors, construction, or anything you can do sporadically.
Yeah I met a world famous metal guitarist at a bar once. The guitarist in my band at the time as there too and asked the famous guy if he could get lessons, and the response was yes, but there is a wait list to become a student. This was decades ago before video conferencing worked.
Yes , I had similar stories from friends of mine they were taking lessons from very famous rock musicians who literally had to do this to pay the bills in between tours.
I remember listening to the hair metal DJ Eddy Trunk talk on his podcast about how listeners would be absolutely shocked how many famous recording artists actually have day jobs to pay the bills , and they swear him to secrecy because they don’t want to ruin their “ rockstar “ image . I have read the same thing about many famous EDM artists . If you’re a musician these days, you have to have a day job to support it.
yeah. They don't want to kill the rock and roll fantasy, when in fact, it's mostly fantasy. It's actually been like that for quite a long time. I was an eye opener for me and should really be talked about more, especially for people thinking they can make a living.
This is a reasonable and grounded account of the reality of the business. I can make a living performing and entertaining for small rooms, restaurants, pubs and senior living facilities. And can do so fairly easily but I've been at it a long time. That is me sharing my skill. I write and record music. I don't make very much money from these activities. But it's a chance for me to share my creations. It's me sharing my art. The former helps me to be able to do the latter. I have no regrets. Also I'm 44 and been at it a while.
this is 100% true. I studied jazz and classical in college for 7 years and since then have had to play in tons of pop, swing, country and rock bands and I supplement everything by teaching about 50 lessons a week. as far as creative projects go, recording stuff at home is great but i'm not recording original music with any expectation of it taking off, and i see that unfortunately a lot on here. a good creative release valve is important, but make music because it's love it and you believe in your ideas, not because you want to make it big. it definitely has to be your passion though because working all day and week and then gigging for four hours after work or on a day off can get exhausting, especially if you're in it for the wrong reasons.
This is the answer. Your chances of real commercial success were always next to zero so just enjoy the process
Yeah, it's a tough lesson to learn. It's why every artists out there does relentless social media posts, vids of the process, or gear and constantly asking people to join their Patreon. Pre file sharing I sold enough CD's to pay for the process, not to live off of, but it was something. With a few weekend gigs a month I could buy new gear, or pay a couple of bills. Now, you do it for the "likes" or some local gigs if you live in a spot that actually has a music scene.
Until you realize you will never ever make it, you never have true artistic freedom to do what you want. Big difference between knowing the odds and accepting the odds. Everyone knows the odds, few accept it.
Great observation and solid advice.
There are a bunch of people who started later. One of my fave bands didn't blow up until many years past how old you are. Leonard cohen was basically geriatric when he blew up. Some people tried and tried and didn't get popular ever. Some just take longer.
Leonard Cohen had a gold record at 33
I did a bit more digging. That first album did not reach gold status until 1989. He was much older than 33.
But it did reach #13 on the UK charts for almost a year and #83 on the billboard 200. It was a successful record by all accounts.
I must have been misinformed but he was still older than OP.
The age thing is a myth; many people don't even mature as artists until their 40s and 50s. Many of the songwriters I know who are just starting to find real success are in their 50s and 60s. I am turning 37 this month, and I feel that I've just written my 5 or 6 best songs in the past six months, even though I've been seriously writing songs and performing since I was 14.
Stevie Ray Vaughan is considered to be one of the greatest guitarists and he didn’t record his first studio album until he was 31. Bill Withers (Ain’t No Sunshine) recorded his first studio album at 32. Chris Stapleton was 37 for his debut album. Willie Nelson was 40. Sheryl Crow was 31. Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead was 30. The list could go on and on. They weren’t special, they were regular people who loved what they did, always tried to improve, and didn’t stop. The societal idea of starting “too late” is bullshit. I’ve seen people well into their 50s go to college, learn to skateboard, pick up an instrument, take off in their side hustles, etc. when most of society would have told them “it’s too late” If you love what you do, do it as long as you can *because* you love it. If you put love into what you do, people will take notice. Maybe it will never be a full time gig, maybe no one will ever care, but when it comes down to it, you spent your time in this life doing what you loved. Not many people can say that.
This. They didn’t stop. I’m not stopping either.
you are still young. Get in a van & go play some shows.
I’m 50 and still doing what I love to do…
it's never too late to start.. however you should recognize that if you don't start .. your feelings of discouragement will strengthen and persist rather than your skills..
Yes, great thought. We are always growing towards something. Your attention decides what that thing is.
I definitely relate to this. I’ve had bad age anxiety since I was probably 24 which is crazy to think back on now 😂. Ageism in the industry is real, especially if your aspiration is to be a pop act. But! I think things are changing for the better to a degree— there’s been a cultural pendulum swing towards embracing aging in the past few years. Older artists blowing up on TikTok, older models in runways shows, etc etc. I think, ultimately, if the music is good enough people don’t care about your age.
The only way age is relevant is in your mind. Music is eternal ageless wonder
Lol I started gigging full time as a career at 45. You’re going to be fine.
You can have a “music career” without being a spotlight performer.
It depends what your ambitions are. I’ve been a musician since my teenage years but just started playing gigs as a solo singer songwriter a couple years ago in my early 30s. It’s grown to where I’m doing 3-4 gigs a month as a side hustle and it’s been amazing. I have a day job that keeps me financially secure but I get to have fun and indulge my passion on the side, and make money while doing it. It’s the best I could hope for. Way better than scrapping to make a living earning less money, having to cover my own healthcare, benefits, etc. I don’t want to be a superstar. I want to be what I am.
It depends on what you consider “success.” Most working musicians I know are not “known.” There are so many avenues for musicians. Like my cousin is an in-house musician for a couple local theaters and gets paid to play for whatever productions they put on. He’s also a part of the city’s music union so he finds work through them for big concerts if an artist is in need of a brass player. I have friends who make music specifically for commercials, tv shows, and video games Another of my friends is in a band and they just travel state to state to do small shows. Picked up popularity by doing open mics all over the country. Another musician friend of mine teaches music and is the music director at one of the top colleges in my state
I used to, but at least here in the UK the demographic for indie/alt music has changed a lot. The ‘radio 6’ crowd dominate gig-going, alongside younger people, early 20s. It doesn’t seem to matter what age the new bands are, take IDLES or Sleaford Mods for example. Also, no-one is gonna know how old you are anyway, unless you look 45+ but even then for some genres it works.
I’m 51. I’m not too old, just probably not talented enough — which partially may be a function of being my age and no longer caring about cultivating a music career. 🤷♂️
Making music for yourself seems fruitless until you look back at the progress you have made, molding something that it is unique to you and equally a part of a great collective. That in of itself makes it worth it. If you made fans along the way them that's just extra. Fame shouldn't be the goal. Making art should be.
I’m a folk musician, so no lol
My son’s first show (technically, he was 2) was Doc Watson. He must have been 88!
I’ll be 39 next week and just played my 4th show with a band I helped start less than a year ago, all with other 30 year olds. One of the other bands was all 20 year olds. Nothing was weird about it at all. Transcend your own limited beliefs and make the art that brings you joy.
I started playing bass at 33, put a record out with my band at 36, now I'm 38 and we're putting out our next singles and planning more shows. I didn't grow up playing music much (messed around with a cello in my 20s), and I definitely feel the late-bloomer-ness hard sometimes, so I feel you on that. But I just keep thinking that I'll be the same age "when I accomplish x/y/z" that I'll be if I don't, so may as well just keep at it as long as it makes me feel good. My band is not making a living doing this - we're lucky if we make \*anything\* at all, but it's fun to get out and play and grow my musicianship. It's easy to get discouraged but comparison is the thief of joy (telling myself that too here, haha). If you want to be a part of the music community, you need to help build it - go to other people's shows, buy their merch, share their work on social media, bring other people to their shows. You'll get there :)
Famous musicians who didn’t get started until after their 30s Bill Withers Sharon Jones Leonard Cohen Bobby mcferrin Mark Sandman You’ll never get there if you don’t start
Didn't Jelly Roll just win New artist of the year at like 39 years old?
the only true failure is giving up. it takes time and it's probably gonna get frustrating at points, but if you work with people that you love working with and put yourself out there consistently enough, you will find success.
Killer Mike took home a Grammy at 48. The rules are different now. It’s about the quality of the music. And if you’re 40, don’t make music for 18 year olds. There’s plenty of people your own age out there wanting something real.
I’m 107 and I just started a Black Metal Trap Jazz Marching Band. We’re called Shredding Geezer Marching Tussin Octet
You can be any age. Forming a band is different though. Most people try to start bands in the 16-25 range. Your band forming options disappear rapidly over 30. You can be a solo artist at any age though.
I saw Charles Bradley perform before he passed away. Sure, he had been performing on and off as a James Brown impersonator at various stages in his life, but he only started recording and performing his own music when he was *in his 60s*, and he did so rather succesfully. If it is possible to start a music career at an age most people are beginning to eye their retirement, it is certainly possible in your early 30s.
Some of the most successful people around me are just now getting their footing as they enter their late 20s early 30s. Just keep doing what you love brother
It depends on how you define success.
It’s completely doable for anyone IMO. But frankly a lot of musicians make the same mistakes Having great music and often showmanship is part of it But other things like marketing / PR, presentation (hygiene, good outfits), relationships off-stage, etc, also play a big role and I see a lot of people ignoring those. You shouldn’t. Good luck!
Guided by Voices didn’t break out until Robert Pollard was 36. However, that was 1993 and the industry was very different. People bought physical media and red magazines. The web wasn’t much of a thing, far less a viable tool for downloading music. Magazine websites were mostly just previews for upcoming issues. You get the idea. Focus on your craft. If you have the fire in the belly for your art, cultivate it and the network when you can.
Depends on what you see as being a successful music career. I’ve got students who didn’t start learning their instrument until they were in their 40s/50s/60s who are now going down a storm playing gigs every weekend with their bands. It’s never been easy to have a career in music. It doesn’t matter how old you are when you start it’s difficult, time-consuming, and relies a lot on being in the right place at the right time. Age has never been less of a barrier to entry than it is today. You’ve just got to get your music out there and hope it strikes a chord (intentional pun) with enough people.
im 35 and im still at it. don't stop. if you love making music that's all you need.
Depends what kind of success you’re looking for really.
Age 65. Solo pianist. Decades of gigging. Now semi retired. Once a week or so I perform an afternoon solo set at cool little brewery downtown that has a baby grand piano in the house. I walk in with a piece of paper that has about 50 song titles on it and a cushion for the bench. Over a couple hours I have time to hit about 20 songs from the list, picking and choosing as I read the room. It is by far my favorite 2 hours of any given week. Pure joy in playing. So thankful that my body is still holding up (though it's sometimes a challenge). Sending love and support to all fellow musicians of all ages. Your time is now.
never too old to pursue a life you love. seems to me that the industry is only fickle about age if you’re trying to be the face of some mainstream pop music empire, ie young talent like olivia rodrigo and how her youth and talents are the whole package to feed that beast of the industry/ commodifying everything about a person and creating a larger than life entity, like how taylor swift is now. but there’s room for everyone of all ages in every corner of the industry outside of that very specific fame machine! i started late. having a blast, 32 and i don’t feel like any doors are closed except ^ that one which i am totally fine with haha
People care more about the songs than the artist. If you write good songs, People will show up. Just keep writing.
Love these kind of threads. Ric and Ben of The Cars were 34 and 31 when the first cars record dropped. Andy Summers of The police was 36 when they took off. Alex and Nick of Franz Ferdinand were 32 and 30 on their first record. Robert Pollard was 34 when Guided By Voices finally started getting some traction, 38/39 when they actually had bigger success. James Murphy (LCD Soundsystem) was 32 when Losing My Edge single dropped, 35 when first record dropped. Debbie Harry was 32 when Blondie took off. Shall I keep going? And those are just rock and rock adjacent examples, genres where youth is somewhat fetishized. Country, folk, blues, soul etc it matters even less if at all. I’m 31 as well and getting a band going after 3 years off. I’m hungrier now and more disciplined now, and the band ranges in age from 22 to my age. We’re all just trying to rock dangit. Use your age/experience to write better/more interesting songs. Think about the difference between early Beatles and late period Beatles.
What do you consider a music career? I have lots of musician friends that are around the same age as me 40, and all of them have alternate revenue streams other than performing music. One of my friends just moved down to Florida a few years ago because he accepted a full time teaching position at a school down there, although his brother is still in New York. I know both of them teach on the side. Now, the people that I know are still making new music, but that's not the only aspect of their career. Fun fact, you can be a musician on broadway, which requires you to be part of the union, and you only have to be there for half the performances because they expect for you to use the other time for doing things outside of your day job. That's actually written into their contract because they know that as a musician, you're probably not playing as your sole means of income.
When fred joined taking back sunday at 29 and was with them at their biggest record at 32. Never too late but then again dont put your eggs in one basket
I don't want a music career, but I still what my music to be heard. I just don't feel like people are in the mood for a 32 woman whining about failed relationships using pop rock and pop punk. So yes. I do feel that way.
So... Taylor Swift but probably better?
I think it’s ok to feel like this due to how much younger artists are marketed in the mainstream media. But, Artistry takes time and your point of view is unique at all stages of life. At my first show, there was a judges panel and they asked me how old i was. I said I was 28. They an the audience gasped like I said I had terminal cancer lol. *They were like it’s it’s ok it’s ok!! she got time!!* Lucky for me I am not milk, and I don’t expire when I turn 30. :) I was like *guys don’t panic, I have a baby face and I wear sunscreen!!* It was funny. Now I am 33 and honestly I’m glad I didn’t gain success at a younger age. I wanted to create art for myself first and I enjoyed inventing and discovering it without the pressure of a label or false fans. I learned a lot producing music and releasing music myself, working with different artists, and evolving my sound. As music makers, let’s Enjoy the journey! Sometimes I get discouraged doing it alone, or I stress about not releasing new music enough. Sometimes I feel like I am losing time because I am “aging.” Then I remind myself that is crazy and I don’t need to pressure myself or measure success in that way. I am cute at any age and I need to have faith in divine timing. Gentle reminder that we are on no one else’s timeline but our own. Your music will resonate with others no matter your age! Embrace it :)
Turning 40 this month and I’m killing it
Yeah yours too old to make it big but fuck it. Make the music that comes from your soil and love doing it. Everything else is polishing thr brass on the titantic....it's sll going down man.
I'm 62. Muddy Waters didn't quit until 70. Willie Dixon was 76. Ronnie Wood is 76. Keith Richards, Mick Jagger, and Charlie Musslewhite are all 80. Elvin Bishop is 81. Bill Monroe was 84. Earl Scruggs was 88. Doc Watson was 89. Buddy Guy is 87 years old and still fucking touring. Get the fuck out of here with that too old bullshit
Bout to be 36. My drummer is 55. You're good man. You're young
My grandpa died a musician
I’m turning 38 this year and in the process of making my first EP. Do what makes you happy. If you don’t try now, you will never stop wondering if you could have had a successful music career.
My supervisor is older than me (im 50) and her and her husband’s band are starting to take off. Getting gigs modt wekends. I just got them a night at a big event in May that I volunteer for. So no you’re not too old.
I think some of it, at least in the relation being a commercial success, would be youth often have an easier time tapping into the cultural zeitgeist. I'm 41 now, the last time I actually spent the effort to produce out my music or play with anyone was in my early 20's. Despite that I've still been creating and singing/song writing since then, and keep telling myself I just need to put the time into sitting down and recording. Plenty of stuff in the backlog and I know at least a few of the songs would find a niche and an audience. The thought that I'm "too old" is always there, but as long as I love creating and playing the age thing is just a tidbit.
I’m 62 and a lead singer in a psychedelic blues rock covers band. Most of the band members are anywhere from 20 to 40 years old. I’m slim and don’t look my age so that helps. Our audiences love our band. Some people get discovered in their 60s 70s and 80s. If you love what you’re doing just do it - don’t worry about your age.
Never too old.
Some could claim that 31 is the right time to start. It might not be a complete success but you're definitely not late
I think it depends on what you want in your music but there are plenty of session players, hired guns, wedding bands with people well into their 50s.
I’m 41. I don’t have the same goals I had ten years ago. I would just be happy playing with my brothers.
There are many examples of people who have started late in music just as people have started late in countless other careers
Meh. If you quit your chances are instantly 0 if you keep plugging away you still have your art and a shot
Never too old to express yourself
Not me now have more time retired happing fun doing it make a few coins like I've always done making music no it's in my blood
You’re not too old. I’m 64, had a pretty decent full time career in music. I still play gigs n ask myself: do you still wanna play in bars? I see people older than me playing in bar bands n it’s kinda creepy to me but you, 31, no do your thing as long as it doesn’t hold you back in life
Yes But then I tell myself there's no such thing as too old
There’s no age limit to art.
No, the results of society making children famous has been nothing but terrible. Children are too young to handle fame and most of the time they are abused by adults in the industry who just want to take advantage of them. Drake Bell Says He Was Sexually Abused as a Child Actor by Nickelodeon Dialogue Coach: https://time.com/6852899/drake-bell-nickelodeon-sexual-abuse-quiet-on-set/
I’m about to turn 50 and after 30 years of being a professional musician, I feel like I’m just getting started.
All the successful artists might have had some obligation before they started off!! This might be yours! Break the myth. Nothing can stop art unless you think it can. Keep working on your art and keep releasing on platforms you can afford. Never lose hope. If it impresses the biggies, you'll never regret starting off.
No matter how old, you’ve got things to share and your own way, you got this! Btw if anyone needs, i’m a mixing and mastering producer also struggling to make end’s meet aha 😅 DM me if you need
Worry about being good enough.
I started touring across the state at the age of 30. Prior to then, it was only a dream. Don’t let popular beliefs dictate your life. You can do whatever the fuck you want. Hell, on a separate topic, I might be the next RA Dickey. I’ve got a mean knuckleball. Probably not, but if probability was taken into account for, I never would have started gigging in the first place. Do yo thang mang.
I'm 46 and definitely feeling it. :( I wasn't able to find any success in my 20s, my 30s were even worse so I moved to California hoping for better opportunity, but then that made things even worse again since i can no longer even afford to live in an urban area where I might find other musicians. I've always struggled to find other people into music, and now its impossible. I record music by myself at home that no one will ver hear. I went to school and tried so hard to find a career in audio, but never managed to get a foot in the door. Music has been a detriment to my life, but now its literally the only thing I have left.
Meat Loaf and Steinman were in their early 30s when Bat Out of Hell released, Steinman just 29. You're never too old
I’m thinking of picking my bass back up after a few years break after the plague hit. I think it’s time to get back out there. I’m almost 56
Dead is too old. Anyone who tells you you can't do something because of how old you are is NOT your friend.
Do whatever feels right to you! Comparing yourself to others will only leave you stagnant or down! Keep doing what you love 🎙🎸❤️.
i dont think im too old, but i also dont think my demographic is on the radar for music fans to get excited about, (experimental music started in the 90s but now am 47) but i also dont care and will keep making what i make and releasing/performing as i can
45 and starting over. What else are you gonna do?
and to think, I’ve been biding my time. Slowly building up the supplies needed for music world domination, only I’m 33, my belly hurts and I’m still not good recording….but one day….ONE DAY SOON…..
Just get to work, there's nothing you can do to change the past. And the future is an illusion, it's anything you imagine. So you have right now to act. Produce something, find a way to make it public, find partners to work with, plan projects and do them for the audience that comes. Think big,aim high. What kind of life would make you happy in terms of music involvement? Take "quit my job and play my rock and roll music for a living" and put it at the back of the list, behind the thing you intend to DO. Once you do that thing well enough, long enough and smart enough to make serious money,you can think about changing what you do for your rent and food money.
I’m 36 starting over
I don't think so. I practice every day, constantly and I'm learning new DAW's and a lot about acoustics. artists who didn't get popular until they were older. Look at Leonard Cohen, he was amazing and didn't really get popular until like his 30's or something like that. I still listen to lots of skate punk and stuff and I'm 43. played music for a long time, but just now getting serious and pretty much a full time music and audio production student at community college. It's not your age, it's how much work you put into it. I'm 100% committed. I also work out, do yoga, look pretty young for my age, probably pass for someone 33 years old or so. I also listen to a lot of new music and that keeps me in the loop. Main thing is hard work though. Keep that in mind and you will be fine.
Never too old to create and share your music! Go for it!
I know a number of excellent musicians who had to hold off while they raised their families. Now they're getting out there in the 50's and 60's. They aren't trying to make a living on it, but they are getting lots of gigs and having a great time.
what type of music career? playing, producing, writing, soundtrack composition?
Never too old to play tunes
I'm a similar age and had the same feelings. I make a lot of house music which isnt a genre that cares too much for age but i think if I was making pop, rock or hip hop I would struggle because of the people in their 20's.
Ric Ocasek was 34 when The Cars released their debut album. But those who are "successful" are only a tiny percentage anyway, and most likely you'll need a job to support your art. Do it because it feeds your soul and makes you feel alive.
I'm 61, I play covers. Been doing so since 1979. Part time. I rock
Create an online avatar and keep doing your art
Yeah it’s tough when I remind myself that the Beatles came and went by the time the oldest 2 were 30 years old.. but I look at a lot of musicians in my city who are fighting for recognition in their 30’s and 40’s and it makes me feel less hopeless.
I don’t think age matters that much. We all have different timelines. I think it comes down to talent and how willing you are to hustle. Also a bit of luck always helps.
I'm fifty years old and my band is really starting to hit hard and make good money. Not sure what you mean by successful music career but I'm doing well. We play all over Texas and get good money for shows and perks everywhere we play. We don't get out of bed for less than a grand. Is it paying all my bills or is my first job? No. But is it a side hustle that pays great money and get me insane perks like meals, drinks and hotel rooms? Hell ya it is. Oh yeah and I get to play music and travel to a new town every damn weekend.
Fuck no. Sharon Jones broke out at 40. And I understand that if one could make a living doing what they love is the goal, maybe even being famous is a desire, but if you really love music does it matter?
31 is absolutely not too old. Unless you have a wife and kids stopping you, there shouldn’t be any reason not to go for it. Sure, record labels want younger talent but you don’t need a record label in this day and age. I promise if you make good art people don’t care how old you are.
Yes, age is a factor. Not for making music, but for selling it. The people selling music have a target audience of streamers and listeners. The target audience is an age bracket and therefore will always exist, because after a person ages-out of the demographic, someone will turn 11 and remain for the next ten years. FACT: The new artist of the year Grammy has never gone to an old person, and industry old and chronological age are two different things. People can't hear your voice when they see your picture and it is the picture that makes them want to hear you. Yes, you can make money in a cover band or by working to make money selling product that includes music by recruiting a teenage face to sing your songs.
55 and learned decades ago that the idea of a “career in music” is a bit of a misnomer. I’ll be playing, writing, listening, recording, practicing, learning, and open to opportunities until I’m dead. Currently work as a clinical psychotherapist in private practice, but my passion is my studio, wherein I play multiple instruments, write, record, and plot and scheme.
I always think of the list of people who were successful later in life. For example the colonel started KFC in his 40's, sold it in his 60's, and started another restaurant business in his late 60's. Alan Rickman was 42 when he got his first film role. You're as old as you feel.
Music is result of expressions born, in transformation, growth, and or endingin any & every walk of life, & style of living, where culture is shaped with life shared through a invisible vibrant string of emotional force that can stop a person in their tracks and change the direction of their heart. MUSIC KNOWS NO AGE & IS TIMELESS. IF YOU HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO ADD MUSIC IN ANY LIFE and they like it? It will not matter how old or young you are unless your a Marketing agent. This is just my opinion but I hope this gives you clarity. PS, I am a musician, I NEED a band that NEEDS me! This is a link to some work in competitions, but in NO way does it come close to the amount of material I have that is unmistakably better. www.soundclick.com/ahazard This said to one track listed here, "Beautiful" made #18, & #8 place in over 500,000. I'm in southern California, inland valley. I currently make GRUNGE, and even ppl that don't like me, will acknowledge, my voice, my expression, and my vibe, in the words of others, "just like Kurt Cobain in Nirvana". Contact me Plz!
No, every breakout artist seems to be late 30s
Nope
Debbie Harry was 31 when Blondie recorded its first album
I’m 25 rn I feel behind too. Or like ima never be where I wanna be. Idk i don’t got some silver lining for you besides you just gotta lock in and go crazy. Wherever and whenever you saw urself moving up the most, just lock in that mode again.
Age used to be a thing .. it’s not anymore. I’m 40 and doing better than ever. I only see it going up from here. Cultivate a following with people who connect with what you do. If you make grunge music and wish you had 22 year old pop fans… it’ll never be a good fit. Find people who resonate with the what you do and build from the ground up. Also. Younger fans have no social context for music like many of us did. They year music for what it is in that moment and like it or don’t. It’s not tied to cultural moments like in the pas, so there’s more opportunity across ages than ever. Just keep at it…
who gives a fuck make what u wanna make when u wanna make it!
Didn’t start til early 30s and doing well now
I turned 40 last year. We just released our second album. But I know what you mean!
Keep at it as long as you enjoy it. My brother became well known in the city he lived in, he passed away at age 68 but never stopped writing playing and singing. I know he got discouraged but he kept on with it. I just write lyrics. I probably won’t get anywhere but I’m a senior citizen and enjoy that part. I have a few songs on social medias but I don’t sing or perform. It’s hard because there are so many artists. You’re still young!
A lot of people are in their prime in their 30s making the best music they have when making it so don’t give up most of the greats are in their 30s to 40s and are still making music there’s a list your not to old your good keep making good music that connects to people is the main thing you should focus on not the age it also depends on what sub genre your in other than that your good
The Muse is Ageless.
I always stop and think about the greats that started late. Google some. It'll comfort you a bit. But also, a career in music doesn't need to follow the same chronological path as everyone else's. You will get there when you get there and it'll be right because thats when it's supposed to happen. At 28, I often imagine myself at 18 having made the big time and laugh my ass off because i was nowhere near fully baked yet. It wouldve been poor timing. I like to think that I'm still cooking, ya know? And I also realize that I get to navigate those decisions within my music journey, so I shouldn't feel hopeless about "why hasn't it happened yet for me?" It's moreso, that's just a part of the journey I may or may not reach and I get to decide on the things right now in front of me that may or may not get me there. At the end of the day, I still get to make music.
Lol I don't think there is an age. I know a guy whose band just released their first single last week and he's like 37
Run your own race! That’s advice I always have to beat into my brain too. Sometimes you just gotta wait for the things to happen. Doesn’t mean you can’t be working towards a goal in the meantime, but everyone’s time for their “big break,” whatever that may be, is different. As long as you’re pursuing your craft with love, devotion, and respect you can’t go wrong.
Sometimes the best songs are written after gaining life experience, the older you get the more chances you have at telling a compelling story with your music
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bonnie_Raitt Bonnie Raitt was 22 when she released her first album, but didn't come to real prominence until she was 40 (1989) with her TENTH STUDIO ALBUM, Nick of Time. She won Song of the Year in the 2023 Grammys at age 74. Good things take time. ;) Give yourself some grace.
I dunno… niche music is so accessible these days and so many listeners are willing to expand into new things that I think it’s still possible to carve out a fan base even if you’re a bit older. It might depend on the genre and how it’s promoted though. Work with the situation rather than against it. I wouldn’t lose heart… just do it for the love. If it’s quality you’ll figure out how to get attention. 31 is still plenty young. I’m 40 and considering dusting off some instruments to make an album. I’m a music lover, and I only speak for myself but I’m willing to listen to anything by anyone and age doesn’t come into it at all. How about Leonard Cohen? He started his music career fairly old and became an international icon. If anything that extra maturity when he started may be part of the reason he didn’t burn out and continued to create quality as the decades passed. LCD Soundsystem… debut album released when James Murphy was 35. Plenty of other examples. The rarity of older debutants in the music scene probably has as much to do with less older people taking the risk as it does to do with any (lack of) “sex appeal”. If you build it, they will come.
This comment section is making me feel way better because society convinced me I have to be stalking producers to their homes by the time I’m 13 to do anything
Also 31 here. I don’t gig much but do on occasion. While a lot of more recent grads from my college are getting tons of gigs, I also see lots of older people gigging a ton. Even some folks around retirement age that have taken it up more permanently as a source of income. So I’d say you could get into gigging at twice your age if you wanted.
This would be like someone interested in painting worrying that their art won’t end up in MoMa. Odds of any individual making it big are minuscule. Just have fun making some cool stuff and do it for you. Maybe, if you’re lucky enough, other people will like it
[this guy is doing okay, I think he's 81](https://www.celebritynetworth123.com/wp-content/plugins/networthdisplay/cnwimages20/k/keith-richards.jpg)
Unless you play 200-300 shows a year, isn’t the music industry just a lottery? I mean I could go to any church and find better singers than Beyoncé and Taylor.
Rodney Dangerfield was a tin salesman for 20 or so years before he was discovered. Some people don’t lose their virginity until after high school, some people become stars in their 50s, it all happens in its own time. Or never at all. I wish you luck and as much fame as is healthy for you personally.
i’m 17 and i feel like 18 is the end for me
I understand, but if I were ever to feel that way, I look at Pete and bas. Those guys are in their 80s. Age doesn’t matter if what music you have to offer to the world is good. the best example I have (sorry I’m a hip hop head) is MF DOOM he started rapping again with a style that was decades behind him, in an industry that was much younger than him (he was almost 30 when he made a new album, 32 when he dropped his best album) but still made incredible music and people loved him because of it.
I’m 56 and I am determined to have a hit song. And a hit book. Everyone should have one.
I’m 52 and just bought a ukulele and walking back from my first lesson a guy stopped me and said their uke player wrecked into a pineapple stand and asked if I wanted to play on Saturday night and I TOTALLY bombed the whole ordeal. But to answer your question, no.
I just started learning piano as a new years resolution at 32. Im 34 now. Being a "late beginner" on the cusp of early intermediate, I know that in all likeliness it is too late for many things. I would love to be a music teacher. I would head over heels love to be a lounge pianist. But first and foremost, I am happy that I am finally taking music seriously, because I always wanted to be a musician. I took forever to make it an actual goal to pursue due to severe self-esteem issues, and alcoholism.
There are ways to make a solid living as a musician without shooting for pop/rock stardom. I fed a family of four and got two kids through college writing jingles, scoring corporate video and writing and producing radio commercials. Never got famous or wildly rich, but I had a fantastic time, made my own hours, worked in my own home studio… and didn’t have to tour, which I learned as a young fellow that I hated.