There are people who talk about making music and people who make music. Neither one is wrong, but you have to decide which one is more important to you.

 

also, always try to wear comfortable shoes, it will change your outlook on the entire world...

 

Prepare yourself. Music is both a blessing and a curse. As my Father said, the night before I started my University Musical journey, "know that there is always someone better than you". Those words calmed my busy ego for the rest of my life. I can improve myself, but cannot be someone else.

 

I would say if you cannot make music, then you'll probably be a massive success in music.

In all seriousness though, I would tell myself to not expect too much, take any win as a bonus, and just keep pushing forward doing your thing and don't be too swayed by current trends

 

No matter how tired you are, always save and back up your work. Also, make backups and back up important files multiple times. A waterproof fireproof case is available for a small fee.

 

Keep all of your Roland and Korg synthesisizers, sequencers and drum machines. Don't trade them in for 'the new big thing'.

 

Less is more. Don't overdo arrangements and processing, this isn't what makes you sound good.

 

I guess for me it'd be,

You can't polish a turd so stop trying.
Also if someone hands you a turd, just roll it in glitter and throw it back out there. There's nothing more you can do to it.

I just wish the 2nd part didn't describe so much of what I work on.

 

I can't resist

 

don't look back

 

don't make it a job

 

Work more... and dream more.

 

Don't overdo it, or you'll end up with painful tendonitis in your hands or back pain. Don't sit for too long.
Get up after an hour and a half at the latest and move for 15 minutes. Do gymnastics, Tai Chi, or something else...!

 

Oh indeed this. So much this.

I've found that the warm-up exercises for guitar work pretty well for computer/knob tweaking sessions. I'm pretty certain a lot of other instruments (like piano?) have similar that work too. But general posture is important as well.

But taking breaks is essential. Get up, make a cup of tea, take some time to stare into middle distance. In silence if possible.

 

I would say to my past self:
"Buy good monitors and microphones (and stop fooling yourself that your shitty mixes are ok through cheap headphones or a less than avarage hi-fi system)"

 

Don't tell anyone what you would have told yourself 10 years ago. Let the bastards struggle like you did.

Also, don't waste all those years with that girl who was obviously not the right one for you.

 

Have a physical degree in your pocket of any other "normal" major.

 

Don't even try it. You suck too badly Xup.

 

Last edited: May 23, 2025