Career advice for hired musicians.

Want to know how to make yourself more desirable, marketable, and overall employable as a side-person or session musician in today’s post-pandemic climate?

In this session from the 2022 DIY Musician Conference in Austin, TX, you’ll hear Damon Grant (who’s worked with Charlie Hunter, Madonna, and many more) and Stephen Bidwell (of Black Pumas) talk about:

good preparation
the right tools
memorization hacks
professionalism
finances
and much more

Though both presenters are percussionists, this conversation is relevant for any instrumentalist or vocalist who seeks to work in a supporting role, on tour or in the studio.

To skip directly to a particular section, just hit the timestamp corresponding to:

00:00 Introductions
01:58 What IS a side-person or session player?
02:29 Mastering your craft
03:50 Practicing efficiently
05:09 The “sound” of your instrument and genre
06:40 Why you still need a mentor
08:15 Rehearsing is a luxury
08:50 Knowing the gatekeepers
11:01 Do you have to read music or know theory?
13:04 “It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you”
15:57 Consistent and tasteful musical execution is key
18:22 Doing recording sessions from home
24:28 The tools you need
28:00 Do you live in the right place?
29:36 Gear endorsement deals
31:58 Digital charts, in-ears, tuners, etc.
33:15 Protect your ears
33:39 Marketing tips for side-persons
36:48 Instrument repair and maintenance
37:03 Travel and time-management
40:51 Why are YOU right (or wrong) for this gig?
43:56 Dressing the part and etiquette
45:25 Bad reputations spread faster than good ones
46:33 Other jobs to supplement your income
50:15 The money and business stuff
52:01 Are you a cool hang offstage?
52:45 When to take or pass on a gig
54:30 Will your friends be welcome backstage?
55:04 Mental, physical, and financial health as a hired musician
56:42 You need a professional team
57:28 The best mobile apps for side-people
57:44 Audience questions