Why make music?

Sometimes this is important for me to remember! Given the work that goes into producing music, it can be hard to deal with when a track or release either falls unexpectedly flat or gets negative feedback. Ignoring negative feedback definitely isn't the answer - there is always much more to learn. However, I think neither is dwelling on it, which I find easy to do. Music can't be reduced to following a set of rules, and every listener has their own perspective and is approaching any track from a different angle. The important thing is to move on, and focus on moving the music forward. Over the time I've been releasing music on the internet I've found on a number of occasions, with hindsight, that I have decieved myself about aspects of a track, particularly when there is pressure to release something, and this can be true of both technical aspects and also the overall impression that a track gives. Although perfectionism can be painful, I'm constantly learning that it's best not to ignore any doubt, even if it doesn't seem important at the time. Some people can work to deadlines, but I think good quality music can't be rushed. Personally, I need to step back from it before releasing it, and if it's not absolutely 100%, if there is anything that I feel isn't quite right, it shouldn't be released. This can be a difficult lesson to learn- but I think the most important thing is- don't compromise. At the end of the day, (particularly given the state of the music industry!), and whatever it costs to make, this is not a career, and I make music for self-expression above anything else. If people enjoy it, or even better, occasionally buy it*, that is a great thing, and makes me feel that it is more worthwhile, but it's not why I make music. For a long time when I started no-one heard any tracks, I composed music because I enjoyed it and for no other reason. Music can take me somewhere else when I'm making it even more effectively than when I'm listening. I think that what [...]

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