Good Advice. Unlikely Source.

I get the feeling that a lot of people write off the insights of Trent Reznor because he’s responsible for the largest commercially viable industrial-rock band of the past two decades; a genre a lot of people seem to hate on. However, if you’re able to get beyond your preconceived notions of the man I suggest taking a moment to read through one of his latest musing: My Thoughts on What To Do as a New / Unknown Artist.

You may think that Mr. Nine Inch Nails wouldn’t have much insight for a new band but his advice is surprisingly insightful. He points to a lot of specific tools to take advantage of and sends the whole thing home with this gem:

If you don’t know anything about new media or how people communicate these days, none of this will work. The role of an independent musician these days requires a mastery of first hand use of these tools. If you don’t get it – find someone who does to do this for you. If you are waiting around for the phone to ring or that A & R guy to show up at your gig – good luck, you’re going to be waiting a while.

It really is a great read and I suggest you consume it at your earliest convenience. Then immediately sign up for an account at Bandcamp and Artisdata if you have not already.