Why Most Musicians Fail: Common Mistakes Musicians Make and How to Avoid Them

I wanted to write this because over the years, I’ve seen way too many talented musicians throw in the towel—not because they didn’t have what it takes, but because they kept running into the same avoidable problems. I’ve been lucky to work closely with artists who’ve struggled, regrouped, and come out stronger. So if you’re feeling stuck or unsure where things are going, this one’s for you.

Frustrated Musician

Not Having Clear Goals or a Vision

One of the most common mistakes musicians make is not knowing exactly what they’re aiming for. They work hard, release music, post on social media—but without a clear direction, it starts to feel like running on a treadmill.

That’s why setting SMART goals is a game-changer. That means goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Here’s what that looks like in action:

• Specific: Instead of “I want to promote my music,” say “I’m going to study 3 music marketing YouTube videos this week and try one of their strategies.”

• Measurable: “I want to grow by 5 new Instagram followers a day.” It’s small, but it adds up.

• Achievable: If you’ve never played a show before, start by booking a small local gig—not a stadium.

• Relevant: If your dream is to tour, your goals should include building a killer live set and connecting with venues.

• Time-bound: “I want to release my next single by the end of September.” Deadlines keep things real.

I worked with a band who felt stuck—no growth, no direction. Once we laid out SMART goals, everything changed. We planned an EP release, outlined how to grow their fanbase by 50%, and booked a bunch of local shows. Progress became trackable, and motivation shot through the roof.

Poor Time Management

Even if you’ve got a vision, time can slip through your fingers fast if you’re not intentional about it. I’ve seen artists with all the right pieces—but no plan to put them together—end up spinning their wheels.

Here’s what’s worked for the artists I’ve managed:

• Create a shared schedule: A Google Calendar works wonders. Add your rehearsals, content days, release deadlines, everything. It helps everyone stay on the same page and shows you who’s really committed.

• Prioritize tasks: Focus on what moves the needle—whether it’s finishing your mix, emailing venues, or prepping your release.

• Break big goals into smaller steps: Planning an album? Divide it into writing, recording, mixing, mastering, and promoting—so it doesn’t feel like an impossible mountain.

• Try the Pomodoro Technique: 25 minutes focused work, 5-minute break. It helps you stay sharp without burning out.

• Avoid multitasking: You’ll do better work focusing on one thing at a time.

I once worked with an artist who was overwhelmed and frozen by all the things they wanted to do. Once we mapped out their year—recording deadlines, release dates, promo windows—it all clicked. They were releasing consistently, booking shows, and staying sane through it all.

Weak or No Marketing Strategy

Let’s be real—great music isn’t enough anymore. If no one hears it, it doesn’t matter. I get it—most musicians just want to create. But marketing your music is how you make your art reach people.

Here’s what every artist should be doing (like, yesterday):

• Build an online presence: Post behind-the-scenes content, updates, and just be yourself. People connect with the human side of artists.

• Make a website: It’s your digital HQ. Include your bio, music, show dates, EPK, and contact info.

• Collect emails: Email marketing isn’t dead. Just don’t spam. Share real updates, show announcements, or ask fans to help fund a new project.

• Collaborate: Work with other artists—feature on tracks, co-host live sessions, or even just tag each other in posts. Cross-promotion works.

• Submit to playlists and blogs: There’s a playlist or blog for everything now. Find the right ones and get your music in front of people who care.

• Try paid ads: You don’t need a huge budget. Start small, see what works, and double down on it.

One of the bands I manage had solid music but no traction. We set up their site, got their socials on point, started networking locally, and submitted to playlists. Their Spotify numbers jumped, they started getting blog features, and eventually, they were booking better shows. Visibility is everything.

Not Building Relationships

You can’t do this alone. So many artists try to grind in a vacuum, and it makes everything 10x harder. I’ve seen firsthand how simply showing up for other artists or going to a local event can open doors.

Here’s what’s helped the most:

• Go to shows—even if you’re not playing: Meet people, talk to venue staff, support other musicians. That goodwill always comes back around.

• Join online communities: Whether it’s a Reddit thread or a private Facebook group, stay active and contribute.

• Collaborate often: Not just musically—share resources, ideas, and strategies. I’ve helped create little “think tanks” among artists that have led to features, tours, and shared fans.

• Keep in touch: If someone helps you, follow up. Share your progress. Say thank you.

• Appreciate your circle: Gratitude goes a long way. People remember how you made them feel.

I managed an artist who didn’t know a soul in the local scene. I had them start showing up to open mics and music nights—no agenda, just be present. Within months, they were getting offered collabs, opening slots, and even a sponsorship deal.

Messy Finances

This one hurts the most—when an artist is ready to level up, but their finances aren’t. Either they’ve spent too much too soon or didn’t budget at all.

Here’s what I always recommend:

• Create a budget: Know your income and expenses. Keep it simple and stick to it.

• Prioritize what matters: Don’t blow your money on fancy gear if your website looks like it’s from 2006. Invest in marketing, visuals, and quality recordings.

• Look for funding: Grants, sponsorships, crowdfunding—there’s money out there if you ask.

• Use your fanbase: Those emails you collected? Ask your fans to help fund your next project. People want to support artists they believe in.

• Think long-term: Spend on things that’ll still matter a year from now.

I’ve helped artists who didn’t want to invest in themselves. Once we made a simple budget and focused on what would actually move the needle, things shifted. We crowdfunded their next EP, spent wisely on visuals and marketing, and got better shows and more streams as a result.

Final Thoughts

Making it in music isn’t just about how talented you are—it’s about how well you manage the business side, how committed you are to improving, and how much you’re willing to learn from your mistakes.

Every time you take action in one of these areas, you’re giving yourself a better shot. You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to be consistent. Keep showing up, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way.

Because honestly? The ones who make it aren’t always the most talented. They’re the ones who didn’t give up and show up everyday.