From the outside, being an artist looks like uploading songs, recording videos and giving concerts. But behind every release there are dozens of unseen tasks. And often, that invisible work is what makes the difference between a hobby and a career.
Here we debunk the myth of the "just sing" and show what it really takes to get a musical project off the ground.
1. Creative direction (even if you don't call it that)
You make decisions about covers, music videos, wardrobe, aesthetics, networks, type of content, narrative... All of this is creative direction.
And yes, you are doing it, every day.
2. Network and community management
Replying to messages, uploading stories, recording reels, taking care of the feed, editing videos, thinking about texts, reading statistics...
Engagement does not generate itself: it is built.
And it consumes real time.
3. Coordination of partnerships
Producing is not just about making beats.
Talk to producers, designers, photographers, stylists, musicians, labels, studios?
Checking dates, contracts, payments, shipments, licences. That's all part of the role too.
4. Communication and promotion
Writing e-mails, creating your press release, writing to the media, presenting your project in a clear message...
You are your own publicist.
And if you don't, no one will tell your story for you.
5. Organisation of rehearsals and live performances
Finding a venue, scheduling, rehearsing, coordinating schedules with the band or DJ, assembling the setlist, checking the repertoire, preparing the transport...
Behind a 40-minute gig, there are easily 20 hours of work.
6. Emotional self-management
Managing rejection, silence, the algorithm, comparisons, tiredness, fear of not doing "enough".
All this is also part of the journey. Y nobody tells it in the highlights videos.
Conclusion
Being an artist is not just about making music. It's about sustaining a whole project, sometimes without equipment, without budget and without time. Acknowledging all that you do is not just complaining: it is validate your invisible work. Because that, even if you don't see it on Instagram, also builds a career.
