IS THERE ANY LOYALTY IN THE MUSIC BUSINESS?
Did you ever notice how many acts change producers from record to record? How many choose a different attorney or photographer every few minutes? And, how many artists play in more than one band?
The first question is a real mystery. Acts that have achieved phenomenal success with a specific producer often choose a different person for their next record; with the result generally being a disappointment. Why do they do that?
One example is No Doubt’s 1995 release Tragic Kingdom, which sold over 16 million records and garnered multiple Grammy nominations. It’s not an overstatement to say that album made their career. But, did they tap producer Matthew Wilder for their next record? No way. And, their follow up, Return of Saturn didn’t even come close to their previous record.
No Doubt is certainly not the only act to do such a thing. And, conversely, there are acts that have kept the same producer on board for almost all their recordings, like the Beatles and George Martin. In fact, those that have maintained the same personnel generally sustain consistency and career longevity.
Nevertheless, artists claim there are many reasons for switching producers, such as a new direction, different sound, etc. But, are those reasons really valid? In any other business, when someone achieves positive results for a project they become part of the team. But, that doesn’t seem to be the case in the music business.
When it comes to attorneys and photographers, it’s even worse. So much so, it can get confusing. One theory is that artists may think the grass is greener elsewhere – that a new shooter will make them look even prettier; or, that new counsel will cut a sweeter deal. Perhaps… But, if that’s so, why are they never satisfied? Why do they keep changing players? They would never do that with band members… or, would they?
In Los Angeles it’s common for musicians to play in more than one band. We all know why, and it’s not because they’re simply looking for variety. They’re hedging their bets. They’re not sure which project will take off, so they play the odds. But does that really help any of the bands? No one project gets their full commitment, attention or energy. And, often, the result is that all of them suffer.
Artists are even known to switch managers – the one that has worked with them for years and gotten them a deal. Once they’re signed, a larger company – that had absolutely no interest in them before – swoops in, courts them, and steals them away.
What’s up with that? Is there any loyalty in the music business? I don’t have the answer. I’d like to think there is. But, I’m not sure. So, I’d like to know what you think…
—Bernard Baur
Tags: loyalty, music business
