.png)
Let’s talk about it.
In the 80s, a time when Synthwave culture thrived, there was a sense of unity around music, fashion, and creativity, all without the noise of modern politics. This era showed us that creating something amazing—whether it was beats, melodies, or style—was what mattered most.
So, why not revive that synthwave energy today?
Yet, despite the legacy of creativity, there's still this frustrating belief: being a musician isn’t a “real job.” Let’s clear that up. If you’ve ever heard someone question your life in music, remember this: artists are visionaries. We see the world through a different lens, constantly pushing boundaries and finding inspiration in places others overlook. Sure, most people follow a structured 9-to-5 routine, but as creators, we operate in a world without timecards or paychecks handed over every two weeks.
To be clear, this isn’t a dig at those who live for routine. There’s comfort and safety in structure for many. But for us? That world can feel suffocating. The idea of being confined to rigid schedules or someone hovering over our shoulders is the opposite of what fuels our creativity.
Here’s the deal: It’s not your problem if people don’t recognize music as a legitimate profession. It’s theirs. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for the hours you pour into your craft, the shows you perform, or the energy you put into booking gigs. As Wade Sutton said, their opinions hold zero weight when it comes to your creative process. Keep writing, keep performing, and let the results speak for themselves.
My Story
I’m based in the Mid-West, running my own music business, doing my own solo projects, and playing with my new "Retro Sonya" band name with synthwave brilliance.
I’ve gotten some blank stares when I tell people what I do. They just don’t get it. That’s why I stopped explaining and started showing. When people see the results, they start asking, “Wait, how did you pull that off?” I used to try and make them understand, but I’ve moved on. I focus on my music, and if they come around, great—if not, that’s fine too.
It would be amazing to have full support from family and friends, but mostly, that’s not how it works. Instead of pushing my music on them, I focus on my niche audience—the people who actually vibe with what I’m creating. If they’re not interested, why bother?
The Work-Life Debate
Now, I’ve written a lot about jobs in the past, and you might think I’m against the 9-to-5 grind entirely. That’s not quite true. If I found an environment where I could thrive—without dealing with office politics, backstabbing, or race hate and prejudice—I’d reconsider. But I’ve seen too much of that during both online and offline experiences. It made me realize that I wasn’t in the right circles. I needed to be around people who build each other up, not tear each other down. The traditional job structure wasn’t for me, so I decided to create my own opportunities.
In every job I tried, it was the same story: bosses trying to show who’s in charge instead of working as a team. People using insecurity to try to cut others down. That’s not how I operate.
I believe in surrounding myself with those who recognize that there’s enough success to go around and celebrating others’ wins doesn’t take away from your own.
That mindset has changed everything for me. Anyway, back to the music.
Do you like... 🦄 All things Retro? 🌈 Biblical values? 🥨 Neon dirndls and crimps? 🎮 Game Development? 🎶 Synthwave Music? 🏰
If so, I hope you know you’ve got a mutual here! So be sure to sign up for the newsletter at the bottom of the page! Don't miss a thing.
Comentários