Asking for What You Want

A Musician’s Lesson in Persistence and Asking for What You Want

I've been reflecting a lot lately on how life sends us little reminders, gently nudging us to ask for what we truly want. Just yesterday, I had a classic Target adventure that perfectly illustrates this idea. But as a musician, songwriter, and producer, this experience resonated deeply with my journey in the music industry.

The Target Parallel: A Lesson in Negotiation

Picture this: I'm at the checkout with an awesome bundle pack of recording gear priced at $14.99—a great deal for a budding producer like me. Later, I glance at my receipt and do a double-take—it turns out, I was snagged for just $7.50! Talk about a win, right?

This moment mirrored the early days of my music career. Just like finding an unexpected discount, landing a gig or getting my first few songs produced felt like serendipitous wins. But success in music, much like in retail, often requires persistence and the willingness to ask for more.

Chasing the Groove: Persistence Pays Off

Fast forward a few hours, and I decide to head back for more of those bundles because, hey, why not? In the music world, this is akin to returning to a studio or approaching another venue after initial success. But wouldn’t you know it, the price of the bundle is back to $14.99. I asked a few store employees, but no one could explain this weird price fluctuation. After a moment of hesitation, I thought, “What’s the harm?” and decided to grab it anyway, hoping I'd get lucky again.

As a songwriter, I've often faced similar fluctuations—sometimes my ideas flow effortlessly, and other times, it feels like hitting a creative wall. But the key is to keep going, to keep asking for that breakthrough, much like I decided to purchase the bundle again despite the higher price.

Negotiating Your Worth: Asking for What You Deserve

When I got to the register, I casually mentioned to the cashier, “Hey, I paid $7.50 for this bundle earlier today. Any chance you could honor that price?” At first, he hesitated, but I guess he sensed my genuine vibe (who doesn’t love a good underdog story?). To my surprise, he marked it down for me!

This moment is a powerful analogy for musicians negotiating their worth. Whether it's asking a record label for a better contract, negotiating performance fees, or seeking fair royalties for songwriting, it’s essential to advocate for yourself. Initially, there might be resistance, but persistence and genuine passion can often lead to favorable outcomes.

The Takeaway: Embrace the Ask

The takeaway? Sometimes, you just have to roll with it and ask for what you want. Life’s too short to stress about the “what-ifs.” In the music industry, opportunities can be fleeting, and sometimes, you need to take that extra step to secure your dreams. Whether it’s reaching out to a potential collaborator, pitching your music to a producer, or negotiating terms that reflect your true value, asking can open doors you never knew existed.

A Lighthearted Note: Staying Humble Amid Success

Oh, and side note—I might be allergic to drinking water! Just kidding (sort of). In the whirlwind of chasing dreams and negotiating success, it’s important to stay grounded and keep a sense of humor. After all, a little laughter can keep the creative juices flowing and make the journey enjoyable.

Final Thoughts: Your Music, Your Journey

As a musician, songwriter, or producer, your journey is filled with ups and downs, much like the fluctuating prices at Target. Embrace each moment, learn from every experience, and never be afraid to ask for what you deserve. Persistence, genuine passion, and the courage to negotiate can transform those small victories into lasting success.

So next time you find yourself hesitating to ask for that promotion, better contract terms, or simply believing in your next big hit, remember the Target adventure. Sometimes, all it takes is a little nudge and the courage to ask for what you truly want.