'Live Streaming to Hold Ourselves Accountable': How Indie Musicians Adapt to Lockdown
What are those in the music industry supposed to do when musicians can no longer perform for a live audience because of a global pandemic?
Freelance musicians have seen paying gigs fall by the wayside. So many bands and recording artists have had opportunities stripped away, and too many working musicians have lost a chance to hit the road and earn some significant income.
But that doesn’t mean these talented individuals have stopped performing, honing their craft, and reaching their audiences. Many musicians have pivoted their approach and adapted to this situation.
Here’s how three musicians are keeping music central to their shifted schedules.
OFFSTAGE TUNES VIDEOS
Create A Routine – Annie Nirschel
“I quit my job right before the pandemic, so I felt like I was grounded to nothing when this all started,” said Annie Nirschel from New York City. She has been live streaming at 6pm Eastern everyday since New Yorkers started staying home to flatten the curve. “Live streaming has been a really fun way to hold ourselves accountable to something, especially when the day felt structure-less.”
“My only advice would be to have fun, which is cheesy, cheesy, cheesy advice,” she added jovially. “Don’t take it too seriously, do this for yourself, and do what you can to avoid making this feel like work.”
Stay “Virtually” Connected – Michael Anthony Salamone
Musician: Michael Anthony Salamone
Singer-songwriter and guitarist Michael Anthony Salamone is also using live streams to keep himself busy. Based in Maryland, his state enacted a stay-at-home order at the end of March, but he started streaming at least two weeks prior. “Performing at this time has been a great experience in the sense that it’s kept me busy and it’s been good performing my music for my family in the house and friends online.”
Michael engages with his online audience by inviting questions and creating dialogues. Although it’s not the same as an in-person conversation, it sure comes close to that. And he plans on continuing the virtual connections during this time. “We all have music in our lives and music is what brings us together especially during this time. That’s how powerful it is.”
Get Things Done (Finally!) – James J. Beckham
Musician: James J. Beckham
According to Nielsen’s data, this coronavirus lockdown boosted TV and movie streaming by 36% during the month of March. A likely assumption is that many people have found extra time on their hands, as songwriter and music producer James Beckham has. When he’s not hosting live open mic nights on Instagram, he uses his newfound time to work on projects he did not have time for previously.
Such as making new music and releasing songs. “I don’t look at this as a negative,” James shared. “It’s a perfect time for artist to create and grow their skills. I just released a song that I have been wanting to release, and with the opportunity to stay home I have been writing and composing.”
When asked about the open mic shows he has been hosting virtually, James explained how those have provided a wonderful way to connect with other artists. “It has been a great experience to collaborate through Instagram live and hear all the different musicians of the world.
How have you been using your time during this crisis? Share your experience in the comments or via email. If you’re planning a music live stream, submit details here so we can all tune in.
Interview conducted and written by Louise Lau. Connect on social @offstagetunes