Being an independent artist can be liberating, but it also means navigating a maze of misinformation, bad advice, and outdated assumptions. Too often, these myths go unchallenged, quietly holding artists back from real growth.

Let’s break them down, and more importantly, let’s break through them.

Myth #1: “You need a huge following to get gigs.”

The truth: While audience numbers help, many venues and talent buyers care more about professionalism, performance quality, and local draw. Relationships, not just reach, open doors.

Break it: Focus on your live show, build local connections, and make yourself easy to book with a solid EPK and verified platform profile.

Myth #2: “If I just keep releasing music, opportunities will find me.”

The truth: Music discovery is harder than ever. Without intentional networking and positioning, even great music can vanish into the void.

Break it: Don’t just release… connect. Collaborate. Promote with purpose. And make sure you’re visible where industry professionals are actually looking.

Myth #3: “If I’m not in a major city, I’ll never make it.”

The truth: Geography used to matter more. Today, success is increasingly decentralized. Artists from rural towns are touring internationally and placing music in film, games, and ads without leaving home.

Break it: Build online presence. Leverage regional networks. And plug into platforms that prioritize access over location.

Myth #4: “I have to do it all myself to stay independent.”

The truth: Independence isn’t about isolation. It’s about ownership. That includes knowing when to ask for help, collaborate, or tap into community.

Break it: Independence is strongest when it’s connected. Find support systems and infrastructure that exist to serve artists… not exploit them.

Myth #5: “Real industry support is only for major-label artists.”

The truth: That’s exactly the mindset keeping too many musicians in the margins. The old industry may have operated that way, but we’re building something different.

Break it: Explore new models, join movements that serve independents, and demand tools designed with your career in mind.

The Bottom Line

There’s no blueprint for the perfect music career, but there are common traps. Recognizing these myths is the first step to building a path on your own terms.

At Indie Music Alliance, we’re creating the infrastructure to help you do just that.

Join the platform built for musicians, venues, and service providers who are tired of outdated systems, and ready to move forward.

Register and create your free listing today!

You’ve got the talent. Let’s make sure the world knows where to find it.