How do you move to the front of the stage when you’ve spent a lifetime being in the background? This is the question many talented musicians and vocalists are asking. As the entire world continues to struggle to recover from the impact of COVID-19, singers and background musicians are no longer able to work consistently behind touring artists. This has forced many of us to rethink how to use our gifts and become more visible in the public eye.  Thankfully, you don’t have to have a outgoing personality, be social media savvy,  or have a public relations team in order to shift from a supporting musician role to one of a front-line, independent artists. But it does take a major shift in mindset. In this passionate discussion, you’ll be encouraged to make three adjustments in your strategy that will help you think like an independent artist, instead of waiting for other artists to create work for you. These strategies include:  Creating a relevant and attractive sound that is unique to youCreating a marketing plan that sells your interesting qualitiesCreating a message that resonates with your audience. While your skills as a background musician or vocalist are still very important, you must expand your knowledge and stretch yourself beyond your comfort zone if you want to thrive in this brand-new music and entertainment industry. Key Topics covered in this episodeWhy simply remaining as a background music specialist is no longer a viable option Why being a front-line artist doesn’t mean selling out your musical or artistic values Some simple ways to introduce yourself as an independent artistThe spiritual responsibility you have to yourself and your audience to present your unique gifts  How to sell and promote yourself even in the midst of cultural and social upheavalLinks:Learn about The 4 Questions you need to ask before going Full-Time in Arts and EntertainmentListen to episode 54 and our interview with Grammy award winning producer Daniel Weatherspoon Download our free Checklist to radically improve your livestreaming concerts Tap to send us a text! Support the showJoin our Creative Community In our 360 Membership, you get focused encouragement, guidance, and training on how to thrive as a faith-focused creative. Joining gives you access to our exclusive app, workshops and community conversations, as we change from being creatively confused to creatively confident! GodandGigs.com/membership PODCAST MERCHGet God and Gigs themed gear, clothing and accessories HERE! GOT VALUE FROM THIS PODCAST? If so, please share your: TIME: Send this episode to someone who you know would enjoy it TALENT: Email your art or music to add to our community to allen@godandgigs.com TREASURE: Tap HERE to help support God and Gigs with a donation! Want to be a guest on The God and Gigs Show? Send us a message on PodMatch, here!