How To Become The Best Artist In The World

Summary

In this video, the importance of skill stacking for aspiring artists is highlighted. Instead of focusing solely on mastering one skill, artists should combine various talents to create a unique identity. Through real-world examples like Jack White, Ren, and Pink Pantheris, the video demonstrates how blending skills, including marketing savvy and unique sound creation, leads to success in the competitive music industry. The video emphasizes that long-lasting careers come from adaptability, consistency, and smart planning, not viral fame or big budgets. A three-step process for skill stacking is provided to help artists build a sustainable career.

Takeaways

• 😀 Focus on becoming the best version of yourself, not necessarily the best in the world. Everyone has their own definition of success.
• 😀 Chasing perfection in just one area (like singing or songwriting) isn't enough for long-term success in the music industry.
• 😀 Skill stacking—combining multiple talents—is a more effective strategy for artists to stand out and thrive.
• 😀 Successful artists like Jack White, PinkPantheress, and Lil Nas X combine multiple skills (e.g., performance, aesthetics, social media) to create a unique identity.
• 😀 Platforms like TikTok have changed the industry by enabling one-hit wonders but also offer opportunities for viral success with the right skill set.
• 😀 Skill stacking is about blending your core strength with complementary skills such as marketing, storytelling, video production, and even public speaking.
• 😀 Identifying and enhancing your core strength is the first step to building a successful career. It’s about what you’re already good at.
• 😀 Complementary skills can include anything from cooking (like Action Bronson) to time management. These skills can make you more marketable and help differentiate you.
• 😀 Consistent experimentation with your unique skill stack is key—don’t wait for perfection before testing new ideas.
• 😀 The music industry values adaptability and a clear understanding of your unique sound, audience, and product. Labels seek artists who show potential without needing huge investments.
• 😀 Building a lasting career in music requires smart planning and growth, not just viral fame or overspending on unnecessary tools. Focus on skills over quick fame.

Q & A

What does it mean to be the best artist in the world?

Being the best artist in the world can mean different things to different people. For some, it’s about topping the charts, while for others, it’s about creating music that stands the test of time. The key is to define what 'best' means to you personally.

Why is it risky to focus on mastering only one skill as an artist?

Focusing on mastering only one skill, such as singing or songwriting, can be limiting. The modern music industry values versatility and the ability to combine multiple talents. Focusing on one skill might not be enough to build a long-lasting career, and it could lead to burnout or quick obsolescence.

What is skill stacking, and why is it important for artists?

Skill stacking refers to combining multiple talents that complement each other to create a unique package. For artists, this is crucial because it helps differentiate them in a crowded industry and allows them to stand out by offering something that others can’t replicate easily.

Can you give examples of artists who have successfully used skill stacking?

Yes, several artists have successfully used skill stacking. For example, Jack White combines his guitar skills with a deep understanding of music history and presentation. Pink Pantheris combines raw, emotional lyrics with nostalgic UK garage sounds and smart promotion through TikTok. Lil Nas X mixed his music skills with internet culture to go viral.

How did TikTok contribute to Pink Pantheris's success?

Pink Pantheris leveraged TikTok to promote her music by teasing parts of her songs, building excitement and a fanbase before releasing full tracks. Her viral success on the platform helped her break into the industry and sign with Parlophone Records.

What is the average lifespan of an artist in the top 40, and why is this significant?

The average lifespan of an artist in the top 40 is less than a year. This highlights the impermanence of viral fame and the importance of building a sustainable, long-term career rather than relying on quick hits or fleeting popularity.

What are the three steps to start building a skill stack as an artist?

The three steps are: 1) Identify your core strength by evaluating what you're already good at, 2) Add complementary skills, which may include non-musical talents like public speaking or time management, and 3) Combine and test these skills by experimenting with different projects and collaborations.

What are some examples of complementary skills that artists could focus on?

Complementary skills could include areas such as marketing, video production, public speaking, social media management, or even non-musical skills like cooking or storytelling, which can enhance the artist's overall brand and presentation.

Why is it important to avoid spending money carelessly in the music industry?

Spending money without a clear plan can lead to financial troubles. For instance, investing in expensive studio time, gear, or music videos without a solid fanbase or strategy can drain resources without helping to grow your career. Instead, focus on learning, experimenting, and making smart investments that will accelerate your growth.

What should artists do when major labels show interest in their music?

Artists should understand that labels are looking for potential success without requiring huge investments. They value artists who have a clear understanding of their audience, a unique sound, and the skills necessary to succeed. Artists should be cautious and avoid wasting money before they have a solid foundation.