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15 Unhinged Things People in the Music Industry Have Said to Independent Artists
The music industry has built an entire culture around the idea that success comes down to who you know, who believes in you, and whether the right person decides you're worth taking a chance on. For independent artists, that mentality can create an uncomfortable power dynamic where people with industry experience or connections are given far more authority than they necessarily deserve.
While the business has evolved considerably over the years, some of its worst attitudes have proven surprisingly difficult to shake. There's still an expectation that emerging musicians should be grateful for anyone willing to give them attention, even when that attention comes with questionable intentions or completely unsolicited opinions.
The reality is that not everyone working in music has an artist's best interests in mind, and having an impressive résumé doesn't automatically make someone a decent person.
Sometimes the people claiming to understand the industry better than anyone else are the very people making it unnecessarily difficult for independent talent to succeed.
15 Unhinged Things Said to Independent Artists
"If you wrote and sang about darkness and the devil, you would have been very popular by now."
"I wouldn't f— you so why would I play music with you."
"You had your chance when you were young, but no one gives a shit about a 31 year old still trying to make it."
"Oh never mind, we found someone cheaper anyway and they're white."
"Dance and dress more 'sexy' even if the majority of your music is about depression."
"You need to blow up on TikTok first!"
"Blow me and I'll make you into a superstar."
"We're not sure people will pay for your... skin tone."
"If you want the cover you'll need to lose 20lbs. I suggest coke."
"You should model for lingerie" after hearing a demo.
"Oh you're a small indie artist? We'll give you all the access and connections you want for $200/month."
"We think you need a nose job."
"What music career? No offense but you're a nobody."
"Oh. Have you tried American Idol?"
"I'm responsible for every big opportunity you've ever had."
The Ugly Side of Artist Development
While some of these comments might sound almost too ridiculous to believe, the attitudes behind them reflect larger problems within an industry where emerging artists can feel pressured to tolerate disrespect simply because someone claims to have influence.
There's a significant difference between constructive criticism and using someone's ambition as an excuse to humiliate, manipulate, or exploit them. Unfortunately, that distinction isn't always respected by the people positioning themselves as gatekeepers to professional success.
Independent artists already face enough challenges trying to fund their releases, build audiences, secure opportunities, and establish sustainable careers without having to defend their appearance, identity, or personal boundaries along the way.
No artist should have to change their body, compromise their values, or sacrifice their dignity to be taken seriously. And perhaps the most important reminder is that having industry connections doesn't automatically make someone credible, qualified, or deserving of an artist's trust.
The music industry has no shortage of people willing to tell independent musicians what they're doing wrong. What it needs is more people willing to recognize their potential without making them feel worthless in the process.
