Image -v- Music

It is always the song that breaks a successful act. Don't fool yourself by saying looks and image are doing it - that´s not the case. Every one of you reading this has probably, more than once, felt that an act is not worth its success, and believe that their success must be due to their image, and that no one can really like their music. This is nothing but a cynical remark, often reflecting one's own failure or limitation in understanding that kind of music. It's better to be modest and admit that you do not understand all kinds of tastes and appreciate the fact that music is a broad form of entertainment. Spending time and bitterness over the spread of multiplicity won't help, but defining your own goals will.

This awareness is very important, because a lot of effort today is spent on developing a cool image. There is nothing wrong with that, although it shouldn’t affect the time spent on the actual music. It's vital to realize that the group that you dislike actually has an audience that likes their music and that they are popular because of their music and not their image. This will help you understand music in general and focus upon what you should be doing, which is making great music.

Nevertheless, image is significant and must not be ignored. To make a mark on the industry’s massive output, it is an advantage to look like no one else. An act cannot succeed on image alone, but an act can fail due to the lack of one. Note the difference here. No one will buy your records because you have green teeth or are showing your naked butt, but it might help to get attention, rather than looking like everyone’s neighbour.

Don't get too caught up in beauty. It is good entertainment and a good basis to become a successful artist, but it's far from everything a successful image needs. A successful image has more to do with charisma, character and the look of something new. Age could be a problem if you are supposed to be the face of the group, but if you are, focus on character and don't try to hide the fact that you are above the average age of most chart contenders. There are plenty of possibilities out there.

Try to map out your target group. What are they like, what do they do and what are they wearing? When this is clear to you, level your image a little bit above them, but not too far. If your audience are 12 year olds, act as a 16 year old. If your audience are Hell’s Angels, be a little bit tougher than them. Try to stay ahead of your audience - they usually need someone to learn from and admire. Not necessarily idolise, but admire. Don't speculate too hard, though, on what you think it is that an audience wants from you. It must be something the act can carry and feel natural with and enjoy otherwise it won't work

Go through your image with care, but before you get your head buried into clothes, videos, poses and what cool things to say in an interview, just make sure you get your priorities straight - the music must always come first.

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