Here in this blog post, we are going to share with 10 Ways Deal with Rejection as a Songwriter or a music artist. As a songwriter you will face rejections, infact many songwriters has gave up their dreams because they got rejected. So make sure you read this blog post to the end and don’t forget to drop a comment.
Rejection. It’s a word that sends shivers down the spine of many a songwriter, both seasoned professionals and bright-eyed beginners. It’s that sinking feeling in your gut when a publisher passes on your demo, a contest judge offers harsh criticism, or radio silence greets your carefully crafted pitch. The sting of rejection can be brutal, leaving you questioning your talent, your worth, and even your passion for music.
But here’s the truth: rejection is an unavoidable part of the songwriting journey. Every songwriter, even the most successful ones you admire, has faced it. And while it may never be easy, learning how to navigate rejection with resilience is crucial for a long and fulfilling career in music.
This article is for you, the songwriter grappling with the pain of rejection. I’m not an AI, but a fellow songwriter who has walked this path experienced the highs and lows and emerged stronger on the other side. My goal is to provide you with practical tips, honest insights, and a healthy dose of encouragement to help you not only survive rejection but thrive despite it. So let’s dive in.
1. It’s Normal to Get Rejected: Everyone Does!
The first step to dealing with rejection is understanding that it’s not a personal attack. It does not reflect your inherent talent or worth as a songwriter. It’s simply part of the industry. Even the most legendary songwriters have faced countless rejections throughout their careers.
Think of it like this: record labels, publishers, and music supervisors receive hundreds if not thousands, of submissions each year. They can’t possibly accept them all. Often, their decisions are based on subjective tastes, current trends, or specific project needs that may have nothing to do with the quality of your song.
Remember, even the Beatles were rejected by Decca Records early in their career. If they had given up then, the world would have missed out on some of the greatest music ever created.
2. Rejection Doesn’t Mean You’re a Bad Songwriter
It’s easy to internalize rejection and start questioning your abilities. But it’s crucial to separate the rejection of a particular song from your overall talent as a songwriter.
Each song you write is a unique creation. Some will resonate with certain people, while others won’t. That’s the beauty and challenge of art. A rejection doesn’t mean your song is “bad.” It just means it wasn’t the right fit for that particular opportunity in that specific time.
Instead of dwelling on the negative, use rejection as a motivator to keep writing and improving your craft. Remember, every song you write is a step forward on your journey.
3. Learn from Feedback (Even the Tough Stuff)
While some rejections come with no explanation, others may include feedback. This can range from constructive criticism to harsh critiques. It’s natural to feel defensive or hurt when faced with negative feedback, but try to see it as an opportunity for growth.
Take a step back, take a deep breath, and analyze the feedback objectively. Is there any truth to it? Could you improve certain aspects of your song or your songwriting process? Even if the feedback feels unfair or poorly delivered, there might be a valuable lesson hidden within it.
Remember, the goal is not to please everyone. But constructive feedback can help you refine your skills and create even better songs in the future.
4. Keep Getting Better: Turn Rejection into Growth
Rejection can be a powerful catalyst for growth. Instead of letting it discourage you, use it as fuel to improve your songwriting.
Analyze your rejected songs. What could you have done differently? Were there any weaknesses in the melody, lyrics, or structure? Did the song truly represent your best work?
Seek out opportunities to learn and grow. Take songwriting workshops, attend conferences, study the craft of successful songwriters. The more you invest in your development, the stronger your songs will become, and the more resilient you’ll be in the face of rejection.
5. Focus on Your Skills: Write More, Practice More
One of the best ways to overcome rejection is to keep writing. The more songs you write, the better you’ll become at your craft.
Set aside dedicated time each day or week to write. Experiment with different genres, styles, and lyrical themes. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try new things.
Remember, songwriting is a muscle that needs to be exercised regularly. The more you practice, the stronger it will become. And the stronger your songwriting skills, the more confident you’ll feel, even in the face of rejection.
6. Find Your Tribe: Connect with Other Songwriters
Songwriting can be a lonely journey, but it doesn’t have to be. Connecting with other songwriters can provide a much-needed sense of community and support.
Join songwriting groups, attend open mics, or participate in online forums and communities. Sharing your experiences with others who understand the ups and downs of the songwriting journey can be incredibly therapeutic.
You can also learn a lot from other songwriters, exchange feedback, and even collaborate on new projects. Building a strong network of fellow songwriters can open up new opportunities and help you stay motivated even in the face of rejection.
7. Take Care of Yourself: Deal with the Tough Feelings
Rejection can take an emotional toll, so it’s important to take care of your mental and physical well-being. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly.
It’s also okay to feel sad, frustrated, or even angry after a rejection. Allow yourself to process those emotions, but don’t let them consume you. Talk to a friend, journal your thoughts, or engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. When you’re feeling your best, you’ll be better equipped to handle rejection and keep moving forward on your songwriting journey.
8. Celebrate Your Wins: Stay Positive
It’s easy to get caught up in the negativity of rejection, but it’s important to celebrate your wins, no matter how small they may seem.
Did you finish a new song? Did you get positive feedback from a friend or mentor? Did you perform at an open mic or showcase? These are all reasons to celebrate!
Acknowledging your accomplishments can help you maintain a positive mindset and stay motivated, even when things get tough. So, keep a journal of your wins, share them with your supportive community, and give yourself a pat on the back now and then.
9. Remember Why You Started: Keep the Passion Alive
When rejection starts to wear you down, it’s important to reconnect with your passion for songwriting. Remember why you started in the first place, and what it is about music that makes your heart sing.
Perhaps it’s the joy of creating something beautiful, the thrill of connecting with an audience, or the satisfaction of expressing yourself through music. Whatever it is, hold onto that passion and let it fuel your resilience.
When you’re feeling discouraged, take some time to listen to your favourite music, attend a concert, or simply sit down on your instrument and play. Remind yourself of the joy that music brings you, and let that passion carry you through the tough times.
10. Never Give Up: Success Takes Time
The most important thing to remember is to never give up on your dreams. Success in the music industry rarely happens overnight. It takes time, dedication, and perseverance.
Every rejection is simply a stepping stone on your journey. Learn from it, grow from it, and keep moving forward. Remember, some of the most successful songwriters in the world faced countless rejections before finally achieving their breakthrough.
So, keep writing, keep practising, keep submitting your songs, and keep believing in yourself. Your time will come.
Additional Tips
Here are the additional tips to help songwriters navigate rejection and cultivate resilience:
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Set Realistic Expectations: It’s important to understand that success in the music industry often takes time and persistence. Don’t expect to become an overnight sensation or land a major publishing deal with your first few songs. Set realistic goals for yourself and celebrate each milestone along the way.
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Diversify Your Creative Outlets: If you’re feeling stuck or discouraged, try exploring other creative outlets. Write poetry, paint, or take up a new instrument. Engaging in different creative activities can spark new ideas and reignite your passion for music.
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Don’t Compare Yourself to Others: It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing your journey to that of other songwriters. But remember, everyone’s path is unique. Focus on your growth and celebrate your achievements, regardless of where others are on their journey.
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Seek Professional Guidance: If you’re struggling to cope with rejection or feeling overwhelmed by the music industry, consider seeking professional guidance. A therapist or counsellor can provide support and strategies to help you manage your emotions and build resilience.
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Trust Your Gut: Ultimately, the most important thing is to trust your instincts and stay true to your artistic vision. Don’t let rejection or criticism sway you from creating the music that you love. Remember, your unique voice and perspective are what make you special.
By incorporating these additional tips into your toolkit, you’ll be even better equipped to handle rejection, stay motivated, and ultimately achieve your goals as a songwriter.
FAQs
How do I know if my songs are good enough?
The music industry is subjective, and what one person loves, another might not. However, there are some objective criteria you can use to evaluate your songs, such as:
- Melody: Is it catchy and memorable?
- Lyrics: Are they well-written and evocative?
- Structure: Is the song well-organized and does it flow smoothly?
- Originality: Does the song stand out from the crowd?
You can also get feedback from trusted friends, mentors, or even songwriting professionals. But ultimately, the best way to know if your songs are good enough is to keep writing, keep learning, and keep putting your work out there.
How do I deal with the fear of rejection?
The fear of rejection is natural, but it shouldn’t stop you from pursuing your dreams. Here are a few tips to help you manage that fear:
- Reframe rejection as an opportunity for growth.
- Focus on the process, not just the outcome.
- Build a supportive community of fellow songwriters.
- Practice self-care and manage your emotions.
- Remind yourself of your passion and purpose.
Remember, the more you put yourself out there, the less scary rejection will become.
How do I find the right opportunities to submit my songs?
There are countless opportunities for songwriters to get their music heard, including:
- Pitching to publishers and labels: Research companies that are actively seeking new songwriters and submit your demos according to their guidelines.
- Entering songwriting contests: Many contests offer valuable prizes and exposure for aspiring songwriters.
- Performing at open mics and showcases: This is a great way to get your music heard by a live audience and network with other musicians and industry professionals.
- Collaborating with other artists: Writing and performing with other musicians can help you expand your reach and gain new fans.
- Self-releasing your music: With the rise of digital platforms, it’s easier than ever to get your music out there on your terms.
Do your research, be persistent, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. The more you expose your music to the world, the more likely you are to find the right opportunities.
How do I stay motivated when I’m feeling discouraged?
It’s perfectly normal to feel discouraged at times, especially when you’re facing rejection or setbacks. Here are a few tips to help you stay motivated:
- Set realistic goals and celebrate your progress.
- Surround yourself with positive and supportive people.
- Take breaks and recharge your creative batteries.
- Listen to music that inspires you.
- Remember your “why” and reconnect with your passion.
Most importantly, don’t give up on your dreams. Keep writing, keep learning, and keep believing in yourself.
Conclusion
Rejection is an inevitable part of the songwriting journey, but it doesn’t have to define you. By embracing rejection as a normal part of the process, reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth, and focusing on what you can control, you can build the resilience to overcome any obstacle.
Remember, every successful songwriter has faced rejection. It’s not a reflection of your talent or worth, but simply a hurdle to overcome. So, keep writing, keep learning, keep putting your music out there, and never give up on your dreams.
The world needs your songs. Don’t let rejection silence your voice.
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