Reviews

Get Your Break - Recording Artists

Edited by Sam Folder
(Reach Foundation)

You're sitting in the car, listening to the radio, and the triple j host announces the new single from up-and-coming artist Megan Washington, or Nova starts playing the latest Amy Meredith hit.

Maybe you sing along or just listen with interest, but somewhere in the back of your mind, you think, "I could do that. What do they have that I don't?" Aside from a record deal and a platinum album or two of course, what makes them so good?

If you've ever considered making a career out of your musical talents, but thought the idea was ridiculous, or you've never been quite sure how to get started, this book might just change your mind. This reviewer had trouble getting through it because she kept getting inspired to go and play music or write songs (sadly, no hit singles just yet).

It's inspiring to realise there are so many different ways to turn what you love into a career. From opera singing to garage bands, the artists in these interviews all come from different backgrounds, but the message is the same: if you believe in yourself, and work hard, you can achieve your dreams.

And this message isn't just coming from anyone – it's from the best in the business. Big names such as Ben Lee, Kate Miller-Heidke and members of Kisschasy offer their advice about how to break into the industry and create a hit.

But if the stories from artists aren't really what you're looking for, there's also interesting interviews with industry experts: radio Music Directors and even music label owners.

Each interview shows a different perspective on the music industry, but they all seem to share the same message: go for it, work hard and believe. If anything, it gets a bit repetitive, but these people are all saying the same thing, so it's fairly likely to be true!

For inspiration and quality, and sometimes quirky advice, this is the book for you.

4 out of 5

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