Is Being a Music Artist Compatible with a Conscious Life?

[2bequitefrank]

Is Being a Music Artist Compatible with a Conscious Life?

Can I live a great life without getting caught up in all the distraction?

Note: I used AI to organize my thoughts. I'm a little scattered brained when it comes to writing out ideas. Thanks for reading.

My Case

1. This Calling Feels Deep and Real

I’ve never really felt called to anything else. I grew up isolated, and music was one of the few things that truly inspired me to keep going. It gave me something to believe in. I have a deep story, a strong desire to express myself, and the confidence that I can create something meaningful. Beyond fame or clout, I’m drawn to music because of its creative freedom and the potential for financial independence. It feels like a path rooted in authenticity.

2. It Can Be Done Right

I believe it’s possible to pursue music without getting lost in the noise. I think about artists like Eminem and J. Cole—people who seem to prioritize truth in their music. It’s raw. It’s real. Yes, there’s a darker side to the industry—temptations, power games, and figures like Diddy—but things are shifting. Today, more niche artists are thriving on independent platforms like Spotify, Bandcamp, or Patreon. These allow for smaller but more intentional fanbases, and more autonomy. I think this creates a healthier container for a music career, compared to the old label-radio-machine model.

3. I Don’t Want the Spotlight Forever

Right now, I live in a small apartment with my dad and my dog. I’m drained by the energy of this city, and honestly, I’ve been through a lot. What I need now is something to inspire the hell out of me and help me break out of this physical, mental, and emotional cage. It’s not about the money—it’s about freedom. I want to drop a few albums, help people, and then step back. Ideally, I’d open a wellness spa and live off that business while continuing my inner work. Music is just a bridge—one that could carry me to a life of healing, both for myself and others.

4. I’m Okay with Staying Private

Privacy matters to me. I do enjoy visiting new places and being out in the world, but I’m also very aware that if I “make it,” that freedom could shrink. Fame brings attention—often invasive. I’m not interested in becoming a celebrity. But if I can build my own space—a quiet house outside the city, with a garden and space to breathe—then I’d be at peace. I long for the same quiet I experienced during Vipassana retreats. That’s the end goal: stillness, simplicity, and real peace.

Final Note

Even after hearing everything Leo says about luxury and the traps of chasing success, this path still excites me. Making music, telling my story, inspiring people—especially in my Mexican-American community, where so many are stuck in pain—it all feels meaningful. There aren’t many artists who reflect my background and experience. I believe I can give people clarity, connection, and strength through my work.

Of course, I know I’m human. I wrestle with ego, sexuality, and the desire for power and recognition. But I want to approach this as a hero’s journey. As long as I stay grounded in my truth, I trust I’ll find my way.

[LordFall]

Just beware of being super concerned with consciousness and ethicality can also turn into a path to more egotism and more sneakily procrastination. Of course you can pursue music and still do it consciously.

Did you post a piece of content/work on your art yesterday and today though or just mentally masturbate about being an ethical person is a more important question IMO. 

[samijiben]

Yes

[Leo Gura]

Sure, if done properly.

Edited July 15 by Leo Gura

[Quader]

I think it requires quite a few stars to align to be a commercially successful musician pragmatically, and spiritually aligned it would be even more challenging. That being said, that's my own limitations. You might be quite naturally gifted/fitting into a niche, so shoot your shot. But don't get too hung up on success, the music industry right now is almost entirely pre-production. That means dudes having a good time playing a nice ditty in intimate/personal settings (bars, events, clubs etc) are getting cut out I'd say progressively since the 80s lol. Covid certainly didn't help. It's hard for musicians to make money without extreme generational talent or uniqueness. 

Studying, creating, performing, listening to music I'd say are all inherently spiritual. If you cut out all the noise it's a pathway to energetic and personal expression which is great to be able to draw out. 

I'm not sure I agree that it's easier for small artists to succeed nowadays, but at least it's never been easier to produce and platform your music, no label signage required. So the cost to entry is pretty low! But to go all in? I've failed in that regard, I work a normal job and play for fun. You really have to want it to go full musician.