Letter to the Musicians and Music Creators: Thank You for the Music in 2024

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To all of the creative musical geniuses who spend their days making awesome music for us to consume…this is for you.

To all of my students, friends, colleagues and acquaintances that support the world of music and musicians, you are the light in so many. Continue to pursue your passion with all of your heart. Music is the primordial fabric of the universe. It is a part of our origin, I am certain.

Years ago, in a letter to the LA Times, David Ackert, a renowned writer and coach, paid homage to musicians, highlighting their unwavering dedication and courage in the face of adversity. Ackert’s words resonate deeply, acknowledging the struggles all musicians face daily, from financial uncertainty to rejection and criticism.

“Musicians are some of the most driven, courageous people on the face of the earth. They deal with more day-to-day rejection in one year than most people do in a lifetime. Every day, they face the financial challenge of living a freelance lifestyle, the disrespect of people who think they should get real jobs, and their own fear that they’ll never work again. Every day, they have to ignore the possibility that the vision they have dedicated their lives to is a pipe dream. With every note, they stretch themselves, emotionally and physically, risking criticism and judgement. With every passing year, many of them watch as the other people their age achieve the predictable milestones of normal life – the car, the family, the house, the nest egg. Why? Because musicians are willing to give their entire lives to a moment – to that melody, that lyric, that chord, or that interpretation that will stir the audience’s soul. Musicians are beings who have tasted life’s nectar in that crystal moment when they poured out their creative spirit and touched another’s heart. In that instant, they were as close to magic, God, and perfection as anyone could ever be. And in their own hearts, they know that to dedicate oneself to that moment is worth a thousand lifetimes.” ~ David Ackert to the LA Times

David Ackert’s letter serves as a testament to the resilience and passion of musicians. His words remind us to appreciate the artistry, perseverance, and courage that define these talented individuals. As we celebrate their contributions, let us also acknowledge the struggles they face and strive to create a more supportive environment for them to thrive.

Personally I don’t think musicians get enough credit. The sheer amount of hours to become a viable contender. The enormous layout of time and resources to put out music without ever knowing if music will sustain them. And even the ridicule of it “not being a real job.” It’s daunting and at times harrowing.

Every time a new artist comes into our community I am reminded of the bravery it takes to traverse this path. I admire this indomitable spirit.

And I say this to you.

Thank you for persevering despite setbacks and challenges. For being willing to continuously weather the insurmountable odds.

Because you calm us. You heal us. You help us.

You provide the soundtrack to our lives.

You are the heroes that rescue us from the dark night, on all too many occasions.

I stumbled upon “Late for the Sky” by Jackson Browne the other day and was reminded how that song got me through many troubled times.

Music is powerful! But, I’m sure you already know that.

Never stop creating because we will never stop listening.

“Without music, life would be a mistake” ~ Friedrich Nietzsche

Thank you for the music.

Thank you.

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About Cari Cole

Cari Cole is the CEO / Founder of caricole.com and CCVM: Label Without Walls. She is a Holistic Vocal Coach, Artist Development Expert, A&R Director, and Songwriter based in New York City helping artists for the past 38 years. She is a mentor for Women in Music and The Association of Independent Music Publishers. Her latest venture, CCVM a label services company, provides artists with a seamless path from creation to completion. After 30+ years of observing the overwhelm and challenges that artists face, Cari pulled together the best top creative professionals and designed a new approach to supporting our artists.

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