Though it is cliche to say, music has always been bigger than simply just music. Anyone who enjoys music plays an important role in the process even if they may feel it is insignificant. I feel oftentimes people forget that art is a response to the world around us and that an artist's job is to invoke emotion. As both a fan of music and an artist, I try to see from both sides as much as possible.
Despite being only 23, I’ve had the pleasure of being a part of fan communities for over a decade both online and in person. Seeing first-hand how these spaces have helped both myself and others feel more comfortable expressing themselves is something I wish I could share with the world.
In times as dark as the times we are living in now, it is easy to forget that we are all only human. I often think about what it must be like for those who are younger than me to grow up with a feeling of uncertainty about the future when I already feel like myself. We were always told to cherish our youth and I feel like a lot of that has been taken away from us due to the pandemic.
RELATED: Benedict Sinister on the top five controversies around female musicians in the age of Covid
This is why I as an artist choose to write about my experiences as honestly as possible. Yes, it is a bit scary to feel vulnerable, but when I think back to what it was that helped me when I needed it most it was always those artists who dared to say how they truly felt.
It is very easy to feel alone now that social media is as big as it is. It’s more normalised to stay in rather than go out now and I fear we will miss out on the wonders of socialising. I myself have experienced this since more restrictions have been lifted, I feel like I’ve forgotten how to interact with strangers but I hope to get that back with more exposure.
I hope that what I and other up-and-coming artists can do is continue the traditions of artists who came before us and remind everyone of the community that music creates. Surrounding yourself with people who may be from a different walk of life than you, but still resonate with the same song and message an artist conveys is a strong unifier. Not only is it a way to make some of the best friends you can find, but it is also an amazing way to make a difference and raise awareness of your passions.
With fan support, an artist can grow at an exponential rate and also create a platform for change. Though some may see it as a ‘girly’ thing, fandom is not limited to any gender, race, ethnicity, or orientation. It is for everyone.
If this is something that interests you, go check out some of your local bands or arrive at a concert of your favorite artist a few hours early and meet some new people. I promise you will never forget it.
New EP shopping for smiles, by priestess, is out now.
MORE: From Underworld to Stardust: Eight of the greatest 90s One-Hit Wonders
Tagged in Community