What do you do if you receive criticism as a musician and want to turn it into growth?

Facing criticism as a musician can be a tough but invaluable part of your career. It's an experience that can either hinder your progress or propel you to new heights, depending on how you handle it. The music industry is as much about resilience and growth as it is about talent and creativity. When you receive feedback that's less than flattering, it's crucial to parse it constructively. Whether it's from fans, critics, or fellow musicians, every piece of criticism holds the potential to refine your skills and bolster your musical journey. Embrace it as an opportunity to evolve both personally and professionally.

1 Listen Actively

When criticism comes your way, the first step is to listen—really listen. This means setting aside your initial emotional reactions and considering the content of the feedback. Active listening involves engaging with the criticism without becoming defensive. It's about understanding the perspective of the person providing the feedback. By doing this, you can identify if there's a recurring theme in the critiques you're receiving, which could indicate a specific area that may benefit from some attention and improvement.

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Houston Curtis

CEO@ Outlaw Media Group | @ Legend Group Records | @ KardSharp Enterprises, Multi-Media Entrepreneur, Business Developer, Casino Consultant, Executive Producer, Author|Speaker
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I believe digesting and dissecting criticism can be a healthy exercise in growing as an artist regardless of being a musician, actor, etc. It’s important to understand the difference between criticism for the purpose of becoming better at your craft vs criticism of your artistic vision. Once you have reached the status of being a paid professional, everyone is allowed to become a critic of your work. In todays world of social media, many of the so called “trolls” are people who have nothing better to do than criticize others believing it gives their opinion weight when actually, much of this criticism is meaningless. Art is subjective. If you are critical of yourself, it’s easier to discern what critics bring value vs those who don’t

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A.K Smith-Ford

Author/Observationist/storyteller/Record label owner/Songwriter/Book Designer/Mobile Game Designer/Foresightologist
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The question is not quite understood! Once you decide to place something in the public arena you have to accept what comes next good, bad, or indifference. You are not owed anything and can't expect anything. If your work fits someone's idea of being amazing then that is a blessing. If the opposite happens that has to be understood and accepted. In the music business there is no fair or democratic. Those are false entities in regards to the music business. We must go backwards because the present is all based on you should be rewarded just because you did something. There are no guarantees to any artist and there team. You are owed nothing. In fact negative feedback can totally alter an artist trajectory.

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2 Assess Fairly

Once you've listened to the criticism, take a step back to assess its fairness and relevance. Not all feedback will be useful; some of it might be subjective or not applicable to your goals as an artist. It's essential to differentiate between constructive criticism that can aid your growth and negative feedback that doesn't serve a purpose. This discernment allows you to focus on the areas that genuinely need work, rather than getting bogged down by every negative comment.

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A.K Smith-Ford

Author/Observationist/storyteller/Record label owner/Songwriter/Book Designer/Mobile Game Designer/Foresightologist
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You must be able to hear what is called criticism! It is only an opinion. If we can learn to think of it as one of the 8 billion potential opinion on this planet, you will then have the mindset that is needed to be in the public arena. You have not been asked to put yourself out in the public arena. You did that on your own.

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3 Seek Clarity

If the criticism you receive is vague or confusing, don't hesitate to seek clarity. It's okay to ask for specific examples or a more detailed explanation. Understanding the root of the criticism can provide valuable insights into aspects of your music or performance that may not be coming across as intended. This step is about opening a dialogue that can lead to more targeted improvements in your craft.

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4 Apply Constructively

With a clear understanding of the criticism, it's time to apply it constructively. This means taking actionable steps towards improvement. Whether that involves practicing a particular skill, tweaking your performance style, or re-evaluating your music, use the feedback as a roadmap for growth. Remember, the goal is not to change who you are as an artist but to become the best version of yourself.

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A.K Smith-Ford

Author/Observationist/storyteller/Record label owner/Songwriter/Book Designer/Mobile Game Designer/Foresightologist
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This is the key aspect of dealing with what is called criticism. Apply the construction..... do not shut it out! The fact that a person took the time to say something is priceless. Many do not do this. We have to appreciate the opportunity that has been given to you. Do not get all defensive....You must evolve beyond this so you can progress. Progress is what you are seeking in all of life. Going forward not backwards or the worse thing of standing still.

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5 Reflect Personally

Personal reflection is an integral part of turning criticism into growth. Reflect on your emotional responses, your artistic intentions, and how they align with the feedback received. This introspection can lead to a deeper understanding of yourself as an artist and can help you to stay true to your vision while still being open to growth. It's about balancing your unique voice with the ability to adapt and improve.

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6 Grow Continuously

Finally, view criticism as a part of your continuous growth process. In the music industry, there's always room for improvement, no matter how seasoned you are. Embrace a growth mindset that welcomes feedback as a catalyst for development. By doing so, you'll not only improve your music but also build resilience that will serve you throughout your career. Remember, every great musician has faced criticism—it's how you respond to it that can set you apart.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What do you do if you receive criticism as a musician and want to turn it into growth?

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1 Listen Actively

2 Assess Fairly

3 Seek Clarity

4 Apply Constructively

5 Reflect Personally

6 Grow Continuously

7 Here’s what else to consider

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