For The Fans

“The idea that you won’t have to work to sell your product is more than entitled…Many creatives want to be just the creator, or only “the idea guy.” They like that because it’s sexy and because that’s what comes easy to us. But I suspect we like it also because we’re afraid. We’re afraid of taking full responsibility for everything that comes next. A lot of decisions are going to be made—many of which can sink or make a project—that it’d be nice to have someone else to put it on. If we hand it off to someone else, then we have someone to blame when the project fails.” -Ryan Holiday, book Perennial Seller

Rick Rubin has talked about working with artists who just want to focus on making music and do nothing else. And working with The Beastie Boys, who not only worked hard on the music, but also worked tirelessly on cultivating a fan base.

Before setting out on your creative project, first ask yourself, “Who’s it for and what’s it for?”

And then once you’ve answered that question, ask yourself how hard you’re willing to work once you make your art, to get it out there.

You can choose to do nothing or very little. That’s fine. Hope for the best.

Just realize there are many others who not only make great work, but also care deeply and invest tons of creative energy into connecting with their audience.

Because ultimately, you are making it for them?…for the fans, right?

P.S. – This great Rick Rubin podcast episode with Ian Rogers. (Hat tip to my friend Ron for recommending.)