"Listen to these words and take them to heart." (Jeff Coffin, Dave Matthews Band; author of the book's foreword)

So you want to be a rock star. Or the next pop sensation. Or a country music artist. Or perhaps you’re more intrigued by vital roles behind the scenes. The Realist’s Guide to a Successful Music Career reveals all the ins and outs of building a viable career in today’s ever-changing music business. With blunt honesty paired with expert insight and encouragement, this empathetic guide covers everything from building your brand and expanding outreach, to finding and playing gigs and smart touring, to critical marketing and developing your sound. Packed with practical, real-life guidance and avoidable missteps, the book vicariously takes you both onstage and backstage, into the recording studio, and on the road. And because experience is the best education, The Realist’s Guide to a Successful Music Career contains exclusive interviews and wisdom from a wide range of all-stars and music insiders, including:

• Huey Lewis
• Susan Tedeschi
• Chuck Leavell
• Victor Wooten
• Taylor Hicks
• Ivan Neville
• Jake Cinninger
• Nikki Glaspie
• Pete Shapiro
• Alicia Karlin
• Vince Iwinski
• Kevin Browning
• Syd Schwartz
• Chris Gelbuda
• Robbie Williams

Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to grow or an emerging talent looking to break out, The Realist’s Guide to a Successful Music Career is the right note mentorship you need to take your gifts and passion to the next level.