I urge musicians to plan their lives and futures well.
Artists end up signing big contracts they don’t understand because of their limited education.
They must think about their education.
These days, music has become a quick career anyone can do without going to school or reaching tertiary level. How many artists are we going to have in the country five years from now?
Become educated first and then think about music. You should also study it so you produce something good and remain relevant.
Zakes Bantwini studied jazz and music performance at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and look how successful he is.
He also did a social entrepreneurship programme at the Gordon Institute of Business Science and has developed his brand in the industry.
Musicians struggle to make ends meet because it’s tough when bookings are not coming in.
I know some are earning big salaries and for now, don’t see the importance of education.
But I encourage you to have a sound life plan and invest a portion of your income in your education.
At least if you have that, you can fall back on it if your music doesn’t go well. Don’t rely on music only – artists still die poor.
Please get an education!
Nelson Kgatla, Pretoria North
