In the old world, the big impossible dream was to make a record, get it into the hands of an A&R person, fasten your seatbelt and “hopefully” blast off to the stars. Today the chances of that happening are non-existent because that o’l worn out, antique formula has reluctantly retired. Besides, the result of that illusion left too many great artists frustrated, angry and broke. In the new world, the big impossible dream is a much smarter one: quit your day job and make a decent living doing your art full time—for the rest of your life! If your ship blasts to the stars that’s great, but if it doesn’t, you’ll still be very content raising your family, buying your house and living the life of a crazy, genius artist. The chances of this impossible dream working out are very, very good—so long as you simply follow your brain instead of your ego. Here’s the new formula: work smarter and grow slower. It’s no longer about getting rich quick; it’s about creating great art, and building a career that lasts a lifetime.
Well, we’re scared, but we ain’t shakin’
Kinda bent, but we ain’t breakin’ in the long run,
Ooh, I want to tell you, it’s a long run.
—The Eagles