In honor of its brand new release, book #6 in the 2024 Book Challenge is none of other than "Make Your Own Rules" by Andrew Huang!
For those who have been following along, or if you're just tuning in and want to join the book challenge, you can check out the ongoing list of books I've been exploring here.
Though I have to admit, this wasn't my favorite read of the challenge so far, I do think the lessons from this book are truly imperative for any modern musician; any modern composer; any modern creative!
The essence of the book falls to its title...making our own rules! The secret to not just surviving but actually thriving in your musical journey lies in embracing how well you implement that idea.
So as always, I've distilled three key takeaways that I hope can inspire, challenge, and transform your approach to creating music!
1. 🧪 The Art of Experimentation and Continuous Creation
Remember, every musical piece you admire once didn't exist. It was the artist's courage to experiment and create that brought it life. Right off the bat in chapter 1, Huang does a great job of reminding us that art is both the easiest and hardest thing in the world.
The paradox lies in its free-form, flowing nature—there are no rules except the ones you set for yourself. The call to action here is simple yet incredibly powerful: create now.
Don't wait for the "perfect" moment or the "perfect" skill level. That kind of perfection just doesn't exist! Everything that you create is one stepping stone after the another. So embrace every opportunity to experiment and explore what actually resonates for you!
2. 🧠 Challenging Conventional Wisdom
Chapter 2 reflects on Huang's realization that many life "rules" are arbitrary and that questioning them can actually be liberating! Why conform to a preset path when you can carve out your own?
This isn't about rejection for the sake of it but about recognizing when classic models and techniques don't serve your vision.
Whether it's rethinking the role of traditional instruments or the structure of your music, the goal is to find what resonates with you authentically. Don't limit your creativity to "shoulds" and "musts."
Throughout the book, Huang also offers some really helpful self-reflection prompts that let us look on our creative perceptions and educational foundations. These prompts were a highlight for me- I definitely recommend taking the time to answer them if you pick up a copy of "Make Your Own Rules."
3. 📱 Navigating the Digital Age with Diverse Skills
The way the digital age has transformed how we create, share, or monetize our music is no secret. But hearing how Huang has leveraged online platforms like YouTube for growth is incredible.
He opens up about his entire journey and confirms that your online presence isn't just about showcasing your work; it's about actively engaging, connecting, and building a community.
But beyond your digital footprint, understanding the business side of music—from diversifying revenue streams to valuing your work—is incredibly important as well.
Even when we just want to focus on the music; focus on our art, the reality is that we're in also charge of our careers! I know the business side of music can feel awkward, sleazy, and uncreative but there are ways to present yourself online in ways that are authentic to who you are!
🧐 What Now?
1️⃣ Start by setting aside time each day to simply create, free from judgment.
2️⃣ Look at your current practices and ask, "What norms am I following without question?" Challenge one this week.
3️⃣ Evaluate your online presence. Is it a true reflection of you as an artist? What can you do to enhance it?
Andrew Huang's "Make Your Own Rules" doesn't just share personal stories; it offers clear, actionable steps for musicians looking to carve out their own paths. This book is a call to action for musicians and composers to pursue authenticity, innovation, and a little bit of fulfillment in their own music careers!
And don't forget to check out the other books I've been reading in my 2024 Book Challenge!