How Do You Handle Rejection of Your Music?

How Do You Handle Rejection of Your Music?

Recently, I wrote a song and played it for some friends and fellow musicians/songwriters.  The feedback I received was warm – not hot – not cold – but lukewarm.  Was I disappointed? – of course – but does that mean I should just give up and throw in the towel?  Absolutely not.   I had to ask myself “Did you really pour your heart and soul into that song?”  The hard truth is No.  I wrote the song in a day and more so, I wrote it in a rush because I was trying to meet a deadline that I imposed on myself.   To make matters worse, I wrote the song as a duet so I’m essentially imposing my mediocre song on another artist who I was intending to sing it with.  As a songwriter you really need to be honest with yourself when it comes to your songs and be prepared to expect honesty from your listeners as well whether you like or not.  I’ll be heading back to the drawing board with my song to ensure that I’ve done my best to make it the best that I can.  Be prepared for rejection and criticism, and don't take them personally. Instead, see them as opportunities for growth.