Are All Musicians Attention Seekers? Not All, Obviously. A Look Into Motivations

A thought came to me recently. Sometimes, I would reach out to people who play instruments and ask if they would like to do something together, or perform as a guest in the band.

The most common response is along the lines of, “Oh, no…I don’t want attention”, “Uhh, I don’t really want to be famous or anything…”, and so on.

Right after their response, I’m here thinking, “Who said anything about attention or fame? I know I didn’t!” I don’t even want to be famous, and would hate to have 10k+ followers all up in my business. But it’s crazy how many people thinking being on stage will automatically mean they’ll get a lot of attention.

Yes, people are looking at you, but they don’t really know you. They probably don’t know your name, and won’t remember your face 2 days later. They may enjoy the performance in the moment, but if it’s new to them, they won’t remember that either. I’m aware of this fact.

But as an artist or a musician, after practicing or working on something for so long, the only way you’ll get to do anything with that is if you perform it (on stage, in a video), or if you present it (upload the audio or a MV).

For some, they have no reason to work hours and days or months on something if they don’t plan to do something with it. But of course, that’s not everyone.

So in this article, I thought it would be fun to look into the motivations of musicians. While some do go on stage and love the attention and fame, there are many other reasons that push people to practice and learn.

Feel free to skip my story, I have 7 reasons after. However, if you’re trying to understand yourself and your own motivations, it may be worth the read!

My Story & Personal Motivations

For me, it was never about being famous or getting followers, I’m just a very goal oriented person. While I may start learning things for fun, it’s hard to put in the time to master a song or a dance if I don’t have plans to perform it at some point in time.

The main reason I picked up guitar as an adult was because I still had a band dream I wanted to fulfill. However, it’s hard finding dedicated, motivated people with similar music taste. Since I wasn’t sure if it was going to happen, I didn’t even learn any songs in my first year. I focused more on scales, chords, improv, techniques, more transferable skills. But once I started this band, I started learning songs quickly and thoroughly cause I now had a purpose, and I will admit, I made a lot of progress as a musician.

As for performing, I’ve performed many, many times. In elementary, it was normal for classes to learn something, like a song or a dance, to perform for the school during assemblies. In middle school, I joined choir in Grade 8. The same year, our school joined together with many other schools and we got to perform at Roy Thompson Hall with a famous jazz singer. Also had a teacher who taught me and 3 others a ribbon dance for multicultural assembly.

In high school, I performed so many times. Sung with a friend at talent shows, sang with the choir the 1 year it was around, danced with clubs. I’m especially fond with my memories with the Drumline. In grade 9, they were sponsored, so everyone who joined was new.

But within 2 years time, we got to perform at quite a few places, including Juno Hoops, Jane & Finch Mall, Massey Hall, and some event downtown. We also did a 2 day trip to the states to see a drum line competition. They’re so big in comparison to our 10-12 member band.

Our school was also sponsored by the Argos and got a new football and cheerleading team. I always thought cheerleading looked like fun when I’d watch Family channel shows like High School Musical. People already called me Miss Smiley too, so of course I auditioned. And before you ask, no, we were not popular. Being from a ‘hood’ school (thus the sponsors), people didn’t like us, but that didn’t matter. I had fun cheering, and tryna make em smile! 😉

Friends also asked me to join drama club as they were planning to put on a real production that year (Little Shop of Horrors) and they didn’t have enough people. I said, ‘sure, why not?’ Auditioned for a side character and had a blast learning and singing with them. I also choreographed a martial arts fight with two other friends…we were true weird weebs lol Really wished someone recorded it ;____;

As much as I loved instruments, though, I rarely had opportunities to perform. I always wanted to be in a rock band, but didn’t have friends to join me. I only performed alone twice, once was the piano at church. A member overheard me practicing in a room and wanted me to play. Oh gosh, I’ve played piano casually over the years, but when my hands get clammy, I’m prone to mistakes and rushing ;____;

The other time was viola at school. When I started high school, a new music teacher came in same time, but we still had the previous music teacher as well. I spent a lot of time with her as she was in or hosted every musical extracurricular I was in, and she was also my music and French teacher in Grade 10.

She hosted violin/viola lessons after school that year. Only about 8 or so students came out. I got to learn alongside some friends. I don’t remember us practicing for more than a semester though, as I think the musical became a priority, and most of us were in both of them anyways. Sadly, both teachers ended up leaving at the end of my Grade 10 year.

It was sad that we never got to rehearse or perform anything, so I wanted to do something with what I learned. The instruments were there, unused and untouched, and I figured I won’t always have access to them in the future. So I would borrow one and learned a song by ear after school.

I decided to play Every Heart by Boa from Inuyasha, (yes long time anime fam here). It was a way to bring things round circle and show my appreciation to have the opportunity to learn. Sadly, even though it was recorded, she will never see it as she passed away 5 years later at the young age of 32. I’ve learned so much from her and she’s certainly an inspiration to me. I’m happy she got to do what she loved, sharing her love for music as a teacher and playing in an orchestra.

There’s been other times I’ve performed where no one knew my name, and I didn’t know anyone in the audience. Great example was 2019. Before that year, I made a few Jpop dance covers on Youtube (no real views honestly), and I met the host of Toronto Harajuku Style through a band member in my first attempt who would perform at her events. I simply asked about performing, and she said I can join them as a guest dancer.

I haven’t been on stage since high school, so I was super happy. I used a fake name and didn’t tell or invite a friend. Right after we danced, I changed and blended in with the crowd. I did what I set out to do, and hopefully the crowd was entertained, but I didn’t need any attention. I just had fun practicing with these cool ladies and getting to really dress up for the first time (my fam never celebrated Holloween).

So at least for me, attention is really at the bottom of my list. I like having goals to work towards as an artist/musician, and I do like entertaining others for a moment. If it’s a new or fun experience, even better! I’ll even do or volunteer the embarrassing roles cause I’m not afraid to put myself out there, though I also know people won’t remember me in a few days or weeks.

I actually came across these photo from a high school camping trip as well. We were put into groups and were to design something out of garbage bags, toilet paper and tape…and then one person from the group would have to go up and model it. No one in my group wanted to do it, but I didn’t really care, so I volunteered. I think I was the only girl who went up now that I’m seeing the other photos too ^^”

I just think it’s fun to put yourself out there. Even if you’re nervous, (and I’m pretty sure everyone has some kind of stage freight), it’ll only get easier the more you do it. Even if you don’t do well, it’s a learning experience! People won’t remember your performance anyways. So at least you can pat yourself on the back for pushing through it and aim to do better next time you’re on stage.

Lindsey Stirling felt the same when she didn’t move on in America’s Got Talent. I love this interview below where she recognized the judges were right, she wasn’t ready to do crazy dances and play.

Instead of giving up, she worked harder to improve her craft and a better performer. It’s so easy to be sloppy and let things slide when you’re only practicing and trying things in the privacy of your own home, but putting yourself out there allows you to recognize your own short comings, maybe get some critique and advice, and work towards doing better next time.

Lastly, I just want to inspire people. I know how hard it can be picking up an instrument as an adult, and feeling like everyone is light years ahead of you. I started my Instagram as a personal journal from beginner to stage, and so I can see my growth and not get discouraged, but I was also hoping it would push other beginners to try, or inspire others to pursue their biggest goals and dreams.

My mom always wanted to learn guitar, so her interest peeked when I started taking it seriously. She bought my first guitar off me (I said she didn’t have to), and I printed out chords and easy church songs for her, but she has yet to touch it ^^” My unofficial grandma downstairs also had some fun.

There’s also my little cousin. We rarely see each other but she stayed by a couple times. In 2020, after I picked guitar up again, she showed interest in it and said she wanted to play, but she’s stuck with piano lessons. I told her that, luckily, music is transferable, and I showed her how the piano keys can be turned into frets, also teaching her Hot Cross Buns. Only found out after that she actually likes anime and was inspired by K-On!! as well.

I had to exchange something at the music store, so I decided to bring her along. Show her around, let her see the real guitars some characters played, and helped her figure out what guitar she liked. I know her parents or grandparents spoil her, so what’s another $250 guitar? At least I knew her passions were pure. I hope to give her more lessons soon and maybe have her record a song with the band one day ^_^ Coolest cousin ever, right? Haha I spoke to her mom recently, and she said she still remembers and talks about that day ;_____;

But yeah, that’s about it for my own motivations. To summarize, I’m mostly goal oriented, so it’s hard to learn a song or dance if I don’t plan to perform it. But on top of that, I like to entertain. If someone needs me to fill a spot or whatever, I’m down and open to anything. I don’t need the attention or a lead role, and definitely do not want to be famous or have thousands of followers. I’m just happy for the experience.

And when it comes to this band and recording my journey, I just want to bring my band dream to life and inspire others to also pursue their dreams (thus, Chromatic Dreamers). I’m not even that great yet, but me being serious about where I want to be and believing it’s possible has had an effect on those around me. Life can get ya down, but you can cross things off your bucket list and pursue your true passions <3

List Of Music Motivations

So now, let’s look into the various kinds of motivation. Some may fit into one box, but I’m sure most can relate to at least 2 or 3 of these.

1. For Attention & Fame

Let’s get the big one out of the way. Yes, there are people who do want attention and fame. There are people who want to be a household name, to tour worldwide for big audiences, to make lots of sales and get lots of girls.

They do want to be on stage and have everyone screaming their name, crying when they get to meet them and begging for an autograph. Of course, due to their goals and personalities, these make up a lot of musicians that you hear about. It’s rare you find a celebrity that wants to hide, like Sia at one point.

But I will say this now, there’s nothing wrong with that! Could you imagine a world where no one craved attention, or where everyone was afraid of fame?

We wouldn’t have actors, or singers, or dancers, or actors, or comedians, or writers, or Youtubers, or this or that. It would be a pretty boring world if you ask me. So let these people shine like they want to shine. As long as they are humble and kind, I don’t see a problem with someone wanting attention.

2. To Share A Message To The World

These individuals are similar to number one, but their motivations are still a bit different. Some become an artist because they want to be famous, while others do it because they feel they have something new and meaningful to share and it would be a crime to keep it within themselves.

These are the artists that create deep lyrics that reach you, their voice has a certain passion that makes you feel certain emotions, and you can’t help but be captivated when they perform. Some of these artist will try to work in private, not showing their face in MVs or wearing costumers, but sadly, the music world rarely allows space for privacy. Regardless, as long as their music is out there and people can hear what they are saying, they’ll be happy.

3. For The Love Of Music & Their Instrument

Music is a social art. While one could practice alone forever (which we will get to below), we wouldn’t have a lot of music if people didn’t come together to perform. Orchestras, rock bands, singers with an accompanying piano, etc. If artists weren’t in the first category, they’ll probably be here, and they don’t mind being on stage, even if it means they won’t get much attention. I’m one of these people.

Their face may be showing, but they are blending in and strictly playing their parts. Their name may not show up on the catalogue as it is under the group name, and no one is going to be cheering for them directly. Yet, they put in the hours to practice the song and come to rehearsals to perform the songs with the group.

This also include musicians who play in the background for famous singers, session musicians who are hired for recordings, and songwriters or producers who create the songs. Here’s some videos from Selena Gomez & The Scene, along with BlackPink who had a rock band with them at Coachella. Even though the band is grooving along, the stage isn’t paying attention to them.

4. To Entertain Others

Similar to the above but not exactly. For fame is more for themselves, for the music is just a neutral state, but this category is for people who just love putting on a memorable show. If fame comes from it, let it be, but otherwise, they just want to make people dance or smile or just have a good time.

Some of the best examples of individuals would be mascots and actors, where they are playing a character and may not be known or remembered for who they really are, but that doesn’t matter. They’ll put their heart and soul, all their time and effort into putting a memorable and entertaining show.

There are definitely a lot of musicians in this category. While they may not be centre stage or a soloist, they still stick out as a performer like a singer would, and they can be seen grooving and jamming in the background. They can’t do a whole lot of movement due to their instruments, but they’ll make sure the music is tight, the solos are clean, and that they are adding to the vibe or ambience of the show.

5. Admiration For An Artist

For many musicians, they may have grown up listening to someone and admiring their music. Then one day, they decided they wanted to be like them and play like them. If any of you played Guitar Hero and fell in love with Eric Johnson’s Cliffs of Dover, it’s the same idea. You just heard or saw something one day and you just wanted to do the same thing or cover their songs or something.

You didn’t really have a big goal like playing on stage or being the next big artists, you just thought playing that instrument was cool and wanted to do the same. After you complete that mission, your motivations may switch to something else on this list.

6. For Someone’s Sake

Here’s another reason some people decide to pick up an instrument. Whether it’s to play a song their grandma loves, or they thought it would help them get their crush…or maybe they were forced to take lessons from young, it’s not uncommon for someone to learn something, anything for someone else.

Now, of course it’s a simple and (hopefully) pure reason, and the individual may or may not continue learning after they set out what they intended to do, but there’s nothing wrong with exploring music and learning an instrument for whatever reason. It’s something many people want to do but never dive in.

But hopefully, if they spent enough time learning the basics, they come to love playing the instrument and decide to continue, finding other reasons and goals to work towards 🙂

7. For Their Own Pleasure

Lastly, there are people who practice instruments who never intend to perform, or even tell anyone they play. The bedroom musicians, the secret maestros. These are people who are perfectly satisfied just learning and practicing for themselves, learning their favourite songs and developing new skills.

Music is an art, and it does have many benefits. Not only is it great for your mind and soul, but it’s also a better spare time hobby than scrolling on social media all day. We may never hear these individuals, but they don’t care to be heard either. Playing an instrument is purely for them and their own pleasure.

Conclusion

Point is, motivations and inspirations vary. You can’t categories everyone into a single bracket just because they participate in something or have moments where they get to be in front of an audience.

Do all police officers crave power? Of course not. Some do, but most just want to serve and protect. Have all cleaners and janitors given up on life? Of course not! Some find much joy and satisfaction in cleaning and making a place shine. They’ll even clean a hoarders place for free. Are all hackers malicious? Of course not! Some just love understanding how computers work, and they’ll use their skills to protect businesses and people by finding the vulnerabilities first (white hat hacking).

So do all musicians crave attention? Of course not. For a good 80% of musicians out there, they just love to play their instrument Some will go a little further and play with others to get an audience moving. They don’t care much for the attention or having their names plastered on big walls. They don’t plan to be famous or performing on world tours. They just love music and getting a chance to display what they’ve been working on.

And for the other 20% that do really love the attention, just know, there’s nothing wrong with that! In fact, I’m happy they are around. Where would we be without actors, artists, singers, comedians, kpop & jpop idols, entertainers, rappers, youtubers, dancers, and all these other people who perform and/or create media content? Sounds like a pretty boring world if you ask me.