Title: Stop, Wait, and Go: The Gigging Musician’s Roadmap to Success
Summary:
In this episode, Karen Gordon, founder of Garden City Jazz and a seasoned gigging musician with over 25 years of experience, shares three game-changing principles for musicians looking to thrive in their careers. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your gigging game, Karen’s insights will help you shift your mindset and take control of your music business.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why leading with value—not dollars—is the key to building lasting relationships with venues and clients.
How to reframe gigs as opportunities for investment in your long-term career.
The importance of owning your audience and proactively building your network.
Why relying on social media alone can limit your reach and how to take control of your fanbase. GO Start Your Own Projects
How to create your own opportunities and take control of your music career.
Real-life examples of small gigs and events that build momentum and grow your audience.
Your music career is a business—treat it as such.
Build relationships by understanding the value you bring and addressing client pain points.
Take initiative: Don't wait for others to discover you or book you.
Control your audience by transitioning fans from social media to platforms you own.
Start small, take risks, and consistently build your brand.Practical Examples Shared in This Episode:
Reframing conversations with venue owners to focus on the ambiance and customer experience.
Using free platforms like social media to gain exposure while directing fans to your website or mailing list.
Hosting unique events like jazz brunches in collaboration with local businesses.
“Stop working for money and play the long game.”
“Don’t wait for someone to find you—own your audience and take control of your career.”
“Go start your own projects and respect yourself as a professional.”
Garden City Jazz Website
Connect with Karen Gordon on Social Media
Join the Augusta community at Growing Augusta
Follow on Instagram: @GardenCityJazz
Join the conversation and share your feedback!Call to Action:
If you found this episode helpful, please share it with fellow musicians, leave a review, and subscribe for more tips and insights to help you thrive as a creative professional. And don’t forget to stop, wait, and go!