I was recently a guest on The Full Time Function Musician Podcast, talking about my new book 12 Rules for Band Life!
In this episode, I chat with Jack of InFocus Recording Company, who runs the podcast. We discuss the realities of being a musician and why playing live with different bands is the only way to truly get good.
A lot of the conversation focuses on how pointless it can be to go to music college and rack up debt when you could be learning on the job. All you really need is a solid repertoire, a positive attitude, and a strong work ethic.
Here’s the breakdown of the episode:
- How the function band scene has evolved — from amps and chaos to in-ears and agency duplication.
- Why most great musicians are forged on stage, not in college.
- How to run your band like a business, prepare for lineup changes, and build a system that lasts.
- The importance of positioning, turning your act into a show, and making the leap from pubs to theatres.
- The real secret to getting better: gig more, fail more, and fix it on stage.
Jack writes:
“Whether you’re a full-time performer, an aspiring function musician, or just fascinated by the realities of working life in music — this one’s packed with insight, humour, and brutally honest advice from someone who’s truly done it all.”
