Someone Online Recently Told Me I Should Not Talk About Music…and instead “stick to what I know”…hm. Let’s unpack some of this shit.
What constitutes as a musician?
At what point does one become “qualified” to express their opinion and experience on a matter?
And what type of musician should one even be to be worthy of expressing their thoughts on such a coveted sacred topic?
These are a few of the thoughts that sprung to mind recently when I received a comment about a post I shared on musician stereotypes.
Essentially, the person said I should “probably stick to what I know” and leave the music chatter for real artists. Of course, he did not fail to mention his decades of sexy experience as a musician.
I’m so impressed lol.
You see, here’s the problem with their close-mindedness.
The list is mostly based on my own experiences as a certain type of musician at a certain stage in my career based on certain goals and values I have. For someone to tell me I’m not qualified or worthy to share my feelings is unfortunate.
I know (logically) that this is just one rogue person who feels the need to police creatives into submission based on their stuck worldview…but still, it didn’t take long for my imposter syndrome to stop by with a snarky attitude, saying something like:
“Ahah! See, I told you, you fool…you just don’t belong here.”
Luckily, that voice didn’t linger too long. I snapped back to reality pretty quick.
Because this comment is bullshit.
So let’s give this rogue opinion some underserved attention. Let’s unpack things.
And take note: this is not about me venting (because I really don’t care). It’s for anyone who’s dealt with (or is dealing with) their own rogue snob telling them they’re not good enough to share their thoughts or experiences.
Especially when that opinion is about something as subjective as art or your creative journey.
Because let’s be honest, fuck them.
Creative Experiences and Opinions Are Super Personal
Except for my late grandpa jokingly saying “your opinion is wrong!”, nobody can tell you that your creative experience is somehow inaccurate.
The nuances of creativity, musicianship and the various paths and ways to be a musician is too much for any one person to say they’re the single source of truth.
It’s fascinating to me that some people are so blind to their ignorance, especially when they assume they’re wise.
If this person was truly wise, my different thoughts on the matter (which were apparently new to him) should have prompted curiosity, not judgment.
So that’s all I can say for now.
What do you think? Is there an ultimate truth about the creative experience—or is it different for everyone?
