The unsung musician

The Unsung Musician

Music is a poor paymaster
in monetary terms that is
so with this career path disaster
why do musicians still persist

ten thousand hours perfecting a thing
useless for rent or food or existence
yet we’re taught from small to read and sing
and play musical instruments

I never understood dad’s paranoia
that I’d forgo a higher education
to become some band’s lead singer...
but now appreciate his intentions

‘cause musicians are hopeless negotiators,
allowing agents, record companies and consumers
to abuse what brings such happiness
and demand performances, et al, gratis

unpaid or not, like water flows
music finds outlet despite slammed doors
sadly, most know music can’t be suppressed
musicians must do what they love best

if artistes had no other career
we’d starve and die, and many do
refusing to sacrifice ideals
to an industry that places little value

on talent, art and uniqueness.
learn to kiss ass and you’ll survive
show off your “assets”, and you’ll thrive...
you should be grateful music’s still alive!