How many times have we heard this from well-meaning parents contemplating their children’s career paths? Over the years, I’ve seen countless talented young singers give up their passion for music to pursue a more “secure” corporate route. “Music is a hobby,” they’re told, “not a real job.”

Parental concern for their child’s financial security is natural — even commendable. But is the notion that music is unsustainable still true in today’s world?

The music industry has evolved dramatically. Technology, social media, and streaming platforms have opened up wide opportunities for youngsters and performers to showcase their talent. The access to worldwide audiences have led to lucrative business opportunities for studio artists, composers, educators, arrangers, audio engineers, music therapists, producers, singers, songwriters, and musicians. They are no longer confined to a particular geography.

The music industry has evolved dramatically. Technology, social media, and streaming platforms have opened up wide opportunities for youngsters and performers to showcase their talent. The access to worldwide audiences have led to lucrative business opportunities for studio artists, composers, educators, arrangers, audio engineers, music therapists, producers, singers, songwriters, and musicians. They are no longer confined to a particular geography.

The  old secure professions of doctors, lawyers, or engineers leading stable lives are no longer the only options. A career in music, like any other profession, requires commitment, training, and a plan. The struggle is real but with consistent efforts aspiring singers can carve their paths to success.

Music is more that what you see on the stage. It involves licensing deals, teaching, session work, brand collaborations, touring, musical theatre, sound design for video games, film scores, and more. A well-trained, tech-savvy musician with a business mindset can do well — and many do.

The path to making a sustainable career in music is not always easy. Success in any creative field requires effort, networking, and versatility. I’ve seen children  develop extraordinarily as singers with the support of their parents. They provide the motivation and drive to ensure they show up for practise, work on their songs, and believe in their talent.If parents are looking for sustainable career choices, children can pursue a stable income stream along with their music. They may teach privately, work in arts administration, or perform part-time while developing their careers. The concept of a “portfolio career” — having multiple sources of income — is increasingly common in the arts.

In an AI-driven world where automation is replacing many traditional roles, creativity remains one of the few irreplaceable human qualities. No machine can replicate the power of a voice that stirs emotion or a live performance that moves an audience.
Let’s shift the narrative. Let’s raise musicians and believers.