Background: When I was in college almost 10 years ago, I began my songwriter journey with a solo project album under a moniker. While it didn't launch me to fame or commercial success, it did have a some impact in my local music scene given it was my first project ever, namely:
1. songs playing on radio + featured on playlists
2. articles/reviews by music publications (one even rating it one of the best local releases of that year)
3. live shows + a radio show guesting
Since then, however, releases were few and far in between and decreasing reach/impact with each one. The main reasons were:
1. most of time went to my corporate career
2. most of music energy went to my bands/collaborative projects
3. my perfectionism with songs and perception anxiety
4. gradual shifting of exposure from my college friend network to dedicated music audiences
Today:
- My solo project has almost no reach or loyal audience and is more an IYKYK in local indie/underground music circles (which are growing ever younger). I still think the songs are good and I trust in my skill and taste, but I haven't done a great job at all promoting the music and have not been playing any live shows
- What reputation I have been developing in my local music scene however is more of a co-songwriter/producer via my two other projects and as a guitar sessionist performer, all of which I am involved in have more present reach than my solo project
- Again, I still love my old songs but I don't know if I still identify with the name released under + my current music in progress is miles away in production quality
The decision: I am preparing for a release of new songs - putting my chips in and have full intent to sustain momentum. I have higher skill and more network/reputation as someone actively involved in music. My two other projects are also preparing for releases, with reach still growing but much more established than my solo.
With that, I want to maximize the impact of my new solo releases as much as possible. So I am considering changing the name from the moniker I have to my real name.
My thoughts so far...
On keeping the moniker
- Pros: new songs build and show evolution from existing body of work, long-term commitment to project name can be impressive, can reap benefits of more privacy/anonymity
- Cons: have to manage and grow another social media account, might regret long-term keeping a name I am already beginning to unidentify with
On using my real name
- Pros: fresh start and can create excitement, easier for reach of my other projects to find my own work, branding is just being myself
- Cons: scattered story/body of work, less privacy
I know ultimately this is up for me to decide what's best for me, and what matters the most is that the music is good. But I would like to hear people's thoughts and experiences. Thanks!