A Reflection on 2022
There are so many things that I am thankful for in my music career in 2022 and I was inspired to write a reflection piece to express my gratitude for all the people and experiences that have shaped and supported me along the way! From starting to work with a new producer, growing our YouTube livestreams, creating lots of new merch, and much more!
I am so fortunate to have you in my life. Your support throughout 2022 has made a big impact on my music making. By tuning in to the livestreams, you have helped to refine my art and improve the creative process by which I write music. By purchasing puzzle coasters, t-shirts, and through the Inner Circle memberships, you have given me the financial support I needed to take a leap of faith in my ability as an independent music business owner and invest in creating better music recordings. I have experienced many changes this year and it was comforting to know that you were along for the ride.
Last year, the gym I worked at as a personal trainer closed it's doors. I started a new fitness business from home and this also opened up more flexibility in my schedule dedicated to writing new songs and growing a stronger online presence, all geared towards a more sustainable career. Throughout that tumultuous year, I was also taking an in depth course learning how to build an online music business. There's definitely been some ups and downs during the process, but I came out of it having expanded my thinking on what it means to have a successful music career as an independent artist. I'm more confident, focused, and committed than ever before.
Thanks to your support, I started working with a new producer to help take my song recordings to the next level! So far we've made two new songs that achieve a level of quality I could have only dreamed of when I was trying to do everything by myself. I am happy with the Helvig production team and am scheduled to begin my third song with them next week.
January 9th is the release date for the music video of "Next to You." This video project has taken 4 months to make and taught me how to build a video concept from the ground up. I am proud of the work and want to celebrate this accomplishment with you! Our YouTube livestream has also experienced growth and great improvements in quality level. It's a positively powerful feeling logging in to our livestream sessions and seeing all the engagement. Seeing our community grow has been truly inspiring!
By spending time with me you have first hand witnessed what it means to be an independent artist today, and I trust that what I do provides value in your life. Music streaming has drastically changed the music industry and flipped it on its head. Artists have come to rely on live performances and merchandise sales more than ever as the primary sources of income. I knew this going into 2022, but I wasn't satisfied with just offering basic merch options. I wanted to give you an experience and offer items that could serve a useful function in your home. The YEV Art Collectible Puzzle Coasters are a perfect example of my music, art, and functionality all coming together beautifully. I am proud to offer new designs with each new song and it makes me happy to see how popular the coasters have been. I look forward to coming up with new and novel ideas for you in 2023.
Moving into the new year, I have much to be excited about! My goals for 2023 are to find more ways to spend time with all of you. Some of you write to me daily, sending words of encouragement. You have helped me get to where I am and I want to find more ways to give back to you. I am also looking forward to growing friendships with more local musicians, producing many more songs and videos, and increasing our activity on YouTube. More livestreams, more live shows, and more opportunities for us to get to know each other even better!
Thank you for all that you are and have a wonderful New Year!
-Yev