She Strengthens

Navigating the Financial Highs and Lows of a Music Career

As a professional musician, Matt “Broke” Boland has spent nearly his entire life perfecting his craft and navigating the unpredictable world of music. With a career spanning over 12 years, Matt has learned to adapt to the ebbs and flows of the industry, often finding creative ways to make ends meet.

The Unpredictable Nature of a Music Career

Matt’s journey began like many others – playing in garage bands as a teenager. However, it wasn’t until he started playing bars at 17 that he began to make a decent living. Now, as a full-time musician, Matt faces the constant uncertainty of finding his next gig. To combat this, he has developed a range of skills, from filming bands to promoting and stage-managing events.

Planning for Savings

Savings can be sporadic for Matt, who relies on his quick thinking and creativity to come up with new ideas to make money when needed. Fortunately, he has a supportive partner who helps him stay on track. While it’s not always easy, Matt believes that having a side hustle is essential for success in the entertainment industry.

Juggling Multiple Gigs

At times, Matt has worked multiple gigs simultaneously, including playing music, running sound, and promoting events. While it can be stressful, he thrives on the variety and constant learning opportunities that come with working in the industry.

Diversifying Income Streams

Matt prefers to have multiple sources of income, rather than relying on a single job. This approach allows him to travel, meet new people, and have new experiences. As he proves himself in the industry, his earning potential increases, giving him a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.

What He Loves Most

Traveling is Matt’s favorite part of his job. He loves seeing new places, meeting new people, and having new experiences. While the hard times on the road can be challenging, Matt believes that remaining positive and working hard is key to overcoming obstacles.

The Importance of Giving Back

As someone who relies on tips and donations, Matt has a unique perspective on giving back. He believes that it’s essential to support the arts and recognize the hard work that goes into creating something valuable.

Financial Tips for Aspiring Musicians

Matt’s advice to younger musicians is to learn every aspect of the business and listen to advice from others. He stresses the importance of understanding that being a musician is a job, not just a passion. It requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn and adapt.

Overcoming Stressors

To stay positive and motivated, Matt views challenges as opportunities for adventure and growth. He believes that staying creative and looking at life as a book, rather than a series of stressful events, helps him navigate the ups and downs of his career.

Financial Safety Net

While Matt doesn’t currently have a financial safety net, he recognizes the importance of having one. As he approaches 30, he’s shifting his focus from living life on the road to building a stable future, including starting a family. To achieve this, Matt is working on organizing his finances, utilizing his talent, and building a small business around his music career.