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The Career MusicianThe #1 Resource For Aspiring Pro Musicians Author: The Career Musician
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#201 The NAMM Show | TCM Pro Guide
Episode 201
Monday, 19 January, 2026
Your professionalism is already “enough.”Don’t put management or “important people” on a pedestal. Show up prepared, play great, be a pro. Prioritize relationships over “impressing.”Instead of trying to win over the top boss, find one person in the firm or at the company you can genuinely connect with. Be a good hang; that’s your X-factor.There are tons of great players. What separates you is being a solid human: chill, personable, easy to be around, making others feel comfortable. The “care less, play better” mindset.When you’re too hyped or anxious, your performance suffers. You generally play better when you’re relaxed, not gripping so hard. For introverts: small, doable behaviors.You don’t have to turn into a cartoon extrovert. Just push your comfort zone a bit: smile, say hi, repeat people’s names, be present for a moment. Energy is currency (ETHOS: Attitude + Vibe).Bring positive, high-vibe energy into sessions, shows, and NAMM. Like Kenny Aronoff, you can “save” a room just by the energy you bring. NAMM is for friends, not “networking.”Use the 3-foot rule: if someone’s within three feet, talk to them. Go to NAMM with clear goals, not delusions.Don’t show up thinking, “I’ll get signed to five endorsements in a day.” Instead, go with 1–2 concrete missions. Understand what endorsements really are. Beware of “fake” endorsements that are just tiny discounts and bad support. Real endorsement = you truly back the product, and the company truly backs you. Relationships outlast companies and reps.Artist reps leave. Deals lapse. That’s normal. Keep nurturing relationships so you can re-ignite deals. Say “yes” more, but stay discerning.Don’t shut down opportunities just because they don’t fit your old mental picture (tours, panels, gear deals, etc.) NAMM is more than a gear expo.The NAMM org does year-round work: lobbying in D.C., helping with regulations (woods, tariffs, shipping), and creating educational panels on social media, AI, mental health, business, etc. Everything is an audition — including content.Whether it’s a tour, a bar gig, a podcast, or your IG reel, people are always seeing you “audition” for the next thing. Don’t be jaded — let yourself be excited.Locals love to say “It was better 10 years ago.” That mindset kills joy and keeps you stuck in the past. Exclusive Career Musician Resources 🌟 Nail the Audition and Get the Gig! (Audition Secrets—Free Guide) → https://thecareermusician.com/audition/ 🎛 PA Rehearsal Studios Official Sponsor (L.A.) Get 20% OFF your next booking Use code NOMAD → https://parehearsalstudios.com/ 🎸 JamPlay Guitar Lessons (Free Trial) Sharpen your skills & stay inspired Use code NOMAD → https://jamplay.com/get-free-access?code=NOMAD Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecareermusician/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerMusician/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecareermusician TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecareermusician Apple: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Apple Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/TCM-Spotify 📚Online Courses → https://www.thecareermusician.com/store 💼Expert Career Coaching → https://www.thecareermusician.com/coaching 💡 TCM Pro Tip: Don't fall into the trap of being jaded, go to ENJOY NAMM and watch your future blossom! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
