In a recent Time Magazine article, two brothers who front the indie rock band Two Lights tell how they have been doing some cool things over the past year but have spent a $100,000 doing it.
In the article they say:
This is our dream. We’re living it.
No, we haven’t spent all our earnings on drugs and limos and parties (although we have definitely been to some parties…). So far, there haven’t really been any earnings.
Instead, there have been big expenses. It turns out that breaking into the world of rock and roll is like launching any career in a field with high barriers to entry: It’s expensive. And unlike law school or medical school, the school of rock doesn’t offer financial aid (not even loans).
No, we haven’t spent all our earnings on drugs and limos and parties (although we have definitely been to some parties…). So far, there haven’t really been any earnings.
Instead, there have been big expenses. It turns out that breaking into the world of rock and roll is like launching any career in a field with high barriers to entry: It’s expensive. And unlike law school or medical school, the school of rock doesn’t offer financial aid (not even loans).
And yeah, we’re learning a lot — but some of the lessons are pretty daunting.
Here’s a quick run-down on our expenses to date:
- Training: $250 to $500 p/month on voice lessons. Total $30,000
- Rehearsal Space: $50 for each 3-hour session in Brooklyn. Total $3,000
- Gear; Total $25,000
- Recording: Total $6,000
- Performing: Total $1,000
- Promotion: Total $1,000
- Lost Wages: Total $25,000 (I’m not sure this is fair to count)
- Living Expenses in Brooklyn: Total $18,000
Total $109,000
Abner and Harper Willis are brothers. They grew up in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, and now live in New York City, where they front the indie band Two Lights. Abner, 22, is finishing up at New York University. Harper, 25, works part-time as a freelance writer. Find Two Lights’ music on iTunes or download their debut single, “Summer,” for free HERE. Follow us on twitter @twolightsband.
