On being “real”

Seth Godin’s blog is another non-music website I think all working musicians should read. Godin has a rep as a marketing “guru” but I suspect his true talent is a keen grasp on what people really value in their lives.

Godin has a great thought-provoking post today on the value of authenticity which really speaks to me as a creative person. Some artists struggle with the disconnect between being “real” and being popular — we want high record sales and the street cred. Like most of his best writing, Godin doesn’t have answers so much as fascinating questions.

Is it possible to have both authenticity and wide appeal? Absolutely. Is there a formula that assures such “crossover” success? No way.