As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on how much has changed—not only in the world around me but within my own life and career. The past 12 months have been a blend of challenges, growth, and transformation, and as we prepare to move into a new year, it feels necessary to pause and take stock of the shifts that have shaped me.
This year, I experienced an 'awakening' that reshaped my perspective on so many aspects of life and art. Amid these personal shifts, I also found myself part of a GRAMMY-nominated album! While I was thrilled for everyone involved, the romantic idea I had of receiving the news of the nomination and my reaction to it never quite materialized. It was a surreal experience for sure, but the reality and the picture I had painted in my mind were starkly different. Even so, I am incredibly grateful, happy, and excited for everyone who has been part of this journey.
Family, of course, remains central to all I do. It’s been a year of navigating the complexities that family life often presents, from moments of joy to moments of heartache. Yet, these experiences have reinforced something that remains timeless: the importance of connection. Whether in the closeness we share with loved ones or in the personal introspection that comes when we face difficult circumstances, these relationships are what anchor us, even as everything else evolves.
The most dramatic shifts this year have been in the music industry. Since the pandemic, the landscape has changed in ways no one could have predicted. Technology, streaming platforms, and social media have redefined how music is created, consumed, and shared. While these shifts have opened doors for independent artists, they have also introduced challenges that are not easy to navigate. The role of live performances, which once served as the cornerstone of a musician's career, has become just one aspect of a much broader, more complex ecosystem. This period has felt like a “changing of the guard” within the industry. For those of us who have been in the business for a long time, this evolution often feels jarring and, at times, alienating.
Does it affect me? Absolutely. But I believe it affects everyone in the industry, particularly those who, like myself, have spent years honing our craft. The speed with which the music world is evolving has made it clear that the rules of the game are constantly shifting. Success is no longer defined solely by album sales (after over 10 years as an artist that releases music, I finally could afford a cup of coffee from my streaming sales this year!) or even live shows—it’s about building a brand, engaging audiences on new platforms, and staying relevant in an ever-changing environment. The art itself may remain the same, but how it is consumed and valued has shifted drastically.
This dynamic is especially noticeable within the artist community itself. It can sometimes feel as though the success of one musician is met with resistance rather than celebration. While I understand that every artist faces their own challenges, it’s hard to overlook when one artist’s growth is not embraced, but rather questioned. In a field built on creativity, we must remember that growth should be celebrated. Every step forward—whether big or small—deserves recognition.
Adapting to this ever-changing landscape has been necessary for me as a full-time artist. I’ve had to carve out opportunities beyond the traditional live performance circuit. Yet, within the community I work in, the support that independent artists deserve is often lacking or, at best, offered begrudgingly. This reality can be disheartening—when support does come, it often feels more like a formality than true encouragement.
Is it time for a pivot? Maybe. Probably. But I trust that the right path will reveal itself in due time. That’s how it’s always been in my life—things unfold just when I’m ready to believe they won’t.
As someone who often dreams of an idealistic world where collaboration and support triumph over competition and isolation, this disconnect feels even more pronounced. My idealism is not just about seeing the best in people, but about envisioning a space where we all thrive together. In the face of an industry that can sometimes feel fractured, my belief in this possibility pushes me to continue forging ahead. I choose to hold onto that vision, to stay true to my ideals, and to pursue a path that balances ambition with compassion.
The further I venture into the vast ocean of dreams and carve out my path beyond traditional boundaries, the more I see how important it is to forge ahead regardless of the challenges. The creative world can be isolating at times, but I believe it’s essential to trust in the journey, to keep swimming, and to create a space for myself and others to thrive. In my heart, I remain committed to the ideal that true artistry can lead to a better, more connected world, even if that vision is not always immediately understood or supported by others.
Despite the challenges, I remain focused on my aspirations and goals. The road ahead may be uncertain, but it is one I am eager to walk. There are new musical horizons to explore, fresh collaborations to embark on, and an ever-expanding space in which to create and perform. As much as the changing industry landscape presents hurdles, it also presents incredible opportunities. What excites me most is not simply surviving the changes, but thriving within them.
As we welcome the new year, I’m filled with a sense of determination. Change is inevitable, but so is growth. The challenges of the past few years have made me more resilient, more focused, and more committed to carving out my own path. The music industry may be evolving in unpredictable ways, but my goals remain rooted in the same passion that first brought me to this work. The next year will be one of continuing to adapt, grow, and push boundaries. And as always, it will be driven by a desire to connect—whether through music, collaboration, or the support of others who believe in the power of independent artistry.
Here’s to the new year—a year of possibility, growth, and the continued support of the independent voices that make this industry worth fighting for.
Welcome 2025!
psst......!
I wrote an op-ed for the December issue of Lazie Indie Magazine in my column, Through Corridors, that I think you might find interesting. It connects well with some of the themes I’ve touched on in my previous post above.. Click here to read.
psst, psst!!!!
Just as I was about to post this, I received the exciting news that my song "EASIER AND EASIER" has been included in the Eclectic Music Lover's list of the 100 best songs by indie acts for 2024. I am truly honored and grateful that the indie community continues to celebrate one of their own.
EASIER AND EASIER
Written by Denise Dimin
Produced by Bob McGilpin and Gene Rabbai
Coproduced by Lyia Meta
Taken from the album NEXT
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