Bob Popyk

Member Local 78 (Syracuse, NY)

Calling All College Students: If You Want a Career, Look to the AFM

December 28, 2017

A while back I had an opportunity to speak to students at the Crane School of Music, SUNY Potsdam, about the business of music. It was an interesting experience. The questions were fast and furious. The energy and enthusiasm were contagious. Many of the students weren’t aware of the American Federation of Musicians and the benefits of being a member of the AFM going forward into a career in music.

What Words Helped Further Your Career?

October 31, 2016

I don’t know about you, but there’s a bunch of quotes that I like to keep in mind. Sometimes they provide a motivational thought for the day. Here are a few:

You Are the Prophet of Your Own Destiny

September 30, 2016

You are what you believe. Those big breaks don’t just come out of nowhere. You have to make them happen.

5 Tips to Getting Your Price and More

June 22, 2016

Here are some things you might want to consider when that club, theater, private party, or corporate event says: “You charge how much?” or “Can you do it for less?”

How Do You Compete with the Local Mobile DJs?

April 22, 2016

A while back I addressed the subject of competing with mobile DJs. They are not going away. We all know that they’re out there. So what can we do about it?

First, You Have to Get Their Attention

March 18, 2016

Years ago, if an indie musician wanted to try to book a club or concert venue, they probably started by calling whoever the decision maker was—the club owner, theater manager, etc.—and tried to get them to hear them play. Today it’s a little different. It’s more than a phone call or a press kit with […]

Three Ways to Ramp Up Your Image This Year

February 29, 2016

Three Ways to Ramp Up Your Image This Year —  If you’re an indie musician or group, you want to have a great promo kit, good PR, and a fan base to support you.

Eight Social Media Channels Important for Musicians

January 1, 2016

Eight Social Media Channels Important for Musicians — Here are eight important sites you need to be aware of (if you are not already) as a professional musician.

Taking a Positive Approach to Negativity

December 1, 2015

Taking a Positive Approach to Negativity — Complaining doesn’t usually help. Sometimes when you complain too much, you become a prophet of your own destiny.

Getting Paid Fairly Is Part of Our Jobs

November 5, 2015

When somebody tells you that you should consider playing for less, because you are doing something you enjoy, remind them of how long you had to practice to get where you are. Tell them about the perfection a professional musician strives for, and that it’s not your hobby, it’s your job. This goes for casual […]