Liane explained that the music industry is financially demanding and requires a dedicated management team to navigate its complexities. “Music is very expensive, so one needs a management team that is ready to work,” she stated. In her early days, she had to hustle alone, which made it difficult to gain traction.
She further elaborated on the emotional toll of the industry, describing music as a gamble that can lead to disappointment. “A song might fail to pick up even after spending a significant amount on production and video shoots, which can lead to depression,” she said. This financial pressure makes it challenging to fund new projects after experiencing setbacks.
Additionally, Liane addressed the impact of competition within the industry, highlighting an incident involving another artist who reacted negatively when she collaborated with their former songwriter. “This particular artiste became upset because I used their former songwriter, who had stopped working for them due to unpaid dues,” she explained. This tension culminated in threats from the bigger artist regarding a performance in South Africa, showcasing the competitive and sometimes hostile nature of the music scene.
Despite these challenges, Liane remains optimistic about the future of her career and is hopeful about upcoming changes in the music industry, particularly with the anticipated Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Bill of 2024. She believes this legislation will empower artists and provide new avenues for income beyond traditional performances.