For artists deeply devoted to their craft, self-investment is a cornerstone for growth and prosperity. This pivotal step manifests in various forms, leading to a profound understanding of one's purpose and an elevation of self-worth. Embracing this transformative process wholeheartedly is essential; it involves exploring uncharted territories to enrich one's artistry in profound ways.

While music and creative endeavors often demand a substantial portion of an artist's time, allocating resources to enhance tools, skills, and knowledge can propel your career toward unprecedented success. Self-investment transcends mere financial expenditures; it is a fundamental aspect of nurturing an artistic venture.

In embarking on this transformative odyssey, three fundamental elements come into play in the narrative of self-investment within the domain of artistic expression.

1. Cultivate an Entrepreneurial Mindset

The foundation of self-investment lies in a mindset characterized by innovation and entrepreneurship. Embrace the role of a business proprietor who envisions and actively shapes their enterprise. You bolster discipline and legitimize your artistic endeavors by segregating funds into distinct business accounts and establishing clear goals.

 Before setting up business accounts, formalize your business identity with the relevant authorities. This proactive step aids in efficiently managing operational facets, such as taxation, expenses, innovation, and payroll. It is paramount to recognize the significance of compensating yourself as both an artist and an entrepreneur.

2. Prioritize Mental Well-being

Amidst the demanding landscape of artistic pursuits, safeguarding your mental and physical health is paramount. Research conducted pre-pandemic indicates that a staggering 73% of music creators grappled with symptoms of mental health challenges. Prioritize your well-being to safeguard your artistic journey. Mitigate stress and avert burnout by taking regular breaks, immersing yourself in nature, and embracing mindfulness practices like meditation. Grant yourself the grace to make mistakes and evolve gradually; remember, greatness unfolds over time—it is a journey, not a destination. Establish boundaries to ward off distractions that deviate from your objectives and learn to decline tasks that do not align with your vision assertively.

3. Continuous Learning and Skill Enhancement

Dedicate yourself to continual learning to sharpen your expertise. Invest in top-tier software tools like Pro Tools and Logic Pro and essential equipment such as computers, keyboards, mixers, microphones, and monitors. Delve into subjects like copyright laws, publication protocols, business tactics, and marketing strategies specific to the industry. Engage in business workshops, establish a corporate entity, cultivate a robust online presence through websites and professional email addresses, and craft an enchanting mission statement that encapsulates your values.

Moreover, seize opportunities such as loans, grants, and crowdfunding to fuel your projects and illuminate the path to triumph. Within the crescendo of advancement, self-investment emerges as the pinnacle that molds a purpose-driven expedition. Embrace this philosophy to script your narrative and illuminate the world with the splendor of your creativity.

ABOUT THE WRITER:

Jesse”JTJazz” Thompson, multi-talented composer, pianist and keyboardist, born in “The Land Of Funk” (Dayton, Ohio) attributes his humble beginnings in music to being captivated by a family of musicians: a father who was a professional drummer, Thompson’s mother—a church organist/pianist and his brother Marvyn Wheatley (who recorded and played with Parliament and Slave).  Industry influences were soul/funk legends The Ohio Players, Lakeside and Zapp featuring Roger Troutman.

Driven to continue the legacy of great musicianship, Thompson became a member of the popular Columbus-based, R&B/Jazz group NexLevel for several years. The collectives released two albums, a string of singles, and shared stages with countless notable artists.

In 2021, the impact of the global pandemic deeply inspired Thompson to write and release the up-tempo, feel-good melody, “Weekend Groove,” ft Althea Rene which catapulted the musician into solo-artist status. The well-received track has garnered close to 200K Spotify streams to date.

Thompson would go on to release a 7-song EP, in 2022, intriguingly titled The Inauguration of JTJazz (Jesse Thompson-the man behind the keys) marking the commencement of a new pathway, and birthing several singles from the project.


Judah Sealy, a rising creative within the contemporary jazz genre, is known for his unique sound that comes from a blend of R&B, jazz, gospel, neo-soul and funk…the common thread between himself and Jesse “JTJAZZ” Thompson.

Sealy’s smooth saxophone style is heavily influenced by Kirk Whalum, George Furlow, Gerald Albright, and Boney James to name a few.

With 2024 being a ‘leap’ year which some say is the year of inspiration, Thompson has resolutely followed his passion by keeping his legacy in music alive by teaming with heavyweight Producer/Guitarist Adam Hawley and collaborating with highly sought after Saxophonist Judah Sealy to create an alluring mid-tempo track entitled, “Late Nite,” which is available now on all digital platforms worldwide.

FB:  @Jesse Thompson

IG: @jtjazz

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Website: jtjazz.com