solar eclipse
    21Apr, 2020
    Being A Solar Eclipse Chaser Can Be Pricey

    A solar eclipse is a phenomenon that people wait and watch out for. A solar eclipse happens when the moon moves in front of the sun that can be seen in different locations on earth. When this happens, we can see that it gets darker and darker outside as the moon covers the sun. It’s a common misconception that a solar eclipse rarely happens in one’s lifetime, when in fact, it happens once every 18 months, on an average. Because of this phenomenon, some people become eclipse chasers. These are the people who are in pursuit of observing a solar eclipse when they occur anywhere around the world. And this can be an expensive hobby. However, they do benefit from it, but at the same time, there’s also a downside.

    Disadvantage: It can be an expensive hobby.

    A solar eclipse can happen in a certain country or location on the phase of the earth.You’ll be spending money on plane tickets and accommodations. It would also depend on the country you are going to. Some countries can cost you more on spending than others. Also, a solar eclipse can fall on any date within the year, and it wouldn’t be a holiday. So you would have to take time off work or miss certain events that may be happening just to watch a solar eclipse.

    guy with telescope

    Advantage: You get to travel, and you get to watch one of the best moments of the universe.

    They say that when you watch a solar eclipse, you feel connected to something greater. You feel small and insignificant because there is something bigger out there that is happening. For that specific time, you feel a moment of wonder because you are just one tiny particle in the universe. So there’s no shock why people continue to chase this phenomenon. It is also a great way to travel. Since solar eclipse appears on certain locations anywhere in the world, you get to go to countries you’ve never been. While waiting to watch the solar eclipse, you get to see different places, experience different cultures, and meet new people.

    globe on hand

    Any hobbies can be pricey and can put a dent on your budget, no matter what it is. You just have to plan ahead and learn to prioritize. If you already know that you can’t afford to see the solar eclipse this year, it’s best to put it off and wait for the next one.

    independent artist
    6Apr, 2020
    Three Financial Tips for Independent Music Artists

    Music is a powerful instrument, and many successful artists can back up this notion. Music creators know the important role they play in the community and how they are involved in shaping the planet. Apart from making music out of passion, musicians need to understand the business aspect of music.

    The most important definition of music is that it is an enterprise, and the artist is the brand. For independent artists, how one handles their finances significantly impacts their rate of success. Here are three financial tips independent artists can try out to increase their chances of success.

    Understand that You’re A Brand

    Starting as an artist is an exciting experience since you are doing something you love. However, if you envision yourself doing great things with your talent, you need to be organized. Many independent acts go wrong because they don’t understand that they are brands.

    Try building a team to help you manage and organize your music career. If not possible, research and understand your expenses as an independent artist and how you plan on managing the situation.

    Saving

    Once you understand your financial limits, you can easily plan on how to progress. Now that you term your music as a financial investment, saving money will be an essential part of running your business. For example, if you plan on releasing a compiled project like an album, you can sell merch and get people to pre-order the project. This way, you can financially organize yourself with the income you make from the sales.

    Budget

    Similar to other businesses, you will require some capital to help you get started. You need to have a budget for audio and visual recordings, licensing, advertising, and PR. Planning a budget will help you keep track of your cash flow. You will also get to make realistic calculations and projections for your future projects, like tours and merchandise production.

    Artists like Chance The Rapper and Russ have gone the extra length to show that all it takes is planning, dedication, and hard work. Being an independent artist is the go-to option for many. Online services such as Distrokid and UnitedMasters are making it easy for solo acts to earn a living off their music. If you are an artist, follow the tips above to help you make money off what you love doing.