Balancing Acts is Metal Insider’s new column, in which artists explain the challenges within the music industry by juggling day jobs or multiple jobs while pursuing their musical careers. Hershey, PA metalcore outfit Lives Lost joined together to reveal their job experience in addition to working on new music, like their sophomore EP, Home.
Tanis Pellegrini (Lead vocals, Songwriting)
For me, like many musicians, the dream of rocking stages and crafting epic albums is constantly juxtaposed with the reality of my 9-to-5 grind. I’m Tanis, vocalist for alt-metal band Lives Lost, and also a business services representative. I know this balancing act all too well. Juggling my demanding day job, band management, and personal life is a testament to the sheer dedication required to pursue my artistic passions alongside professional stability.
I often think, “How do we musicians manage this double life?” The answer, as I’ve found, lies in a combination of strategic time management, transparent communication, and unwavering commitment.
My Day Job Spectrum
My day job, like many musicians’, provides a stable foundation. It’s not always glamorous, but the structured environment of a credit union provides the stability, a crucial element for funding band activities and managing personal responsibilities. It’s my anchor.
Time: My Precious Commodity
Time allocation has become a critical skill. I’ve had to adopt a rigid schedule, treating band activities like a second job. Time blocking, prioritizing tasks, and utilizing downtime are essential techniques. As the band manager, meticulous planning is paramount. Every minute counts.
Transparency and Employer Relations
Navigating employer relations requires careful consideration. I’ve found support in open communication, but I also understand the need for boundaries. The key is understanding my employer’s perspective and finding a balance that minimizes conflict. It’s a delicate dance.
Bridging the Gap: Uniformity and Unpredictability
The structured environment of my day job often clashes with the unpredictable nature of Lives Lost. Touring, recording, and spontaneous creative bursts necessitate flexible strategies. Using vacation time, negotiating leave, and leveraging remote work options are common solutions. Capturing song ideas on the fly, using voice notes or quick scribbles, has become second nature. I’m always ready to write, no matter where I am.
Delegation and Collaboration
Effective delegation is crucial, especially with our demanding schedules. Assigning clear roles, utilizing shared communication platforms, and holding regular meetings streamline band business. Flexibility and understanding are vital, as our availability fluctuates with our work commitments. As the band’s manager, I’m constantly adjusting and adapting.
The Balancing Act: A Testament to My Passion
Ultimately, my ability to balance my day job with my musical aspirations is a testament to my passion and perseverance. It demands meticulous planning, effective communication, and a relentless drive. For me, the reward lies in the ability to pursue my artistic dreams while maintaining a stable foundation.
The journey is challenging, but the rewards are immeasurable. So, to all the musicians juggling day jobs and chasing their dreams, remember: you’re not alone. With dedication and smart strategies, this double life is not just manageable—it’s a testament to our unwavering passion.
Alan Thompson (Drums, Backing vocals)
I work at a hotel. It’s pretty easy work. I prioritize work time vs band time by prioritizing certain parts of my life above others. I will always make time for the band, and my work is aware of the band, but it is not an issue. They are actually quite supportive and schedule me to accommodate Lives Lost. For scheduling, it’s SUPER easy for local shows. Tours are definitely a commitment so I try to use vacation time when I can and arrange the time off in a way that it doesn’t interrupt my work. As for delegating work, Tanis does most of that work haha. We are involved in decision making of course. We just always try to be present and doing our thing.
Aaron Perry (Lead Guitar)
I think a key part of balancing work and band responsibilities is proper planning. Of course you have to take musical opportunities as they come, but anything that can be planned in advance, should be. Everyone in our band has a day job as well as other responsibilities, so being spontaneous is somewhat a luxury.
Chad Wynn (Bass, Backing vocals)
I deliver pizzas, and I prioritize by trying practice an hour a day as a chill out method from work. Work is always understanding with my schedule and my bosses love to listen to lives lost. They both like heavier music than me most of the time. Part of the reason I chose the job that I have is, it’s compatibility with this lifestyle. My boss and many other pizza places I’ve workes at, are extremely flexible with my schedule from a month to month basis. I feel like it’s one of the few jobs I’ve had in my life where I could work overtime one week and then completely just ask off for the following week based on my needs. As for delegating, for the most part I just do what Tanis asks me to if I remember it.
