Joe Buscema is an accomplished manager, consultant and musician whose career in the music industry has spanned over 11 years. Finding a knack for discovering new talent, Joe has helped a myriad of bands live their dreams. He heads successful creative and business campaigns, bringing new listeners to a variety of bands/artists.
We chat with Joe Buscema on all things music industry, how he got started, challenges he has faced and more. As he proclaims, “It starts and ends with the music”.
Hi Joe, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. You have had such a prolific career in music collaborating with artists including late night drive home, Ryan Woods, Bearings, Say Anything, Set It Off, The Dangerous Summer, SayWeCanFly, Like Pacific, Locket, and many others. What do you think are key themes to an artist's/band's successes and why?
That’s very kind, thank you! From my perspective, there are many reasons why an artist would achieve success and plenty of ingredients that go into it. Some of the most common that I’ve experienced are having a clear artistic vision, a level of open mindedness and a willingness to try new things, trust in their team and of course, making incredible music.
Why did you want to work in music?
Great question. I believe in fully knowing “why” I am doing what I do, at all points. For me, it’s two part.
When I was 17, I was super lost and depressed in life. I listened to a song called "So Jersey " by The Bouncing Souls and it gave me a hope that I didn’t once have. Now, I get to play my little part in the artists something big of giving their listeners a hope that they didn’t once have.
My dreams started as wanting to be a drummer in a successful band. My last band tried really hard, we really went for it, we had major label interest and we fumbled it. I remember the day we broke up, I thought “I’m going to be the manager that I wish my band would’ve had in these important moments”.
You began working in music at the young age of 13. How has the music industry changed in all these years?
I think the biggest change that I’ve seen is a change in the power dynamic between labels and artists. I remember around when streaming really took over, around 2016, I started hearing artists say “why would we sign to a label?” while achieving really impressive success as an independent band. From that point on, labels had to start getting rid of their archaic deal structures where they basically own the artist and the odds of the artist ever making another dollar were slim to none. They had to start creating deals that actually make sense for the artist and are artist friendly. Or else, why would an artist sign to a label if they’re achieving success? Labels used to gate keep audiences and now, artists have the direct line of communication and releasing music to fans. It only continues to tread in that direction so it’s been refreshing to see labels have to get more creative and artist friendly in their approach.
You are also a musician yourself. How do you balance your creative path with your business career?
Sadly, the last time I really sat down and played the drums was about 14 months ago. That’s not because I’m “too busy”, it’s just sadly become the last thing that I think about when I have free time. As I get older, I have my faith, personal health, mental health, fitness and my community to tend to. These things, thankfully, take up a lot of my time. Or, getting in the car and driving to the beach. Which, let’s be real, we can file under mental health haha.
I am working on some creative projects such as writing a novel, which I am really excited about.
Do you have a favorite memorable moment from your prolific career and why?
I am running the risk of sounding corny, but I do not care. Watching the band live is the best part. I’m usually isolated while I work, in my bedroom, on the phone, doing emails, etc. When I get to see the band live, I see how much this means to the fans and the impact that it’s having on their lives. It reminds me that the isolated work that I do actually translates to someone feeling something. Also, late night drive home is one of my favorite bands and it’s always such a joy to watch them perform, to see their joy and to see their music translate into a live environment. Seeing them perform at festivals across the country just felt like such a fever dream.
What do you find most challenging about your job?
Letting go of the outcome and turning it over to God. There is so much work that I do that ends up getting rearranged or last minute audibles are called and letting go is a spiritual practice. The music business can feel like a roller coaster sometimes but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
What advice do you give to a young person who wants to make money in the music industry?
It’s slim pickings in terms of money as you start. Try and find a way to dedicate all of your time to music while not working a “real job”. I was lucky enough to start an online business and work from home, not having a boss breathe down my neck while getting my management career off the ground. Lastly and most importantly, don’t make decisions for the artist based on your short term vision of needing money. Always think what this will mean for the artist years from now, you’ll make more money that way, in the long run. Just hold on.
Who are some artists you are working with you are very excited about?
I am currently representing late night drive home exclusively and I love it. I haven’t managed just one artist in a while and while I know that will eventually change, I am enjoying it right now.
What's next for Joe Buscema?
Honestly, I’m not sure. Hopefully just another day of doing what I love. I try to live one day at a time and if I can wake up and do this tomorrow, I’m a success.
Connect with Joe Buscema: INSTAGRAM
