Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Adam Levy. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Adam, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Like any unhelpful feeling that comes up when I’m making music, I find the best way to combat it is to focus on the best parts of what’s happening in the moment. For example, if I’m onstage performing my music and I start to doubt my authority as an artist, I may turn my attention to what the drummer is playing and let myself enjoy their musicality for a while. I may focus on an audience member who seems to have an elevated fashion sense. Anything that gets me out of my own way is good. It’s hard to feel like an imposter when you’re busy admiring someone else.
I’m not sure I’ve overcome it 100%, to be honest. I still have moments where I doubt I’m supposed to be doing what I do — writing music, recording, performing, teaching. But I’ve noticed two things over the years: First of all, this doubt serves no good purpose, it’s just wasted energy; secondly, many of my creative friends tell me they have the same sorts of doubts.
So while I haven’t completely overcome imposter syndrome, I’ve come to terms with the fact that it’s a fairly normal feeling that comes and goes.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Most of the work I do is in three musical realms. I write music — some songs with words, some music without; I perform live; and I teach music — via in-person lessons and a Patreon page. I’ve put out lots of records over the years. I’ve toured as an solo artist, and also as a member of other artist’s bands. I’ve taught music classes at USC and NYU. I recently co-authored a guitar book called ‘String Theories’.
For many years, I tried to keep these separate. Separate band projects, separate audiences, separate email lists. I didn’t have a good reason for this, I did it that way just because.
As time goes on, I’m appreciating the fact that a lot of the people who like my songs also like my educational material. I want to try to integrate my various practices even more in the years to come. I think that’s where some real magic can happen.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Curiosity, compassion, and being willing to talk to strangers.
If you’re going to get anywhere as an artist/creative, you have to believe in yourself and prioritize yourself — to an extent. But the work you do/make may not connect with others if you’re not in interested in their thoughts, feelings, or perspectives. Learn to see how you fit into the big picture, rather than simply hiding out and hoping.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I feel overwhelmed, I take a nap! If I can quiet my mind long enough to settle down — even for 20 minutes — my perspective always improves.
When I can’t do that, I’ll cook a meal. Even making something simple and quick — like scrambled eggs and toast — can get me out of my own head long enough to find some ease.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.adamlevy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adamlevyguitar/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AdamLevyGuitarTips
Image Credits
Main b&w photo: Christoph Bombart
Next two color photos in studio: Erika Kapin
Last three photos: Brian Bixby
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
