We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tom Bender. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tom below.
Tom, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Music has always been a passion of mine, especially song writing. Music has helped me get through some of my darkest times, and in turn I wanted to be able to use the songs I write to bring others some of the same hope that music gave me. The songs I write are inspired by years of my personal life experiences, mentoring, counseling, general story telling and poetic writings. No matter where or what you are going through in life, music will always have a special place that will spark emotions and memories! It is also said that one of the best ways you can express your feelings is simply through listening to music. So as a songwriter, my vision and mission is to write songs that are relatable in areas of life that are sometimes hard to have a conversation about.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I have been involved in music since I started playing the saxophone in 3rd grade. And over the last 20 + years of mentoring, life coaching and counseling, I have used music as a way to make a connection with others. Music can also become a path to share their story to inspire others as well. So I continue to look for ways to bring hope and encouragement through the songs the I write and the stories behind the songs.
Writing songs and lyrics that make a connection! One of the most rewarding, if not the best aspects of being a songwriter is receiving email responses, comments and posts from listeners. Usually expressing how the song lyrics came at the right time and how they could feel a connection to the story of the song. Almost as if somehow, I knew their personal stories.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Three areas that are heavily reflected in my songwriting are: First, the 20+ years I have spent as a life coach, mentor, and counselor. Second, being open and honest about personal life experiences which allows you to be vulnerable and authentic. Third, knowing what helps you get through the tough times of life.
My best advice for those who want to enter into the music industry is: Believe in yourself, listen to advice, don’t be afraid to take risks, it’s ok to make mistakes and even fail, but never give up. Don’t let anyone tell you… “You Can’t”, stay humble, believe in the bigger picture, and remember only you can define what your success looks like!
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
The biggest hurdle is getting air play. As a non-performing artist and independent songwriter, I knew it was going to be an uphill challenge to get the songs out to listeners. Some platforms need multiple permissions or waivers to play the songs because of legal repercussions. Social Media platforms are great like “Facebook”, “YouTube”, “Apple Music”, and “Spotify”, etc.. as well as many others DSP’s which allow for listeners to find the music. There are some on-line independent music stations that will play your music as well.
I also share my personal artist business cards at restaurants by placing a business card with the bill and writing positive feedback to the individual who provided the customer service. I have received a lot of hits to my artist website through this method. It may sound a little old fashioned in today’s digital world, however, there is still something special about receiving a business card.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tombendersongwriter.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tom.bender.5099
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBtuJx-t_AGrTY9rRZr4Cng
Image Credits
Tom Bender Michelle Bender
