This interview with independent musician, Rich Pesos, covers his musical journey, experiences, and insights. Pesos was inspired to make music at an early age by his brother’s exposure to different genres. His hard work and determination have been critical to his success as an independent artist. He has learned the value of research, setting up his record label correctly, and incorporating the right people into his team to collect royalties and achieve success. Here he discusses practical advice from his experiences and shares the realities of an independent artist doing it all.
Photobombshell’s Interview with Rich Pesos
Photobombshell: Hey, Rich! How are you? We touched base briefly when I did a write-up on one of your recent song releases, but this is the first time we are collaborating here, focusing on you and your story. What inspired you to make music, where are you from, and how did you get to this point in your music career?
Rich Pesos: I was inspired to make music at an early age. My brother would play all the new music from some incredible artists and let me listen. This music was from many different genres, which helped to shape my sound. I am from Elizabeth, New Jersey, but Rahway is another place that I call home. My hard work and determination have gotten me to this point in my music career.
Photobombshell: OK! Jersey is in the house! You’ve been in the music industry for a bit, releasing music for several years. What has that experience been like, and what has been the most valuable thing you’ve learned along the way?
Rich Pesos: My experience throughout this musical journey has been very rewarding, to say the least. The most valuable lesson I have learned is how much work goes into being an independent artist. I had to do a lot of research on how to become a successful indie artist, collect all my royalties, correctly set up my record label, and the people I needed to incorporate into my team.
Photobombshell: I love hearing that. So many artists are singularly focused on art and struggle with the business side of things. It seems like you have been intentional in how you move, which is incredible. In my research, I discovered that you are a family man. How do you balance your family life with music and the music business?
Rich Pesos: To be honest, it has not been challenging balancing family and music. My wife and daughter are very involved in my music career. They are my A&Rs. They are awesome.
Photobombshell: Wow! That’s so cool. What a great support system. The fact that they want to participate in the process is powerful. I always say that children are the most honest about music, and I value my own children’s opinions on projects as well. I love that they get involved in your projects. Out of all of your musical endeavors, which one is your favorite and why?
Rich Pesos: I would say being an artist, producer, and songwriter are all equally my favorites for different reasons. My artistry allows me to share my music with my fans. Being a producer allows me to set the tone and create a vibe for the song, not only for my music but for other artists too. I enjoy producing for other artists, and songwriting allows me to help the artist create awesome bodies of work behind the scenes.
Photobombshell: Being an artist and a producer is something I see more and more of as I meet more artists in the independent scene. Being a performer and a creative can have its unique challenges. What has been the most difficult aspect of being an artist and musician?
Rich Pesos: The most challenging aspect of being a musician is funding everything. It gets expensive. I have to be strategic in what areas I use my funds.
Photobombshell: That is so true and very pragmatic. Given the nature of self-funding as an independent, how do you think independent artists and musicians can best position themselves for success in 2023?
Rich Pesos: I think the best way independent artists can successfully position themselves for 2023 is by researching and creating a plan for what they want to accomplish for that year. There is so much information available on how to navigate the music industry. I think the artists who are willing to gain knowledge and seek out information are the ones that will separate themselves from the pack.
Photobombshell: I agree with you there. There is a wealth of information available and growing every day on how to become successful with music, in whatever way you view success. In addition to learning and growing in the music business, what are you looking forward to in 2023?
Rich Pesos: I look forward to releasing some new music, continuing to network and build relationships, and increasing my revenue and fanbase.
Photobombshell: That pretty much sums it up! While we are talking about increasing your fanbase if you could have a massive billboard in Times Square with anything you want on it, what message would you share and why?
Rich Pesos: It would say my favorite quote I always say or use. It’s “Let’s goooooooooooo.” It symbolizes always pushing and keep grinding. It’s all about motivation with me. Not only do I want to win, but I want all indie artists to win as well, and I feel “let’s gooooooooooo” embodies that sentiment.
Photobombshell: I can tell, just from that, how high energy of an individual you are. That mentality of wanting all of us to win in the independent space is one that I share. Given your experience in the music space and all you have learned, what advice would you share with another independent artist?
Rich Pesos: Understand that you have to be patient in this game because most indie artists don’t understand that, and they tend to give up.
Photobombshell: Thank you for the advice, and thank you so much for taking the time to share your story and expertise. For everyone looking to connect with Rich Pesos, he has some new music that everyone should check out, ‘Good Vibes‘ from Rich Pesos and Paperjason, ‘Life,’ and ‘Black Friday.’ Listen to his music wherever you are streaming, and connect with him on Instagram.