Everyone talks about the two extremes of an artist’s journey: the struggle phase where you’re begging people to listen, and the superstar phase where you’re on billboards and private jets. But here’s the truth: most of the actual music industry lives in the middle: The Medium Tier.
This is where artists aren’t playing Madison Square Garden, but they’ve built enough momentum to tour, sell merch, and support themselves with their art. And honestly? It’s the sweet spot most artists should be aiming for, because it’s where the most sustainable careers exist.
The Medium Tier offers:
- Freedom without the chaos: You’re not mobbed at airports, but you’re respected in your scene. You can live a life that’s about music, not managing paparazzi.
- Real fan connections: Medium-tier artists often build stronger, more loyal communities than mainstream stars, because the relationship feels more human.
- Financial stability: Maybe you’re not buying Lamborghinis, but you’re paying the bills with music. That’s HUGE success anyone would sign up for.
- Creative freedom: Labels and managers aren’t breathing down your neck for “the next hit.” You get to experiment, grow, and actually enjoy the process.
So many artists burn out chasing superstardom, when in reality, the medium tier is where the magic happens. Think of it like this: superstardom is the lottery, but the medium tier is the CAREER.
And most superfans don’t need you to be famous, they just need to feel like you’re making art that speaks to them, consistently. That’s what keeps them around. Artists like Tycho, Phoebe Bridgers (in her earlier career years), or Toro y Moi spent long stretches building in that middle lane and that’s exactly where their artistry thrived.
How to thrive in The Medium Tier:
- Consistency over clout: Release music, content, and updates regularly. Don’t disappear for years.
- Engage deeply: Talk to your fans like actual people, not data points. Answer DMs, comment back, and share behind-the-scenes moments.
- Diversify income streams: Touring, syncs, merch, Patreon… the more ways you monetize, the more stable you become.
- Play the long game: Think about building a career, not just chasing viral moments. Virality fades; relationships last.
The medium tier isn’t a compromise, it’s a massive win. It’s where you can create, connect, and actually live as an artist. And for most musicians, that’s the dream worth chasing.
Create with intent. Move with purpose.