Max Kerman on 'Try Hard': Creativity, Persistence, and the Music Industry

The Genesis of 'Try Hard'

• 💡 Max Kerman was inspired to write 'Try Hard' not from wild tales of rock and roll, but from the genuine curiosity people showed about the business, marketing, and touring aspects of being in a band.
• 🚀 Initially hesitant due to a perceived lack of patience for long-form writing, Kerman found writing to be an enjoyable and protective part of his day, akin to a creative pursuit.
• 🔑 The book's opening sentence, "I'm not doing this for you. I'm doing this for me," sets the tone, emphasizing that personal enjoyment and energy are the true drivers of creative work.

Navigating the Business of Art in Canada

• 💰 Kerman admits to being uncomfortable with money matters but believes in reinvesting earnings back into the band to maintain quality and foster repeat engagement.
• 📈 A key strategy for longevity and financial support involves engaging in corporate gigs and private events, playing beloved cover songs, which funds more ambitious artistic projects like recording albums or enhancing live shows.
• ✅ The book explores how artists can create their own income models by leveraging their unique strengths and finding opportunities that align with their artistic values, rather than adhering to a single, rigid path.

The Essence of Being a 'Try Hard'

• 🎯 The title 'Try Hard' reclaims a usually negative term, reframing it as essential for anyone achieving success, highlighting the need for persistence, willingness to fail, and continuous effort.
• ⏳ The book's final word, "today," underscores the importance of focusing on the present and making each day interesting, rather than solely pursuing future accolades or past achievements.
• 🎭 Kerman shares that his parents, a retired teacher and a social worker/small business owner, provided foundational lessons in inventing one's own job and the importance of community contribution.

Authenticity and Career Longevity

• 🤝 Kerman emphasizes the value of collaboration and seeking outside perspectives (producers, songwriters) to keep music fresh and extend a band's career.
• ✨ His own talent lies in enthusiasm and positivity, which he believes creates momentum and makes him a person others want to work with, a crucial element in the arts.
• 🎤 The discussion touches on the challenge of authentically engaging with social media platforms like TikTok, suggesting that finding a personal and honest way to communicate is key to connecting with audiences.

Aging in the Music Industry and Self-Reflection

• 🌟 Kerman reflects on artists who have aged gracefully and continued to create meaningful work, citing examples like Paul Simon and David Bowie, and finds inspiration in Jan Arden's multi-faceted career.
• 🗓️ He acknowledges the cultural shift where artists in their late 30s may no longer connect with the 18-21 demographic, a realization he's had about his own appearance and its potential impact on reaching younger audiences.
• 💖 The book shares stories of community impact, including building a basketball court and a deeply emotional experience with a family at a concert, highlighting the comfort and connection his songs provide to listeners, a realization that brings him gratitude.

Personal Well-being and Routine

• ☕ Kerman prioritizes a screen-free morning routine involving reading the newspaper with coffee, which helps him stay grounded.
• 🚶 He emphasizes the importance of walking and exercise, aiming for 10,000-20,000 steps daily, and finds enjoyment in classes or exercising with friends.
• 💬 Having great friends who are good listeners and offer advice is crucial for his mental health, alongside an openness to sharing his feelings with those around him.