What Does it Mean to Be Relevant in the Entertainment Industry?

Relevance, in the context of the entertainment industry, doesn't mean just showing up and having a basic understanding of the craft. It means making a significant and demonstrable impact on the matter at hand. Being relevant in this field often boils down to more than just having a knack for talent; it's about who you are and who you know. Just like in any other competitive industry, connections and opportunity play a huge role.

Being Relevant: A Matter of Noticing

Being relevant means being noticed. This could be as a person with potential talent, or as someone who stands out due to a pressing problem or issue. However, not everyone is as good as they think they are. Many individuals harbor delusions of being talented, only to come across as mundane and unremarkable when put to the test. As a hiring manager or a creative director, the last thing you want is to bring in someone who has merely copied and perfected someone else's work, resulting in an embarrassing performance. What you value are original and unique talents that make a lasting impression.

Key Steps to Being Relevant in Acting

For aspiring actors, the journey to relevance involves several key steps. Initially, you need to gain recognition as a standout extra in a movie. This showcases your talent and potential in a fact-based and reputable way. Following that, you can aim for cameo appearances in films, where your performance is noticeable and well-regarded. Further down the line, opportunities may arise in commercial advertising or in the background of music videos. However, the real breakthrough often comes from doing a fine job as an extra and blending in, which will attract the attention of producers and offer you the role of a side character instead of just an extra.

Once you've made a side character stand out, you can start working on more dramatic and noticeable roles that showcase your unique abilities. This demonstrates your potential and can open doors to more significant roles. However, it's important to avoid any roles that might negatively impact your image. For example, playing a dorky, unpopular character in a movie can leave you typecast and hinder your chances of landing more serious roles.

Becoming a Famous Singer: A Different Path

For aspiring singers, the path to relevance is equally demanding. You need to build a strong presence as a member of a popular music group or band. Your group should be popular enough to tour extensively and gain the admiration of diverse demographic regions. Only after achieving this level of recognition can you attract the attention of professional music producers. They are the gatekeepers who can help launch your career, and you shouldn't seek them out but let them find you. Verify that they have a reputation and are known in the industry before signing any contract.

Conclusion

Being relevant in the entertainment industry requires a combination of talent, recognition, and a bit of luck. While it's crucial to have natural talent, it's equally important to have opportunities and the support of others in the industry. Remember, relevance is not just about being noticed; it's about making a lasting impression and standing out amongst the crowd.