Being an artist in Australia has always been a unique path, but in 2026, the landscape has shifted dramatically. Beyond the passion for creating music, today's independent and emerging artists are navigating a complex world of social media demands, rising living costs, and an increasingly competitive digital arena. Local Sounds is stepping up to shed light on this evolving reality with the launch of its 2026 Artist Reality Check survey.
This isn't just another survey; it's a call to action designed to quantify the unseen pressures and celebrate the resilience of Australia's vibrant music community.
What is the "Creative Toll"?
We hear snippets and anecdotes, but rarely do we get a clear picture of the "creative toll" on our artists. How much time is truly spent making music versus managing an online presence? What financial sacrifices are being made? Are the pressures of going "viral" stifling genuine artistic expression?
John White, Co-founder of Local Sounds, explains the motivation behind the initiative: "At Local Sounds, we've noticed a growing, often silent, struggle behind the scenes for Artists to get their music heard. Emerging and Independent Artists are essentially running small businesses, acting as their own managers, publicists, social media strategists, and content creators, all while trying to hone their craft."
Why The Voices Of Artists Matter
For artists, this is your chance to be heard. The 2026 Artist Reality Check aims to gather critical data on:
The "Scroll vs. Soul" Ratio: How much precious creative time is diverted to content creation and social media engagement?
Economic Realities: The financial challenges, income sources, and the impact of the cost of living on artistic sustainability.
Industry Gatekeepers: The hurdles and successes in getting music heard by radio, streaming playlists, and key industry players.
Mental Well-being: The often-overlooked mental and emotional impact of constant pressure and self-promotion.
And for non-artists, why should you care? Because the health of our local music scene directly impacts the cultural vibrancy of our nation. When artists struggle, we all lose out on diverse voices, innovative sounds, and the unique stories that only music can tell. Understanding these pressures helps us all become better supporters.
The results of the survey will be compiled into a comprehensive report, highlighting key trends and advocating for changes that will genuinely support independent and emerging Australian artists. We'll be sharing highlights from this report across our social media channels, making this vital information accessible to everyone.
We urge every independent and emerging Australian artist to take a few minutes to complete the 2026 Artist Reality Check. Your anonymous insights are invaluable, and together, we can paint a clearer picture of the industry and advocate for a future where creativity can truly flourish.
Ready to have your say?
Click Here to Complete the Local Sounds 2026 Artist Reality Check Survey - https://forms.gle/SmCcr7Yun6GfQwKi9