Career Roadmap
Justin's work combines: Music, Writing, and Being Creative
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Take Roadmap QuizSkills & Education
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
English Language and Literature, General
Florida State University
Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be a Musicians & Singers:
High School
Bachelor's Degree: Music Theory and Composition
Graduate Degree: Music Performance, General
Doctorate
Learn more about different paths to this careerLife & Career Milestones
My path in life took a while to figure out
1.
Had a passion for singing, sang in school choir
2.
Played bass guitar in bands, as a teenager
3.
After college, the band I sang for signed to Atlantic Records
4.
Moved to California, was soon dropped by Atlantic Records
5.
Worked, waiting tables, not writing music for 3 years
6.
After a long absence from music, began joining other people's bands, playing guitar and keyboards
7.
Eventually convinced a group of friends to play songs that I had written
8.
Had a #1 hit in Europe, have a video on MTV and toured the world
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Parents:
You should get an education
How I responded:
Even though my father gave me this advice out of love, my personal path did not involve school knowledge. I would say, if you have a passion and a talent for something, don't let anyone make you feel like you have to rush to get an education. School will always be there. If you don't know exactly what your calling in life is, school is a great place to figure that out. Be bold. Be brave. Don't let others live your life for you.
Experiences and challenges that shaped me
This was a source of pride, but still a bit alienating at times. Just be understanding that your family might not understand all of the stresses you are under.