Public opinion often paints a picture of the music industry as a sphere of carefree living, expensive concerts, and instant enrichment. However, the reality described by the participants themselves looks different. Ukrainian artist Melnyk (MÉLNK) decided to shed light on the financial side of the show business in an exclusive interview with RBC-Ukraine, debunking popular myths about astronomical incomes.
Reality vs. Illusions of Success
The performer admitted that stories about colossal fees are often nothing more than fiction. Melnyk openly declared his dislike for colleagues who publicly demonstrate "successful success" but are forced to use public transport and live from one release to the next. The artist honestly noted that he is not yet a millionaire and finds it ridiculous to talk about big money in the context of the current situation.
The path to stability started small: the singer's first corporate event was for just $200. At that time, he believed that clients would start "tearing him apart," but reality turned out to be harsher. Today, the artist devotes a significant part of his time and resources to charity concerts, performances for the military, and fundraising. The financial flow for Melnyk works on the "in-out" principle: all earned funds are immediately reinvested back into creativity.
Artist as a Multitasking Entrepreneur
Even under conditions of full-scale war, a Ukrainian musician can earn a decent living, but the price of this earnings is colossal effort. Melnyk emphasizes that the modern industry requires an artist to be not just a singer. Today, it is a complex role that includes the functions of a marketer, screenwriter, video editor, blogger, event organizer, accountant, and even a psychotherapist for oneself.
Success is impossible without a constant presence in the information field, competent work with social networks, and significant financial investments in one's own development. The artist calls the myth that one recorded song guarantees the purchase of an apartment in the center of Kyiv a misconception.
Figures of Comfort and New Horizons
According to Melnyk, in order to feel financially secure and live comfortably, one needs to perform about 15–20 concerts a month. The artist is still moving towards this goal, but his activities already go beyond music. Vladyslav Melnyk is involved in organizing festivals, TV projects, and competitions. Sometimes he jokes that the singer MÉLNK is just a hobby of the festival director.
Despite the difficulties, the performer does not chase instant profit or quick fame. He is convinced that a solid career can be built exclusively on hard work, honesty towards listeners, and constant development. Recently, Melnyk started his solo career, presenting his debut track "Mona Lisa," and continues to work on expanding his influence in the industry.
