Everybody can perform, there are so many outlets. Musicians are no longer limited. In the past, the record companies made most of the money. I for one am not sorry to see them fade away.
I really like world music. I used to think it was simple but it's far from that.
I throw down a lot on paper and on tape. Sometimes while I'm practicing on the guitar, I'll think of a song.
Many of the African musicians are well-schooled and well-versed...what they do takes a high level of musicianship.
Don't expect to make a living on it. Be able to hammer a nail or do retail, doing your music on the side!
At a certain point, I got used to writing on demand. I developed a habit of writing like I hired myself! I also like to write about things that affect me emotionally.
Most true musicians don't do it for the money, they do it because they love it. When I did slam poetry, it was a great way for me to express myself, I loved it.