The Dark Side of Dreams: The Biological Harms of Hustle Culture in the Los Angeles Music Scene
Los Angeles, the city of dreams, where aspiring musicians flock with hopes of making it big, or just making a living doing what they love. I, too, was drawn to the vibrant music industry in this sprawling city. Little did I know that beneath the glitz and glamour lay a harsh reality - the biological harms of hustle culture.
The music scene here demands an unrelenting hustle. Long hours in the studio, sleepless nights perfecting tracks, and relentless gig schedules have become the norm. And the traffic on the 10, the 405, the 110, the 101 ….at any hour, any direction while you can’t afford to be late, ever. Despite dedication being second-nature to many, the line between passion and self-destruction often blurs.
One of the most glaring biological consequences is the toll on mental health. Anxiety, depression, and burnout are rampant among musicians, driven by the constant pressure to outdo oneself and the fear of falling behind. Social media makes it ever harder not to constantly compare your own failure with others’ perceived success. I have seen friends and colleagues battle mental health issues in silence, believing it to be the price to pay for success.
Moreover, the physical health implications are undeniable. Erratic schedules and sleep deprivation disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to chronic fatigue, weakened immune systems, and even cardiovascular problems. Add to this the coping mechanisms adopted by many – excessive caffeine, alcohol, or substance use – and you have a recipe for disaster.
Dietary neglect is another concerning aspect. Fast food on the go becomes a staple, depriving us of essential nutrients and contributing to weight gain and overall health decline. In the past seven years, I have seen a number of colleagues pass away prematurely due to unexpected terminal illnesses diagnosed too late.
Relationships, too, bear the brunt. Long hours at work lead to neglect of personal connections, straining family bonds and friendships. Loneliness and isolation become companions on this seemingly glamorous journey.
Yet, despite these alarming biological consequences, hustle culture persists. It's time to redefine success in the music industry, prioritizing well-being over exhaustion. Collective efforts to promote mental health awareness, establish healthier work practices, and encourage work-life balance are essential.
As a musician in Los Angeles, I've learned the hard way that success should not come at the expense of one's health. It's time we tune into the biological harms of hustle culture and take the necessary steps to ensure that our dreams don't become a nightmare for our bodies and minds.
