Is relocation to LA a requirement?

[michaelshumway]

Mr. Newman, I hear people say time and time again that to truly become successfull in this business, you need to move to Los Angeles. You could ask, "what is success?" For me, success is being able to make a comfortable living writing music for film or games. I know in the past, the move to LA was definitely part of the job description because of how the market was. But, because of the world opening up so much from technology and becoming a smaller place, I wonder if the same still holds true today. I'd love to hear your insight on whether you can nurture contacts and clients without moving to LA. Also, does the LA crowd (directors, studios, producers, etc) take people seriously that don't live in LA? Thanks!

[David Newman]

I still think it's easier to get work if you live in LA. It's the nature of the beast. Things tend to happen really fast and directors producers call and want to see you in a few hours if possible. Also, if you live in LA all the other people that are important to your career also live here - Producers, Editors, Music editors, Directors, writers, etc. So while it's definitely changing, if one is really serious about a career it's just easier to be in LA. As I have said before, it's hard enough as it is to get work, why make it harder by being out of town. However, many people have great film music careers that don't live in LA. Just my 2 cents..