Industry Insider: Jessica Vaughn (LACES) Discusses Traditional & Modern Artist Development

We tend to think of those in the “music business” and “artists” as being two different parts of the industry, but at times they converge, like with LACES. LACES is the stage name of Jessica Vaughn, a highly talented and well-respected music business executive and writer/performer. She just released her latest single, “Open for Business,” along with its accompanying music video. As uplifting as many of her other songs, “Open for Business” is a deeply personal reflection on survival, self-compassion, and the unevenness of healing. It presents itself more as an anthem, a song encouraging you to embrace all the pieces, good and bad, that form together to make you who you are. It’s like a pat on the back, reminding you that it’s ok to be yourself and that healing can only begin if you allow it to.

Vaughn has led an interesting life as both a musician and a music executive. She has become a voice within her industry, building an impressive career where artistry and advocacy intersect with each other. In the past, her music has been featured on shows like Lucifer and Grey’s Anatomy and on networks like the CW, ABC, and Netflix. She understands her work from a more unique perspective than your average musician. She’s seen both sides of the game and has embraced that knowledge to enable her to be both a better artist and advocate. Not just in it for herself, Vaughn looks out for others and is just as interested in the success of her cohorts and contemporaries.

We are pleased to have Vaughn join us today for an Industry Insider interview. We discuss traditional artist development, her views on social and political views in music, lessons learned over the years, and much more.

Do you think traditional artist development is a dying art, with labels more interested in viral potential than fostering long-term careers?

LACES (Jessica Vaughn): “I think artist development is still happening within the creative community but it’s not coming from labels, it’s coming from managers, creatives turned executives, and the ‘helpers’ in our industry. Creating a successful career is a marathon and viral success can’t be the only ‘strategy.’ It’s simply bad business so I say… FAFO.”

Is it still possible for an artist to develop naturally in today’s climate, or do social media algorithms and data-driven decisions force them to fit a mold too early?

“I think artists don’t try to fit a mould, they create it. Yes, social media and data-driven decisions force businesses and artists to build and monetize with these key factors in mind, but it’s up to artists and our industry to be creative with how it’s engaged. I get annoyed with algorithms and social media just like most artists, but the only thing I can change right now is how I show up and making sure it feels authentic to me. It’s all an extension of the art, so that’s how I try to frame it in my own head or else I will just be screaming into the void.”

LACES “Open for Business” single artwork

Do you believe the responsibility for artist development now lies more with the artists themselves, or should labels and managers still play a bigger role in shaping careers?

“If I waited for managers and labels to develop me, I would still be waiting. It’s important to remember no one is going to care like you do and only you can ‘save’ you. That being said, when you surround yourself with people that you respect and that are experts in the field, it’s ok to let yourself be influenced, led, and to collaborate. It takes a village. I’ll take any help I can get!”

What’s the most overlooked aspect of an artist’s development?

“Professional training and therapy.”

How important do you think it is for artists to take a stance on social or political issues?

“Being an artist is an extension and expression of our humanity, so it depends on what kind of human these artists want to be or are. Let’s not confuse ‘artist’ for ‘entertainer.’ That being said, they intersect often. It’s a complex question and one answer does not fit all. I think it’s insane to think human beings shouldn’t express opinions on human issues just because they make music or are entertainers.

“I also think forcing anyone to share any take on social media isn’t the way either. Just because someone doesn’t share something on social media doesn’t mean you know who they are. They could be doing a lot for the causes they believe in with no social visibility. We are not the judge and jury but visibility and representation also matter. As I said… complex question.”

Do you think there’s too much pressure on artists to be ‘content creators’ in addition to musicians?

“I do, it’s extremely exhausting and it creates content creators that kind of make music instead of artists that make content. And I don’t love it. I would love another path but until then…”

The music industry is known for its relentless pace. How do you personally deal with burnout, and what advice would you give to younger artists struggling with it?

“I go to therapy, work out, and prioritize alone time and time with my chosen family but let’s be honest… I cry and drink wine.

“My advice is to listen to your body and advocate for yourself. Make sure what you’re giving up is worth the cost you’re paying… if it’s not, time to strategize.”

What’s the most unexpected lesson you’ve learned in your career?

“America loves mediocrity but that doesn’t mean that’s what you have to be. There’s a community out there waiting for you. Being yourself is worth it. Additionally, speaking up won’t make you a lot of friends, but those coming up notice and it’s worth paving a better path for them.”