The Comparison Trap – Watching Other Artists ‘Blow Up” While You’re Grinding in Silence

Article by Manuela Bittencourt – 08/04/2025

You’re scrolling.

That artist you opened for two years ago just hit a million streams.

Someone from your hometown just got signed.

Your friend’s new song just went viral – and you’re still refreshing your Spotify Artists Dashboard, trying not to cry.

You’re genuinely happy for them.

But also? You’re crushed.

Because you’re still here.

Still posting. Still pitching. Still feeling invisible.

Let’s talk about that feeling – because it’s real.

The Dark Side of Staying Connected

We’re told social media is a tool. And yeah – it can be.

But when your feed is flooded with “big news” and polished press photos, it’s hard not to feel like you’re falling behind.

“Why not me?”

“Am I not good enough?”

“What am I doing wrong?”

These thoughts creep in –

Even if you know better.

Even if you’re proud of what you made.

The Truth They Don’t Post

For every artist who “blew up,”

There’s a decade you didn’t see:

The failed EPs.

The $0 gig nights.

The years of being overlooked.

And that viral song?

That’s probably a team, a budget – or a fluke of timing – behind it.

You’re not behind.

You’re just on your own timeline.

Why Comparison Hurts So Much

Music is personal.

So when someone else gets the spotlight,  it can feel like there’s less left for you.

But that’s not true.

This isn’t a race – it’s a mosaic.

A slow build. A craft.

Their win isn’t your loss.

Their moment doesn’t erase your worth.

How to Break The Comparison Spiral

• Mute liberally. Protect your peace.  You don’t need to see every milestone.
• Focus on your art, not your optics. Are you proud of the work? That’s what counts.
• Celebrate small wins. Finished a demo? Reached one new listener? That’s movement.
• Remember who you’re doing this for. Likes fade. Connection doesn’t.
• Say it out loud. “I’m proud of them – but I’m also struggling.” That’s honest. That’s human.

Final Thought

You’re not late.

You’re not less.

You’re not failing just because someone else is shining right now.

Keep your eyes on your own lane.

Make the art only you can make.

Your time will come – on your terms, in your own way.

Comparison steals joy.

But presence?

Presence gives back.