I think most artists are propelled by demons. Pain and suffering are the inspirations- there are very few really happy lyrics in Rock & Roll, and forget about country music. But I'm sure the money takes the edge off ;-)

I am an artist that is not propelled by demons. That is a tired myth. Neither am I propelled by fame. I am motivated to create income to pay for my necessities and pleasures. Better to concentrate on your own good life, than worry about the lives of other artists whom we do not know intimately. My life is better than its ever been. I am propelled by angels.

Their realities are probably as diverse and complex as those for each of us. Many have dropped out and taken time off on their personal search.

I think many of these artists started out playing to have fun, for the sheer enjoyment of performing what makes them feel good. Once successful, then the pressure mounts to produce their own material and feel the need to push their personal experiences or situations into song. Unfortunately, for some, it can get messy with drugs or alcohol as they push the limits of their bodies. Money can bring out the demons in the best of us and can lead some to some unfortunate outcomes. I am so happy to see those that got past it and are living out their dream.

First and foremost I think creative people spiritually must be able to create in the chosen genre and tools they use. There is no joy otherwise. They are not honoring themselves or anyone else either. Fame, fortune, recognition is always a nice validation, but it is not the innate factor for most. Expressed creativity is like breathing air. Without it they wither and die. I watched it in my daughter from the time of her birth to today. She cannot exist without creative expression. It's her spiritual air she breaths and she touches so many lives that way.

As Ben noted, our realities are as diverse as we are. Whether you're an artist or something else (a strategist, engineer, diplomat. . . . We are each one of many possible archetypes), for me, the good life is about having "enough" to make meaningful choices. That and gratitude for my loved ones and for being born into the circumstances, time and place which I was.
Love the comments above. :)

You do it for the "art," create for yourself; if others get it, fine. Never refute any (deserved, of course) recognition/ acclaim. If it inspires others, if it makes a difference, all the better but not required. Real key involves finding that (something special and unique) within each self (all have it) but too many fail to see (and enjoy/ experience); always nice when one helps another see/ experience it (No clue what makes me wax so philosophic this day.).
added comment: and Fred thank you for your comment on my comment.

Wonderful comments all. Does fame, money and power get you through the night? No, does it for famous attorneys, doctors or athletes? I think not. I spent over 30 years being an "artist" as a director. It was fun when at 16 I directed my first play and remains so today. Whatever fame and money I did gain came along for the ride. While a major part of my life, Art needed to be accompanied by Person, and in my case did. Healthy artists are able to blend in the two sides of their lives and see to it that each strengthens the other.

Fascinating topic and conversation. Looking at Art as a form of communication with people in all careers is my take. If you are good at what you do and have a passion to keep doing it, then you can sleep well and smile often.
Can't believe that Corey and Fred did not mention that it was John Lennon who wrote the classic Whatever Gets You Thru the Night from Power to the People.

I have been fortunate enough to have some first hand experience . Introspect. A common thread. Dylan would mockingly respond "What's a good life brother ?" Living in the moment I would think . That's what he does although he tends to project which contradicts all of that . He's the first to laugh at himself even before I could . Late at night watching old movies on the black and white TV . "Are we going dancing with the clouds today?" He would ask. I would laugh and tell him that the clouds were not my friend while airborne and he would chuckle and drift to another world. He wasn't much for nature or a good steak. A good thought would carry him for days . Basics worked. Shelter from the Storm. Sara gave that to him. Not Joan. On the other hand Neil Young is standing next to me at the meat counter. What's for dinner Neil ? He says that to me . Bone in filets I say . Danny is our butcher . You can smell the whiskey on his breath across the counter . Daryl wants salmon. I said mermaids don't eat fish . He laughs . We both pull away on our Harleys. The good life .

Hollander Sends

Neil, it was definitely a gift to have met you.

“Create a life that feels good on the inside, not one that just looks good on the outside.”
-Author Unknown