AIBU or unrealistic to think I can earn a living as a singer-songwriter, now, at 30, with a child ...

[DoReMi]

And as a single parent.

Just writing it seems more than a bit to me.

The thing is that, pre-DS, I spent a few years working on my singing and songwriting and wanted to make a go of it - and then fell pregnant. I have buried it ever since.

A neighbour was talking about one of her favourite songs the other day, and I mentioned that I had a recording of me singing it. She asked for a copy, so I dug it out (it had a couple of my own songs on there, too), not thinking much of it really but touched by her interest. She later came charging over to my house, breathless with enthusiasm and insisting she'd go out and buy my music tomorrow if it were available. She pleaded with me to let her put me in touch with a recording industry friend.

I'm rather blown away and excited, TBH - but also cautious as I know how few people succeed with this kind of career, despite working at it tirelessly.

I trust her implicitly - she doesn't have a screw loose, is switched-on, lovely, professional, etc - which makes it all the more surreal. I felt inspired to dig out some of my old songs and have a listen and a play, and I felt tentatively encouraged.

I'm on the brink of getting a decent-but-not-especially-exciting job to keep DS and I fed and clothed. I'm now wondering if I be sensible and go for that job, or give this singer-songwriter thing another go while I'm still youngish, if it's at all workable financially. And what about DS? Could it really be workable with him and his needs? (I've been a SAHM until now.)

Is this all a bit crazy now I'm "all grown up", or worth taking a serious look at?

Go for it. You can always do something else if it doesn't work out. Or maybe work part time sing/write parttime if you need a bit of dosh coming in. Good luck.

you can do whatever the hell you want. how fun to follow dreams

Chase your dream DoReMi! Accept it will be a bumpy road and you have nothing to lose. Better to try than to look back later in life with a heart full of 'what ifs'
And if you do All the luck in the world!

Take the sensible job, and pursue your dream as a passionate and serious hobby. If you get any legitimate and serious 'industry' interest (whether on your own or via your neighbour's connection), you can then decide if/when to quit the job. The industry moves very slowly - and even more so in these uncertain economic times.

Good luck.

I started a similar thread last night about whether to pursue my professional career or my art.
The MN advice was to do both.
Earlybird's advice is sound.
How exciting to rediscover your talent.
good luck.

I know a sinlge mum of 2 who is still singing and writing - and recording...she does have a good suppport network though (family close by etc for nights when she is giggging)
How about you?
Could you do something cringey like run children's music groups during the day to bring home the bacon, as it were,to free you up for your creative aspirations?