Side project facts for kids

A side project in music is when a musician, who is already well-known for being in one band, starts a new musical project. This new project might be with different people, or it might be a solo effort.

Sometimes, the term "side project" is also used when a musician explores a different style of music than what they usually play with their main band. Musicians often create side projects to try out new sounds, ideas, or types of music that wouldn't fit with their main group. It's a way for them to be creative and explore different musical paths.

What is a Music Side Project?

A music side project is like a special creative space for musicians. Imagine your favorite artist from a rock band suddenly releasing an album of calm, acoustic songs. That could be a side project! It allows them to make music they love without changing the sound of their main band.

Why Musicians Start Side Projects

Musicians start side projects for many reasons:

• Trying New Styles: They might want to explore different types of music, like jazz, electronic, or folk, that are very different from their main band's style.
• Creative Freedom: Sometimes, a musician has ideas that don't fit the sound or image of their main group. A side project gives them the freedom to try these new things.
• Working with New People: It's a chance to collaborate with other musicians they admire, leading to fresh and exciting sounds.
• Personal Expression: A side project can be a way for an artist to express personal feelings or stories that might not fit the themes of their main band.
• Taking a Break: It can also be a way to take a break from the pressures of a big band while still making music.

How Side Projects Are Different from Main Bands

Side projects are usually less formal than a main band. They might not tour as much, or they might release music less often. The focus is often more on artistic exploration than on selling lots of albums or becoming super famous. It's about the joy of making music in a new way.

Famous Examples of Side Projects

Many famous musicians have had successful side projects. These projects often show a different side of their musical talent.

Well-Known Side Projects

• The Postal Service: This was a side project by Ben Gibbard from the band Death Cab for Cutie, and Jimmy Tamborello from Dntel. They made electronic pop music that was very different from their main bands.
• Gorillaz: Damon Albarn, the lead singer of Blur, created this virtual band. Gorillaz mixes hip-hop, electronic, and rock music, and features animated characters.
• Them Crooked Vultures: This supergroup included members from famous bands like Led Zeppelin, Queens of the Stone Age, and Nirvana. They played hard rock music.

Impact of Side Projects

Side projects can be very important for a musician's growth. They allow artists to:

• Develop new skills.
• Reach new fans who might like their different style of music.
• Keep their creativity flowing.
• Sometimes, a side project can even become as popular as the main band!

See also

In Spanish: Proyecto paralelo para niños