Creativity Starts with Safety

“When people work in psychologically safe contexts, they know that questions are appreciated, ideas are welcome, and errors and failure are discussable.” — Amy C. Edmondson

Without safety, there’s no room for risk. And without risk, art isn’t possible. Feeling safe is fundamental to creativity, so it’s super important for those of us in the music industry to be intentional about creating spaces where everyone feels like they can take risks.  

The word “safety” gets thrown around a lot, but we rarely stop to define it. So, that’s something we took the time to do at a recent She Said So AMS panel hosted at FUGA. What does it mean to feel safe as an artist? As a manager? As a producer, or label exec? We got back lots of answers: Assurance. Equality. The freedom to speak without judgment. Being able to express ideas without fear. A space where vulnerability is met with respect.

The problem is that the culture of the music industry is often deeply informal, built on handshake deals, late-night sessions, and blurred personal and professional boundaries. That can create a collaborative atmosphere, but it can also create ambiguity and confusion.

With that in mind, we talked through specific and actionable ways that we can all collectively set better norms, elevate expectations, and build safer environments that support creative freedom and personal well-being. These are some of the big things we took away:

Boundaries Build Trust

The music industry runs on vibes, but clear communication is key to building trust. Talk openly before sessions begin: What are the working hours? Are guests welcome? What’s off-limits? Use split sheets. Share communication preferences. Boundaries don’t hold us back, they help create a culture of mutual respect.

Formalize Accountability

Contracts and agreements should include clear expectations around conduct, communication, and consequences. There’s a tasteful way to put expectations in writing that doesn’t kill the spirit of how everyone’s used to working.

Being an Ally Takes Effort

Caring is an intentional act. If you’re in a position of influence, be present. Ask how people are doing. Don’t assume everyone is doing fine just because you are. Create a space where openness and honesty is actively welcome. And where people feel comfortable asking questions, or sharing what they need. 

Normalize Failure, Not Fear

The highest-performing teams aren’t the ones that avoid mistakes, they’re the ones that feel safe enough to admit and learn from them. Make it cool to ask questions, own up to missteps, and try again.

Be Intentional about Spaces

Studio sessions only work if people feel safe to take risks. Not everyone has to be in the room for every moment. If someone doesn’t need to be in the room, they should feel comfortable about opting out, not feel like they’re not contributing. Protect the space so the people in it can be open, and focused.

The Medium is the Message

Some conversations don’t belong in a text. If something’s emotional, complicated, or sensitive, the way you share it matters just as much as what you say. Voice notes, FaceTimes and in-person check-ins can go a long way in showing you care, clearing things up faster, and avoiding misunderstandings.

Reward Empathy, Not Just Revenue

If you only reward output, that’s all you’ll get. Success comes from more than just hitting targets, it comes from a culture that nurtures both people and performance. Recognize and reward the people who create inclusive, respectful environments, as much as those focused on the bottom line.

Artist-Manager Relationships Go Both Ways

Artist–manager relationships are partnerships. That means being mindful of each other’s time, setting clear expectations, and making space for open conversations. Managers advocate for their artists, and artists can check in on how their managers are doing, too.

Change doesn’t have to be massive to be meaningful. Start small. Every project you work on or conversation you have is a chance to do things a little better and create a more thoughtful culture. That’s important because how we work plays a big part in shaping the work we create.

Picture Credit: MADEBYSEM