Change It Up

Music For The Soul

Sharon Jones, 54, worked odd jobs until she made her dream of singing professionally come true. "My career involved years of long hours and little sleep. Even now, the grueling tours can be exhausting," Jones says. "It's hard work, but performing is what I love to do. I say, 'Look, I'm 54 years old; I don't have much time.' My philosophy: Rather than looking at age as a drawback, use it as an incentive to roll up your sleeves."

Jones's advice: When all else fails, do it yourself. "If others aren't willing to help you, find a way to get there on your own. I knew I'd have to make my own success. So I quit looking to major record labels and instead maneuvered around them to help build an independent label—one that allows me to shine."

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