Watch the episode here
Navigating Performance, Health, and Confidence as a Female Artist Over 50
The Fear of First Impressions
One of the most immediate hurdles, as Bree Noble points out, is “that first impression fear.” She observes that older women artists often struggle with the idea of announcing their age when making new connections: “They’re afraid that, like, they have to announce themselves as being older or people are gonna go, ‘Oh,’ you know what I mean?” . It’s an anxiety colored by the music industry’s longstanding obsession with youth, especially where women are concerned.
Tara Brueske adds her voice to this unease, explaining, “Because our culture is still constantly youth-oriented…there’s a pressure of still always looking a certain way or trying to look younger.” . Both agree that while men in the industry—think the Rolling Stones—are celebrated for their longevity, women are less often given that latitude.
A Mirror for the Audience
But being an older artist comes with distinct advantages, especially when it comes to audience connection. “[What] makes them feel comfortable, what makes them like you and all that, is that it’s a bit of a mirror effect. They see themselves in you,” says Bree Noble . Performing for audiences that skew older can actually become a superpower; relatability and shared experience draw people in.
Even practical aspects, like wardrobe and footwear, have to evolve. Tara Brueske laughs about her switch to comfortable shoes, and Bree Noble confides, “I’ve had to adjust my footwear…that can still look nice, but it’s not going to be as stylish and pretty as what I might used to have worn.” .
Technology and Adaptation
With changing bodies come new needs. Bree Noble shares her reliance on lighting at her church gig and her appreciation for large-font music, while Tara Brueske revels in the backlighting of her iPad for lyrics and charts—innovations unavailable decades ago. “If you develop cataracts…things start to feel darker…that’s an important thing. How about even like hearing?” . From font sizes to in-ear monitors, today’s technology helps level the playing field and keeps older artists performing comfortably.
Life Experience as Artistic Fuel
One of the most significant advantages of aging as an artist is the depth that comes with life experience. Bree Noble reflects, “So much life experience, so much confidence of being up there,” emphasizing how years of performance have bred “resilience in every situation” . Tara Brueske chimes in: “The stories that we share from stage…will connect with people.” The authenticity and perspective that come with time can’t be faked or fast-tracked.
Setting Boundaries and Self-Care
Older artists, both agree, must be strategic about how they spend their energy. Tara Brueske admits, “There was a time when I would do two gigs in a day and I never do that anymore….at the most two hour gigs. That’s just where I’m at.” . Both now prioritize breaks, better sleep, and healthier food, recognizing how stamina changes with age. “If somebody else is doing [more], maybe they’re running themselves ragged. We don’t need to,” Tara Brueske wisely notes .
Grace, Growth, and Confidence
Adjustment isn’t just physical; it’s psychological. Tara Brueske relates, “I think it’s also—yeah—giving myself grace…it’s not going to be what it was when I was 25, but these other things are good.” . And above all, the confidence that comes with age turns mishaps into mere blips. “Once you’ve been through enough of those…nothing can phase you,” Bree Noble laughs .
Never Too Late: Thriving Beyond 50
Above all, their message is clear: your musical journey doesn’t have to end after 50—or even 60 or 70. As Bree Noble encourages, “If you’re worried you’re going to have to give up your music career when you pass 50 or 60, I’m telling you, there is so much on the other side of that, and we are proof of that.”
