@WillPHarrison
For me it doesn’t if it’s “just” a hobby. I know it’s an important distinction for you, but for those who incidentally encounter your music you are an artist worth knowing. Would it help if I wrote the IRS a note for you?
@WillPHarrison
I believe you’re allowed 3 years of loss as investment in your business. Screw turbo tax. Get a good accountant. Although after 30 years mine is like, “yeah we’re not writing all this off”