Music Entrepreneur HQ: Recent Episodes
David Andrew Wiebe
Do you tend to accumulate a lot of information without ever acting on it? Content junkies do this all the time, sometimes without even realizing it. While studying without applying might be okay in grade school, in adult life, it simply doesn’t work. So, how do you get out of the rut of learning, thinking, and not acting?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares how you can overcome analysis paralysis. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast Highlights:
00:17 – Something you’ve been struggling with 00:28 – What is analysis paralysis? 01:18 – Why does analysis paralysis happen? 02:25 – Solutions to analysis paralysis 02:37 – Publishing under a pseudonym 04:02 – Setting deadlines for your tasks and projects 06:06 – Accountability 08:28 – Preparing for a difficult future
Sponsors:
Elite Players: All Access Pass: Our online academy for musicians featuring a forum, personalized coaching, Members Only Audios, three music biz courses, archived training, and more. Yes, it’s literally an “all-access pass,” and it’s the greatest value we offer. Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity for artists, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires!
Transcription: I recently asked some of you, “What are you struggling with when it comes to getting things done?”
And it sounds like what some of you are struggling with is analysis paralysis. So, let's talk about analysis paralysis. What is Analysis Paralysis? Nowadays, because there's so much information available on Google, books, and courses, on YouTube, and anywhere else you might potentially go.
It becomes so easy to consume, and amass, and accumulate the information without actually doing anything with it.
Now there are a few different variations on analysis paralysis, but that's usually the main one.
“We've got a bunch of options. We don't know which to pick and we don't know what to do with them. And when we do finally choose them, we're not really sure how to execute them.”
So, it becomes this cycle of analyzing and trying to figure out what to do, but because you're trying to get it right, you get stuck in paralysis. Why Does Analysis Paralysis Happen? Basically, for the reason I just mentioned, you're trying to get it right. In other words, you're trying to be perfect. You're trying to get it perfect, one way or another.
So, getting stuck in perfectionism. This is a common trap for creatives. Analysis paralysis is really just some other form of the same thing.
Perfectionism is a common trap for creatives.Click To Tweet
So, we need to look at how we can overcome that practically, so the future actually sees us producing and creating things rather than sitting on ideas or having thoughts of creating something that never ends up being created.
We want to make sure that your output gets out into the world and seen and heard. Even if it's just a little bit. Hopefully, it gets seen by a lot of people. That is always the most desirable thing, but unfortunately, I don't think history is on the side of people… like not right now, maybe in the past… but I don't think history is on the side of the people who aren't prolific, who aren't constantly creating, constantly publishing, and shipping and putting new things out there.
History is not on the side of those who aren't prolific producers.Click To Tweet
But you might be scared to do that. And that's where analysis paralysis comes in. So, let's talk about solutions. And I think all of these are worthwhile solutions. It's just that you may not immediately feel like trying some of them, which is why I wanted to present more than just one. Publishing Under a Pseudonym
What if there was an easier way for your fans, friends, and family to invest in your music? What if you could diversify your revenue streams to make your music career more sustainable and profitable?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David passes the mic with MariNation founder & CEO and friend, Justin Longo. Tune in to discover how MariNation is evolving to meet changing demands. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast Highlights:
00:17 – Returning guest, Justin Longo of MariNation 00:33 – MariNation’s new direction 02:01 – On diversifying revenue opportunities 04:17 – The Music Entrepreneur Triangle 06:34 – Music Entrepreneur HQ’s lens 08:01 – Why do people invest in music and who does it benefit? 09:34 – The constantly changing music industry climate 11:35 – What MariNation is aiming for 13:41 – What has Justin learned from pivoting his venture? 17:13 – Sunk cost fallacy and finding your path 19:39 – Paradoxes in success 21:19 – What tools and resources did Justin rely on while pivoting? 23:41 – Know thyself 35:40 – Elite Players: All Access Pass 37:26 – Closing thoughts
Sponsors:
Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity for artists, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires!
Transcription: David: Today I'm chatting with a return guest, the founder of MariNation, Justin Longo. You can hear our previous conversation in episode 243 of the podcast. It's great to connect with you again. Justin. How are you?
Justin: I'm excellent, David. Thanks for having me.
David: Good to see you again. I know that MariNation has been evolving, and to use a bit of a buzzword, you've made a bit of a pivot recently, but your concept is still centered on music investing so that part hasn't changed. So, what has changed with your app and what do you see coming next?
Justin: Yeah, so basically the first direction we were managing artists' money on their behalf, investing in index funds and the general stock market.
So, obviously, we didn't pursue that. It was kind of more of an intuitive decision, but we've pivoted into this next direction where we allow fans and investors to invest in music, invest in artists as people, and benefit from their future earnings and future careers. So that's kind of the different direction that we took with it now.
David: So, people can invest in pretty much anyone, right? Like Justin Bieber or Rihanna or whoever their favorite popular artist is.
Justin: Eventually, that's the direction, right? We want to have the big A players. Obviously, they'd come on for different reasons. Other than like an indie artist or somebody just beginning, right?
They would probably want to fund, projects, and studio time, and probably the A-list celebrities and big stars would want to do it more on a fan-to-fan, a fan-to-artist, like engagement, like connection.
David: I would definitely think that with mainstream artists if they see that it's a viable opportunity, they would sign up for it.
It's not like a super well-known fact, but you can start looking for all the revenue streams for producers, and people assume, “Okay, they're making music, right?” And that's true, but then oftentimes they'll have their own trademark plugin for a DAW, or they'll also have sample packs, or they also have beats. So, they're pretty well diversified.
And it's really the same thing for musicians in the sense that people assume they just go out and perform and they make loads of money, right? Or they just release something on Spotify and it helps them make some royalties, which is true.
But then you'd be surprised to find that Beyoncé plays the same bar mitzvahs and weddings and birthday par...
The New Music Industry Podcast has been going strong since 2016, and we couldn’t do it without you. In this video, David personally thanks you for listening, sharing, participating, and interacting with him over the years. Transcription: We knew we were going to cross this threshold sooner rather than later, but it finally happened. As […]
The post Epic Milestone Achieved! | 100,000 Podcast Downloads | Thank You! appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
In 2007, David had the opportunity to interview his friend, and superb jazz guitarist, JJ Soriano. When asked how he promoted himself and booked gigs, JJ had something of special significance to say… Watch this video to learn more. Transcription: In 2007, I got to interview my friend, JJ Soriano. Not necessarily a household name […]
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Hard to believe it was 18 years ago that David originally sat down with Christian artist Riley Armstrong for an interview at the local Starbucks. One could argue that the flower Music Entrepreneur HQ has blossomed into has a lot to do with the seeds planted in this conversation. In this video, David reflects on […]
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At every turn, Donner is redefining what it means to be a “budget” brand. In the past, the idiom “you get what you pay for” rang true in all but a few scenarios. You got the occasional meal of substance or a night out at the movies on the cheap. Aside from that, small amounts […]
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So, you probably heard about it. But you may have asked yourself what it’s about and why you should care. At Music Entrepreneur HQ, we have the “getting it together,” “getting it done,” and “getting it out there” tracks, and this new work covers almost everything you could possibly want to know about “getting it […]
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This post originally appeared on David Andrew Wiebe. Looking to become a music entrepreneur? There are a few different models that work. But the most well-worn path is encapsulated in what follows – the Music Entrepreneur Triangle. Understand this and you will have cleared a path for your ultimate success. Work For famous music entrepreneurs […]
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Are you a coach? Or maybe you’re an info-product creator. Even if you’re an artist, there is a pathway to growing your fan base and getting exposure to your music. And in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David interviews Evan Price of Artist Collective, who reveals his four-step process for scaling a […]
The post 298 – 4 Elements to Scale a Creative Business – with Evan Price appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Does it seem like everyone else is getting the gigs? Are you insecure about that drummer who’s far better than you? Do you often compare yourself unfavorably to others on the road to building the life you love through music?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares how you can be like the select few who always seem to get the call, get the gig, and get the guy or girl too. Discover how to build a magnetic reputation as a musician.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights: 00:23 – The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide* * 00:43 – How David built his reputation in Calgary * 01:57 – How to position yourself in the music business * 02:36 – In the long run you can diversify, but in the short term, focus * 03:10 – Closing thoughts
Sponsors: The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity for artists, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way*, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires!
Transcription:What’s up, Elite Players? It’s David Andrew Wiebe here, and today we get to talk about how to build a magnetic reputation as a musician. This is an exciting topic.
But first, don’t forget, you can still get your free copy or so I’m told of my awesome book, The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide at MusicEntrepreneurHQ.com/FreeBook.
Getting Established as a Session Guitarist in CalgaryI used to be based out of Calgary, Alberta. I no longer live there, but when I was living there, a lot of my activity as a musician, live performance, producing, making music, and jamming, all took place primarily around Calgary and Airdrie.
It got to the point that in Airdrie I couldn’t walk the streets without someone yelling out, “Hey Dave!”
And the number one thing that I became known for was my lead guitar playing skills. Now, let’s keep in mind, I can do a lot of other stuff. I can play rhythm guitar, I can play bass, I can play ukulele, I can play a little bit of mandolin. I can play a little bit of keyboards. I can produce music; I can compose music. I can mix and master and engineer and edit music.
But if I had spent a lot of time promoting all those other skills, the product would’ve become diluted, and soon people would’ve been confused about what it is that I offer as a musician. So, I decided the best thing that I could do, instead of telling people about all the other things that I could provide them in terms of graphics and websites and writing and blogging, that I would primarily focus on, “Hey, I’m a guitarist and I can play lead on your songs, whether it’s live, or in the studio.” Which is what I ended up doing. So, before I knew it, I was an in-demand session guitarist in Calgary and the area.
Setting Up Your Magnetic ReputationIf you’re great at writing songs and that’s something that you want to become known for and you could see yourself doing long-term, then it would be best to position yourself primarily as a songwriter.
You’re a creative person. You probably do a lot of other things well, but the main thing that you want people to know about you is that you write songs and that makes it easy for other people to refer you.
If you’re a mastering engineer, same thing. I know mastering engineers that do very well, and that’s the main thing. They promote themselves as that. They can do a lot of other things well, of course, but they primarily share the fact that they are mastering engineers so that they can get more mastering gigs.
Now, I get it. We’re creative people and we like to do a lot of different things and we might have a lot of different skills but think long term. In the long run, you can diversify once you become known for one thing. And start sharing all the other things that you can offer, and you can do for people.
But until then, it’s best to stay focused on becoming known in your network and beyond for just one thing. And that will help you get established faster in the specific area in which you want to excel and provide services. Dig a mile deep and an inch wide, not a mile wide and an inch deep.
Closing SegmentSo, if you enjoyed this insight from The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe, and as we like to say around here, do all the things.
I’ll see you next time.
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How are you going to find the motivation you need to get up to do what you need to do to grow your music career every morning? What resources will you be taking advantage of to ensure that you are expanding, so your music career can expand with you?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares the power of investing in yourself and your growth to have breakthroughs in your music career endeavors.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights: 00:23 – Another insight from The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide* * 00:42 – Investing in yourself to grow your music career * 01:22 – Will you let yourself be stopped by the same things repeatedly? * 01:59 – How much did you invest in yourself last year? * 02:45 – When will you begin investing in yourself? * 03:32 – What will you be creating out of this?
Sponsors: The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way*, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires!
Transcription:I have easily invested over a hundred thousand dollars into my personal growth.
What’s up Elite Players? It’s David Andrew Wiebe.
I wanted to share another insight from The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide with you. If you don’t already have it, what are you doing? I think you can still get it for free, but not for long because when it’s gone, it’s gone. You’ve got to act fast. Find a link in the description for the Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide.
Investing in Yourself to Grow Your Music CareerAll right, so today we get to talk about something really cool, which is investing in yourself to grow your music career.
Do you know that right now, and I mean, right now I am going through a two-year intensive leadership program? Two flipping years!
12 to 15 hours of my life are sucked up by calls and meetings in clinics and training and development opportunities [every week]. Now, why the hell would anyone do that to themselves? Right?
Are the Same Things Stopping You Repeatedly?Every year I invest in Kindles, courses, coaching, into mentorship. And honestly, I sometimes have a hard time understanding why people don’t do that because they just want to let life happen. And let problems happen and let the same things stop them over and repeatedly in trying to grow the music career that they love.
I don’t know. I think some people are just cool with sitting with their problems for months or years on end. If I’m sitting with the same problem for longer than three to six months, I’m ready for something else. I need a new course. I need a new program. I need a new mentor. I need something to guide me and lead me out of the desert and into the promised land.
How did you Invest in Yourself in the Last Year?So go check your expenses. Look at what you spent on last year. How much money did you invest in yourself? Did you buy books and Kindles? Did you invest in programs? Did you get coaching and mentorship? And did you get the breakthroughs you were looking for?
I come out with new books every year, not necessarily because I must. More so because you probably need a new book. You’ve already read some of my material perhaps, and you only got so far, am I right? That’s because you need a fresh perspective.
You need a new way of looking at things. I’m constantly evolving, so I want to share that with you. I want to bring that into your world. I want to bring this enthusiasm and excitement and breakthrough and change into your world so that you can accomplish the results that you’re looking for in your music career.
The Time is NowSo, when will you start investing in yourself? Are you going to wait till tomorrow or are you going to start today? Tomorrow never comes really. Everyone says they’re going to start Monday, right? I’m going to quit smoking on Monday. I’m going to start working out on Monday.
When will you start investing in yourself?
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It doesn’t work that way. You must start today and work through the pain.
I recently started working out again in February. I mean, before that, I was exercising and walking every day, but I wasn’t working out, and I couldn’t believe how painful that first workout was. It didn’t really make me want to get up and do that again. But you know what? I kept at it, and I worked my way up from one day a week to two days a week, to three days a week, to four days a week.
I’m away from home right now, so I’m on break from working out, but I was up to four days a week consistently, and now if I’m not working out four days a week, I get pretty antsy.
So, what are you going to be creating out of this? That is the question. Thanks for watching. Make sure to like, comment, subscribe, do all the things, and I’ll see you next time, Elite Players.
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If you’ve been around the world of music for any length of time, there’s a good chance you’ve heard the name Moog, which has become synonymous with one of the most popular synthesizers of all time, the Minimoog Model D.
What stands out about it? Well, it depends on whom you ask, but I think its unique, rich, raw, cutting, rumbling tone has something to do with it. What do you think?
Whenever I’m looking for the perfect lead or bass synthesizer tone for my tracks, I often turn to a Moog.
So, what’s the deal with the 70th anniversary? Well, hang on tight, because you’re going to want to stick around to the end to learn about all the new, amazing stuff Moog Music has prepared for you.
Let’s start here…
70 Years of Moog SynthesizersFounder and namesake Robert Moog established Moog Music Inc. in 1953, 70 years ago.
Robert Moog passed away on August 21, 2005, aged 71. He was diagnosed with a glioblastoma multiforme brain tumor earlier in April of the same year. But his legacy lives on.
Bob Moog was born on May 23 (1934), and today is also May 23! See the connection?
Moog is not the kind of company that can go without honoring its history. And so, today, they’ve announced:
- The re-release of the Minimoog Model D
- The virtual Mini Moog Factory
- Bog Moog birthday raffle for the Minimoog Model D Serial #1
We explore each of these developments below…
Minimoog Model DThe Minimoog Model D was originally unleashed upon the world in 1970. The iconic Moog synthesizer changed musical history, paving the way for synthesizers that were soon to follow.
Previous models required users to connect modules using patch cables. Modular synthesis is very much back in vogue today, but the Model D was ground-breaking for its time, featuring pre-wired modules out of the box. This meant users could start playing the instrument without any setup.
Many of your favorite musicians gravitated towards the Minimoog Model D, including Parliament Funkadelic, Herbie Hancock, Jan Hammer, Gary Numan, Pink Floyd, and plenty of other recognizable names.
At a Glance: The new Model D was based on the old Model D, capturing its essence, and feeling to a tee. * It comes with the same signal path and sound engine as the original, except with several popular modifications (or mods* as we musicians like to say). * It also features the same thought-hole design and component placement.
Features:* 44 keys, from F0 to C4. * Synthesizer spring action keyboard. * User selectable note priority (low, high, last). * Three oscillators, noise generator, and external audio input. * Oscillator frequency range of 0.1 to 20 kHz (in six overlapping ranges). * Oscillatory stability of (short term) > 0.25%. * Oscillator waveforms – triangle, triangle-sawtooth (oscillator-1, oscillator-2), reverse sawtooth (oscillator-3), sawtooth, rectangle, wide pulse, and narrow pulse.
Mini Moog FactoryWelcome to the fun, colorful, and delightful world of the virtual Mini Moog Factory.
The website consists of eight primary sections: Archives, Gift Shop, Juke Box, Moog Practice Room, Face Synth, Build-A-Synth, Theatre, and Model D App.
We’ll be covering each of these sections below, but no doubt you’ll want to check out the site for yourself too.
ArchivesIf you want to learn more about the history of the Minimoog Model D, how it was created, and how people experienced the synth for the first time, you’ll certainly want to dig into the Archives. This section of the site effectively consists of four articles.
Gift ShopThe Gift Shop will take you to the official Moog website, where you can enter to win a Minimoog Model D Serial #1, and check out Moog merch, including the Model D knit hat, vintage logo tee, Model D tee, vinyl slipmats, stickers, minimug (brilliant), Model D pint glass, Model D hat, diner mug, and more.
Juke BoxThe Minimoog Model D synthesizer inspired many classic songs. In this section of the Mini Moog Factory, you can check out songs like:
- Bob Marley & The Wailers – “Stir It Up”
- Parliament – “Flash Light”
- Herbie Hancock – “Rockit”
- Chaka Khan – “I Feel For You”
- DEVO – “Whip It”
- Michael Jackson – “Thriller”
- Tubeway Army – “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?”
- Nine Inch Nails – “Head Like A Hole”
- Ozzy Osbourne – “Mr. Crowley”
- Rush – “Tom Sawyer”
- Heart – “Magic Man”
- Ultravox – “Vienna”
- Kraftwerk – “Autobahn”
- Pink Floyd – “Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Pts. 1-5)”
This section of the website didn’t work for me, but the music is available as a Spotify playlist that isn’t too hard to find.
Moog Practice RoomInside the Moog Practice Room, you can access Moog presets from an array of hits, record a tune, and even share it with your friends.
The virtual keyboard can be played with your computer keyboard, and I found this approach surprisingly intuitive. I discovered you can even layer several tracks, which could make this a very addictive pastime.
I ended up writing a very rudimentary riff, which you can find here.
Face SynthFace Synth has been designed to be explored with Instagram. It’s nothing crazy. It will add a Moog synth effect to your face. You can share your crazy creations with friends on social.
Build-A-SynthEver wanted to build a Minimoog Model D? Well, you’re in luck, because inside Build-A-Synth, you’ll find a PDF document that walks you through the process of creating your own cardboard replica.
TheatreInside the Theatre, you can watch several videos, including:
- A Brief History of the Minimoog Pt. 1
- A Brief History of the Minimoog Pt. 2
- Dr Bob Moog Demonstrates the Minimoog
- Steve Porcaro – Synthesizer Basics Minimoog Bass Ounds
- Thomas Dolby – The Ghost of Faffner Hall – The Jim Henson Company
- Are Friends Electric? – Tubeway Army
- Stir It Up – Bob Marley
- Autobahn – Kraftwerk
- Love is Alive – Gary Wright
- Magic Man – Heart
- Whip It – Devo
- Sexy Boy – Air
- Chase – Giorgio Moroder
- Vienna – Ultravox
- Minimoog Model D | The Will Gregory Moog Ensemble | Archimedes Screw
Model D AppThe Minimoog Model D Synthesizer app costs $9.99 USD. The app is a software emulation of the original hardware synthesizer.
The Model D app works on iOS and Mac devices.
Features:* Over 160 presets with hundreds more available in the app store. * Up to four-note polyphony. * Share presets and recordings with friends. * Arpeggiator with note-hold and chord latch. * Stereo ping-pong delay. * Bender time modulation. * Real-time looping recorder with overdub and sharing. * Selectable envelope shapes and triggering. * MIDI CC mapping. * Preset backup to iCloud. * Play mode. * A fresh take on the classic feedback/overload path.
Bob Moog Birthday RaffleThe raffle was created in collaboration with the Bob Moog Foundation. You could win serial #1 of the latest edition of the Minimoog Model D by entering.
The raffle begins today at 10:00 AM EDT and closes on June 23, 2023, at 11:59 PM EDT.
My advice? If you’d like to win a Minimoog Model D, Get your tickets now!
Final Thoughts, Minimoog Model DThe Minimoog Model D is back, and it’s as cool as it ever was! The Mini Moog Factory website is a great place to learn about the history of the instrument and even have a little fun coming up with riffs in your spare time. And if you want to win a serial #1 Model D, you’d better act fast and enter the Bob Moog birthday raffle pronto!
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There are some critical steps to take before you even begin. Because whatever foundation you build on is the foundation that will stay with you. And if it’s a shaky foundation, you may never be able to build the music career of your dreams and create the life you love through your music.
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares about the crucial importance of building your music career on solid ground.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:16 – Building a solid foundation * 00:53 – Your music career blueprint * 01:30 – The secret to making your dreams a reality * 02:47 – Do something and adjust course * 03:47 – Start with the end in mind * 04:23 – Closing thoughts
Sponsors: The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way*, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires!
Transcription:Hey, it’s David Andrew Wiebe, and today I wanted to talk about building a solid foundation. Whether it’s a house, a commercial building, or an industrial building of some kind, if you don’t build a solid foundation, you can experience a variety of problems with the building down the line. But when you start with a solid foundation, the rest of the building can be erected with relative ease.
And so, it’s the same thing in our music careers. If we have a solid foundation on which to build, we’re going to experience and enjoy more success. What’s key is that we have a solid idea of what it is that we’re building towards.
If we have a solid foundation on which to build, we're going to experience and enjoy more success in our music careers.
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Your Music Career BlueprintSo, you need to create a music career blueprint. The blueprint doesn’t necessarily have to be ultra-specific, but it should give you a pretty good idea of what it is you’re aiming towards. Whether that’s becoming a professional songwriter in country music, or becoming a touring musician, or a session player in rock bands. Specificity helps create clarity, and when you have clarity on what it is you’re moving towards, you can line up your daily actions with where it is you’re going.
One of my favorite quotes by William Hutchinson Murray goes like this:
“Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative and creation, there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too.
All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favour all manner of unforeseen events, meetings and material assistance which no man could have dreamed would have come his way.
Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic. Begin it now.”
Now, I could offer an entire breakdown on that quote because there’s so much in there that can be missed if you don’t go a little bit deeper into the meaning of the words in the exact order in which they were placed, but the key point is that we’ve got to commit. Commit to a specific course and a specific set of actions that are going to lead to where it is that we want to go in our music careers.
Commit to a specific course and a specific set of actions that are going to lead to where you want to go in your music career.
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Getting on Track & Adjusting CourseNow it is better to begin and to do something than to not do anything at all. Marketing guru Dan S. Kennedy’s, one of his “Wealth Magnet” principles is “Do Something.” It’s better to start doing something and then to adjust than to wait for the perfect strategy or the perfect plan, or the perfect idea. But the key point is, we’ve got to adjust course just like an airplane is supposedly off course 99% of the time.
I don’t know whether that’s true, but it has to constantly course correct to get to where it wants to go. And it’s the same thing in our music careers. We’re going to do things, at times, that aren’t necessarily in complete alignment with our brand, with our personalities, with our character, with where it is we want to go.
And what there is to do is to keep adjusting and iterating based on the information that we gain along the way, the data, the understanding of ourselves and our band, our music, and our audience.
Start with The End in MindAnother powerful exercise is to start with the end in mind. So much of the time, in the world, we try to do and then have. When in fact we could go right to the end. We could skip right to the end and have at least envisioned and imagined in our mind’s eye, having what it is, what we want to have, and then do. And that’s an unfolding process rather than a “strive towards what it is I want” process. So, the key point here is to start with a blueprint and revise it as necessary.
Start with a blueprint and revise it as necessary.
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Closing SegmentSo, if you enjoyed this insight, there are many more in my book, The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide, and for a limited time, you can get a free copy for yourself at Music Entrepreneur HQ .com / Free Book.
This has been episode 295 of The New Music Industry Podcast. I’m David Andrew Wiebe, and I look forward to seeing you on the stages of the world.
Leave a rating and review for the show on Apple Music. It’s how we get the podcast out there!
There’s exclusive, premium audio content waiting for you inside Members Only Audios.
The post 295 – Setting the Foundation for Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It seems insane that the words you use would make any difference in your music career, doesn’t it? And yet, words are how we communicate. Everything that’s available, is basically available in language. So, if we’re asking for something, how we ask makes a difference. If we’re communicating our value as performers, how we communicate our value makes a difference.
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares how words impact perception and how perception shapes your music career.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:16 – You are what you say you are * 00:39 – Limiting past-based language * 01:46 – Completing past pains and hurts * 02:45 – How do you describe yourself? * 03:51 – Closing thoughts
Sponsors: The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way*, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires!
Transcription:Hey, it’s David Andrew Wiebe, and today I wanted to talk about something. I think this is a breakthrough that’s available in language. The concept is you are what you say you are.
Now, this could easily be misconstrued as some kind of woo-woo nonsense, but it’s not. It really is the power of words, and there is something to the power of words.
With remarkable frequency, we tend to talk about things through the lens of the past, so we start sentences with things like, “based on my experience,” “what happened last time was,” “it’s never gone that way before,” “I’m always this way,” “they’re always that way,” “this is always how it turns out.”
And so, we automatically limit what we think is going to happen based on some other experience we’ve already had. We impose the past onto the future.
We impose the past onto the future.
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This could come up in a situation where, “well, we already played at that venue and last time we only 15 people came out.” Maybe if you did the same things in the same way, you’d end up with the same results. But if you’ve only played there once and you don’t have much experience with it yet, how do you know there’s only going to be 15 people coming out next time? You don’t. You’re trying to base it on something that already happened, but what happened is in the past, it has nothing to do with the present, and it certainly doesn’t have anything to do with the future.
What happened is in the past, and it has nothing to do with the present.
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How Past-Based Thinking Is Limiting Your OpportunitiesThe point here is that you could arbitrarily limit your own opportunities based on the way things went. Usually, that’s an indicator of… not necessarily trauma, but a little bit of hurt, a little bit of pain about something that didn’t go right.
Whenever we encounter things like that, there is an opportunity to create completion with them. And oftentimes we’re not complete with anything, right? But if there was pain or hurt, we can acknowledge that pain or hurt. We can have conversations with the people who we feel may have offended us.
Of course, we still want to take ownership of it. We don’t want to show up in front of them and be like, “Hey, you know, you really made me mad.” No, that doesn’t work. It’s more like “When you said this, it made me feel this way,” and that’s taking ownership of your own feelings. But there is an opportunity to complete pains and hurts and move on and to create something new out of that.
So that’s how we can easily limit ourselves and our opportunities by basing everything on things that have already happened.
You will limit your opportunities by basing everything on things that have already happened.
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You’re NOT an Aspiring or Amateur MusicianBut another thing that we commonly see, and I don’t know where I stole this from, but I do remember seeing it out there. Many people call themselves amateurs or aspiring artists, aspiring photographers, or aspiring musicians. Stop calling yourself that. Begin calling yourself a professional today. You want to live into a possibility, not be talking about what you are today.
So today you could say, “I’m a professional musician and I get paid for my work.” You are what you say you are. Perception is pretty much everything. That doesn’t mean that we should lie. That doesn’t mean that we should take advantage of people. But some creative liberties should be taken in sharing your stories because they’re going to be far more interesting that way.
So let go of the idea that you’re aspiring or you’re an amateur today. Beginning today, you are a professional, and certainly do not put amateur or aspiring in your profile or your social media profile any longer. Create a future that you would want to live into, that would be inspiring to you.
Create a future that you would want to live into, that would be inspiring to you.
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Closing SegmentIf you enjoyed this insight, there are many more like it in my book, the Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide. For a limited time, you can get a free copy at MusicEntrepreneurHQ.com/FreeBook.
This has been episode 294 of The New Music Industry Podcast. I’m David Andrew Wiebe, and I look forward to seeing you on the stages of the world.
Leave a rating and review for the show on Apple Music. It’s how we get the podcast out there!
There’s exclusive, premium audio content waiting for you inside Members Only Audios.
The post 294 – How Words Shape Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
A simple thing can make a big difference. Most artists aren’t thinking about saving five minutes here or 10 minutes there but think about it. Over a year, if you could cut down your daily social media time from 10 to five minutes per day, you’d save yourself 1,825 minutes or a little over 30 hours per year.
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares the importance of building structures around your music career to ensure you’re empowered in getting more done, whether writing songs, booking gigs, interacting with your fans on social media, or otherwise.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:16 – Structures? What are structures?! * 00:37 – Firsts in your life and your music career * 00:52 – How structures work and why they matter * 02:29 – Closing thoughts
Sponsors: The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way*, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires!
Transcription:You’re listening to The New Music Industry with David Andrew Wiebe.
Hey, it’s David Andrew Wiebe, and today I wanted to talk about structures.
Now as an artist, you’re probably going “Structures? What’s the point of that? Like, why would I need that in my music career? That doesn’t sound like ‘song.’ That doesn’t sound like ‘guitar.’ Those are none of the words I know. ‘Bass,’ ‘lyrics,’ never heard of ‘structures.’ Are you talking about building and building?”
Well, no, not necessarily. But let’s start here. You know, you’re going to have a lot of firsts in life, right? Just like you’re going to have a lot of firsts in your music career. A first in life might be like first kiss or first time eating a mango, or first time skydiving. A first in your music career might be your first gig, or first interview. You know what I mean?
And so, structures might be one of those things that you’ve heard for the first time. There are other words we could use to describe a structure. It could be a [00:01:00] system, a framework, a checklist, or something like that.
What it is, is it’s something that allows you to be more productive. It allows you to get things done smoother, faster, and with better precision.
I, for example, have templates for all my books so I can just drop my content in, do all the editing and put it out into the world. I’m not saying that all the writing’s done. What I’m saying is, I’ve got the formatting done in terms of fonts and layouts and things like that.
So there are a lot of things you could create templates for, whether it’s like a lyric sheet template or a project template in your DAW. The idea is to stop yourself from reinventing the wheel. You don’t want to start from scratch. You want to build on things that you already have. That you’re going to have to come back to all the time.
There are certain motions, there are certain things you’re going to be doing in your music career all the time. You’re going to be sending emails, you’re going to be making calls, you’re going to be setting up and tearing down your gear. You’re going to have sound checks; you’re going to have performances.
So, what structures could you build around these, including your promotional activity, of course, to streamline, to optimize, to make sure certain things get done so that you can have a much better performance or a much better marketing campaign every single time?
What are the things that you need to do every single time? You can always create structures around those things.
So, this insight comes from my book, The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide. If you’d like to get yourself a free copy, you can go to MusicEntrepreneurHQ.com/FreeBook.
This has been episode 293 of The New Music Industry Podcast. I’m David Andrew Wiebe, and I look forward to seeing you on the stages of the world.
The post 293 – Get More Done in Your Artistic Career with Templates & Frameworks appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever wanted to explore the possibility of performing in alternative venues?
One of the advantages of showing up where no one else is performing is that you can create a market that belongs to you. Plus, price elasticity also applies – you can charge more for the performance than you might be able to in the average music venue.
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David explains how to book a coffeehouse show. The same approach can work in an array of alternative venues, because businesses do business with other businesses.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:16 – The story of how David booked a showcase at a Starbucks * 00:49 – How to approach a store manager to get your show booked * 01:37 – Success is not guaranteed * 01:48 – Closing thoughts
Sponsors: The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way*, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires!
Transcription:Hey, it’s David Andrew Wiebe. I’ve told the story that follows in several different ways on different occasions, but the essence of it is this. I’d booked a showcase for three artists at a Starbucks. Afterward, there were other musicians in attendance. They came up to me and asked, “So how did you manage to book a Starbucks?” And then I shared with them the details of how I’d handed a business card to the manager of Starbucks and asked if they were open to having us come in with a few artists to perform. And they were more than agreeable to have us in.
Now, I think here’s the big takeaway here. The fact that I presented a business card made a difference. It wasn’t just, “Hi, I’m David Andrew Wiebe, I’m an artist, I’m a rock musician, and I want to book a gig at your venue.” That’s not how the conversation went.
When she saw the business card, she could plainly and clearly see that it was from a business, not just a local independent musician. But the thing is, you don’t have to have a business to do this. Just about anybody could take the same idea and book in alternative venues. All you really need is a collective. So, you could say, “Hey, I’m from so-and-so artist collective or music collective” or whatever you want to call it, some kind of community, and that could immediately help you create the opportunity of booking in venues that you might not otherwise be able to.
Now, I’m not saying this will work out every single time, but it could certainly broaden the number of opportunities you can get locally, as well as the exposure you can get for your music.
Well, the insight you just heard is also available in my book, The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide. For a limited time, you can get it for free at MusicEntrepreneurHQ.com/FreeBook.
This has been episode 292 of The New Music Industry Podcast. I’m David Andrew Wiebe, and I look forward to seeing you on the stages of the world.
The post 292 – How to Book a Show at a Coffeehouse, Hardware Store, or Anywhere appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post originally appeared on Productivity for Musicians.
With the introduction of ChatGPT and other Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based apps and services, people are being drawn to AI like moths to a flame.
It has long been predicted that AI software would have its moment in the spotlight, and at long last, that time has arrived.
But is AI everything it’s been cracked up to be? Should artists take advantage of it? And most importantly, can it be leveraged to enhance your productivity as an artist?
We caught up with our founder & editor David Andrew Wiebe to answer these questions and more.
Artificial, Artificial Intelligence“First of all, it’s a little premature to call it AI,” said Wiebe. “it’s more like ‘artificial, artificial intelligence.’ It’s not sentient or self-aware. It can’t make decisions for you. Really what we’re dealing with is article compilers, speech emulators, image combiners, and the like.
Yes, it’s quite amazing what they can do with a tiny bit of input, and you may even come away with some usable content. But when you consider that AI is creating derivate work, that it’s taking from different pieces of work that already exist – not creating brand-new work – the context changes entirely.
Look, I do think the technology will continue to improve. But will it ever get to the point of being able to think for itself? The media likes to exaggerate a lot about how it’s quickly becoming self-aware but we’re still basically talking about pre-programmed responses, so we’re just not there yet.
And even though it has the appearance of having popped up out of nowhere this year, even Google products like Gmail and Google Docs, and others like Grammarly, for that matter Microsoft Word, have all featured similar ‘AI’ functionality for a long time. Who exactly is checking your spelling or grammar, pray tell? The same technology. It’s called code.
We get ChatGPT and suddenly everyone’s out of their mind, but this is an instance where appearances are quite deceiving. It could even end up being a short-lived trend.”
Garbage In, Garbage Out (GIGO)“In programming, ‘garbage in, garbage out’ (GIGO) is a well-understood concept,” shared Wiebe. “Basically, if you feed gobbledegook into a computer, you’re going to get gobbledegook out of it.
So, this is the first test of whether you’re going to be more productive using AI. Because, again, the quality of what you get depends largely on the input and prompts you provide.
A skilled and experienced copywriter, for example, will have studied effective headlines, researched their audience, looked at relevant industry ads, taken inspiration from parallel industries, and so on. Because they know what good copy looks like, they can create prompts that help them develop sales letters in partnership with AI. And whatever OpenAI products feed to them, they’ll be able to parse and determine what is really going to work and what isn’t, because they’re the expert.
Basically, they’ll be able to edit. They’ll take what is working, edit what isn’t working, and get rid of the rest. Editing is a critical skill for a musician too. But sadly, it seems to be going by the wayside.”
AI Spouts Nonsense“So, then we come to this issue of editing and fact-checking,” continued Wiebe. “This is the second test of whether you’re going to be productive with AI. It may not be much of a factor with AI image generators, but it applies to any text-based content you have AI create for you.
AI spouts a lot of nonsense. I’ve had it summarize some of my podcasts and blog posts and it keeps talking about SMART goals, which I never talk about in my content. That’s a whole other topic for another time, but even with the best of prompts, AI often doesn’t generate good, factual advice. You’ll often find it trails off in the weeds too.
I had AI generate a press release for me, but it got its facts all garbled. It said I worked with Mariah Carey or something like that. Now, that would be wonderful, but I will openly admit that I haven’t worked with Carey or any major artist, though I have had a few bigger names on my podcast. The bottom line, the press release was completely unusable – a futile waste of time. I don’t think it would have been that much better with better prompts.”
Improving Your Rank in Google?“So, if you’re thinking in terms of improving fan or customer experience, offering qualified advice, or whatever your other content goals might be… if you don’t make good stuff, it’s GIGO all over again. Give Google garbage, and it will either de-rank you or ensure your article is nowhere near the first-page result. We already have tools to detect AI-written content, so you can bet Google’s algorithm updates will continually deprioritize low-quality fluff.
Don’t get me wrong. Content can still get you traffic. But most of the long-term benefits come from creating well-researched, definitive resources.
Most of the long-term benefits of content come from creating well-researched, definitive resources.
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So, those trying to rank in Google with content shouldn’t straight copy and paste anything AI apps generate for them. For Search Engine Optimization (SEO), you want to create content that’s helpful. Your content can be experience and observation-based, sure, and it doesn’t all have to be research-backed. But if you’re serving bad advice – which AI is quite indiscriminate in dispensing – you should not expect to get much traffic from your content.
Everyone is blinded by acting fast in favor of crafting masterpieces right now – ironically, the opposite of what stopped perfectionists in the past.”
Practical Applications for Musicians“AI – or really what we’re currently referring to as ‘AI’ still has its place,” concluded Wiebe. “I use OpenAI’s Playground frequently to generate viral headlines for content, outlines for articles or books, social media posts, and even 30-day content plans. It doesn’t all work, but AI can certainly help with generating ideas you wouldn’t necessarily come up with on your own.
This doesn’t mean I use everything I’m given. Anything I use, I will usually edit. Sometimes I will save stuff for later.
Various AI tools can help artists generate everything from lyrical content to guitar solo ideas. Again, it’s just being mindful of making it your own through editing. Otherwise, it’s kind of like plagiarism of a different kind – plagiarism of the hivemind. Remember, it’s not creating something new, it’s more like taking what exists, putting it in a blender, and grinding it up.
I also love Descript. It’s a godsend for podcasters and content creators more generally. It will generate a transcript for your audio or video content automatically. This is something it does a fair job of. There’s almost always some manual editing work involved, mind you.
It also has an ‘overdub’ feature. Essentially, it will take a sample of your voice and let you type in something that wasn’t originally in the audio and emulate your speech. Again, it does a fair job.
What makes Descript stand out is that you can do just about anything you could think of with your content – editing, media highlights, exporting to various formats like PDF, MP3, or MP4, audiograms, and more.”
ConclusionYes, AI has its place, and it can boost your productivity as an artist. But it has its limitations. The quality of what you get is basically proportional to your input. Again, GIGO. If you’re going to use AI at all, you need to be smart in how you use it. And the people who are most knowledgeable in their fields are the ones that will benefit most from it.
The post Can AI Boost Your Productivity as a Musician? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Welcome once again to #MusicMonday!
As per usual, there’s way too much to cover and not enough time or space to cover it all, so let’s get right to the key updates for the week.
▶️ Extreme Releases 2 New Singles, “Banshee” and “#Rebel”Neither the fans nor the band can keep the excitement contained. Unwilling to wait for the official release of their new album on June 9, 2023, Extreme released two new singles, “Banshee” and “#Rebel.”
Intentional or not, where “Rise” ended up playing like a modern rocker, “Banshee” is 100% a callback to the band’s earlier years, which were heavily influenced by Aerosmith, Queen, and of course Van Halen. Guitarist Nuno Bettencourt went for a darker, deeper guitar tone on this one and it sounds great.
The subject matter of the song is juvenile, but did you honestly think there wouldn’t be a testosterone-driven sex tune on Six? Don’t be silly!
As for “#Rebel,” the swung blues-rock riff is very reminiscent of Van Halen. The song even has a bit of a Led Zeppelin vibe to, though I’ve pointed out before how Gary Cherone is a Robert Plant-style singer, so it’s only natural.
I can’t tell you how many riffs like “#Rebel” I’ve written myself, but given that Nuno is one of my major influences, should I even be surprised?
I am loving that all their singles so far are rockers. I’m sure there will be other styles of songs on their album, or it would not be Extreme. I am looking forward to those as well.
▶️ Why You Fail in Music: You Don’t Take ResponsibilityIn case you missed it, in episode 291 of the podcast, I shared one of the key reasons a lot of independent artists don’t get to where they want to go in music – taking responsibility. But what exactly does it mean to take responsibility in your music career? Listen to this episode to find out.
▶️ New Landing Pages for Content Marketing MusicianWe’ve been hard at work organizing and updating the courses and offers at Content Marketing Musician. The following offers now all have revised info pages (these pages will be benefiting from additional updates):
- Entrepreneurial Essentials for Musicians Masterclass
- Digital Marketing Essentials for Musicians
- The Code Breaker Course
- Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook
Specifically, I want to highlight The Code Breaker Course, because this course was previously unavailable to anyone who hadn’t purchased The Music Entrepreneur Code. Now the book and course are available as a package deal! It’s the ideal pairing for any independent musician looking to master marketing, mindset, and productivity.
▶️ The Productivity, Performance & Profits Breakthroughs Program Enters Week 3Here are the relevant links:
- Week 2 live stream
- Week 2 assignment
- Facebook group
- Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook
Week 3 content is coming tomorrow! Join in on the fun and have a breakthrough in productivity.
▶️ Best of David Andrew WiebeI blog daily. Here are my favorite posts from the past week:
- 3 Frames of Prioritization
- 2 Fishermen
- What’s Required is Your Presence
Final ThoughtsAnd that’s what jumped out at us this week, but if there’s anything else you think we should have covered, leave a comment below and let us know!
The post Music Industry News for April 24, 2023 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
There are many things that can stop you on your path to creating the life you love through music. But most things that will stop you fall under one major category – mindset. Mindset isn’t just how you think. It’s how you show up and how you deal with challenges, events, and circumstances as they arise.
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares the importance of taking full responsibility and how it will transform your music career from the roll of the dice to counting cards.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights: 00:17 – Something that comes up time and again in The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide* * 00:51 – The magic to taking full responsibility for your music career * 01:53 – Think in terms of actions you took what you could have done better * 02:05 – Closing thoughts
Sponsors: The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way*, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex Fleece Zip Up Hoodie: Another exciting addition to our merch line. The official zip up hoodie is warm, comfy, stylish, unisex, and it’s even available in multiple sizes and colors! Click the “Buy this” button to add yours to your wardrobe now! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex T-Shirt: It’s finally here – the official podcast T-shirt! It’s comfy, it’s stylish, it’s unisex, and it’s available in multiple sizes and colors. Click on the link, choose your size and color, and click on the “Buy this” button to get yours now!
Transcription:Hey, it’s David Andrew Wiebe. You know, something that comes up time and again in the early chapters of The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide is this whole idea of taking full responsibility for yourself and your music career, and that should tell you how important it is.
I’m not being repetitive to be repetitive. We all know the importance of repetition as musicians, right? If you want to get really good at something, whether it’s playing the guitar or singing or writing songs, repetition helps reinforce the skills that we need to learn to become better at our craft.
So, even though there’s really nothing woo-woo about this, there is a certain magic to taking full responsibility. Your life transforms the moment that you take responsibility for everything that’s ever happened in your life, and you stop blaming other people, other events, and other things for the way things turned out. It’s about taking full ownership. You might remember that from an earlier episode.
Again, this is not a harsh truth, but I don’t know how artists hope or expect to be able to get anywhere in their careers without first taking full responsibility for who they are, what they’ve done, what they haven’t done, outcomes produced, results produced, or otherwise.
Oftentimes we think it’s up to something else, someone else, some other factor. It rained that day. I wasn’t feeling good. I was tired, and it’s none of those things.
So, instead of doing lengthy post-mortems, thinking about what went wrong in that gig and why it was so-and-so’s fault, why the weather could have been better that day, and why was the hockey game on? Let’s start thinking in terms of “What did we do to prepare for this show? How did we promote it? What were the specific things we could have done better?” That’s a much more productive use of your time.
Closing SegmentSo, if you enjoyed this episode, what you just heard was an insight from The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide. You can get the book for free at MusicEntrepreneurHQ.com/FreeBook.
This has been episode 291 of The New Music Industry Podcast. I’m David Andrew Wiebe, and I look forward to seeing you on the stages of the world.
The post 291 – This is Why You Fail in Music: You Don’t Take Responsibility appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Welcome once again to #MusicMonday!
At the outset, I want to warn you that I’ve got a different kind of update for you this week. Don’t worry – it’s all good stuff. So, let’s get into it.
▶️ David Andrew Wiebe Launches Productivity for MusiciansWell, the time has come for me to choose where to put a stake in the ground. And this is what I’ve landed on – Productivity for Musicians. And I could not be more excited about it.
I have often thought of Music Entrepreneur HQ as a jumping-off point for various music business experiments, which of course includes the podcast. It has been a while since I’ve shared about any of these, though, something I intend to remedy as quickly as possible! For example, I still have a case study waiting in the wings for The 3 Project.
But I never realized just how big a project the Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook would end up being. The book is a long way from v1.0 (though v0.7 is ready for consumption, and I am accepting feedback – buyers get access to current and future editions).
As I continue to work toward its completion, I’ve come to accept that getting myself steeped in the subject would make a big difference. Sounds obvious, I know, but I do have a slight case of shiny object syndrome, something I know many artists can relate to.
If I were to put this all into an easy-to-understand equation, it would be this:
Experimentation + Focus = Sweet Spot
All that to say – I am the founder and editor of Productivity for Musicians and I’m looking to see just how far I can take it in a year. Your support is appreciated. Share the posts. Drop a comment. Suggest topics.
(I know the content may seem self-indulgent now, but I promise it will evolve!)
And just so you know, there will still be updates on Music Entrepreneur HQ because I’ll want to report on the results of my efforts.
▶️ How to Make a Ghetto Sales Funnel to Sell More MusicIn episode 290 of The New Music Industry Podcast, I shared about how to set up your ghetto sales funnel. The truth of the matter is that you don’t need fancy, expensive software to test your sales funnel idea. And for a lot of reasons, it’s preferable to keep things simple. Find out why.
▶️ The Productivity, Performance & Profits Breakthroughs Program ContinuesThe Productivity, Performance & Profits Breakthroughs program is right in line with my current mission, so you can bet that there’s more coming.
I will be going live again sometime this week to share more about productivity.
In case you missed it, here’s the week 1 live stream and week 1 assignment.
Here’s the direct link to the Facebook group.
And you can always find the book here.
▶️ Best of David Andrew WiebeI blog daily on my personal blog. Here are my favorite posts from the past week:
- Online Networking
- I Was Wrong About Self-Love
- The Music Entrepreneur Triangle: You’ll be Lost Without This
- Generic Content is Dead
- Empty Your Mind
Final ThoughtsAnd that’s what jumped out at us this week, but if there’s anything else you think we should have covered, leave a comment below and let us know!
The post Music Industry News for April 17, 2023 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Everyone’s talking about making sales funnels. Yes, they are great, and yes, they are built on a solid foundation of traditional marketing philosophy.
But there are some serious challenges to getting your first sales funnel up and running never mind selling your music and merch for you.
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares how you can test your sales funnel idea without wasting an insane amount of money and time.
Podcast Highlights:Coming soon.
Sponsors:Coming soon.
Transcription:Coming soon.
The post 290 – How to Make a Ghetto Sales Funnel to Sell More Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
I hope you had a wonderful Easter weekend. It’s time once again to get caught up with industry news!
Here’s what caught my attention this week.
▶️ Winger Releases New Single, “It All Comes Back Around”The slated release of Winger’s new album, Seven, is now less than a month away (May 5, 2023). In a recent conversation with Eddie Trunk, Kip Winger revealed that the band filmed six music videos in support of the new release. From here on out, kids, you can expect the releases to come at you fast and furious.
We covered their first single, “Proud Desperado,” in an earlier update. A new Winger album would not be complete without a barnburner, and Desperado delivers.
“It All Comes Back Around” is different. It’s closer to what one might call a power ballad. The melody is unmistakably Winger, and it has its peaks and valleys, but it’s clear that it’s meant to be an emotionally evocative tune.
You might consider its seven-and-a-half-minute runtime indulgent, but Winger is masterful in weaving in atmospheric keyboards, melodic guitar solos, and monolith layered vocals. To borrow a couple of terms from YouTube comments, the song is an exercise in “restraint” and “simplicity.” But let’s remember that not many bands can make that work for over seven minutes. Winger shows they can.
I can’t say I listen to Winger for their ballads, but I do listen to them for variety, and “It All Comes Back Around” is another solid entry in what is sure to be a killer album.
▶️ Sweet & Lynch Release New Single, “Miracle”Ramping up to the release of Heart & Sacrifice on May 19, 2023, Sweet & Lynch just released their second single, “Miracle.”
I covered their first single, “You’ll Never Be Alone,” in an earlier update. But I can’t help but feel this is the far superior song, with the super duo’s full assets – vocalist Michael Sweet’s soaring tenor vocals and guitarist George Lynch’s creative guitar playing – on full display. In case there was any doubt, Lynch proves once more that he can still wail and shred.
▶️ Here’s How Indie Musicians Can Cut Through the NoiseIn case you missed it, in episode 289 of The New Music Industry Podcast, I shared how while the bar might be getting higher in terms of artistry, musicianship, and production, there’s a bar that’s consistently plummeting to its doom. And this represents an opportunity! If you can find your footing in this, you’ve got a greater chance at cutting through the noise. What is it? Listen to the latest episode to find out.
▶️ The Productivity, Performance & Profits Breakthroughs Program to Begin TonightThe program was to begin last Tuesday, but unfortunately, I encountered some setbacks in getting things going. My new promise is to go live tonight between 6:00 and 8:00 PM PST.
So, join the Productivity Performance & Profits Breakthroughs Facebook group to catch the session.
I’ve been sharing the book as I’ve been developing it, and v0.7 of the Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook is already available for purchase. Customers will be able to access all future versions as well.
▶️ Best of David Andrew WiebeI blog daily on my personal blog. Here are my favorite posts from the past week:
- The Cost of Art: It’s More Expensive Than You Think
- Are You Sacrificing Your Vision for That Big Name?
- The Importance of Setting a Specific Intention for Your Business
- On the Edge of Discomfort
Final ThoughtsAnd that’s what jumped out at us this week, but if there’s anything else you think we should have covered, leave a comment below and let us know!
The post Music Industry News for April 11, 2023 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Everywhere you look, there are incredibly talented YouTubers. Is everyone a virtuoso? It’s sure starting to look that way. Not to mention – they look and sound great. How is one even supposed to compete?
Well, here’s the funny thing. There are a couple of things most artists – and not just artists but even digital marketers and SEO agencies – aren’t very good at. Care to find out what those things are, so you have a chance even in an increasingly noisy world?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares how you can stand out from the crowd.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 01:00 – Is the bar higher than ever? * 01:49 – Two things most artists aren’t that great at * 03:27 – The secret to pitching * 04:18 – Closing thoughts
Sponsors: The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official, definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way*, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex Fleece Zip Up Hoodie: Another exciting addition to our merch line. The official zip up hoodie is warm, comfy, stylish, unisex, and it’s even available in multiple sizes and colors! Click the “Buy this” button to add yours to your wardrobe now! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex T-Shirt: It’s finally here – the official podcast T-shirt! It’s comfy, it’s stylish, it’s unisex, and it’s available in multiple sizes and colors. Click on the link, choose your size and color, and click on the “Buy this” button to get yours now!
Transcription:Hey, it’s David Andrew Wiebe. Today I wanted to let you know about another really great podcast called The Unstarving Musician. This show is hosted by Robonzo, and it was created as a way to help other independent musicians better understand the marketing, business, and creative processes that empower us to make music and make a living doing it.
Episodes feature insights from Robonzo and a wide array of guests. Topics covered on The Unstarving Musician includes songwriting, recording, release strategy, building an audience, musical licensing, and more. Hear it at Unstarving Musician .com or wherever you get your audio. I also did a couple of interviews with The Unstarving Musician, and you’ll be able to hear me over there as well.
With that, let’s get into today’s episode.
And today I wanted to talk about separating yourself from the pack. A lot of people tend to think this is harder than it’s ever been. Like how do you stand out? How do you cut through the noise? How can you be so unique, so different, so compelling, so noteworthy, so interesting that people are just naturally and automatically and magnetically drawn to you.
And the reality is, sure the bar is pretty high in terms of production. Even independent records nowadays tend to sound pretty amazing with all the technology and knowledge that’s out there. I’ve found some incredible guides on mixing online that have made a huge difference to my own mixes.
And sure, the bar might be high in terms of artistry and musicianship and craftsmanship. You can find some incredible players out there, whether it’s Tosin Abasi, or Steve Vai, or Joe Bonamassa.
But you know where the bar isn’t very high, is in pitching. A lot of musicians are unskilled when it comes to pitching. Now I get it. There’s actually a lot of discomfort around the subject matter. Any time I post something about networking or growing your network or finding more people or creating connections, I often see responses from other people, artists, my social media followers, or otherwise saying, “well, I’m an introvert.”
And you know, being an introvert doesn’t exclude you from getting to know people. They say even people who live in a cave will probably impact 10,000 people in their lifetime. So being an introvert has nothing to do with it. That is as much a label as anything else, so we don’t want to use that as an excuse for not connecting.
But I think people misinterpret it too, as in, “okay, I need to go to these networking events and hand out business cards and run off.” It’s like, no, don’t do the hit and run. A lot of people do that and they’re terribly ineffective at networking. They’re really just trying to work through their own discomfort. If you watch them closely, that’s what’s actually going on there.
What I’m saying is smile, extend your hand, make some friends, go to the open mic, and get to know the host and get to know the people performing that night. Anybody can do this.
Now I know it might make you a little nervous. I know it might be a little bit confronting, but at the end of the day, we can all do this. I was in network marketing for about four or five years and at first, I made it my goal to say “hi” to one person today. And before I knew it, I was having real conversations with five people a day. And some people may have said I was shy at one point too.
But when it comes to pitching, it isn’t necessarily just meeting people in person. Oftentimes it’s done by email nowadays, and there’s a right way of approaching people and another way that tends not to work. And if I was to make this high level.
It’s basically when you approach people and you have a value proposition and it benefits the other person… in other words, you’re crafting a win-win sort of pitch, and you actually are aware and conscious of the other person that you’re talking to on the other end of that email address, then you’ll do well.
But if all you’re doing is pitching to get something for yourself, oftentimes it doesn’t work because it’s not coming across as an opportunity to the person you’re talking to. So really the key to hammering good pitches is to make sure that your pitches are coming across as an opportunity to the person you are sending them to.
So, what I just shared with you, you can also find in my book, The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide. Believe it or not, I’m giving it away for free for a limited time. You can go to MusicEntrepreneurHQ.com/FreeBook to claim your own.
This has been episode 289 of The New Music Industry podcast. I’m David Andrew Wiebe and I look forward to seeing you on the stages of the world.
The post 289 – Here’s How Indie Musicians Can Cut Through the Noise appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It’s #MusicMonday, and that can only mean one thing – it’s time to get caught up with industry news!
Here’s what caught my attention this week (it’s not all rosy!).
▶️ YouTube Shorts Nearly Doubling an Artist’s Total ReachAs Hypebot shares:
- Artists who uploaded YouTube Shorts in January saw over 50% of their new channel subscribers come from Shorts.
- Fan-created YouTube Shorts boosted the average artist’s unique views by over 80%.
We’ve been experimenting with YouTube Shorts for eight days on the Music Entrepreneur HQ channel, which has resulted in over 4,100 views and five subscribers so far. That’s not a lot of subscribers (basically two per Short), but it has proven the fastest path to growth on YouTube for us in recent months.
The views have been wildly inconsistent though, with one Short gaining just two views, and another garnering over 1,700 views.
For the time being, you can bet that we’re going to continue pumping out shorts for our channels, as well as those of our clients. We encourage you to give them a go too!
▶️ Talks Concerning TikTok Ban Escalate in the U.S.Governing bodies could not be more contradictory, hypocritical, and tone deaf if they tried (not like that’s anything new). Recent cries of TikTok ban send a clear message of “we don’t like China,” all the while trying to encourage diversity and inclusion across the world. If you can’t gather that creating a world where everyone is accepted is not their end game, by now, then I’m not sure I can help you.
To be fair, I have been warning of the potential banning of TikTok since January. If you don’t have a backup plan, now would be the time to start digging your well before you die of an unquenchable thirst. I’ve always advised setting up a WordPress site on SiteGround, but barring that, at least check out the new ByteDance app, Lemon8.
Also see:
- As US eyes TikTok ban another ByteDance owned app hits #1 in App Store
- US Government has offered no valid reasons for a TikTok ban [Op-Ed]
- US threatens to ban TikTok violate freedom of speech: Mike Masnick Op-Ed
- TikTok ban seems more likely after this week’s Congressional hearing
- Only 22% of American Adults Oppose Banning TikTok, Survey Finds – Including 56% of Active Users
▶️ Twitter Algorithm UncoveredThe media has been hounding this, and the not so ulterior motive appears to be taking cheap shots at Elon Musk.
I’m not interested in that. I’m interested in understanding how the algorithm works. Especially since some of the tactics that were working for me just weeks ago no longer appear to be working.
My friend sent me this tweet thread via Akash Gupta, and I think it’s the most useful thing on the topic. You’re welcome.
▶️ Winamp Resurrects, Launches Winamp for CreatorsGeneration Z probably won’t have heard of Winamp at all, but it really whipped the llama’s ass…
I remember them fondly for their skinnable music player, which was one of the best at the time. Once iTunes came out, they sort of became a moot point, the way MySpace became moot when Facebook exploded in popularity.
As with many services that have come before it, Winamp for Creators promises to create an ecosystem that rewards musicians fairly for their work, and restore balance to the Force… I mean, the music business.
Vagueness aside, it’s effectively a platform empowering you with the ability to set up your own fan club (Fanzone) and monetize your fans. I’m sure it differs from Fangage or Patreon somehow, but I’m not clear on how.
With Winamp for Creators, you can also access copyright management and distribution services. They are currently adding NFT and licensing services as well.
Also see:
- Winamp offers a ‘fairer model’ for musicians with Winamp for Creators
▶️ Reap the Rewards of an Ownership Mindset in Your Music Career & Achieve Elevated ResultsIn case you missed it, in the latest episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I shared a foundational mindset concept – why taking responsibility for your music career and the results you create will propel your growth like little else.
▶️ The Productivity, Performance & Profits Breakthroughs Program Begins This TuesdayThe Productivity, Performance & Profits Breakthroughs Facebook group was set up to support the launch of my first premium book, the Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook.
My first live stream is slated for tomorrow, around 6:20 PM PST. If you haven’t joined the group yet, but are committed to having a breakthrough in productivity, what are you waiting for? Get in while you still can!
▶️ Best of David Andrew WiebeI blog daily on my personal blog. Here are my favorite posts from the past week:
- Finding a Lasting Solution
- Sleep & Productivity
- Meditation & Productivity
- Exercise & Productivity
Final ThoughtsAnd that’s what jumped out at us this week, but if there’s anything else you think we should have covered, leave a comment below and let us know!
The post Music Industry News for April 3, 2023 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
There is no power in viewing everything in your music career as happenstance and circumstance. The power is in taking responsibility for your actions and even the outcomes you produce.
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares how you can reap the rewards of an ownership mindset and achieve elevated results in your music career.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:17 – Ownership mindset: Why it’s so powerful! * 01:12 – Why being on the hook leads to greater rewards * 01:39 – How having an entrepreneurial mindset lightens your load * 03:09 – Elevating yourself means elevating your music career * 03:31 – Closing thoughts
Sponsors: The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official, definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way*, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex Fleece Zip Up Hoodie: Another exciting addition to our merch line. The official zip up hoodie is warm, comfy, stylish, unisex, and it’s even available in multiple sizes and colors! Click the “Buy this” button to add yours to your wardrobe now! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex T-Shirt: It’s finally here – the official podcast T-shirt! It’s comfy, it’s stylish, it’s unisex, and it’s available in multiple sizes and colors. Click on the link, choose your size and color, and click on the “Buy this” button to get yours now!
Transcription:Hey, it’s David Andrew Wiebe. Today I wanted to talk about something that is very foundational to having a successful artistic career. It’s not necessarily easy. It can be challenging at times.
But what I want to talk about is the power of taking an ownership mindset. In other words, taking ownership of your goals, your objectives, your intentions, and even the results and outcomes you produce in your music career.
So often what people do is they don’t take ownership of any of it, so they end up blaming the venue. They end up blaming circumstances, the weather. The hockey game, pretty much anything they can think of.
“Well, you know, no one turned out to our show because tonight there was a hockey game, and everybody was going to see that.” Well, who is responsible for booking the show? It was you, wasn’t it? Or it was at least someone in your band. I can’t imagine it was your manager or your agent. So, why aren’t you taking ownership for that?
I think oftentimes people don’t want to be on the hook for anything, which is why they don’t commit. But when you are on the hook for something, you have the chance to be paid immeasurably more for the work you do.
Another way of thinking about this is entrepreneurial mindset versus employee mindset. Why do entrepreneurs get paid more for what they do? Because they take on the bulk of the risk. So, are you willing to take on the bulk of the risk for the chance at a better income in your music career?
Now, what’s the difference between an entrepreneurial mindset and employee mindset? Here’s a statement that really brings it into view. Employee mindset is working for other people and money. And an entrepreneurial mindset is having money and other people work for you.
Now, you’re a creative, you’re an artist, obviously. You’re going to be the one working on your music, probably doing some song writing or composing or arranging, recording in the studio, performing live. You’re going to have different responsibilities as an artist, so that part, you’ll want to take ownership over yourself.
It’s not necessarily about having other bands work for you, right? Unless you’re planning to start a label, which might be a cool entrepreneurial endeavor. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve thought about doing that too, and I might still start a label here someday.
But practically speaking, the way that we can have money and other people work for us is by hiring virtual assistants, and freelancers, graphic designers, photographers. When you digitally distribute your music, that in effect is an entrepreneurial mindset because it’s not something you’re doing yourself. You’re paying other people to do that work for you.
And there are many opportunities. You don’t necessarily have to dish out huge amounts of money to get work done on your behalf. I remember stuffing envelopes with my band mates and my sister. Nobody got paid for it. I think we might have shared a pizza later that night, but everybody was there for the common reason of “let’s get this band out there and see if we can get it booked.” So, we were putting together a postal mail campaign.
So, the question I’m going to leave you with is, where can you take more ownership of your music career? Where are you not taking ownership of your music career? Because if you begin adopting an ownership mentality, you have a greater chance at producing results and outcomes that you want and being paid what you’re worth.
What I’ve just shared with you is part of The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide. I’m giving this book away for free for a limited time. You’ll want to go to MusicEntrepreneurHQ.com/FreeBook to get your own copy.
This has been episode 288 of The New Music Industry Podcast. I’m David Wiebe and I look forward to seeing you on the stages of the world.
The post 288 – Reap the Rewards of an Ownership Mindset in Your Music Career & Achieve Elevated Results appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It’s #MusicMonday, and that can only mean one thing – it’s time to get caught up with industry news!
Here’s what caught my attention this week.
▶️ Sweet & Lynch Release New Single, “You’ll Never Be Alone”
A recent string of hard rock releases has me all worked up. With new singles from Extreme and Winger, the only thing that would supercharge my pulse now would be a release from Harem Scarem. They did recently come out with the Mood Swings bundle though… 🤯
In the meantime, a new Sweet & Lynch single will MORE than tide me over.
In case you don’t know, this super duo consists of Stryper singer and guitarist Michael Sweet, and George Lynch of George Lynch fame (I kid – he’s probably most known for his work with Dokken and Lynch Mob… but honestly, supergroup KXM also kicks ass).
As usual, in “You’ll Never Be Alone,” Sweet demonstrates his rare ability as rock’s leading tenor (something he isn’t widely recognized for, if only because of his involvement with a Christian band). Sweet sounds as good as ever here.
Lynch’s guitar work is tight, but the iceberg of his creativity is hidden from plain sight in this single. Here’s hoping the new album, Heart & Sacrifice, rocks even harder. It’s slated for a May 19 release.
▶️ DIY Musician VIP ExperienceCD Baby recently announced their DIY Musician VIP Experience, a reimagining of their DIY Musician Conference to be held in Nashville, TN from May 18 to May 20.
Now, I have great memories of going down to Austin in 2019, and I guess I’ve become somewhat of a “routine” guy because Austin in the summer, at least to me, is exhilarating.
Still, we all know that Nashville is the Music City, and it’s a great destination for musicians to visit – especially those who’ve never been!
For this year, CD Baby has settled on a smaller, more intimate gathering (thus the VIP experience), and if I had to speculate, I would say that’s probably because:
- Setting up a big event is a lot of work and is quite costly besides.
- CD Baby would like to dedicate more time and resources to their music distribution services.
- COVID related restrictions. Officially, they’re gone, but unofficially, they’re very pervasive.
As I said, though, that’s just my perspective on the matter, and CD Baby may have entirely different reasons for testing out their smaller, VIP event.
A ticket will get you access to MusicBiz sessions, DIY Musician sessions (including panels, mentoring, and networking), fireside chats with industry pros, showcases, networking, Tom Jackson’s solo artist live makeover, and we assume, much more.
By the way, showcases represent a great opportunity to get your music out there, even land some licensing and placement opportunities. Given the scope of the event, though, we’re not sure how many decision makers will be there, and we certainly make no guarantees!
Only 300 artists will be able to attend, so if this is a “hell yeah!” for you, get your tickets now.
▶️ The New Music Industry Podcast Interview with Emily WhiteIn case you missed it, episode 287 of The New Music Industry Podcast features a conversation with Emily White, partner at Collective Entertainment and founder of #iVoted Festival.
I know her best for the phrase, “an artist’s email list is their retirement plan.” There aren’t enough emojis in the world to emphasize that point.
Highlights from this episode include:
- Why data collection should be an artist or band’s top priority.
- Why authenticity and self-awareness are key to your success as a musician.
- Why artists should learn to record themselves.
- How to stay on top of business communication.
- How to make a green smoothie (without all the fuss).
- How to meditate (without all the fuss).
- The importance of sleep and the difference it can make, as well as a book recommendation on the topic.
▶️ Are You Committed to Having a Breakthrough in Productivity?I just created the Productivity, Performance & Profits Breakthroughs Facebook group. I plan to stream and share updates weekly to support the launch of my first premium book, the Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook.
If you are committed to having a breakthrough in productivity, I invite you to join. What does it look like to be committed to having a breakthrough in productivity? It means showing up, engaging with the content, reading, watching the streams, leaving constructive comments on what worked for you, what didn’t, and the changes you’re making in your own life to be more productive.
▶️ Best of David Andrew WiebeI blog daily on my personal blog. Here are my favorite posts from the past week:
- When They Can’t See the Whole Picture
- The Flawed Thinking in “I Don’t Like the Game Because it’s Hard”
- An Apple Pie with Your Name on it
Final ThoughtsAnd that’s what jumped out at us this week, but if there’s anything else you think we should have covered, leave a comment below and let us know!
The post Music Industry News for March 27, 2023 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How do you build an authentic connection with your fans? Can you be true to yourself and your art and still build a viable fan base? What does it take to build your music career in 2023 and beyond?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, you’ll be hearing from partner at Collective Entertainment and founder of #iVoted Festival, Emily White.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:17 – Preamble * 00:58 – Today’s guest, Emily White * 01:10 – An artist’s email list is their retirement plan * 05:23 – Who is Zoë Keating? * 09:22 – Getting a booking agent is harder than getting a record contract? * 12:56 – Why our opinion on your music doesn’t matter * 15:24 – You’re the CEO of your own music career * 18:56 – Why should artists learn to record and produce themselves? * 20:46 – Spend one hour per day on your communication * 24:22 – What is the last YouTube video Emily watched? * 24:36 – What is Emily’s daily routine like? * 27:19 – What is the greatest challenge Emily has overcome? * 31:38 – What is the greatest victory Emily has experienced? * 33:03 – What books have helped Emily on her journey? * 34:33 – How to connect with Emily * 35:10 – Closing thoughts
Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way*, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex Fleece Zip Up Hoodie: Another exciting addition to our merch line. The official zip up hoodie is warm, comfy, stylish, unisex, and it’s even available in multiple sizes and colors! Click the “Buy this” button to add yours to your wardrobe now! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex T-Shirt: It’s finally here – the official podcast T-shirt! It’s comfy, it’s stylish, it’s unisex, and it’s available in multiple sizes and colors. Click on the link, choose your size and color, and click on the “Buy this” button to get yours now!
Transcription:PreambleDavid: Hey, it’s David Andrew Wiebe in the lab. Well, it happened again. I tried filming and recording an interview with Zoom. And my audio kept cutting out throughout, so what you’re about to hear, it’s all fixed up and repaired. It sounds great. I had to spend a lot of time doing this in the studio.
Not that you care too much about the gory details, but sometimes we do go to extraordinary lengths to make this happen for you. This does unfortunately mean you’re not going to get to enjoy the video portion of the interview, though. It would’ve been entirely way too much work for me to try to line up my lip movements with the newly recorded tracks.
But that’s all. Otherwise, the interview is, every bit as value adding as when I originally recorded it, so I hope you enjoy.
Emily WhiteToday I’m joined by partner at Collective Entertainment, founder of #IVoted Festival and number one Amazon bestselling author, Emily White. How are you today, Emily?
Emily: I’m okay, David. Thanks so much for having me.
David: Yeah, thanks for joining me today. We’re going to jump right in, and the quote that I know you for and have probably even referenced or stolen at times is “an artist’s email list is their retirement plan.” This is something that makes an appearance in your book as well, and it’s a full mic drop moment. But I would love for you to elaborate on why email lists are so important.
Emily: Yes, definitely. You know, tech companies are the most valuable companies in the world because they have all of our data and you know. I’m not saying don’t be on social media or Spotify or anything like that, but I had the privilege of interviewing Seth Godin, last year, who of course invented permission marketing and he said it better than I do.
You know, on those platforms, you are the product. And why are these multi-billion-dollar platforms? Because they have all our data, right? They have your fan’s email addresses, often their mobile phone numbers more often than not their locations. So it’s not always the most like sexy, exciting thing, but artists and industry people really need to think of themselves as tech companies.
You know, I started working with The Dresden Dolls, almost 20 years ago, which was pretty wild. And when they were, you know, a local band, but a local band on the rise in Boston, they weren’t getting booked at traditional venues because it was a very rock scene at that time. And so they were playing art galleries and lofts and all sort of, all sorts of alternative spaces.
So, the singer of the band, Amanda Palmer, started an email list. Really, I think just BCCing fans. I don’t even know if like, email list software really existed then.
She was starting to build a small team at the time. But she said to me one day like, well, what happens if you go away? What if my attorney goes away? What if my booking agent goes away? This is my only direct pipeline to my audience to let them know about my shows and music.
In fact, I just got a e-blast from her this morning and I almost sent it to a university that I guest lecture at, because I’m like, she does such a good job with it. Like I couldn’t stop looking at this photo of her with her son and her son’s learning to play piano.
I mean, there was a lot of other really great info in it too. You know, you could barely say “hi” to the two people in that band and myself at the time, without us saying, “would you like to sign up for the email list?” Amanda’s first solo album came out a few years later. They were signed to a major label subsidiary.
And I’m dating myself with the sales reference, but they sold like, you know, 10,000 copies. She sold like 10,000 copies in the first week, and a thousand were sold by the label, and 9,000 were sold, through the email list, which had bundles and high-end packages and easily cleared six figures in a few hours, let alone a day.
And then a few years after that, Amanda went on to raise the most money ever for a musician on Kickstarter. Over a million. And again, it took Seth Godin pointing something out to me. I guess I knew this, but again, took Seth pointing something out to me about an artist that I, you know, worked with intimately.
And he said that record was considered a failure by the major label subsidiary. It sold 20,000 copies, and then he said when she did her Kickstarter a few years later, guess how many backers there were? 20,000, right?
So, it’s how you use this data and keeping in mind, like, Instagram’s going to come and go. TikTok is going to come and go. Algorithms come and go. This is the only pipeline you have, you know, through text message lists. I really like the, the platform Community and of course good old email list. So, you know the powers and the data, and you have to take it as seriously, data collection at your shows and everywhere you go, take it as seriously as like your gear bag. You know?
David: I’ve often said that influencers often make aggressively mediocre money. There are those with small followings that are secretly killing it, and there are those with big followings that are secretly struggling. And I love Seth Godin’s statement that you brought up, which is that we are the product on social media.
There are those with small followings that are secretly killing it, and there are those with big followings that are secretly struggling.
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Emily: Absolutely. 100%. Yeah. I feel like there’s something else I was going to say about that, but it’ll come to me.
David: Yeah, if it comes to you, feel free to chime in.
Emily: Thanks.
David: You open your book, How to Build a Sustainable Music Career and Collect All Revenue Streams by stating Zoë Keating is the only artist you know who doesn’t need to read the book.
And the thing that I was struck by in the foreword is just how self-aware Zoë seems to be. She doesn’t do videos because she doesn’t like them. She doesn’t make T-shirts because they’re not eco-friendly. And when asked whether she markets her music, her response was in effect, “I guess so.” So please elaborate on who Zoë is and her self-awareness when it comes to making career related decisions.
Emily: Yeah, so Zoë is a brilliant cellist and musician and songwriter and composer. I, you know, not to contradict what we just said, but you know, for context, she has like a million Twitter followers, has a really robust text list and email list. And, you know, she really defines building a sustainable music career.
And, you know, on one hand, I’m not saying like, don’t make music videos or don’t make T-shirts or whatever. But the reason that’s worked for her is… is that’s authentic to her. You know, she talks a while about feeling very sexualized and having her femininity really noticed early in her career and that made her not want to make videos.
And it made her want to be all about the music. And her aversion to physical merch has to do with the environment. You know? So, here’s someone that makes an excellent living. Knows how to communicate with her fans is all about going direct has almost has like the perfect career in the sense that she has a huge audience, but everybody feels like she’s their little secret.
She lost her husband to cancer a few years ago. She’s had a lot of tragic changes in her life, and she constantly figures out how to adjust and adapt to her situation. Whether it’s like she can’t really tour as much because she has to look after their child, you know?
So yeah, if you don’t know who Zoë is, she’s absolutely brilliant. Both musically and business-wise.
And I do want to give a shout out to my friend Gene Cook. Gene is probably another musician that doesn’t need to read the book, so I would say it’s Zoë and Gene.
David: Awesome. So not to negate the long to-do list artists have to do and at the same time be true to who you are. I think that’s what I’m hearing.
Emily: Oh my gosh. Authenticity is queen. You know whether it’s the first chapter or first episode of my podcast, Get Your Art Together. You know, like you need to make art that’s true to your soul, your spirit and in my experience, that’s what’s going to connect with people for the long term.
Authenticity is queen.
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You know, oddly enough, when I was a manager, I never really set out to have a hit song. I was all about; do I love the music? Building a business around the artist and taking care of fans a very close second. And when hit songs would come, I would see ticket sales spike in certain markets.
We are getting radio play or whatever, but then I would see the ticket sales go back down as kind of those more fair-weather fans moved on to the next hit. So, it’s really all about creating great art and taking care of your fans and audience as much as possible.
Oh, and I also want to comment. When you mentioned Zoë talking about marketing, I reframed my question kind of into “artist speak” because I think my question initially was something like, “how do you market your music?” I don’t know. Maybe I said it better than that. Or I said, ” what do you think about marketing?” Or “how do you think about marketing?” She’s like, “I don’t, I really don’t think about it.” So, I just rephrased it and said, “when you have a release out, what do you do?”
Because that is marketing, even though it might sound like kind of a dirty word.
David: It’s true. Many musicians, if they’ve listened to my podcast, they should be familiar with all the lingo that I talk about all the time. But for many artists it seems like a world away to talk about marketing.
“Promo” maybe is a word that’s a little more common. Yeah. Marketing is less so for sure.
Emily: 100%.
David: One of Zoë’s statements that caught my attention, I think it has weight to it, is that getting a record contract is hard, but getting a booking agent is even harder. But what is the opportunity of the modern era and what’s the right time for an artist to seek out representation and a team, if ever?
Emily: Sure. Well, that’s the last chapter of the book and the last episode of the podcast because, first you may not have these opportunities coming your way. If you want to get signed or want a manager or whatever. If you don’t have that in front of you right now, like it used to bother me in music business classes.
Like, should you go with a label, or should you not go with a label? I’m like, do you have an offer in front of you? So, you need to do that stuff, right? The book covers the entire modern music industry from recording to release or creation, distribution. And I feel weird saying this, but a lot of these tools have replaced people, right? When it comes to recording technology, when it comes to distribution, technology, even the dirty word of marketing. So that’s all in front of you.
And then if you want a team, the best way to get out there and build a career and exposure, awareness, and leverage is to do everything in the book, which is a step-by-step process.
And then if you have a team or you’re signed or whatever, I would say it’s just if not more important for you to do everything in the book, because you need to be collecting data from your fans. You need to be grabbing email addresses from journalists, podcasters like you, DJs playing your music.
Because what happens if like Amanda said, if that team goes away, if something falls apart, if it goes out of business. I was just interviewing Lachy on my podcast and about her career trajectory, which was so inspiring, and her manager passed away of COVID in 2020. You know, like people die. I was going to say, God forbid people die, but like people die, right?
So, if you’re relying on other people, the only thing we can count on is impermanence. I know it’s like death and taxes too, but all things are impermanent, right? So, you need to build it up as, as much as you can, whether you have a team, whether you don’t have a team, or whether you want a team.
David: I think Steve Pavlina liked to say change is the only constant.
Change is the only constant.
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But the other reason I’m smiling and nodding along is this whole idea of hypothetical questions. One that came up in my ecosystem was if you had $10,000 or if you had $100,000 to market your album, how would you spend that budget? Totally legit question. Except they didn’t have $10,000 or $100,000 to spend.
So, I said, what’s the point? It’s going to change. Tomorrow we’ll have different marketing methods. ChatGPT has come along and upset the apple cart. It may not be everything people hoped it would be, but things change all the time.
Emily: It’s so true.
That’s why I’m constantly referring artists back to chapter one, right? Like, get your art together, like is the art great?
And then frankly, when folks buy the book directly from my website, I can see their domain. You know, just like an artist can, when someone buys something, I can see where they’re coming from and there’s managers from the biggest management companies in the world that have bought this book and I point that out to shine a light on, they’re trying to figure it out too. Right?
So, you could spend all your time trying to get a manager at Q Prime to pay attention. And I’m not saying don’t do that because I think they’re amazing. But you could also spend all your time creating great art and building your audience. And working your way up sustainably from there.
David: I tend to agree. I have a book that’s pre-release, but the manuscript is complete. It’s called The Renegade Musician, and I don’t get to this until part three of the book, but you cover it in chapter one of your book.
But basically, I said, people come to me all the time thinking that I’m going to have some intelligent comment about their music and perhaps if I’m not familiar with your style, and there’s just so many styles out there, and I don’t know who you’re influenced by, or any of your peers. Chances are the only comment I’m going to be able to make is on your production and everything else is moot.
But I made an earnest attempt at offering some valuable tips in the book as well, including Derek Sivers’ classic advice of if you can streamline your life to work on it 12 hours per day, do it. Do it sooner, do it earlier. Don’t wait years to get good at what you do.
Emily: 100%. And. You know, I get it’s natural. I get that it’s natural to ask what you think, or I think or Imogen Heap thinks or whatever, but it’s like, who cares what we think, you know? Did you write it for us, or did you write it for yourself?
And I just feel like, I know finding one’s flow is easier said than done, right? In art, in business, in both. But again, I feel like when you’re forcing it or trying to write a hit or trying… don’t get me wrong, there’s obviously like professional songwriters and pop songwriters that like do that and know how to do it.
But if you’re trying to write, you know, for a genre or you’re trying to write for a specific label, to me that’s not the point.
And I interviewed Justin Vernon from Bon Iver on my podcast and his story is famous, but it was interesting to hear more of the detail on it.
It’s like he tried for so hard for so many years, right? He tried so hard. He’d like go to Barnes & Noble and buy like the Indie Touring Bible, whatever, and like tried to book a tour and his whole life fell apart. His girlfriend broke up with him, his band broke up and he was like, I just gave up.
And I went up to my dad’s cabin in northern Wisconsin and this just flowed out of me. I’m not saying it’s easy, but it’s when he stopped trying that he wrote, the now iconic album For Emma, which has turned him into a global superstar.
David: Yeah. There is something magical to, I think, “surrender” is the best term for it. People sometimes use the term “letting go,” but you can’t let go. Things just are, but you can surrender everything in the moment and there’s a lot of freedom in that.
Emily: Yeah.
David: There’s a phrase in your book because it’s something I’ve been saying for a long time without knowing much about you and your work, and that’s “you’re the CEO of your own music career.”
You’re the CEO of your own music career.
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I guess ideas are like that in that they’re deposited into the minds of many people, maybe even simultaneously, but I find it to be a very empowering statement. How can artists be the executives of their careers?
Emily: Odds are, because there’s so many artists and so much music out there, you don’t have a choice.
You have to be the CEO of your career. But I understand how attractive it might be, you know, as you start to build a team, like, okay, I’m done. I can just be the artist. And like really, you’re the CEO because you need to approve everything. Nothing should be done without your approval.
You should have transparent access to everything. I mean, your manager should almost be like the COO, the chief operating officer and executing and making this stuff happen. But ultimately, you’re calling the shots.
And I experienced this in business too, but I had a lot of artists on the podcast speak to this.
It’s like… When you sign a publishing deal or you sign a management contract, that’s actually when the work begins. So that’s the time you really need to dig in and also make sure you’re accountable. Make sure you’re writing back to your team, you’re staying on top of things. Talk to them about a process to make sure you’re preserving your mental health. Maybe that’s like nights and weekends off. Maybe you can be respectful to them about that as well.
When you sign a publishing deal or you sign a management contract, that's actually when the work begins.
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And look, we all miss a message here or there. But if the team is spending time chasing you, then that’s less time and energy they have to move your career forward.
So ultimately, like the buck stops with you, as cheesy as that sounds.
David: I’m a big believer in wellbeing. I talk about it on my podcast perhaps more than I even should. But I do remind listeners and my students, if you’ve been slamming it hard for a while, it might be time to take the day off, watch a movie, go to the mountains, hit the hot springs if it’s available in your locality.
Emily: It’s so important. I couldn’t agree with you more. And I was interviewing Erin Knight on our recent season two podcast finale. I thought, I don’t know, I feel like we were like sisters from another mother or something, because I actually try not, for example, I try not to schedule any calls or meetings on Monday.
And on Tuesdays, I really try, you’re my first. Today’s Thursday, but like, this is at 2:00 PM Eastern, and you’re actually my first call of the day. I try to schedule things from like 1:00 PM on, and my point is, so I can have that Monday to get organized, be creative, let my mind wander in a good, and that’s not really, like, breaks, the brakes are really important too.
I get a full night’s sleep every night. I really try not to work on weekends. Selfishly, that makes me a better entrepreneur as well.
David: For a long time, and it’s still very much like this. I only made myself available to the public for ad hoc calls two to three times per week, and I had a lot of interviews to do, whether it was for my own show or for clients who requested blog posts, testimonials, or pre-interview scripts, even though I knew it was for money, I kept those boundaries.
I’m not going to take a call on Monday or Friday. I need these boundaries so I can take care of myself. And as you say, it really is about being in the right place at the right time to handle calls and questions.
I will never understand people who take business calls at the airport bathroom and make horrible deals on the spot because they’re unprepared and they’re not thinking, and they’re not in the right environment to make those decisions.
Emily: Or you could be like me, who travels with a yoga mat and will do yoga at the at the terminal, waiting for the flight. So, to each their own.
David: Amazing. Yeah, I love it.
As your book suggests, as much as possible, artists should learn recording skills, and I very much agree with that statement. As someone who’s learned a lot about producing over the years, I think there are still plenty of singers, songwriters, and instrumentalist out there who would bristle at the idea.
What’s the benefit of learning how to record and produce yourself?
Emily: Well, it’s going to save you money, and it’s going to save you time. And you can start to mess around with ideas yourself. Maybe you feel really good about the recording. You might not have to go out and get a producer or a traditional studio.
But even like, this with all due respect, like the most expensive pros in the world are going to give this advice too. It’s going to save us all time and energy and save you money. The more you can get done on your own.
And I’m obviously not Rick Rubin but in my little world, if I can figure out how to record a podcast and some recording basics, most people should be able to figure out how to record a demo.
It’s like any creative process, the more you play around with it. It feels weird to say the better you’re going to get, probably, because again, it’s creative, right? Like what sounds good to you might be different from what someone else is going for.
But yeah, it’s going to save you time and money in the long run.
Learning how to record yourself is going to save you time and money in the long run.
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David: I was in the Calgary music scene for a while and one piece of advice that got thrown around was “don’t self-produce.” I think the implication was that we want the money to flow to writers, arrangers, producers, and engineers. I totally get that perspective, but at this point in the music industry, I don’t think there’s anyone who’s going to say, “well, we’re not going to touch you because you are self-produced. Especially if you show up with a stack of money to record with them next time.
Emily: Yeah, exactly. You wan to be as sufficient as possible and get an idea yourself of what’s working what isn’t before you head into a traditional studio.
David: This is another one of those, maybe not.\ “Twilight Zone” moments, but one where we’re kind of on the same wavelength.
I concluded last summer that I should be spending an hour, no more, no less on communication every day. It’s gone by the wayside in my life a bit because I’ve been very occupied serving my clients lately. Great practice for all of us to adopt. What are the benefits of answering emails and social media posts an hour per day.
Emily: Yeah, so if you love social media and industry work, I think you should set aside an hour a business day to do that, because otherwise it’s really easy to get sucked into being on social media all the time. I mean, those platforms are literally programmed to be addicting, you know, consuming tons of… you know, music business education, and then suddenly you’re not focused on getting your art together, right? Chapter one, or you’re losing sight of who you are as an artist. So, you don’t, you don’t want to get so obsessed with the industry and work and online stuff that you’re neglecting yourself as an artist.
And if you hate it, I’m using the word “hate.” You should also set aside an hour a business day to make sure you’re responding to email. Getting back to fans on social media and staying on top of things.
Set aside an hour a business day to respond to email. Get back to fans on social media and stay on top of things.
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I mean, this is, on one hand probably a problem generally, with modern humans, and I get it, but like I just recorded season two of my podcast to my home city of Milwaukee.
And generally speaking, I don’t feel like artists, and even some industry people there are that great at writing folks back. And it’s like, I have email tracking people, I can see you that you’re getting my emails. And like that breaks my heart for my home city and a smaller market because this is not something I ever really think about or track.
But when I’m emailing, people in the national or international industry, I would say 98% of people write me back. So, if you’re in a smaller market and I’m getting a 50% response rate and I’m offering books to your radio station for free, or to your program or whatever, or I want to mentor students or I want to help, or I want to give my time…
I don’t know. Like if people aren’t interested, that’s totally fine, but I would rather know. And my bigger concern is seeing the ecosystem not work together, right? Seeing the music ecosystem not work together.
So, artists are the same way. I know plenty of, and I’ve asked them, I’m like, why didn’t you write back on this?
And the answer is insecurity, overthinking. And then “well, I’ll get to it later” and then they never get to it. Just reply to your emails people. Like when I was managing Brennan Benson, we were on tour in Europe and I remember his drummer was a fairly young guy and said, Silly Billy was his nickname.
Silly Billy’s like, “it’s like the more stuff we do, the more stuff we get,” right? But if you’re just sitting there and you’re not replying to things that come in, then you’re just going to be sitting there.
The more stuff you do, the more stuff you get.
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David: One of Dan Kennedy’s wealth attraction principles is do something. Don’t just sit and think about it.
And if I were to add anything, I’d say communication is a challenge for everyone, but some people are more challenged than others. For some examples, watch…
Emily: Don’t overthink it! Sorry to talk over you, but it’s like, just keep it short and sweet. Respond, move on. You know?
David: …absolutely. Watch Glenn Fricker’s bad musician texts. Get a good laugh and maybe identify a few things you could be doing better in communication.
Emily: Exactly. I love it. And keep in mind, I don’t like it when the arts are competitive, but keep in mind, most people suck at email, right? Like most… especially artists. So that’s one way to get ahead is just to be replying to opportunities.
David: Huge.
Now, this is the part of the podcast that is lovingly and jokingly called, “not the Tim Ferris segment.” Let’s start here. What was the last YouTube video you watched?
Emily: Oh, a yoga class I did this morning. Shout out to Jes Allen’s Patreon, which is excellent for on demand yoga.
David: Terrific.
What is your daily routine like?
Emily: Oh my gosh, that’s my next book. So, my routine starts the night before. I get a full night’s sleep every night. I try to go to bed fairly early, especially on weeknights, not as much on weekends.
And then I have a green smoothie first thing in the morning. And that’s not, I mean, I use local organic greens. I’m really obsessed with going to the farmer’s market every week. You can sweeten it with fruit and stuff, but that’s also not anything to overthink. I’ve been getting a lot of questions on like the smoothie recipe, and it’s not really about that. It’s about just getting some produce in you. First thing, like I just said, my parents’ house, they had some random kind of old looking store-bought celery. I threw that in there and like whatever fruit they had around, it’s just as good. Gets the job done.
And then I move first thing. So that could be an hour walk. That could be, going for, I do, I do run for an hour if I run, but we’re talking 20 miles, people. Like it’s about moving my body… the motivation is mental health and finding my own flow state as an entrepreneur. Or I swim for 40 minutes. That’s kind of equivalent to me as, and again, I swim easy. I’m not grinding it out. I’m also very good at listening to my body. So, this morning I did an hour of yoga, like I said, just on demand. Didn’t even leave the house for that.
But you know, I move first thing and then I have a healthy breakfast. Usually like two local organic eggs, whole wheat toast, maybe some avocado, olive oil, kimchi, and then I meditate for five minutes. And then I start my day, and then I also do five-minute meditations throughout the day.
Normally before I would talk to you, but I only got five seconds in before this, but I actually did a couple other five-minute meditations today before I wrote like an important email. I responded to an interview request for Hypebot because my thoughts are going to be better and clearer if I take that five minute meditation break.
So that’s what we’re calling the Emily routine.
David: Yeah, there are some excellent tips in there.
And I do find it funny too, how people obsess over the green smoothie recipe. Just throw some mixed greens in there, celery, apple, pear, whatever you want. Protein powder as a sweetener and you’re done.
Emily: Yeah, exactly.
David: Meditation is the same thing. Like how do you meditate? It doesn’t matter. Just put some music on, close your eyes and focus on your breathing. It’s good enough.
Emily: That’s exactly right. Close your eyes and focus on the breath, and people ask me all the time, like, what kind of meditation do you do? And it’s like, I’ve studied plenty of meditations and they all have one thing in common. You’re focused on one thing, right? You’re focused on the breath, or you’re focused on a mantra, or you’re focused on really any one of the senses. It’s all single pointed meditation. You’re exactly right.
David: What’s the greatest challenge you’ve overcome?
Emily: I’ll tell you what, I haven’t spoken about this publicly yet. But I had the hardest few days of my life last week.
The hardest, like longer time period I had was in 2020 when we were building #IVoted and all summer I was like, I know we have the experience and connections and expertise to do this. I just don’t want it to be the Fyre Fest of webcasting. Because that was a big pivot during the pandemic, it went on to become the largest digital concert in history. So, we were not the Fyre Fest of webcasting.
Last week was really hard. You know, like I had been recording my podcast in Milwaukee for the past six weeks. I was, to be honest, 50% there for traumatic reasons that I won’t get into. And I could have cancelled doing the podcast there because all that stuff happened before. And I was like, do I want to do this here? And I’m like, yeah, I do. I want to help artists here. So, I knew I was there for the right reasons.
Long story short, unfortunately I had to file a restraining order against one of the attendees. And testify in court, last week, which that’s a first for me.
We had asked for a four-year restraining order per the state law. And the court actually granted 10 years based on the evidence. And this person has continued to contact women in my audience, women guests of mine. I won’t share his name because I don’t want to cause more problems, but I am going to share this.I’m sharing it publicly here, right?
And then also check in with Women in Music and Girls Behind the Rock Show and find out if they have a legal fund and mentoring for when this happens to anyone. Right? Because, you know, I’m privileged I could afford an attorney. I knew how to work with an attorney.
And if I’m 23 and this happens, you don’t have money. I come from the music business. I work with attorneys all the time. So, I knew how to work as a team with my attorney. So, I’d love to mentor anyone else that has this experience.
And also, to spread the word on it because it sucked for a lot of reasons. It was the most scared I’d ever been, and no offense. Have you had any stalkers on your podcast? It’s like any income I made through… it’s also the first time I’d ever put myself out there publicly.
I’ve been really fortunate that speaking engagements and such had come to me, and this is the first time I’m like, okay, I’m going to do season two as a live ticket at event. And it’s like the first time I do, I end up testifying in court. It’s worth every penny for me to have hired the attorney, but any sponsorship money we made, any ticket sales, that all goes right out the door to the attorney.
So that was challenging. That was a lot. Thanks for my mini therapy session there. But last week was really hard. And, and just to wrap up on that. I was in Chicago for a bunch of meetings on Thursday. I had to testify on Friday. I had to teach a class on Friday afternoon that I was not prepared for.
And then I had my season finale podcast taping on Saturday. So, it was a lot to say the least. It was probably the first time in my life that I could empathize with being a parent because parents do so much, right? And then they work and they’re still like brushing their teeth and putting their pants on and all those things.
It was like I just was doing the things and now I’m finally back home in Brooklyn and got some Reiki last night. Doing yoga and just getting it, getting myself back on track.
David: Yeah. I relate to what you said a lot, not because I have a stalker, but mostly because probably the biggest challenge I’ve overcome was also recent.
The last half of 2022 was the most challenging and very unexpected. The opportunity came up to go back to being a digital nomad for me, and I thought it was going to be fun, and yes, it was fun. In the early going, I started living out of Airbnbs, but as the months progressed, I ended up almost being scammed by a prospective landlord. I couldn’t make online payments with my bank card for a while. Got sued by a credit card company and ended up filing for consumer proposal. There was a lot that happened in a 30-to-50-day timeframe.
Emily: Yeah, I’m so sorry to hear that.
David: Well, thanks for saying that.
What’s the greatest victory you’ve experienced?
Emily: I think creating #IVoted. Not just like producing the largest digital concert in history, but the fact that we’ve done it seven, eight, nine times with some of the stuff that we’re planning. So, I’m just, this is not part of the vision when I entered music or whatever, but I’m really proud of taking the skills that I have in the music industry and applying it to increasing voter turnout.
And then I’m equally proud of our team. You know, like I lead a C-suite of all women. Our overall team is 92% BIPOC women, non-binary LGBTQ+. It’s been the biggest lesson of representation in my life. People ask me all the time how we’ve built such a diverse team and we’ve put like a tiny little bit of effort into it.
I’m on the board of Well Dunn, which provides paid entertainment industry internships and mentoring to underserved students. And so, we have a few Well Dunn interns, but otherwise they all come to us because they see themselves reflected in leadership.
So, I’m definitely excited to be revolutionizing voter turnout, but equally proud to be training and mentoring the next generation of activists and leaders.
David: And your bio reads like accomplishment after accomplishment after accomplishment. You’re a powerhouse, obviously.
Emily: Thank you. I’ve also just been around a while, so it adds up.
David: Are there any books that have helped you on your journey?
Emily: Yes. My favorite book is Steve Jobs, the Walter Isaacson definitive biography.
I feel really arrogant saying this, but I feel like I could empathize with Steve’s perspective on things. “Don’t you see what I see?” Or “don’t you understand why it should be like this?” Hopefully I’ve mellowed a little bit over the years.
But certainly, that book. And then I think my second favorite book ever is Why We Sleep. Sleep’s my number one health priority. In fact, this morning, I mean TMI, but I woke up not like super early, but I woke up because I had to pee and I started practicing yoga and I’m like, I’m really tired. I’m going to go back to bed. So, I went back to bed for another hour and a half so I can be sharp and present when I’m talking to you and doing everything I have to do today.
So yeah, I definitely check out the book Why We Sleep. I recommend it. Whenever I teach a college class and like the three students that ever read it always come up to me and are like, “Oh my gosh.” Now that I’m like, even just thinking about sleep or like being aware of it and kind of prioritizing it, they’re like, “I’m working less, I’m getting better grades. I’m happier, I’m more energetic.” It’s a very simple read.
And also, the author, Dr. Matthew Walker has a podcast with like eight-minute episodes. So, there’s really no excuse to not, educate yourself on what we spend a third of our lives doing.
David: If our listeners would like to connect with you, where can they find you?
Emily: Social media. I’m @emwizzle, W-I-Z-Z-L-E. And then there’s email list links, if you want to be in the loop on the book’s next edition.
And we might be doing a season three and season four podcast taping this year. And, I think we have an offer for season five, which would be early 2025, because my life is very structured around election years. So yeah, if you want to attend, if you wan to livestream, we try to solve musicians’ problems in real time.
You can find the email list link on my social media @emwizzle.
David: Thank you for your time and generosity, Emily. Is there anything else I should have asked?
Emily: No, I feel like we’re and I’m excited for your book and all the great things you’re doing, David. So, thank you so much for having me.
David: Thank you.
Closing SegmentIn closing, I wanted to recommend Emily’s book, How to Build a Sustainable Music Career and Collect All Revenue Streams. I really think it’s the perfect complement to the resources I’ve created. Whereas I’m basically the marketing, mindset, and productivity guy, Emily covers all the technical details of performance rights organizations, and recording, and contracts, and royalties and more.
So, check out the book. It’s How to Build a Sustainable Music Career and Collect All Revenue Streams.
The post 287 – You’re the CEO of Your Own Music Career – with Emily White appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
We know that many of you come to Music Entrepreneur HQ to learn about what’s new in the music business. Moving forward, we’re looking to cover key news items (from select sources) on a weekly basis.
Here’s what caught my attention this week.
▶️ Winger Releases New Single, “Proud Desperado”Hard rock band Winger has been quiet on the studio album front since their stellar 2014 release, Better Days Comin’. It’s not unusual for the band to put three to four years between their releases, sometimes more. There were approximately 13 years between 1993’s Pull and 2006’s IV, for instance.
The band has gone on a couple of hiatuses, and its members also keep busy with composing symphonies (Kip Winger) and performing with Whitesnake (Reb Beach), so they have license to give every excuse under the sun.
Despite being slammed by Beavis and Butt-Head, and never reaching the mainstream notoriety of a Van Halen, the band has always been one of the best live bands in the genre, and their performances on the Monsters of Rock Cruise live on in infamy.
Frontiers Music has a habit of bringing back some of my favorite acts (including Dan Reed Network, Harem Scarem, Def Leppard, and others) though, and on March 10, they released Winger’s new single, “Proud Desperado.” Their full-length seventh album, Seven, is slated for release on May 5, 2023.
The SongThe highly produced music video to “Proud Desperado” hasn’t quite caught up with Extreme’s incredible one million views on “Rise” yet, but it has gotten a commendable 430,000+ views to date.
Guitarist Reb Beach’s assessment of vocalist and bassist Kip Winger is that he’s a musical genius, and we can certainly hear his brilliance as an arranger at work on “Proud Desperado” as well.
The song begins with a very aggressive, minor key riff and a modal vocal melody. It modulates into the explosive pre-chorus section, which also acts as a false chorus. This all builds to a very satisfying, soaring, melodic chorus. Yep, Kip knows what he’s doing.
I love Beach’s guitar solo as well, but I can’t help but think it’s a mere prelude of things to come.
Can’t wait for the full-length album, Seven!
▶️ Marty Friedman Reunites with Megadeth at the Nippon BudokanAfter a hiatus lasting several months, the ROCK FUJIYAMA channel returns with news about Marty Friedman joining Megadeth onstage for a long-hoped-for live performance at the Nippon Budokan. If Megadeth were ever to return to the Budokan, it was Marty’s hope that he’d be able to jam with them live, even if just on a few songs.
There are other official channels you can explore to get the scoop and even see Marty performing with Megadeth, but we rather like the bite-sized chunks FUJIYAMA delivers to us each week as it shows a lot of behind the scenes leading up to the event.
▶️ The Productivity, Performance & Profits BlackbookI haven’t had much of an opportunity to share this in more of an official capacity on Music Entrepreneur HQ yet, but my first ever premium book, the Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook is now available for purchase.
On February 20, buyers were treated to an early version of the book, simply called v0.7. As I continue to contemplate what it means to develop and promote a “premium” book, I thought it might be fun to gather some early feedback, which is already shaping the future of the project.
I started out thinking this would be more of an anthological (“greatest hits”) book, but now I’m hard at work adding brand-new sections, so it isn’t merely a rehash of the past.
The book also includes 14 bonus videos. You’re welcome to watch them or not, the point is I’m working hard to over-deliver and turn this into something great!
▶️ Music Entrepreneur HQ MerchandiseAgain, this is something I haven’t really had the opportunity to share in an official capacity yet. But last quarter, I developed several new merchandise items for Music Entrepreneur HQ.
I will be setting up a page to showcase these items soon (well, I have set up a page on my personal blog already), but for now, you can find them at these links:
- The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex T-Shirt
- The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex Fleece Zip Up Hoodie
- The Music Entrepreneur Unisex T-Shirt
- The Music Entrepreneur Unisex Fleece Zip Up Hoodie
I look forward to creating more of these as time allows.
▶️ New Episode of Adrenalize Def Leppard Fan PodcastOn March 19, we published episode 003 of the Adrenalize Def Leppard Fan Podcast exploring the band’s recent hit, “Take What You Want.”
If you’re not in the know, this is something I started last quarter and am excited to continue to develop in the coming months. Expect to see more content from me talking about hard rock (which you’ve already seen in this post, as well as an earlier one on Extreme’s new single).
▶️ What We Listen to at the HQIf you’ve ever asked yourself what “those crazy people” at Music Entrepreneur HQ listen to, here’s the much rumored, but obscure Spotify playlist simply titled Addicted, which includes hard rock, of course, but also alt-rock, metal, pop, funk, R&B, electronic, synthwave, and much more. We’re always adding and removing tracks in case you’re worried about our mental state listening to what we do. 😉
You will need to go to Spotify to see the 600+ songs that are currently on this playlist.
Final ThoughtsAnd that’s what jumped out at us this week, but if there’s anything else you think we should be covering, leave a comment below and let us know!
The post Music Industry News for March 20, 2023 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Scammers are everywhere. People are desperate. In tough times, people will go to extraordinary lengths to cover their bills and meet their needs.
In his coaching efforts, however, David often helps his clients create “possibility lists,” a long list of items (usually 50 to 100) possible sources of money an artist or entrepreneur can leverage to get themselves out of tough times. David usually finds his clients are back on track by the time they’ve actioned five to seven items.
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares how to navigate the desperate post-pandemic world.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:18 – Scamming is at an all time high * 01:23 – A post-pandemic economic downturn * 01:47 – The feeling of desperation * 02:22 – Catfishing attempts * 03:25 – Negative influence of the movies * 03:42 – Opportunity and problem solving * 04:15 – Creator economy * 04:33 – Freelancing * 05:05 – Advertising * 05:22 – Affiliate marketing * 05:44 – Collaboration * 06:11 – Sponsorships * 06:26 – Other opportunities * 07:29 – Final thoughts
Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way*, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex Fleece Zip Up Hoodie: Another exciting addition to our merch line. The official zip up hoodie is warm, comfy, stylish, unisex, and it’s even available in multiple sizes and colors! Click the “Buy this” button to add yours to your wardrobe now! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex T-Shirt: It’s finally here – the official podcast T-shirt! It’s comfy, it’s stylish, it’s unisex, and it’s available in multiple sizes and colors. Click on the link, choose your size, and color, and click on the “Buy this” button to get yours now!
Transcription:Scamming is at an all time high. I pulled some stats from LegalJobs for your perusal. In the U.S., one in 10 adults will fall victim to scam or fraud every year. In 2018 alone, internet enabled theft, fraud, and exploitation were responsible for a massive $2.7 billion in financial losses. In 2019, phishing attempts grew by 65%. One in 10 profiles on free dating sites is a scam.
Anecdotally, I see attempts at scamming on a near daily basis, be it on Twitter, WhatsApp, BEGO LIVE, Line, YouTube comments, or otherwise.
I posted a video on a Coinbase Wallet scam in 2022. I ended up losing about $500 and every day there are multiple scammers trying to get people to sign up for their so-called services to recover their crypto, which is the furthest thing from their mind. They’re just trying to take more money from the people who’ve already potentially lost thousands, tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Adding insult to injury, a post pandemic economic downturn was a foregone conclusion in my mind. It surprises me when people are so taken aback that things are taking a turn for the worst.
I mean, we have clowns running this country and it doesn’t look all that different for our friends down south, so I’m not sure what people expected. But this is not a political show, and you don’t need to agree to my opinions.
DesperationI understand well the feeling of desperation. I’ve gone broke and in debt at least three times. A credit card company even started taking legal action against me last year.
I suspect there’s a decline in morality and increase in narcissism and sociopathy because I don’t know about you, but my conscious would be seared and rattled with guilt if I tried to extract money from people using anything less than ethical and legal means.
I’m all about working for big bags of money, don’t get me wrong, but I put more than an honest day’s work in on any given day, and I’ve earned my way to becoming an award-winning composer and best-selling author.
CatfishingRecently on Twitter, there was someone trying to catfish me, and it’s certainly not the first time someone has tried this on me, so I recognized all the signs. It’s not like they were hard to identify either. They were posing as one person while sending me a picture of someone else entirely. It was some Instagram model that I possibly would not know about.
Sidebar, for those who don’t know, you can upload a photo to Google to check if it’s associated with any social networks, and this is an easy way to identify possible scammers.
Well, when I pointed this out to the person who was trying to catfish me, they admitted to me that they were scamming me, and I’d never had that happen before where someone actually admitted their crime. While they were apologetic, I’m not sure they were remorseful, because when I suggested that they go write for Medium, or do something, anything to earn a bit of extra cash on the side. They were like, “huh?”
Look, there’s only so much free help I can provide this world sometimes. Keeping up with the podcast has proven a challenge, never mind keeping up with all my client deadlines. So, I left them to sit with it.
Indoctrination Through MediaI think I pointed out years ago that what I didn’t like about certain movies – I was a video game and film critic at one point – was that movies like Fun with Dick and Jane were basically training people to turn to a life of crime at the first sign of something going wrong in their lives.
That statement, unfortunately, is kind of proving prophetic right now, when really for the most part, if people were just willing to roll up their sleeves and get to work, they’d be able to climb their way out of their hole and wouldn’t it be god awful if they ended up enjoying the work too?
Problem Solving Skills & Practical SolutionsThe issue here really isn’t that there isn’t any opportunity. The issue is that many people haven’t been taught problem solving skills. It’s one of the many failings of our current education system, sadly. Problem solving, though, is one of my favorite topics, and I see countless income opportunities for anyone willing to put in the work and remain patient with the process.
So, why don’t we talk practical solutions?
Creator EconomyThe first is creator economy. Whether it’s YouTube, TikTok, Medium, Quora, Substack, or otherwise, there are many platforms where you can earn on the content you’ve created. I’ve never earned a living wage from any of these myself, but cumulatively, it has put hundreds, if not thousands of dollars back into my pocket.
FreelancingSecond, freelancing. I’ve been balancing my roles as an entrepreneur and freelancer for years, but when I was in the early stages of figuring out this whole independent living thing, I dedicated myself to freelancing. Freelancing and contract opportunities mostly came through connections I’d made. So, it’s well worth building out your network if you want to pursue this.
You’ll also want to identify what you’re good at, whether that’s writing, graphic design, web design, audio production, video editing or otherwise, and commit to improving at your craft, creating a portfolio, and seeking out opportunities.
AdvertisingNext, advertising. While your earning potential with ads probably isn’t going to be very high, combined with other solutions mentioned here, advertising is not a total waste. There’s very little work involved in putting ads on your website, and it’s a good way to earn passively, especially if your website drives good traffic.
Affiliate MarketingAffiliate marketing. People say you’ve got to have massive traffic to your website to earn anything from affiliate marketing. But the funny thing artists often don’t realize is they’re already sending huge amounts of traffic to streaming platforms like Spotify, earning just pennies on the dollar for the same amount of effort. You could be earning hundreds, if not thousands of dollars in commissions promoting the right affiliate offers.
CollaborationCollaboration. I’m not talking about asking your friend down the street whether they want to write a song together. I’m talking about punching above your weight class. I’m personally looking at pitching a prolific podcaster on the idea of working together on a new show myself. And his show earns him eight figures annually. He will probably say no, but if it works out it will end up being the opportunity of a lifetime. Are you aware of anyone like that? Are you willing to risk rejection to pitch them on an idea?
SponsorshipsSponsorships. There is very good money in sponsorships. The trick is to find companies whose values are aligned with yours, and you also need access to an audience your sponsors want to reach. To keep your sponsors happy, you’ll want to stay in touch with them on a weekly basis as well.
OtherAnd other. I’m only scratching the surface in terms of opportunities available. I’m aware that much of what I’ve talked about requires hard work, but with a bit of patience, you can bring in additional income to help in tough times.
Even an extra $500 per month can be life changing money for some people, and it’s not hard to get. What it takes is a willingness to get to work, learn, and persevere. Successes in my life have mostly come because of stubbornness and not giving up rather than being smart or talented.
Get CreativeIn tough times, limiting beliefs won’t serve you. There are so many creative ways to go about problem solving your financial situation. You can even take a Joe job, collect cans and bottles, sell unneeded household items, or have a garage sale. You may not be able to solve your problems all at once, but bit by bit you can get to where you need to go. You can get back on track. So don’t let pride get in the way. That’s what ends up stopping people dead in their tracks. Just because it’s not musical income doesn’t make it worth less.
Closing SegmentSo, if you’re struggling right now, I feel for you. Like I said at the outset, I’ve been in precarious positions at multiple times in my life, and I know you may not have the funds for this right now. But if you want to work with me on this, I offer personalized coaching. I only work with five clients per month, but if you’re committed to positive change, I’m inviting you to reach out to me personally at david@dawcast.com.
This has been episode 286 of The New Music Industry Podcast. I’m David Andrew Wiebe, and I look forward to seeing you on the stages of the world.
The post 286 – Don’t Panic appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Extreme is back… and they’re every bit as good as you remember them, if not better!
The music video for their latest single, “Rise,” has already gained more than one million views on YouTube since March 1, 2023, as of this writing.
It’s been a busy week for killer new music and momentous events, and I can’t wait to talk more about that, but we’ll get there. Today, let’s look at Extreme’s new single, “Rise.”
The SongI had the same reaction everyone else did when I first heard this song… is this even an Extreme song?!
This is a long way from their “funk metal” roots. Then again, their debut album was still a way off from Extreme II: Pornograffitti too, where funk and metal were truly together… at last.
“Rise” has already drawn comparisons to Ozzy Osbourne (Zakk Wylde era specifically), Tool, and Stone Temple Pilots’ “Silvergun Superman.” The chorus hook has apparently given off Kesha vibes too, but I don’t buy it (sorry, Mike of The-Art-of-Guitar). One is a rock band that can sing, the other is an annoying pitch-adjusted mess.
Overall, though, the song is very becoming of Extreme, and I love it.
VocalsGary Cherone is the voice of Extreme. Always has been, always will be.
I’ve always admired Cherone for the passion and energy he brings to the band. His voice, on the other hand, has often been a little rough around the edges, at least to me. Rock singers don’t always have to be pitch perfect to be considered great at what they do, but even on past records there have been a few times when I’ve said to myself, “that must have hurt a little.”
“Rise” is a different story. Everyone’s vocals sound better, including Gary’s. I bow down at the alter of Extreme. We’re not worthy!
The Guitar SoloEveryone’s jaw is agape at guitarist Nuno Bettencourt’s transcendent guitar solo, and for good reason. Not only does it sound stellar, but it’s also blazing fast. There is an effect or two on his solo, possibly the dotted eighth delay trick he’s known for on “Flight of the Wounded Bumblebee.” But I’m also hearing an octave effect on there (a higher octave, for sure, and maybe a lower one as well).
As for the section that has everyone up in arms, I may be the first to remind you we heard this from Nuno on “Peacemaker Die” from III Sides to Every Story too (check the solo section). It’s basically a series of rapid palm-muted hammer-ons utilizing the economy of open strings. Easier said than done, yes, but I trust my ears on this one.
ProductionAt this point, I’m going to say something that I’m not sure has been said elsewhere yet. What’s going on with the production for “Rise?”
I’m not saying it’s bad, I’m just saying it seems to be lacking a bit of fidelity, almost like it wasn’t mastered. Everything sounds a little shrill and foggy, and the drums don’t sound as huge as they should.
I don’t care that much, because I love the band and the song, but I am wondering whether the rest of the album will sound like this when it eventually comes out on June 9.
Oddly enough, I had the same reaction to an earlier release via Nuno, the DramaGods’ Love, specifically the track “Heavy.” I heard a sample on their website before the release came out and thought the guitar track was going to come out sounding less robotic upon the proper release of the album. Ultimately, it didn’t.
Again, it won’t change my status as one of Extreme and Nuno’s greatest fans. If you’re reading this, Nuno, congrats on the new release. I’ve listened to all your stuff – Population 1, Mourning Widows, DramaGods, Satellite Party, and everything in between. Loved Guitar Wars too.
Final Thoughts on “Rise”Can’t wait for the release of Extreme Six on June 9! If you’d like to support the band, you can pre-order the CD, vinyl, and T-shirt on their website.
The post Extreme’s New Single, “Rise” Makes Waves appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you simply do what successful people do, you will also find success. This is what marketing guru Dan Kennedy defines as “behavioral consistency.”
Founder of Mezz Entertainment Roanne Mesirow argues, however, that we should always remain open to opportunity, and there are no formulas to creating success in the music business.
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, you will discover the value of following your own path.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:29 – Roanne and fashion PR * 02:04 – Why did Roanne make the transition to music? * 03:04 – What does it take to be a manager? * 04:40 – How did Roanne apply what she learned in fashion PR to apply it to the music business? * 05:33 – How has PR changed? * 07:03 – What is Roanne’s approach to getting artists exposure? * 08:58 – What steps can we take to create the lives we love through our passions? * 11:25 – Where can people find sounding boards and mentors? * 13:27 – Does “behavioral consistency” lead to success? * 17:00 – What was the last YouTube video Roanne watched? * 17:29 – What is Roanne’s daily routine like? * 18:56 – What is the greatest challenge Roanne has overcome? * 20:26 – What is the greatest victory Roannae has celebrated? * 21:30 – Mezz Entertainment’s internship program * 23:02 – Roanne’s recommended books (and speeches) * 26:41 – Final thoughts
Sponsors: Productivity, Performance & Profits Blackbook: The first of its kind – David’s new premium book covering productivity, featuring content from Music Entrepreneur HQ, his personal blog, his many books, and even Start Your Year the Right Way*, which is included in its entirety. Be fully unleashed in accomplishing your dreams and desires! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex Fleece Zip Up Hoodie: Another exciting addition to our merch line. The official zip up hoodie is warm, comfy, stylish, unisex, and it’s even available in multiple sizes and colors! Click the “Buy this” button to add yours to your wardrobe now! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex T-Shirt: It’s finally here – the official podcast T-shirt! It’s comfy, it’s stylish, it’s unisex, and it’s available in multiple sizes and colors. Click on the link, choose your size, and color, and click on the “Buy this” button to get yours now!
The post 285 – There Are No Formulas – with Roanne Mesirow of Mezz Entertainment appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Change is often uncomfortable. Not only that, but it’s often hard, too. Things generally want to remain unchanged, and a great deal of energy and force can be exerted in changing habits, routines, actions, and anything else that might make a difference in your music career.
But when we force change, it tends not to stick.
So, what do you do if you’re stuck in a rut? How do you get out of it? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares several ways music career inertia can be overcome.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:18 – Capturing ideas as they come to you * 01:06 – Inertia and coasting * 02:08 – Facing up to discomfort and inertia * 03:34 – Making tough decisions * 03:57 – Having difficult conversations * 05:08 – Taking big, uncomfortable actions * 05:49 – Identifying and changing unproductive habits * 07:22 – Episode summary
Sponsors: The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex Fleece Zip Up Hoodie: Another exciting addition to our merch line. The official zip up hoodie is warm, comfy, stylish, unisex, and it’s even available in multiple sizes and colors! Click the “Buy this” button to add yours to your wardrobe now! * The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex T-Shirt: It’s finally here – the official podcast T-shirt! It’s comfy, it’s stylish, it’s unisex, and it’s available in multiple sizes and colors. Click on the link, choose your size, and color, and click on the “Buy this” button to get yours now! * The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official, definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * The Music Entrepreneur Code – 2022 Edition: The latest edition of The Music Entrepreneur Code*, now with more ninja. This book features my personal story of failure and success, case studies, examples, insights, and more. Get paid for your passion and impact more fans without wasting thousands of dollars and years of your life.
The post 284 – Overcoming Inertia in Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Completing a yearlong leadership program. Embracing the nomadic life. Nearly being scammed by fraudulent landlords. Being sued by a credit card company. Filing for consumer proposal. Putting on a theatrical production in Calgary. 2023 was an insane year for David (read about it here and here).
And in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David recounts his experience from 2022 and shares what he sees coming next.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:17 – Happy New Year! * 01:00 – The final stretch of the yearlong intensive leadership program * 02:40 – Accidentally nomadic and out of control * 04:09 – A spotty year for The New Music Industry Podcast * 06:03 – The 3 Project * 07:06 – Time to streamline * 09:11 – Closing thoughts
Sponsors: The New Music Industry Podcast Unisex T-Shirt: It’s finally here – the official podcast T-shirt! It’s comfy, it’s stylish, it’s unisex, and it’s available in multiple sizes and colors. Click on the link, choose your size, and color, and click on the “Buy this” button to get yours now! * The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official, definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * The Music Entrepreneur Code – 2022 Edition: The latest edition of The Music Entrepreneur Code*, now with more ninja. This book features my personal story of failure and success, case studies, examples, insights, and more. Get paid for your passion and impact more fans without wasting thousands of dollars and years of your life.
The post 283 – 2022 in Review appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
SubmitHub is one of the music industry’s leading platforms for connecting musicians with bloggers, Spotify playlists, influencers, YouTubers, radio stations, labels, and more. It’s our favorite service of its kind!
But if there’s one thing you can count on, it’s change. Whether it’s updates to the SubmitHub platform, or new competitors in the market, the industry has been evolving since we last talked with Jason.
And in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, founder of SubmitHub and Indie Shuffle Jason Grishkoff shares how he’s been making SubmitHub even better for all users.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:44 – Return guest, Jason Grishkoff * 02:09 – How has Jason been doing post-pandemic? * 03:05 – SubmitHub’s “night” mode * 05:52 – SubmitHub’s growth * 08:54 – SubmitHub competitors * 15:03 – No more music premiers * 18:14 – Adjustments to influencer prices * 26:50 – The “choose for me” button * 32:09 – The 2022 wish list and the marketplace * 41:26 – Spotify data * 45:58 – What else is Jason excited about?
Sponsors: Elite Players: Newsletter: The brand-new Elite: Players Newsletter is our first-ever print newsletter, and it’s like having a David Andrew Wiebe print seminar delivered to your door every single month. Click on the link to subscribe to the newsletter and learn more about the incredible bonuses that come with it. * The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official, definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * The Music Entrepreneur Code – 2022 Edition: The latest edition of The Music Entrepreneur Code*, now with more ninja. This book features my personal story of failure and success, case studies, examples, insights, and more. Get paid for your passion and impact more fans without wasting thousands of dollars and years of your life.
The post 282 – Making SubmitHub Even Better – with Jason Grishkoff appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Success in music hinges on a strong mindset, because inevitably there will be challenge and rejection to endure. The pressure to quit will always get the best of you unless you’ve got your psychology together.
But what happens when you’ve been pushed so close to the edge that taking an involuntary leap into the great unknown is a foregone conclusion? What happens when a gentle shove is all it takes for you to plummet into the abyss?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares what “death by 1,000 arrows” is and how it can be avoided.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:17 – Success is an inside job * 01:25 – What is “death by 1,000 arrows?” * 02:27 – Star of the Giants (Kyojin no Hoshi) * 03:38 – Real life examples of death by 1,000 arrows * 05:11 – Everything is what it is * 06:37 – The best way to avoid death by 1,000 arrows * 07:27 – Expansion
Sponsors: Elite Players: Newsletter: The brand-new Elite: Players Newsletter is our first-ever print newsletter, and it’s like having a David Andrew Wiebe print seminar delivered to your door every single month. Click on the link to subscribe to the newsletter and learn more about the incredible bonuses that come with it. * The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official, definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * The Music Entrepreneur Code – 2022 Edition: The latest edition of The Music Entrepreneur Code*, now with more ninja. This book features my personal story of failure and success, case studies, examples, insights, and more. Get paid for your passion and impact more fans without wasting thousands of dollars and years of your life.
The post 281 – Death by 1,000 Arrows appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Can a successful artistic career be boiled down to three key ingredients? If so, what would those ingredients be? What kind of cake could you bake with them?
In this episode of The New Music Industry podcast, David interviews Diane Foy, who offers an in-depth look into her Superfan Attraction Playbook.
Download the PDF TranscriptionPodcast Highlights:* 00:40 – Today’s guest: Diane Foy * 01:06 – Finding your authentic personal artistic brand * 06:12 – It’s too easy to quit without a purpose * 09:49 – Creating purpose driven content and finding your social media superfans * 19:38 – Why you’ve got to keep posting * 20:43 – Building your story repository * 22:17 – How marketing is changing * 26:28 – Getting media coverage * 32:11 – 80% of the results for 10% of the cost * 35:31 – Invest in coaching and mentorship * 37:05 – Get Diane’s playbook for free * 38:28 – Why do artists resist marketing? * 44:40 – How does Diane go about getting invited to speak and share at various events? * 51:18 – Multi-passionate * 55:18 – What was the last YouTube video Diane watched? * 56:40 – What is Diane’s daily routine like? * 57:44 – What’s the greatest challenge Diane has overcome? * 1:04:38 – What’s the greatest victory Diane has celebrated? * 1:06:25 – What books have helped Diane on her journey? * 1:09:03 – Closing thoughts
Sponsors: Elite Players: Newsletter: The brand-new Elite: Players Newsletter is our first-ever print newsletter, and it’s like having a David Andrew Wiebe print seminar delivered to your door every single month. Click on the link to subscribe to the newsletter and learn more about the incredible bonuses that come with it. * The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide: Get the official, definitive companion guide to The Music Entrepreneur Code covering, in clarity and detail, secrets to making it in the new music business. * The Music Entrepreneur Code – 2022 Edition: The latest edition of The Music Entrepreneur Code*, now with more ninja. This book features my personal story of failure and success, case studies, examples, insights, and more. Get paid for your passion and impact more fans without wasting thousands of dollars and years of your life.
The post 280 – A Step by Step Process for Building an Independent Music Career – with Diane Foy appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
There’s nothing more satisfying for musicians than acquiring new instruments. This is especially true for drummers. Unboxing a drum set is no doubt a happy experience. With the beautiful finish, chrome hardware, and, most of all, the pristine tone. It’s especially exciting when it’s your first kit! But it’s not enough to learn how to […]
The post 6 Tips for Maintaining Your Drum Set appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
There are a ton of new developments at Music Entrepreneur HQ. In this video, David gets us caught up with some of the most exciting developments and opportunities for independent musicians, professors, executives, entrepreneurs, and more. New Menu Many people coming to our website for the first time are landing on one of our blog […]
The post Music Entrepreneur HQ Update: November 4, 2022 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Do you find marketing boring, complicated, challenging, difficult, tedious, irritating, or otherwise unappealing? Hey, I get it. I was once a musician just like you… (Wait, hold on, I’m still a musician just like you.) I’ve said before that you are the most qualified person to do your own marketing, and I still believe that… […]
The post 279 – Marketing is Fun appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Hello independent musicians, music entrepreneurs, music executives and professors, all you powerful go-getters out there! Here are a couple of recent relevant updates, straight from my mobile lab and desk: New Book – The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide First, I’m excited to announce the launch of The Music Entrepreneur Companion Guide, now available on Amazon […]
The post New Book & Newsletter Available appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Your truck breaks down. You break up with your girlfriend. Your dog goes missing. You drop your bowling ball on your toe. Your fishing hook gets caught on your vest. Lyrics to a country song? Well, maybe… But the reality is, even the best laid plans, even music careers that appear to be all “mapped […]
The post 278 – What to do When You’ve Got the Music Career Blues appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Your truck breaks down. You break up with your girlfriend. Your dog goes missing. You drop your bowling ball on your toe. Your fishing hook gets caught on your vest. Lyrics to a country song? Well, maybe… But the reality is, even the best laid plans, even music careers that appear to be all “mapped […]
The post 278 – What to do When You’ve Got the Music Career Blues appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
When you realize that publishing, building your website, growing your email list, and converting leads into customers are among the most important activities you could be engaging in online, it’s only natural that you begin to wonder about the massive herd that all seems to be moving in one direction… in the direction of social […]
The post 277 – Is Social Media Useless? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. If you can’t be bothered to connect with fans on Twitter, leave a reply on a blog post, or listen to a 10-minute podcast, I don’t know how you ever expect to get anywhere in your music career. It’s baffling. I’m sick of it. We need […]
The post Take Leadership in Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. If you can’t be bothered to connect with fans on Twitter, leave a reply on a blog post, or listen to a 10-minute podcast, I don’t know how you ever expect to get anywhere in your music career. It’s baffling. I’m sick of it. We need […]
The post Take Leadership in Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Most musicians don’t want to pay a cent for anything. Ever heard the saying, “you get what you pay for?” Well, if you don’t pay for your information, you aren’t just getting low-quality, “who gives a crap who wrote it” freelancer blog posts, you also aren’t […]
The post Spending Strategically on Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Most musicians don’t want to pay a cent for anything. Ever heard the saying, “you get what you pay for?” Well, if you don’t pay for your information, you aren’t just getting low-quality, “who gives a crap who wrote it” freelancer blog posts, you also aren’t […]
The post Spending Strategically on Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. What is the trend of the day? As I write this, it’s platforms like Substack, Patreon, Medium, Twitch, Clubhouse, TikTok, and Telegram. In the future, it will be something else. That’s a guarantee. If you can’t take subtlety, let me bludgeon you over the head with […]
The post Establish Your Music Career Platform appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. What is the trend of the day? As I write this, it’s platforms like Substack, Patreon, Medium, Twitch, Clubhouse, TikTok, and Telegram. In the future, it will be something else. That’s a guarantee. If you can’t take subtlety, let me bludgeon you over the head with […]
The post Establish Your Music Career Platform appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. The trend of the day is always alluring, and among musicians there seems to be a bias towards the new and exciting, be it Telegram, Clubhouse, Medium, TikTok, BIGO LIVE, or otherwise. True, fortune favors the bold, and some early adopters do reap the rewards, but […]
The post How to be a Guided Music Career Missile appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
When planning your music release schedule, product launch schedule (including merch), or even content schedule, is it better to focus on creating new things, or is it better to improve upon what you’ve already got? In other words, do new things engage more, or do repurposed and old things (you’ve improved in some way) engage […]
The post 276 – Something New or Something Better? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
When planning your music release schedule, product launch schedule (including merch), or even content schedule, is it better to focus on creating new things, or is it better to improve upon what you’ve already got? In other words, do new things engage more, or do repurposed and old things (you’ve improved in some way) engage […]
The post 276 – Something New or Something Better? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. The reason most musicians think opportunities are limited is because they’re all chasing the same ones. They’re too lazy to do their own homework, so they look at where everyone else is playing and hope they can get booked in the same venues. When the waiting […]
The post How to Become a Music Career Opportunity Machine appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. The reason most musicians think opportunities are limited is because they’re all chasing the same ones. They’re too lazy to do their own homework, so they look at where everyone else is playing and hope they can get booked in the same venues. When the waiting […]
The post How to Become a Music Career Opportunity Machine appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Most musicians make $50 at a gig and promptly go to celebrate at Denny’s after the fact. Ouch. That one hurt a little, even for me. Look, how you spend your money is up to you. But a Renegade Musician has a higher sense of purpose […]
The post Why You Must Reinvest in Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Most musicians make $50 at a gig and promptly go to celebrate at Denny’s after the fact. Ouch. That one hurt a little, even for me. Look, how you spend your money is up to you. But a Renegade Musician has a higher sense of purpose […]
The post Why You Must Reinvest in Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Musicians will spend thousands, even tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars on a college education (easily $10,000 to $40,000 per year), recording an album ($40,000 – $50,000 anyone?), festival entry fees, or CD replication. Yet when it comes to buying a $15 book or a […]
The post Investing in Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Musicians will spend thousands, even tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars on a college education (easily $10,000 to $40,000 per year), recording an album ($40,000 – $50,000 anyone?), festival entry fees, or CD replication. Yet when it comes to buying a $15 book or a […]
The post Investing in Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Most musicians refuse to invest in themselves. Now, don’t get me wrong. Charlatans and shills exist in every niche, and the music industry has had a long tradition of artist exploitation. You shouldn’t trust everyone you come across. If anything, your mistrust is well-earned. But in […]
The post Self-Education Habits Artists Must Embrace appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Most musicians refuse to invest in themselves. Now, don’t get me wrong. Charlatans and shills exist in every niche, and the music industry has had a long tradition of artist exploitation. You shouldn’t trust everyone you come across. If anything, your mistrust is well-earned. But in […]
The post Self-Education Habits Artists Must Embrace appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Time mastery is the very essence of the Renegade way. Most people pat themselves on the back for another “long, hard” eight-hour workday at the office where they were productive for a whole two hours and 53 minutes. Look, I know jobs are hard, and it […]
The post Time Mastery for Musicians appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Time mastery is the very essence of the Renegade way. Most people pat themselves on the back for another “long, hard” eight-hour workday at the office where they were productive for a whole two hours and 53 minutes. Look, I know jobs are hard, and it […]
The post Time Mastery for Musicians appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Being in service of your future self is a Stoic principle, but I think it’s something the Greeks and Romans got right. We shouldn’t become too preoccupied with satisfying our every whim and desire in the immediate. Accurate thinking dictates that long-term investments are not only […]
The post Do Something Daily to Grow Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Being in service of your future self is a Stoic principle, but I think it’s something the Greeks and Romans got right. We shouldn’t become too preoccupied with satisfying our every whim and desire in the immediate. Accurate thinking dictates that long-term investments are not only […]
The post Do Something Daily to Grow Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. “Dude, TikTok is blowing up. We’ve got to make something and quick!” We’ve all felt that way, regardless of the trend. Back in the day it was MySpace, Facebook, YouTube. Then came Kickstarter, Instagram, Snapchat. Now we’re seeing the explosive growth of TikTok. If you have […]
The post The Independent Music Career Cake appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. In business, two is one. eCommerce titan Ezra Firestone calls this Noah’s Ark principle. Do you have two computers? I do. I have three – a Mac Book Pro, an ASUS laptop, and a custom PC desktop machine. On the road, the two laptops come with […]
The post Why You Need 2 of Everything in Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. There’s one fundamental, inescapable truth about being an artist (and for that matter, human being) that can either uplift or plague your entire existence (that means the rest of your life) – it’s your association, the people you hang around. You are the culmination of your […]
The post Music Career Success Depends on Your Association appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. You understand that your monthly Spotify listenership is made up of real people, right? Those aren’t just numbers. Each number represents a real person with real feelings, real problems, a real life. We must remember this. The same goes for email subscribers, digital sales, Twitter followers, […]
The post Your Fans, Your Currency appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. What are you in the business of? It might seem like an odd question, but it’s important. Take a moment to think – what kinds of answers would you instinctually come up with? “I’m a performer.” “I’m an entertainer.” “I’m a songwriter.” This is all true […]
The post You Aren’t in the Business of Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. If you owned a Ford dealership, would you drive a Chevy? Of course, you wouldn’t. If you owned a Ford dealership, you’d make money when people bought Fords. So, you’d be a proud owner of a Ford and you would drive it everywhere you went. You’d […]
The post Why You Must be Your Biggest Fan appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to lead multiple marketing discussions for a community project I’m involved in. The goal was to get a sense of the team’s social media and online footprint as well as who they knew that could be a potential contact […]
The post The Story of 6 Artists appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. If you’re an intelligent musician, then you already understand well what I’m about to share. Otherwise, fair warning, you’re about to have your bubble burst. The facts and figures that follow mostly come from a 2020 Rolling Stone article and a 2022 Music Business Worldwide article, […]
The post Deconstructing the Spotify Delusion appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This guest post via Jordan Gates originally appeared on Indie Gigging. Merchandise sales make up a significant chunk of revenue for many artists. Concertgoers are willing to spend money on all kinds of apparel and novelties as keepsakes to support their favorite artists. Simply put, if you’re a touring artist and you’re not selling merch, […]
The post Tips & Tricks for Selling More Merch appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. Music Times published an interesting piece in 2014 showing that 0.2% of artists are “mega” stars, 0.9% are mainstream, 1.4% are mid-sized, 6.8% are “developing,” and 90.7% are undiscovered or unknown. 0.2 + 0.9 + 1.4 = 2.5 There’s your top 2.5%. I have been quite […]
The post Are You Part of the Top 2.5%? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. The late, great author and radio speaker Earl Nightingale said: Out of 100 people who reach retirement age at 65, four will be financially independent, one will be wealthy, and nine will be broke. Only 5% of people will ever amount to anything on a financial […]
The post Following Your Own Artistic Path appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. A Renegade Musician is a new kind of artist. That means she possesses qualities most do not. Here are the key qualities a Renegade Musician exhibits: Growth Oriented: You wouldn’t be here if you weren’t growth oriented, so give yourself a pat on the back. A […]
The post 12 Qualities of a Renegade Musician appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. The journey of a Renegade Musician begins with accurate thinking. Because most artist are not thinking accurately. Google the best way to market your music, and you’re probably going to come away thinking you need to be using social media more. Google PR, and you will […]
The post Thinking Accurately About Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post is part of The Renegade Musician Series. The starving artist stereotype has been perpetuated through the ages. We even have tortured genius archetypes like Vincent van Gogh to point to whenever it’s convenient. People wrongfully assume he lived out a tragic, penniless life – because he chose art – when in fact he […]
The post Becoming an Artist is Impractical appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The Renegade Musician is quickly shaping up to be one of my proudest works. What is The Renegade Musician? Now, obviously it’s based on the eBook I came out with a while back. But it’s quickly developing into so much more. Being the crazy person that I am, I decided to launch Elite Players: Newsletter […]
The post The Renegade Musician Series appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Social media has dramatically transformed the music industry over the years, revolutionizing how music is consumed, shared, and utilized. It has also made music more accessible and engaging than ever. A study by Musicwatch shows that nine out of 10 regular social media users actively partake in music-related activity. The data clearly indicates that musicians […]
The post 5 Band Growth Social Media Tips appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Social media has dramatically transformed the music industry over the years, revolutionizing how music is consumed, shared, and utilized. It has also made music more accessible and engaging than ever. A study by Musicwatch shows that nine out of 10 regular social media users actively partake in music-related activity. The data clearly indicates that musicians […]
The post 5 Band Growth Social Media Tips appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Is there some part of you that wants to be known, appreciated, and celebrated? Do you ever fear that your lack of fame could be affecting your opportunities in music? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David reflects on whether you need to be famous to make it in music. Download the […]
The post 275 – Do You Need to be Famous to Make it in Music? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Is there some part of you that wants to be known, appreciated, and celebrated? Do you ever fear that your lack of fame could be affecting your opportunities in music? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David reflects on whether you need to be famous to make it in music. Download the […]
The post 275 – Do You Need to be Famous to Make it in Music? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever wanted to launch your own information product? Are you looking for a better way to launch and market your eBooks, courses, or coaching programs? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares his thoughts on Robert Skrob’s Official Get Rich Guide to Information Marketing. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast […]
The post 274 – Official Get Rich Guide to Information Marketing by Robert Skrob Review appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever wanted to launch your own information product? Are you looking for a better way to launch and market your eBooks, courses, or coaching programs? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares his thoughts on Robert Skrob’s Official Get Rich Guide to Information Marketing. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast […]
The post 274 – Official Get Rich Guide to Information Marketing by Robert Skrob Review appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This guest post via Jordan Gates originally appeared on Indie Gigging. These days, artists and music industry professionals alike are putting an increasingly larger emphasis on the numbers. How many streams a track got, how many views a video got, how many social media followers you have, etc. How useful are all these stats really? […]
The post The Audience Activation Funnel appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This guest post via Jordan Gates originally appeared on Indie Gigging. These days, artists and music industry professionals alike are putting an increasingly larger emphasis on the numbers. How many streams a track got, how many views a video got, how many social media followers you have, etc. How useful are all these stats really? […]
The post The Audience Activation Funnel appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you’re new to Music Entrepreneur HQ, welcome. If you’ve been visiting for a while, then it shouldn’t be any mystery to you that we’ve got quite the robust YouTube channel already. It’s growing every single day! This news item is to let you know that we’ve put together a new channel. Don’t worry – […]
The post We Started a New YouTube Channel appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you’re new to Music Entrepreneur HQ, welcome. If you’ve been visiting for a while, then it shouldn’t be any mystery to you that we’ve got quite the robust YouTube channel already. It’s growing every single day! This news item is to let you know that we’ve put together a new channel. Don’t worry – […]
The post We Started a New YouTube Channel appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Every day, artists release new music. But there’s a big difference between the artists who get traction out the gate and those who don’t. It’s because the 5% who succeed are doing something different. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares what that “something different” is. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast […]
The post 273 – Stop Doing This if You Want to Launch Strong appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Every day, artists release new music. But there’s a big difference between the artists who get traction out the gate and those who don’t. It’s because the 5% who succeed are doing something different. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, David shares what that “something different” is. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast […]
The post 273 – Stop Doing This if You Want to Launch Strong appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Frank Zappa once said that without deviation from the norm, progress is not possible. Think about what a musician of your father’s age would’ve had to do to get a record contract, or even get noticed. Hours of open mic nights at the bar or even busking in the streets. It wasn’t easy. But thankfully, […]
The post Are You Overlooking the Simplest Ways to Grow Your Audience as a Musician? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Frank Zappa once said that without deviation from the norm, progress is not possible. Think about what a musician of your father’s age would’ve had to do to get a record contract, or even get noticed. Hours of open mic nights at the bar or even busking in the streets. It wasn’t easy. But thankfully, […]
The post Are You Overlooking the Simplest Ways to Grow Your Audience as a Musician? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The key to improving at any instrument (or really anything) is practice – but we as guitarists often devote more time to looking at pictures of cool guitars and arguing over pedals when we should be busy woodshedding. According to Brian at KillerGuitarRigs.com: Nothing is more motivating for a good practice lesson than setting a […]
The post 5 Unique Ways to Get More Out of Guitar Practice appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The key to improving at any instrument (or really anything) is practice – but we as guitarists often devote more time to looking at pictures of cool guitars and arguing over pedals when we should be busy woodshedding. According to Brian at KillerGuitarRigs.com: Nothing is more motivating for a good practice lesson than setting a […]
The post 5 Unique Ways to Get More Out of Guitar Practice appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Hey, music entrepreneur! With Music Entrepreneur HQ remaining in a holding pattern (for the better part of two months), we’re about due for an update, aren’t we? On our end, time spent in reflection has been productive and even eye opening. Plus, we’ve been making massive progress with forthcoming developments. We hope you haven’t missed […]
The post Essential Update for Summer 2022 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Hey, music entrepreneur! With Music Entrepreneur HQ remaining in a holding pattern (for the better part of two months), we’re about due for an update, aren’t we? On our end, time spent in reflection has been productive and even eye opening. Plus, we’ve been making massive progress with forthcoming developments. We hope you haven’t missed […]
The post Essential Update for Summer 2022 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It might seem daunting to start work as an independent musician and to create an independent music business plan, but flying solo might be just the opportunity you need. BBC Music Correspondent Mark Savage points out that this may even be the best path towards success, since self-releasing artists grew their revenues by 27% in […]
The post How to Develop an Independent Musician Business Plan appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It might seem daunting to start work as an independent musician and to create an independent music business plan, but flying solo might be just the opportunity you need. BBC Music Correspondent Mark Savage points out that this may even be the best path towards success, since self-releasing artists grew their revenues by 27% in […]
The post How to Develop an Independent Musician Business Plan appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Is your lifelong dream to become one of the most famous music celebrities in the world? Does the idea of performing on stage in front of huge crowds, collaborating with other artists, and writing music appeal to you? The path toward becoming a music celebrity isn’t easy, but some strategies can help expedite the process […]
The post How to Become a Music Celebrity in 7 Steps appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How important is it to be prolific as a modern artist? What difference can that make for your music career? We recently caught up with Icelandic singer-songwriter Eyvindur Karlsson to share about his experience. 1. Who are you and what do you do? My name is Eyvindur Karlsson (easy Icelandic name for you to learn) […]
The post Eyvindur Karlsson Shares Why You Need to Write Songs Faster appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If there’s one thing we can count on, it’s the evolution of technology. This is no exception for the modern studio. We recently caught up with Alex Solano of Alex Pro Mix to have him share about his progression as a producer and to talk about Dolby Atmos mixing. 1. Who are you and what […]
The post Alex Solano of Alex Pro Mix Shares About Dolby Atmos Mixing appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever sat down to work out all the ways you could possibly make money with music? I have, and I was surprised at the sheer number of ways I came up with. If you’re new to the music business, then it’s not your fault that you don’t know all the secrets yet. So, […]
The post How Music Makes Money appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
With the pandemic waning, many musicians, pro and independent alike, are starting to get back out there to share their music with the world. Having survived these treacherous times, what can gigging musicians do to ensure they are successful with their ongoing live performance efforts? “Where Can I Perform Music?” This is the first question […]
The post How to be a Successful Gigging Musician appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Your music marketing efforts might be on track already. But are there things you could do to expand your fan base and earn a greater income faster? Of course there are! Your music marketing could always be better. Here are seven ways to improve your marketing as a musician. 1. Review & Iterate on Your […]
The post 7 Ways to Improve Your Marketing as a Musician appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
When I started blogging on my artist website in the mid-2000s, I never would have anticipated that I would get to the point of publishing six books and becoming a best-selling author. Since then, I’ve gotten to help artists in some unique ways, taking advantage of my writing and copywriting skills to help them have […]
The post 10 Reasons You Should Learn to Write as a Musician appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What is the most effective but underrated online strategy for creating results in your music career? How can you use it to grow your fan base, get your gig on, and earn an income from your passion? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download […]
The post 272 – Spiderweb Marketing Essentials for Musicians appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you a frustrated musician? It’s been my experience that musicians get frustrated for a variety of reasons – record contracts gone sideways, unreliable band members, stagnant career growth, even popular music can sometimes drive musicians nuts. But despite all the frustration, pursuing your passion is worthwhile. You are wanted. Your music does matter. So, […]
The post Are You a Frustrated Musician? This Guide’s for You appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Russell Brunson is the purveyor of sales funnels and the funnel hacker community. His book, Expert Secrets, is the second in his Secrets trilogy. But is the book any good? What can you expect to learn inside? In this video, David offers up a book summary, several pros and cons to the book, as well […]
The post Expert Secrets – Russell Brunson Review appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Growing a Facebook page is tougher than ever. If you’re starting from scratch, and have no time, energy, or resource, you’re going to end up between a rock and a hard place. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t any hope. In this video, David shares how he and his collaborators were able to grow a […]
The post How to Get 1,500+ Likes for Your Facebook Page appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
So, the ability to get your music out to dozens of destinations using music distribution services is awesome. But what if you want to sell your music and merch through other platforms and earn a greater income? What eCommerce solutions can musicians take advantage of? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this […]
The post 271 – 5 eCommerce Solutions for Musicians appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Hey, and welcome to another podcast digest! Here we’re going to look back on the five new episodes (count them – five) that came out in April. If you didn’t catch all these yet, have a look, and tune into the episodes that interest you most. Here’s your April summary for The New Music Industry […]
The post Podcast Digest: April 2022 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you looking to grow your email list and attract your 1,000 true fans? What if you could grow your email list well beyond 1,000 subscribers? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:26 – 1,000 true fans 01:18 […]
The post 270 – How We’ve Collected Over 5,000 Emails appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
David recently got back into online dating wondering if there’s something he’d missed out on last time. And he certainly got more than he bargained for. In this video, David shares how he got roped into starting a Coinbase Wallet and was sent to a suspicious looking website to activate an Ethereum mining pool. Here’s […]
The post Coinbase Wallet Ethereum Mining Pool Scam appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Contrary to popular belief, Twitter is still an excellent place to grow a following. The problem? Even the best strategies and tactics tend only to work gradually at best. So, what’s the key to Twitter growth in 2022? In this video, David shares his best tips for increasing your following and boosting your engagement. Video […]
The post The Only Way to Grow on Twitter in 2022 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Is it time to embrace Web3 as a musician? What steps should you take if you’re interested in making a go of it as an independent artist? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:27 – Web3 is here […]
The post 269 – 5 Steps to Web3 Success for Independent Musicians appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Punk rock. The opening notes of “TRAP” rip through the speakers and punch you in the face. No concern whatsoever for the trendy or the chart topping. No need. We speedily rewind to a time when the internet was still nonexistent or at most a dialup hassle, and cell phones weren’t small or smart. Desperate […]
The post Jody Lubin – Future Religions Review appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Do you know what your brand message is? Do you know what difference you’re out to make in the world with your music? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:25 – Tara Divina’s awakening 02:48 – Why Tara […]
The post 268 – Uncover Your Core Message – with Tara Divina appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival Is one of the world’s great music festivals, and the perfect venue for up-and-coming artists to rapidly build their reputations and gain a following. Since 1999, it has been the go-to for music fans who want to see their favorite artists play live, and over more than two […]
The post Beyond Flyers: Startups Give DJs a Way to Stand Out from the Crowd @ Coachella appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
David has often said that Amazon Associates is the best place for new affiliates to get started, and therefore a very accessible way for musicians to get up and running as an affiliate as well. Is that still the case? In this video, David shares an update on the Amazon Associates affiliate program. Transcription: It’s […]
The post Is Amazon Associates Still Worth it for Musicians? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
David recently attended a networking event for podcast hosts. Participants were asked several questions and encouraged to weigh in. One such question was: “what’s your top tip for podcast hosts?” In this video, David shares his top tip for anyone looking to host their own interview style show. Transcription: I was on a podcast networking […]
The post What’s Your #1 Tip for Podcast Hosts? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Do you wish you could be a spectacular failure in the music business? Are you looking for the step-by-step process that will make you an embarrassing disgrace to yourself, your family, and the world? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF Transcription […]
The post 267 – 10 Ways to Fail as an Independent Artist appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Whoa! What a ride it’s been. We’re back with a set of blockbuster episodes for The New Music Industry Podcast, and these were especially fun to put together for you. Here’s a summary and overview for each. Whenever you’re ready, dive right in. 263 – 5 Types of Clients to Avoid in Music Blog | […]
The post Podcast Digest: March 2022 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How do you achieve independent music success on your own terms? What music distribution service should you choose, and what are the nuances you should be aware of in selecting a partner? All this and more in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast Highlights: 01:11 – Catching up […]
The post 266 – The 5 Layers of Independent Music Success appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you still promoting your music on Facebook? That’s not necessarily a bad thing. The challenge is that algorithms are constantly changing, and what used to work doesn’t work anymore. Are Facebook pages dead? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF Transcription […]
The post 265 – Facebook Pages Are Dead appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The world of music distribution can seem like a complex one, especially for new artists… Why do music distributors exist? What is their purpose? Why do you need them? There are countless questions that can lead to decision paralysis and stop you from taking the next steps in your music career. Which is why we […]
The post Navigating the Music Distribution Minefield in 2022 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The Music Entrepreneur Code – 2022 Edition features an all-new introduction, along with plenty of new tools, resources, and up-to-date strategies and mental models to help you grow and impact a fan base and make a living from your passion. The hardcover edition of the book just came out, so to commemorate this occasion, David […]
The post 264 – The Music Entrepreneur Code – 2022 Edition Overview appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If any part of what you do in music depends on you working with clients, then it’s important to know which types of clients to pursue, as well as which types to avoid. After all, your survival depends on your ability to bring in an income, and nothing can affect your ability to create an […]
The post 263 – 5 Types of Clients to Avoid in Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
About a year and a half ago, I launched Content Marketing Musician. Content Marketing Musician is home to books, courses, and coaching programs for independent musicians looking to level up their music careers. But it wasn’t created randomly or in a vacuum. So, here’s the story and intention behind its creation and ongoing development. Challenges […]
The post What is Content Marketing Musician? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
My mentors always said to me: You’ve got to plan your work and work your plan. It’s a rare person who does this. Because many people, often without even realizing, say one thing and do the other. Integrity and leadership begins with self. No one is going to master your schedule for you. You’ve got […]
The post Making Your Artistic Ambitions a Reality in 2022 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
As 2021 bleeds into 2022, I realized it was that time again – time to dust off the digital shelf, scan the titles that inspired me this past year, and share my thoughts on the books that enriched my life and have the potential to move you, too. I am a champion of artists, after […]
The post 5 Books I Read in 2021 That Made a Difference appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
2021 was an especially prolific year for us in terms of new content. August was the quietest month of all, but even then, we still published three new podcast episodes. We spent considerably less time on guest contributors and more time on producing in-house content. And we mixed things up, too, with blog posts, podcast […]
The post Top 10 Music Entrepreneur HQ Posts of 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
New year is the glittering light to brighten the dream-lined pathway of future. – Munia Khan And the dream-lined pathway of the future, as I see it, is paved with your holiday reflections. What follows are the gold nuggets I picked up as I was engaging in my own thinking and reflection time. 1. Do […]
The post 15 Holiday Reflections to Ring in 2022 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Whoa! Talk about blockbuster months! January graced us with yet another series of great guests and discussions, exclusively available on The New Music Industry Podcast. Here’s your summary. Whenever you’re ready… 259 – Growth – with Robonzo of The Unstarving Musician Blog | Apple Podcasts | YouTube In this episode, return guest Robonzo shares about […]
The post Podcast Digest: January 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Maybe you’ve heard me talk about 10XPro. Perhaps you heard about it on a podcast somewhere. Or maybe you’re just curious as to what all the hype is about. 10XPro is a comprehensive funnel builder, online course platform, and membership site solution with an extensive integrated feature set (requiring no other plugins), efficiency, and value-adds […]
The post 10XPro Review – Funnel Builder, Online Courses, Membership Site Solution appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What did Marty Friedman recently say on ROCK FUJIYAMA that caught my attention? What’s Wolf’s philosophy on achieving success in the new music industry? All this and more on the latest iteration of the monthly, 2022 Edition of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:32 – David and Wolf share what’s new in their […]
The post 262 – “All Successful Rock Musicians Are Business Minded” appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
So, what exactly is going on with Music Entrepreneur HQ and The New Music Industry Podcast in 2022? Will it be business as usual, or are there changes to come? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:32 – David addresses what’s been going […]
The post 261 – Finally Revealed… Our Plans for Music Entrepreneur HQ in 2022 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you looking for licensing and placement opportunities? How is multimedia changing, and how does that impact your outlook as an artist? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:31 – What is Artlist and what makes it unique? […]
The post 260 – The Future of Music & Multimedia – with Ori Winokur of Artlist appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What would it look like to start a new podcast? How do you market your music effectively? What are the most important tools you could be taking advantage of in 2022? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:35 – Robonzo returns 01:46 […]
The post 259 – Growth – with Robonzo of The Unstarving Musician appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
“Whoa! There’s WAY more here than I even expected…” In December, I went to work on updating my musical history. And as I was combing through the archives, collating, and organizing performance, release, and other significant dates in my career, I started noticing patterns. And I could see that observing these earlier in my career […]
The post 7 Things I Learned Reflecting on 19 Years of Performance appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It’s time to get caught up with all the latest episodes from The New Music Industry Podcast. What did I get up to in December 2021? All kinds of no good! (And I mean that in a good way… 😂) Here’s your episode summary. Dive in when you’re ready. 256 – YouTube & Content Marketing […]
The post Podcast Digest: December 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What can you expect from the 2022 Edition of The Music Entrepreneur Code? What’s different about this version versus the last? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:26 – The big reveal: The Music Entrepreneur Code – 2022 Edition 01:01 – What […]
The post 258 – The Music Entrepreneur Code – 2022 Edition Preview appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The latest edition of The Music Entrepreneur Code is now available. But you might be wondering what has changed with the new 2022 edition. In this video, David opens the metaphorical kimono to reveal the author’s review copy of The Music Entrepreneur Code – 2022 Edition paperback that the public will never hold in their […]
The post The Music Entrepreneur Code – 2022 Edition: First Look appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
There are many forms of pain, whether physical or emotional. What if there were tools and products that could help you live pain-free? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:29 – Amos Bracewell makes his return to the podcast! 01:36 – What […]
The post 257 – Living Pain-Free in Music & Life – with Amos Bracewell of Knockout Originals appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Last year, David’s fifth book, The Music Entrepreneur Code became a best-seller and was well-received by musicians, entrepreneurs, and freelancers alike. In our ongoing efforts to help you on your musical journey, we wanted to put together a brand-new edition with more personal stories, more data and insights, more opportunities, and more ninja (find out […]
The post Now Available: The Music Entrepreneur Code – 2022 Edition appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How do you establish a successful music business online and off? How do you create a popular YouTube channel, and market your music or your enterprise successfully? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF cheat sheet Podcast Highlights: 00:29 – Matt Ramsey […]
The post 256 – YouTube & Content Marketing Secrets – with Matt Ramsey of Ramsey Voice Studio appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Welcome to the December Hustle! This is where we share projects we’re working on, initiatives to help you in your music career, the outcome of our experiments, how our humanitarian efforts are shaping up, interesting content we’ve found, and more. I anticipate that December will be a very different month than November, especially as I […]
The post Monthly Hustle: December 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Did you catch all The New Music Industry Podcast episodes in November? If not, I’ve prepared a summary of each. Here’s what I shared in each episode, what I learned, and where you can go to listen and subscribe to the show. So, let’s get to our rundown. 252 – Two Steps Forward, One Step […]
The post Podcast Digest: November 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What does it feel like to compose an award-winning score for a short film? What goes into a project like that? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:25 – The story behind David’s award-winning compositions 01:56 – The Long, Lonely Walk 03:00 […]
The post 255 – The Nobody Prayer (Original Soundtrack) appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How do you run an independent record label? How do you set yourself and your artists up for success long-term? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:24 – Nick Sadler is back! 00:54 – Nick’s new book 08:57 – Artist contracts and […]
The post 254 – The Label Machine – with Nick Sadler of NSDMT appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The Sennheiser Evolution Wireless Digital is all the rage right now. I was personally sent a unit a few months ago and was eager to give it a whirl. Amazingly, I realized I’d never played guitar with a wireless setup prior to this. I’ve used wireless mics, especially as a former audiovisual tech, but never […]
The post Sennheiser Evolution Wireless Digital Instrument Set Review appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The Monthly Hustle is where I document the activity that unfolds over the course of a month. Many of these topics will be discussed in a future podcast episode – the outcome of our experiments, how our humanitarian efforts are coming along, projects we’re working on, initiatives to help you in your music career, interesting […]
The post Monthly Hustle: November 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Do you have an email list? Are you actively building it? Is your email list continually growing, are you building your community, and is your customer experience as good as it could be? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast.
The post 253 – What I’m Discovering Newly About Growing Your Email List appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
“Don’t Think About It (Tequila Sunrise)” represents a unique collaboration between Vancouver based producer Timmy “Boom Bap” Proznick and R&B singer Tiago Vasquez. Together with co-writer MXD MSSG, they set out to work on a fun, one-of-a-kind tune about summer love, putting their various influences and approaches into a blender to create a tasty medley. […]
The post The Blazing Eraz ft. Tiago Vasquez – “Don’t Think About It (Tequila Sunrise)” Review appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Photo by Jordan Humphreys, Open Aperture Photography A wah-drenched electric guitar, traveling bass, and stereo vocals (raw on the left, delayed on the right) opens MXD MSSG’s “How Can I Lose?,” a new single about lost love, and how we try to overcome the pain of it by shrugging it off. “It was never going […]
The post MXD MSSG – “How Can I Lose?” Review appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Looking to grow your social media following? Want to give your streams a boost? It’s fair to say that most career minded artists are in pursuit of exactly that. What if I told you that you could grow your social media following to over 5,000 and your streaming count to over 15,000 in seven months […]
The post Sarah Tolle Shares How She Grew Her Social Media Following to Over 5,000 & Got 15,000 Streams in Just 7 Months appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Here’s what we added to Elite Players: All Access Pass this week Another powerful members only audio has been added – this one features podcast guest Nick Sadler The Waiting List is the Best Place to be if You’re Interested Hey, I know Elite Players: All Access Pass isn’t for everyone. We’re all adults here, […]
The post Elite Players: All Access Pass Update – November 5, 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever suffered a crushing, embarrassing, infuriating defeat in your music career? Look, you wouldn’t be the only one. It would be quite unusual for a musician or music entrepreneur to go their entire career without encountering some serious hardship. I’ve been there myself. But when do you give up and move on? Most […]
The post 252 – Two Steps Forward, One Step Back – with Miles Copeland appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Did you catch all The New Music Industry Podcast episodes in October? If not, here’s a quick summary of each, what I shared or discovered in each episode, and where you can go to listen and subscribe to the show. Here’s a rundown of our October podcast episodes! 248 – Get Your Music Distributed & […]
The post Podcast Digest: October 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Every marketer says you’re supposed to define your target audience. Make up some names, find some stock photos online, paste them onto a board along with everything you know about your prospective fans. Have you ever had a disconnect with this process? Were you stopped at any stage of developing your customer avatar? That’s what […]
The post 251 – What I’m Discovering Newly About Defining Your Target Audience appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you aren’t already an Elite Players: All Access Pass member, here’s what you missed out on this week: Another powerful members only audio has been added Join the Waiting List for Elite Players: All Access Pass to Know When You Can Apply Elite Players: All Access Pass is our premium online academy for musicians […]
The post Elite Players: All Access Pass Update – October 29, 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
David was sent a pair of these headphones – the Status Audio CB-1 Closed Back Studio Monitor Headphones a couple of years ago on The New Music Industry Show (Facebook live stream). Yep. We’re just getting around to editing and sharing this video with you now. David is quite sanguine about these headphones. In fact, […]
The post Status Audio CB-1 Closed Back Studio Monitor Headphones Review appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you aren’t already an Elite Players: All Access Pass member, here’s what you missed out on this week: Another powerful members only audio has been added Get on the Waiting List for Elite Players: All Access Pass to Know When You Can Apply Elite Players: All Access Pass is our premium online academy for […]
The post Elite Players: All Access Pass Update – October 22, 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What happens when all your plans fall apart because of circumstances unfolding in the world? What do you do next? What could you do? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:28 – Introducing Brendan Jeannetti of Music You’re Missing 00:58 – Why […]
The post 250 – Launching a Podcast in Pandemic Times – with Brendan Jeannetti of Music You’re Missing appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
A couple of years ago, David was sent a Roadie 2 Automatic Guitar Tuner and reviewed it on The New Music Industry Show (live on Facebook, separate from the podcast). Yes, it has taken us that long to get around to editing and sharing this video with you. We want to thank Band Industries for […]
The post Roadie 2 Automatic Guitar Tuner Review appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you aren’t already an Elite Players: All Access Pass member, here’s what you missed out on this week: Another powerful members only audio has been added Two interviews were added to Music Licensing School Stay tuned for more updates next week! Get on the Waiting List for Elite Players: All Access Pass Elite Players: […]
The post Elite Players: All Access Pass Update – October 15, 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How much reading do you do as a musician? If you’ve been a longtime listener of The New Music Industry Podcast, I suspect you’ve already adopted the learning habit. And if you have, I have no doubt you’re getting a lot of value out of it. But are you making the most of every book […]
The post 249 – How to Make the Most of Every Book You Read appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What if you could secure, distribute, and promote your music all from one, convenient place? What if you could spend more of your time doing what you love to do as a creator? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:35 – TuneGO […]
The post 248 – Get Your Music Distributed & Tap into More Revenue Streams – with John Kohl of TuneGO appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Here’s what Elite Players: All Access Pass members got to engage with this week: Another juicy members only audio has been added 10 tools and resources have been added A video thumbnail was added to The Code Breaker Course As promised, there will be more updates next week! If You Aren’t an Elite Players: All […]
The post Elite Players: All Access Pass Update – October 8, 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you aren’t already an Elite Players: All Access Pass member, here’s what you missed out on this week: A juicy, new members only audio was added to the Members Only Audios module More updates to come next week (as promised)! If You Aren’t an Elite Players: All Access Pass Member, You’re Missing Out Elite […]
The post Elite Players: All Access Pass Update – October 1, 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Creating an income in music isn’t that hard. But growing and scaling that income can be. And it’s easy to get stuck in a rut, not knowing what changes or tweaks to make to cause a breakthrough. What’s the number one thing getting in the way of creating an income in music? That’s what we’re […]
The post 247 – The #1 Thing Getting in the Way of Creating an Income in Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you aren’t already an Elite Players: All Access Pass member, here’s what you missed out on this week: Updated The Renegade Musician module and changed “eBundle” to “System” (The Renegade Musician System will continue to be developed) Added three products to the Archived Training module Added a new, juicy Members Only Audio More updates […]
The post Elite Players: All Access Pass Update – September 24, 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What have you learned this past year? How are you applying it to your music career? What difference is it making for you? Have you gotten any breakthrough results? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:29 – Let’s talk about The Music […]
The post 246 – How to Apply What You’ve Learned & Get Results in Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How do you stay top of mind with your following? How do you continue to grow your fan base, even as you’re trying to stay connected with your existing fans? There are many ways to reach your fans and convert new ones. But there tends to be a clear demarcation between what works and what […]
The post Wolf (The Original Creative) Shares Why Digital Advertising is Critical for Artists Frustrated with Organic Reach appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you aren’t already an Elite Players: All Access Pass member, here’s what you missed out on this week: We added an Archived Training module where we’ll be adding legacy and deprecated trainings Another juicy, members only audio on video distribution was added to the Members Only Audio module More updates to come next week […]
The post Elite Players: All Access Pass Update – September 17, 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you struggling to get people to check out your content? Do you feel like no matter what you do, you just can’t seem to build up your following? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:31 – The content hustle and organic […]
The post 245 – Is Organic Reach Dead? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you ever need to convince someone that you can play fusion jazz, just play this! 🤣 In this video, David demonstrates how he would “fake” playing fusion jazz.
The post What? Fusion Jazz? Of Course I Play Fusion Jazz! [GUITAR SHORT] appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Money comes in. Money goes out. Somehow, though, this all seems to happen automatically, without any input from you. Money likes to circulate. Once you understand this, you can begin circulating it intentionally, such that you benefit from the actions you take. In this guide, David shows you how to ensure your money gets distributed […]
The post How to Circulate Your Money Intentionally appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Whoa! Didn’t see you there. What’s going on? In this video, David demonstrates what you might find a noodling guitarist playing when no one’s looking (some whammy bar nonsense).
The post Oops! The Camera’s Rolling? [GUITAR SHORT] appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you aren’t already an Elite Players: All Access Pass member, here’s what you missed out on this week: We added a Music Licensing School module to help you have breakthroughs in sync licensing and placements and two interviews were added! Another juicy, new member only audio was added to the Members Only Audios module […]
The post Elite Players: All Access Pass Update – September 10, 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
David has a wicked sense of humor – it’s just that he doesn’t always show it! It started coming out a bit in a recent podcast episode… But in this video (a guitar short/meme), you’ll see his sense of humor on fully display, as he demonstrates what he would play for you if you asked […]
The post When Someone Yells “Play Me Anything!” [GUITAR SHORT] appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Meditation is powerful. Not just for relaxation, which is critical in the hustle and grind culture of the music business, but also for your health, your well-being, and even for your transformation. In this video, David guides you through a meditation that will leave you feeling like a new person.
The post 15 Minute Guided Meditation for Transformation appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you looking to earn an income in music? Do you keep tripping over obstacles on the way to getting what you want out of your career? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:29 – The “Free Money Course” 01:25 – Tackling […]
The post 244 – 3 Things You Need to Let Go of if You Want to Earn an Income in Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Perfectionism can hold you back. It can leave you feeling disempowered, unable to cause breakthroughs in your creative efforts and your music career. It can stifle you at every step, have you questioning yourself and your abilities, making choices that aren’t in complete alignment with your goals and the impact you’re capable of making in […]
The post Understanding & Overcoming Perfectionism as an Artist appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you aren’t already an Elite Players: All Access Pass member, here’s what you missed out on this week: We added a Start Here module to help new members navigate the online academy Two juicy new members only audios were added to the Members Only Audios module, including some insider tips from Justin Longo not […]
The post Elite Players: All Access Pass Update – September 3, 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you tired of going broke as an artist? Do you keep running out of funds to be able to do the things you want to do in your music career? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:18 – Today’s guest is […]
The post 243 – How to Fund Your Music Career – with Justin Longo of MariNationMusic appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
I recently had the opportunity to catch up with Justin Longo of MariNationMusic. And as someone who is coming up with various financial frameworks for artists and thinks money should never be a taboo subject, what MariNation is doing for artists intrigued me. I just had to know how their solution worked, and what it […]
The post Justin Longo of MariNationMusic Shares How You Can Grow Your Music Career Without Having to Worry About Money appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you actively making new connections to grow your music career? Have you made it a point to attend conferences and events to build your rolodex? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: Coming soon. Transcription: Coming soon. Closing Segment We just launched […]
The post 242 – Going to Conferences to Grow Your Music Career – with Darryl Hurs of Indie Week appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What does success mean to you as an artist? How should you go about setting your goals? How can you define your own version of music career success? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: Coming soon. Transcription: Coming soon. Closing Segment We […]
The post 241 – Define Your Version of Music Career Success – with President of CD Baby Joel Andrew appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What do you want out of your music career? Do you find yourself dreaming about things you don’t have and wonder if you’ll ever get them? Do you have a plan for getting what you want out of music? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry […]
The post 240 – Manifest Your Music Career Dreams – with Amos Bracewell appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
You may have noticed that I’ve been publishing fewer podcast episodes as of late. So, what’s been going on in my world? What’s been happening? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:31 – David’s unspoken promise 02:27 – David’s June break 03:12 […]
The post 239 – Podcast Update with David Andrew Wiebe appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
One of the biggest learning experiences music producers can have is working with a vocalist! It can be challenging, exciting, nerve-wrecking, confusing, and most importantly… career changing! It can seem a little scary going into it for the first time, or even after a dozen times, because you never really know what you’re going to […]
The post Music Production: 7 Essential Tips for Recording with Vocalists appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Los Angeles has been a cornerstone for rock and roll for as long as it has been around. The city helped artists shape their dreams into songs for decades and now it’s your turn to make history. We’ve put this piece together to help you find the way to squeeze the sweet inspiration out of […]
The post Writing Rock Music In LA: A Guide appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you wondering how you can be happy, healthy, and successful in the fast-paced, high-stress, non-stop nature of the music industry? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:22 – Ariane Paras from Olympia Coaching 00:34 – What led Ariane to the point […]
The post 238 – Happy, Healthy, and Successful in Music – with Ariane Paras of Olympia Coaching appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
There is no easy route to getting your music noticed, and any company that is selling a foolproof way to get 10k streams is probably selling snake oil. The music industry is fluid and ever-changing; what was in yesterday is out today, and it takes so much more than an awesome EP or album to […]
The post The Ultimate Guide to Music Marketing appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How does the influx of streaming apps affect artist and composer rights? What are NFTs and what can they do for your music career? All this and more in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:39 – How did Steven’s passion for music develop? 01:57 – How Steven realized he wasn’t […]
The post 237 – Music Streaming, Copyright & NFTs – with Steven Gagliano appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you a solo artist? Are you trying to figure out how to achieve success on your own terms in the music industry? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:25 – Finding your path to independent success as a solo artist 01:24 […]
The post 236 – How to Find Your Path to Success as a Solo Artist appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How have things changed for musicians in the last 12 months? How can musicians utilize social media and digital marketing powerfully to create success in today’s world climate? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. In this episode: 00:32 – Gaki Music podcast interview 01:41 […]
The post 235 – How to Find Your Path to Digital Marketing Success as an Independent Artist appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
234 – The Renegade Musician eBook Review Why was The Renegade Musician eBook written? Why was it a crucial addition to our product portfolio at Music Entrepreneur HQ? Why did I write it, and who is it for? All this and more in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:28 – […]
The post 234 – The Renegade Musician eBook Review appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
So, you’re recording a new album. Or maybe you’re a budding sound engineer. The recording process can be a little confusing, especially if you’re new to it. Two terms that are bound to come up as your project is nearly reaching completion are “mixing” and “mastering.” But how are these different? Does your project need […]
The post Mixing & Mastering – What’s the Difference? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What can you expect to find inside The Renegade Musician? How can it help you on your music career journey? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:26 – The Renegade Musician, a “harsh truth” eBook 01:02 – Chapter 1: Music business 01:19 […]
The post 233 – The Renegade Musician eBook Overview appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How do you access empowerment as an artist? How do you create and claim the opportunity that’s already yours? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:25 – The Renegade Musician bundle 01:24 – The starving artist stereotype 02:41 – The value of […]
The post 232 – The Renegade Musician eBook Preview appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Would you like to get your music streamed millions of times on Spotify? What if there was a proven step-by-step process you could follow to achieve that goal? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:25 – Owner of Fame Hackers Isabella Bedoya […]
The post 231 – How to Get Millions of Streams on Spotify – with Isabella Bedoya of Fame Hackers appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you a part-time musician? Then you’ve probably asked yourself: “What should I be focused on?” And… “Is it even possible to achieve success if I can’t dedicate all my time and effort to my music?” You might even be thinking to yourself, “should I even bother trying if I can’t do it full-time?” At […]
The post How to Succeed as a Part-Time Musician appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Insanity is doing the same thing expecting different results. Most artists are doing the same thing expecting different results. Isn’t it time to separate yourself from the pack? In this video, David shares about his latest eBook, The Renegade Musician, and what you can expect on the inside. Video Highlights: 00:00 – Brand new eBook […]
The post The Renegade Musician Preview appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you know me, you know that I’ve valued transparency over the years. In the past, even if something didn’t exactly make me look like an authority, I published it anyway. In a world of perfectly manicured social media profiles and shiny looking live streaming personalities, it’s easy to forget that everyone has challenges. Name […]
The post My Monthly Income Reports [Resource Guide] appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
In uncertain times, it’s easy to get caught up in doing a lot of fancy, new things that might not yield results. But sometimes, the best thing you can do is get back to the basics. That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: […]
The post 230 – Getting Back to the Basics appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What did we learn in the series on what to do with your music in 2021? What new opportunities did we discover? And most importantly, what actions will you we be taking as result? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:31 – […]
The post 229 – What to do with Your Music in 2021 Part 5 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The dream is to make it in music, right? You were just picking up momentum with your music career when a giant dump truck named COVID-19 came barreling in and rearranged not only your life, but everyone else’s too. Many of us have had to look beyond our dreams of tours and fans and crowds […]
The post 11 Ways Musicians Can Earn During Lockdowns appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Each year, we look back on the year past and the content we’ve published. What stood out? What topics interested you most? What made an impression on you? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 0:28 – The simple joys of creating 0:40 […]
The post 228 – Top 10 Music Entrepreneur HQ Posts of 2020 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How do you take care of your health and fitness as a musician? How do you make sure you’re always performing at your best? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:23 – Health and fitness expert Yannick Tinguely 04:21 – Injuries you […]
The post 227 – How to Take Care of Yourself & Perform at Your Best – with Yannick Tinguely appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Trying to figure out how to nurture your fan base? Looking for music business models that work better than Spotify algorithm exploits? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:26 – What to do with your music in 2021 summary 00:49 – Interview […]
The post 226 – What to do with Your Music in 2021 Part 4 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you feeling frustrated, discouraged, sad, or depressed? Maybe it’s time for a little inspiration. In this video, David unveils the release of our new digital magazine The Renegade Musician. Enjoy! Video Highlights: 00:00 – How are you doing? 00:09 – David’s recovery 00:33 – David’s return to kickboxing 00:50 – New digital magazine 01:21 […]
The post The Renegade Musician Issue #1 is Here! appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Over the years, people have asked me: “David, why don’t you have a magazine?” “You’re such a good writer, do you have a magazine?” “Why do I feel like you should have a magazine…?” Well, their wish (and my wish) is about to come true. Over the weekend, I put together the March issue of […]
The post The Renegade Musician Issue #1 is Coming Soon… appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How do you collect and act on the right data and insights to grow your music career? How can you start earning cryptocurrency as a musician? How do you grow your list, stay connected to your fans, and boost engagement? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music […]
The post 225 – What to do with Your Music in 2021 Part 3 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
You’ve seen those big, sexy claims in articles and on YouTube, haven’t you? This is how I earn $3,000 per month from my music. She makes $50,000 per month selling on Amazon. My affiliate business made six-figures last year. So, you end up being lured in by the sexiness of the promise. Let’s face it […]
The post How Shiny Object Syndrome is Ruining Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It’s time for another most excellent life update. And we’re doing a bit of catching up here, because it’s already February as I’m typing this up! You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing that we call ‘failure’ is not the falling down, but the staying down. – Mary Pickford […]
The post Life Update: December 2020 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Do you make beats and instrumentals? Are you a mixing and mastering engineer looking for clients? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 0:25 – Your questions answered 0:48 – Marketing your beats, instrumentals, mixing and mastering services online 4:43 – Approaching new […]
The post 224 – Your Questions Answered Part 2 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
“Productivity” feels like such a technical term… Especially when we’re talking about something as creative as music. We could just as easily say “getting more done in less time” or “making the best use of our time.” But that still feels a little aimless to me. If the goal is to “get a lot done” […]
The post Productivity in Music – Does it Matter? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What we are experiencing right now in the music industry is unprecedented. Because what we’re experiencing in the world is also unprecedented. We could be days, weeks, months, or even years away from live performances happening on a larger scale. No one knows for sure! So, a good question to ask yourself right now is… […]
The post Will You Come Out Better or Worse off? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Yes! Content Marketing Musician is owned by Red Flame / Music Entrepreneur HQ / David Andrew Wiebe. It’s our new all-in-one platform that hosts our courses and other products. Because it does virtually everything, we are also looking to the possibility of launching our community, live Q&As, and membership on Content Marketing Musician in the […]
The post Is Content Marketing Musician Owned by Music Entrepreneur HQ? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Over the course of the last couple of weeks, you’ve had the chance to learn about a new opportunity. And you should be starting to get a better sense of what’s available. Not just what’s available in terms of a product… That doesn’t amount to much. I don’t want laundry detergent. I need it because […]
The post Initiate the Transformation appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What’s the right way to look at building a music career? How do you make sure that you create long-term results for yourself? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:26 – Exciting new course (now available) 00:53 – […]
The post 223 – Entrepreneurial Essentials for Musicians Masterclass Preview appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
I can still recall the moment I realized everything I was learning in business could be applied to my music career. Of all things, it was at a network marketing conference. Say what you will about the business model, but their training material is often BOSS. And because I devoured it, I picked up the […]
The post That All-Important “Aha” Moment appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Let’s review the facts… Last week, I launched the Entrepreneurial Essentials for Musicians Masterclass. Until then, this masterclass was only available inside the Musical U community. A couple of years ago, they asked me to share this masterclass with their live audience. They recorded the content and added it to their membership. But the wonderful […]
The post Everything You Need to Know About the Entrepreneurial Essentials for Musicians Masterclass appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Opportunity likes speed. Back in the day, I used to be a partner in a graphic and web design business. One night, my business partner told me he got a lead. “But we need to be up by 5 AM tomorrow.” “No, that’s ridiculous,” I said. “If he wants to work with us, he should […]
The post Opportunities Don’t Last Forever 😢 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Is it not having an effective Spotify strategy? Is it not being business minded enough? Or maybe it’s an issue with marketing and promotion. Look, an artistic career isn’t always easy. At times, it can be downright HARD. Ever had a flat tire? Been there… …Booked a show no one came to? Yup! …Had someone […]
The post What’s the Number One Thing that Stops Artists the Most? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
I admit. It’s been a long time since I’ve made an announcement like this. I’ve made some mistakes. And I didn’t want to repeat the same mistakes. That was a significant consideration. I wanted to create something I could be proud of. And something you would find massive value in. And I believe I have […]
The post The Entrepreneurial Essentials for Musicians Masterclass appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
You spend hours looking for opportunities… Digging up email addresses with Hunter… And submitting your music to countless blogs, magazines, podcasts, radio stations, YouTube channels and more. All this for a little bit of PR. It’s TON of work. But the typical result is that for every 100 or so emails, you get a 3% […]
The post What Artists Consistently Miss About PR appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever thought about leaving your day job to pursue your passion? What are you willing to do to create the life you love through music? That’s what we’re going to be looking at this episode in The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:27 – Jonathan Barwick of Fierce Deity 02:24 – Investing […]
The post 222 – Taking the Path Less Traveled – with Jonathon Barwick of Fierce Deity appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
I can’t speak for anyone else. But when I first became a musician, my mind immediately turned to touring. I wanted to get out there, share my music with the world, meet people, and go from town to town on a grand adventure. And I was willing to do whatever it took (well, within the […]
The post How Lifestyle Design Works in Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you looking to sell your music online? Looking for alternatives to Bandcamp, Nimbit, and Gumroad? Not interested in setting up a custom Shopify eCommerce store or ClickFunnels sales funnel? Then you’re in the right place at the right time, because in this blog post, we look at Sellfy. What is Sellfy? Sellfy is a […]
The post Sellfy Review 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Things have been kind of interesting as of late. But that doesn’t mean you should feel down and like it’s all coming to an end. If you’re feeling discouraged or unmotivated right now, have a listen to this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast to get pumped up! Podcast Highlights: 00:17 – David’s purpose […]
The post 221 – Stay Encouraged, Stay Inspired appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Tools aren’t everything when it comes to growing your music career. But if you aren’t aware of the opportunities available, you are almost certainly missing out. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, we look at what more you can do with your music in 2021. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:29 […]
The post 220 – What to do with Your Music in 2021 Part 2 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Happy New Year!With 2021 upon us, predictions about the music industry are starting to roll out. And Jordan Gates of Megaphone Agency has his own thoughts about what’s going to happen. Find out what he thinks is in store for the live music industry in 2021. This post originally appeared on Megaphone Agency. 2020 will […]
The post Live Music Industry Predictions for 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
2021 is here. Are you ready to crush it? Are you aware of all the opportunities available? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:26 – David’s new Twitter thread 00:59 – No live music in 2021? 01:29 – […]
The post 219 – What to do with Your Music in 2021 Part 1 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
A significant part of building a music career is facing things that are outside of your comfort zone. So, how can you keep rising to new levels without losing momentum? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:30 – […]
The post 218 – Unfamiliar vs. Uncomfortable appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Is talking about music like dancing around architecture? It is a waste of time to look at what it takes to be a modern music maker? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:27 – Introduction 00:50 – Rant 03:46 – Closing thoughts […]
The post 217 – Why Talk About Music? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Is constant rejection and criticism getting you down? Does it seem like others go out of their way to offend you? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:26 – Sensitivity and offense 01:16 – Don’t take it so […]
The post 216 – Stop Being so ButtHurt Over Everything appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
You know what time it is, don’t you? It’s time for another excellent life update (said with my best Bill & Ted impression)! Trauma is hell on earth. Trauma resolved is a gift from the gods. – Peter A. Levine After spending months couped up in the same basement suite, I managed to squeeze in […]
The post Life Update: November 2020 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What’s the best way to show up in everything you do? How can you demonstrate enthusiasm in all you take on? In this video, David shares about the value of adopting a front row mentality in music, life, and everything. He explains how it works, and how to apply it. Video Highlights: 00:00 – The […]
The post Tapping into the Power of Front Row Mentality appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What if you could turn your love of music into a career? What if working with your favorite artists and bands was just a project away? That’s what we’re looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast where I chat with professional marketing consultant Michael Brandvold. Podcast Highlights: 00:28 – Every day […]
The post 215 – From KISS Fan to Professional Marketing Consultant – with Michael Brandvold appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It’s time for another life update. And while I’m playing catchup right now, you can rest assured you didn’t miss a whole lot between October and November. Either way, I’ll share a little bit of what’s been going on. Going on one more round, when you don’t think you can, that’s what makes all the […]
The post Life Update: October 2020 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you tired of sitting at home? Are lockdowns beginning to affect your state of mind? In this video, David shares about a new addition to the eBook library that’s sure to help you keep sane during these strange times. Video Highlights: 00:00 – Quarantine fatigue 00:21 – A new guide in our eBook library […]
The post Quarantine Checklist for Musicians appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Do you wish you could do a better job of engaging your fans? Have you ever thought about starting a fan club? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, featuring Sarah Beth Perry of With the Band. Podcast Highlights: 00:27 – Our special guest, Sarah […]
The post 214 – Engage Your Fans – with Sarah Beth Perry of With the Band appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
A $60,000 dollar investment I made in 2012 turned into a $60,000 dollar mistake by the end of 2015, and this is the story of how it happened. In 2011, a confluence of events led me to a fellow entrepreneur (all names have been removed to protect the innocent – and the guilty) that was […]
The post My $60,000 Dollar Mistake: What Went Wrong, What I Learned & What I Would Have Done Differently appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Tired of free eBooks that get you nowhere? Looking for resources with some serious meat to them? In this video, David shares a little bit about the free resources available at Music Entrepreneur HQ. Video Highlights: 00:00 – Something I wanted to highlight 00:14 – Free guides available at Music Entrepreneur HQ 00:45 – How […]
The post Free Musician Guides appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever found yourself in a frustration cycle as a musician? Do you feel like thinking more and doing more for your career just leads to more frustration? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share some of my biggest takeaways from my two-week break in Vernon, BC. Download the PDF […]
The post 213 – Restarting Your Engines for 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
In the music business, there are certain myths that continue to get perpetuated. They call forth a false sense of hope and fill us with frustration, disappointment, and resentment. That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:31 – Hope […]
The post 212 – The Biggest Myth in Music Ever Told appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Is it time to earn real money from your music? Are you tired of working hard for cents rather than dollars? Here’s the thing… There’s nothing wrong with pursuing success on Spotify or YouTube. But. You could be putting the same amount of time and energy into earning real money. I’m serious. And I’m not […]
The post How to Earn Real Money from Your Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
We’ve covered eight music marketing blogs you should be reading. We’ve covered eight more music marketing blogs you should be reading. We didn’t necessarily plan on covering more, but things have changed quite a bit since we originally published those posts five years ago. The music industry continues to grow and expand online. So, here’s […]
The post 21 Music Marketing Blogs You Should be Reading appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
I’ve shared a little bit about the Entrepreneurial Essentials for Musicians Masterclass in a previous blog post. This course covers the mindset necessary to creating the life you love through music. It’s NOT about: Becoming a hustling and grinding machine Turning yourself into a professional digital marketer and learning the ins and outs of social […]
The post Want to Test Drive My New Course? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you interested in landing more sync licensing opportunities in your music career? Did you know you could make six-figures at it without any kind of notoriety or fame? Are you sincere in your desire to create the life you love through music? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of […]
The post 211 – How Sync Licensing Can Transform Your Music Career – with Adam McInnis appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Ready to learn about Musicspace? Again, it’s been awhile, but we are back with another Music Entrepreneur HQ exclusive. I recently caught up with Karan Beghi from Musicspace on Twitter (yes, you can still build great connections on Twitter). Here’s what he had to share with us. 1. Tell us who you are and what […]
The post Karan Beghi from Musicspace Shares About Their Music Catalog Management Platform appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Let’s get some things straight. There are certain music entrepreneur myths going around, and they need to be addressed. I’ve talked about the controlled opposition jerks who’ve been making a complete mockery of my profession. What is controlled opposition? It’s those who offer some factual information about a topic but cake it with obvious lies […]
The post 4 Insidious Music Entrepreneur Myths Debunked appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you interested in getting a booking agent? Wouldn’t it be nice to unload all your tedious, menial, administrative work on your artistic team? While it sounds amazing in theory, it’s not based in any version of reality I’m aware of. I understand where you’re coming from, but the most realistic outcome is that once […]
The post How to Get a Booking Agent appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Affiliate marketing represents an opportunity most musicians aren’t aware of. I recently got to thinking about how easily musicians miss opportunities to make money. Not that money’s everything, but it sure doesn’t hurt. Especially in times like these. Live streaming is all well and good, but it might not cut it in terms of trying […]
The post Beginner’s Guide to Affiliate Marketing for Musicians appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Does social media matter for your music career? Realistically, what can you expect to achieve from spending your time, energy, and resources on growing your social media following? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:30 – Does social […]
The post 210 – Will Social Media Make a Difference for Your Music Career? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
With most of the world in various states of lockdown, musicians everywhere have been looking to live streaming as a possible alternative to performing live. Live performance has been a mainstay and a dominant source of income for many musicians, and never have we seen an all-pervasive force shut it all down in a matter […]
The post How to Get Your Live Streaming Concert Game Down Pat appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Looking to make viral TikTok videos? Building a music career isn’t exactly a stroll in the park. As such, staying abreast of the latest trends and finding opportunities to exploit is key to building a following – and, hopefully – making more money from music. Many musicians, young and old, are now looking to TikTok […]
The post How to Make Viral TikTok Videos to Build Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It’s time to talk about how to grow a band. This process can basically be broken down into seven simple steps. Here’s what you need to do to take your band wherever you want to take it! Step #1 – Clarify Your Goals If you don’t know where you’re going, then it’s not even worth […]
The post How to Grow a Band appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Hey! I wanted to check in and see how things are going for you and your music. I like to do this occasionally, as it gives me a better sense of what to create and work on next. Obviously, 2020 has turned out kind of crazy. We live in a different world now. Much has […]
The post What Next? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Amid resting, I’ve had a lot of time to think, reflect, and consume content. I came across Jack Conte’s presentation called Nothing Works recently, and I loved it. It resonates with me. Everyone has failed. Even the gurus and experts you look up to have failed. Probably more than they’ve succeeded. This is something that […]
The post Nothing Works appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you’re ready to publish your new music, there’s a good chance you might be trying to figure out the best day to release music. In this post, we’ll examine this issue from several angles to ensure you maximize the opportunity. First, let me address something… Why do so Many Release Dates Coincide with One […]
The post What is the Best Day to Release Music? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Do you have music you’re hesitant to release? Is perfectionism getting the best of you? Don’t sit on your music – make it work for you now! Let’s talk about how you can make that happen in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:30 – My guitar […]
The post 209 – Don’t Sit on Your Music; Make it Work for You Now appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
September 2020 has come and gone. You know what that means don’t you? It’s time for another exciting life update! Healing is not an overnight process; it is a daily cleansing of pain, it is a daily healing of your life. – Leon Brown Healing takes time. But September certainly was healing. Want to know […]
The post Life Update: September 2020 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Today, guitarist Eddie Van Halen’s long battle with cancer ended. He died. He was 65. My condolences go out to family and friends. I never knew the man like you knew him. I can’t imagine what you might be going through right now. And this post is not about newsjacking or talking about the trend […]
The post Who Eddie Van Halen Was to Me appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
I wanted to answer a question that recently came through on Instagram. If I were to break it down, the essence of it is this: How do I build my Dream 100? Who do I model? How do I connect to my Dream 100? How do I model my Dream 100? How can I collaborate […]
The post How to Build Your Dream 100 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Let’s look at how to become a session musician. I’ve been a session musician for many, many years, thanks to my facility on the guitar. Opportunities have been many and varied, and I’ve enjoyed being a part of a variety of projects. While what follows might not be a comprehensive guide, I think you’ll find […]
The post How to Become a Session Musician appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you’re wondering “how to get my music heard” you’re not alone. Getting your music heard and appreciated. That’s the fulfillment of what I call the value cycle. It begins with you setting out to create something and ends with an audience hearing and enjoying it. Many artists find no fulfillment in that cycle because […]
The post How to Get My Music Heard appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Trying to figure out how to start a record label with no money? Kind of a tall order, don’t you think? But the universe listened, because here we are. Let’s approach this from a couple of angles, because not all methods will be right for you. But hopefully you can find one that makes sense […]
The post How to Start a Record Label with No Money appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This is a bit of a lost art. So, I wouldn’t be surprised if you don’t know how to issue your release. But the process is not technical. It’s simple. And, wouldn’t you rather follow a simple process to success than have a tactic or strategy eat away at all that time you could be […]
The post How to Issue Your Release & Build Excitement for it appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Trying to make things happen in your music career? Do you often find, at the end of the day, you’ve basically accomplished nothing of substance? Do you find yourself overthinking every decision you need to make? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the […]
The post 208 – How to Stop Thinking & Make Things Happen in Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Whether you’re interested in music as a side hustle, or something to do for fun, becoming a freelance musician seems like an attractive proposition to many. The music industry is a bit of a weird one, because getting your music streamed or purchased is NOT the superhighway to wealth. But if you know where to […]
The post How to Become a Freelance Musician appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
In a global age, music tends to cross boundaries even more than in the past. That means reaching a global audience isn’t just a dream anymore. Today, there are many opportunities for reaching a global audience. Thanks to the internet, YouTube Music, Spotify, and other tools, you can reach people of any age, origin, or […]
The post 10 Ways to Reach a Global Audience for Your Music Project appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Looking for iTunes for Artists? Trying to figure out how it works? You’re in the right place at the right time. In this quick guide, we’ll look at what iTunes for Artists is, how to get your music on iTunes and Apple Music, who should use iTunes for Artists, as well as how you can […]
The post iTunes for Artists appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Looking to build your international music career? The music industry is a constantly growing and changing sphere. At present, one of the vectors of development is undeniably a worldwide market. Every musician dreams of going global, but what does it take? Which steps are essential to becoming famous across the world? In this guide, we’ll […]
The post 10 Steps to Start Your International Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you’re here, then we know you’re trying to figure out how to sell music online successfully. It’s often been said there are different ways to skin a cat (what a terrible expression), and that applies to selling your music online as much as anything else. Yes, there are many methodologies available. Many of them […]
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Trying to figure out how to start making music? At the outset, you need to know that there isn’t just ONE WAY to start making music. There are many ways! But we can break the process down into multiple skillsets. They don’t all need to be handed by you, but you’ll probably want to learn […]
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Making money as an artist may SEEM hard. But how much of that is programming? When you were a child, didn’t you have wild dreams about what your future could be like? And didn’t you 100% BELIEVE your dreams could come true? So, something obviously changed between then and now, especially if you NOW believe […]
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What time is it? It’s time for SoundCloud vs. Bandcamp! These are both popular services for independent artists because they give us a way to promote and sell our music. They certainly shouldn’t be considered the same, however, and many musicians will likely find themselves using BOTH rather than just one or the other. In […]
The post SoundCloud vs. Bandcamp, 2022 & Beyond appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Wondering how to make money on Spotify? Making money on Spotify is easy, especially if you follow the steps outlined in this guide… But making A LOT of money might be another matter, as this generally takes more work (musicians generally earn considerably less than one cent per stream). Don’t worry – even if your […]
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Are you wondering how to make it in music? You certainly aren’t alone. Let me say at the outset that making it in music isn’t about becoming a publisher, digital marketer, or entrepreneur. After all, if you could eat, sleep, and breathe your art, that’s what you’d do, isn’t it? And I can tell you […]
The post How to Make it in Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Interested in making six-figures as a musician? Look. Despite what everyone else out there is saying, I understand most musicians don’t do it for the money. Most of us just want to live, sleep, eat, and breathe our art. Am I right? But there’s a reason you’re here. Maybe you know, think, or suspect six-figures […]
The post How to Make Six-Figures & Beyond as a Musician appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What if there were no limits on where you could take your music? What if you could work with some high-profile brands and build a six-figure business in the music industry in your early 20s? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast with Shut Down […]
The post 207 – Building Relationships to Grow Your Music Career – with Ty Frankel of Shut Down Media appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
August 2020 is finished, and that means it’s time for another exciting life update! Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment. – Jim Rohn This is not at all the summer I was expecting or looking forward to (mostly because of COVID), but otherwise it was pleasant and stretching in all the right ways. […]
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Selling your music? Are you doing the right things to sell your music in 2020? Or is your strategy leaving you broke? Does it seem like nothing’s working? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:28 – You CAN […]
The post 206 – Selling Your Music in 2020: What’s Working & What Isn’t appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Not making any money with your music? Not selling as much as you think you should? Is it possible you aren’t attracting the right kind of buyers (audience)? Do you suspect your “fans” might be mooching off you? That’s what we’re going to be looking at in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast. […]
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Excited about becoming a lifestyle musician? Interested in learning how to get there? Creating your life through music isn’t always easy, and there are certain challenges you’re going to face. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I identity and unpack five challenges that held me back. Podcast Highlights: 00:38 – This episode […]
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July 2020 is over and that means it’s time for another life update! Transformation isn’t sweet and bright. It’s dark and murky, painful pushing. An unraveling of the untruths you’ve carried in your body. A practice in facing your own created demons. A complete uprooting, before becoming. – Victoria Erickson Summer is in full force, […]
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Looking for a thorough DJ equipment guide? Are you just getting started as a professional DJ? Whether you’re producing and mixing at home or are looking to get your act on the road as soon as possible, it makes sense to invest in some fantastic tech to help you play your tunes to the masses. […]
The post DJ Equipment Guide: How to Build a Beginner DJ Setup appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It’s taken me a while, but I’m finally getting to something I know you’ve been waiting for me to get to – social media in 2020, 2021, and beyond! It’s laughable how little has changed (beyond maybe esthetic) since a year, two years, or even three years ago (especially for us here at the HQ). […]
The post 203 – Social Media Marketing for Musicians in 2020, 2021 & Beyond appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Eager to live the life of your dreams through music? Can’t wait to experience the freedom that’s available? To get there, we’ve got to build a foundation and take care of the practical side of things. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I help you figure out your revenue streams, so that […]
The post 202 – 4 Ways to Integrate Music with Business Sooner appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever had a project, like a new music release, fail on you? What did you do next? How did you feel when it happened? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I look at the three options available to you at this critical stage of your career. Download the PDF cheat […]
The post 201 – When it’s Time to Pivot appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever thought of yourself as more than a musician? Do you see possibilities beyond the song others don’t see? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I pass the mic with author, entrepreneur, musician Andy Seth (A-Luv). He shares about his new book and album, Bling, his content marketing agency Flow, […]
The post 200 – Bling – with Author, Entrepreneur, Musician Andy Seth appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The doors to the Music Entrepreneur HQ Executive Inner Circle Program have opened. We’ve had some questions about this offer, and in this video, founder and CEO David Andrew Wiebe personally addresses your concerns. Video Highlights: 00:00 – The doors to my new program are open 00:11 – Why is the program on ContentMarketingMusician.com? 01:00 […]
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Do you feel like there isn’t enough hour in a day? Or enough day in a week? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share what you will discover when you go beyond productivity and time management. Download the PDF cheat sheet Podcast Highlights: 00:27 – Berry picking and getting too much […]
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Do you wish you could sing better? Ever thought about extending your vocal range? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I pass the mic with Matt Ramsey of Ramsey Voice Studio. We get into singing technique, how to take care of your voice, speech level singing, and plenty more, especially around creative […]
The post 198 – How to Become a Better Singer – with Matt Ramsey of Ramsey Voice Studio appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Do you believe the music industry is dead? Maybe you’ve heard that the market is “oversaturated”. Perhaps you’ve released songs expecting fame and glory, but in return found that you had no sales, streams, or die-hard fans. Hitting a little too close to home? Don’t sweat it – many musicians and singers are on the […]
The post How to Grow a Fan Base with Instagram & Facebook Advertising appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Do your eyes glaze over when you hear terms like “data” in relation to music careers? The truth of the matter is that actionable insights might be one of the most exciting developments in recent history. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I pass the mic with Beatchain founder Ben Mendoza, who […]
The post 197 – How to Use Data to Grow Your Music Career – with Ben Mendoza of Beatchain appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Ever wondered why I’m not a manager? You’re not the only one. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I get into why I’m not a manager, share about the path I’m on, and what function I serve in the music business. This really should have been done a long time ago. Download […]
The post 196 – Not a Manager? Why Not? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
June 2020 has come and gone, and now it’s time for a life update! It’s not about standing still and becoming safe. If anybody wants to keep creating, they have to be about change. – Miles Davis I’m not sure what your experience of lock-down has been like, but for me, I felt like time […]
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There are many tools you can use to sell your music. But not all of them are created equal. So, choosing the right tool is important. In this video, David discusses a powerful eCommerce platform for creators you can use to get up and running fast. Video Highlights: 00:00 – Music distribution isn’t marketing or […]
The post Alternative to Bandcamp, Nimbit & Gumroad? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever wanted to get hooked up with a booking agent? Curious how agencies have been navigating lock-down? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I pass the mic with Jack Forman of BiCoastal Productions. We have a great discussion about the future of live events, when artist are ready to work […]
The post 195 – When is an Artist Ready for a Booking Agent? – with Jack Forman of BiCoastal Productions appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
So, I got to thinking… Have I ever actually introduced myself on the podcast? Do you even know who I am? This has been on my mind for a while. Even though we’re nearly 200 episodes in, in this episode of the podcast, I share a little bit about my past, who I am, what […]
The post 194 – Hi, I’m David Andrew Wiebe appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Email marketing is devastatingly effective. But if you’ve struggled with getting the kind of response you want or need from your subscribers, you’re not alone. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I talk to Cheryl B. Engelhardt of In The Key Of Success. Her expertise includes email marketing and branding, topics we […]
The post 193 – How to Master Email Marketing – with Cheryl B. Engelhardt of In The Key Of Success appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
We know it’s been a while, but we’ve got another Music Entrepreneur HQ exclusive for you. And this one is short and sweet. We recently had the opportunity to catch up with KatKwo, a medical professional who likes to cosplay and make music. So, here is what she had to share with us: 1. Tell […]
The post KatKwo Shares About Her Happy Vibe Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you have a large social media following, does it mean you automatically get more engagement or sales? Does it mean you suddenly become famous and all your wildest dreams come true? In this video, David sheds some light on this important subject. Transcription: So, a podcast host recently said to me, “no, we’re not […]
The post To All My Haters… I’ve Got 5,658 Social Media Followers appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If there’s more content than ever, doesn’t it mean engagement numbers should also be going up? Is it possible that data isn’t matching up with reality? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I talk to Stefan Schulz of Bitfury Surround. As we look to the future of a blockchain-powered music industry, we […]
The post 192 – Looking to the Future of a Blockchain-Powered Music Industry – with Stefan Schulz of Bitfury Surround appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Our no-fluff, no B.S., easy-to-digest, value-packed newsletter is all the rage right now. Have you subscribed? If not, you can sign up for Music Career Tips Weekly here.
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Nothing in this world is easy to learn. But when you’ve got the determination and desire, nothing will stop you. It used to be that learning was all done in a classroom. Of course, things have changed with the introduction of the internet and e-learning, and most recently, the coronavirus pandemic. Today, you can learn […]
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Everyone makes mistakes. But sometimes those mistakes are moments of genius and just need to be recognized as such. In this video, David shares an experience from grade school. Transcription: You know, the oddest things come to mind when you’re walking sometimes. I just remembered back to grade five, when I used to play soccer. […]
The post Your “Mistakes” Are Your Moments appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Perhaps you’ve heard about the importance of systems but don’t know where to get started. Systems can help your business run more efficiently and allow you to complete tasks in a standardized, predictable way. But the truth of the matter is that most businesses need a system for creating systems (yes, a system for creating […]
The post How to Create Systems as a Music Entrepreneur appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How do you get coverage for your new release? How do you get your music into the hands of bloggers, playlisters, YouTubers and more? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I chat with SubmitHub and Indie Shuffle founder Jason Grishkoff. He shares how to approach your relationship with SubmitHub as an artist, […]
The post 191 – How to Use SubmitHub Effectively – with Founder Jason Grishkoff appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
So, you’ve got a product. And, you’ve sold a few. Now what? Would it be possible to sell more? In this video, we look at how you can amplify your product sales rapidly. Video Highlights: 00:00 – Getting your offer that converts in front of a broader audience 00:30 – Easy to do, easy not […]
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Finding your niche audience is critical to your success. But it doesn’t need to take forever, nor do you need to take a four-hour course on how to do it. In this video, we show you how to find your niche audience rapidly. Video Highlights: 00:00 – You don’t need to make a fuss about […]
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Mastery requires roughly 10,000 hours or 10 years of practice and experience. So, practically speaking, is it possible to get to your 10,000 hours faster? That’s what we explore in this video. Video Highlights: 00:00 – 10,000 hours is how long it takes to become an expert in anything 00:11 – If you choose a […]
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Transcription: Good morning boys and girls, songwriters, arrangers, music lovers. We are back for our third session learning about how to write for horns for your rock group and jazz ensemble. We had just left off. In my little jazz group, we have a trumpet and sax so that’s what we’ve been talking about how […]
The post Two-Part Writing for Horns with Fred Stickley: Session #3 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you been enjoying the podcast? What have you learned so far? Are you interested in offering your support for the show? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share several things you can do to support the growth of the podcast. Podcast Highlights: 00:18 – A different kind of episode 01:48 […]
The post 190 – How to Support the Podcast appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What does it take to build a successful music website? For most people, the idea of earning a living doing the thing they love is a dream come true. For many people, music is their passion. They either play music or love to listen to music. Either way, it makes sense to create a niche […]
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Transcription: Hello music lovers, songwriters, arrangers, boys and girls out there in internet land. This is our second session of writing for horns for your rock ‘n roll or jazz group. We had started out talking about trumpets and tenor saxophone because I have a jazz group and that’s what we have, and I thought […]
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The official launch of The Music Entrepreneur Code draws near. In classic David Andrew Wiebe style, the book is value-packed and fluff-free. Pre-order the Kindle to learn the fundamentals, establish yourself and give your music career a serious jolt.
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What is the state of the live event industry amid COVID-19? How are tech companies coping in these times of seismic change? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I chat with Ed Vincent of Festival Pass, who shares about his new platform and journey as a serial entrepreneur. Podcast Highlights: 00:18 – […]
The post 189 – A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Live Event Industry – with Ed Vincent of Festival Pass appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Reading is one of the most important activities a musician can engage in. It can stimulate your imagination, give you ideas for songs and even teach you valuable tactics and strategies for furthering your career. But it can be hard to know where to start, especially if you’re not in the habit of reading a […]
The post 31 Paradigm Shifting Books That Will Categorically Boost Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What actions do you need to take to get the results you’re striving for as a musician? How do you form the right habits to ensure your brand is reaching the right people? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share about the long-awaited release of my latest book, The Music Entrepreneur […]
The post 188 – New Book: The Music Entrepreneur Code appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What’s up, champion? Megaphone Agency’s Jordan Gates is back with another value-adding post. This time, he shares about how to navigate these uncertain times. If you wish to contribute your killer piece to our blog, then you’ll want to review our latest guest posting guidelines thoroughly before reaching out. So, here’s Gates! This post originally […]
The post Hedging Against Uncertainty in the Music Industry appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Picking up where we let off, Dave Chick (of Hatched Productions) and I are back at it again. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, we continue our conversation, touching on everything from the project cycle and making the music you want to make, to gear and listener behavior in the digital age. […]
The post 187 – Catching Up with Dave Chick Part 2 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
There is no easy answer to this question, but it’s one I get asked a lot. It depends a lot on your natural ability and musicality, whether you’re working with a teacher who’s “in tune” with you (forgive the pun), and, most importantly, how much time and effort you put into your practice sessions. Another […]
The post How Long Does it Take to Become Good at the Piano? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It’s a little-known fact that I used to be a co-host of Inside Home Recording towards the end of its lifespan. But I do remember that experience fondly. In this episode, I catch up with long-time host of IHR Dave Chick (of Hatched Productions), who has been working as a composer and sound designer for […]
The post 186 – Catching Up with Dave Chick Part 1 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
With an estimated net worth of $380 million, KISS’ Gene Simmons is the epitome of a music entrepreneur. Making connections, seeking opportunities, setting goals, cutting deals, and most importantly taking actions on his plans, even at 70 years old, Simmons is a force to reckon with. Name a venture, project idea or merchandising opportunity, and […]
The post Should You Read Gene Simmons’ Sex Money Kiss? One Man’s Opinion appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Well, it’s been two weeks since the last episode. How are you doing? Is everything okay in your world? In this episode of the podcast, I share a few things that will make you go “hmm…” about the coronavirus. If you are easily offended, it’s okay to give this one a pass. Podcast Highlights: 00:18 […]
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Thanks for your interest in guest posting with us. At Music Entrepreneur HQ, we take content seriously. So, we are not accepting guest posts from anyone and everyone. Here are the most up-to-date terms and rates for guest posting with us: (Note: We are extremely selective with guest contributions. In most cases, you should expect […]
The post Guest Posting for Music Entrepreneur HQ in 2021 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Who do you buy from? How do you choose from the wide range of products and services available? Is there a specific way we should be conducting ourselves and interfacing with businesses we choose to work with? In this episode of The New Music Industry, I look at doing business in the music business, and […]
The post 184 – Doing Business in the Music Business appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Thanks to the Internet, it’s easier than ever to share your music with the world. And, recording equipment is more affordable than ever, making it easier to put together awesome tracks from the comfort of your own home. From desks and chairs to microphone stands, a basic recording set-up need not be fancy. With decent […]
The post Top 5 Music Production Must-Haves appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Is social media helping you grow your fan base? What can you expect in terms of return on investment (ROI)? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share how and why my attitude around social media has shifted, and what I think is the key to digital marketing success. Podcast Highlights: 00:18 […]
The post 183 – Is Social Media the Answer? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you having trouble trying to navigate digital marketing? Does it seem like everywhere you turn people are teaching tactics rather than strategy? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I expand on a strategy I call spiderweb marketing I briefly touched on in one of my books. Download the PDF transcription Podcast […]
The post 182 – Spiderweb Marketing for Musicians [Mini Course] appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you listening to the voice within? Are you doing what you’re meant to do as an artist? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I chat with my friend João Filipe. We touch on a variety of topics, including what João got out of the podcast, strategy vs. tactics, the current state […]
The post 181 – Following Your Heart as an Artist – with Videographer & Musician João Filipe appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Do you wish there was a comprehensive online database of artists, venues, events and festivals? Are you looking for a forward-looking, technologically driven platform to help you grow your career as an artist? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, Vasja Veber of Viberate shares what the platform is all about, how it […]
The post 180 – The IMDb of the Music Industry – with Vasja Veber of Viberate appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Each year, we publish loads of content on Music Entrepreneur HQ and we like to reflect on what resonated with our readers, listeners and viewers most. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, we get into the top 10 most viewed posts of 2019. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:34 – Top […]
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What books did you read in 2019? What resources did you find most valuable? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share the three books that made the biggest difference for me in 2019. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:34 – My recent reading habits 01:17 – The Subtle Art of […]
The post 178 – 3 Impacting Books I Read in 2019 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
There’s a delicate balance between working on your craft and developing your product versus networking and getting yourself out there. Both are important pieces of the puzzle, but these days, if you aren’t spending plenty of time woodshedding and creating, you’re probably not making much progress in your music career. David shares some thoughts on […]
The post You’re Not Going to Make an Impact Sitting in Your Basement appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you pushing yourself too hard? Do you rarely take any breaks? In this video, David reminds us to get outside, move our bodies, and do something you find enjoyable daily. Transcription: So, today, I figured I would take you on my walk. I go every single day, rain or shine. I’m in beautiful Abbotsford, […]
The post Remember to Take Care of Yourself appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you trying to get into the same bars, pubs and clubs every other band is trying to get into? Does it seem like all the good opportunities are already spoken for? In this video, David shares how you can begin to create your own live performance opportunities. Transcription: Today, I’m feeling kind of exhausted […]
The post How to Create Your Own Live Performance Opportunities as a Musician appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Setting new year resolutions isn’t much fun unless you keep them. Plus, they’ve proven to be ineffective for most people. David shares what he does instead of setting resolutions and how this can work for you. Transcription: So, what do you do around the new year? Do you come up with a new year’s resolution? […]
The post My 3 Words for 2020 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Understanding how cash flows within your music career is critical when it comes to maintaining sustainability. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of bad information out there about how to manage your money. David Andrew Wiebe explains why optimizing your cash flow does not equate to making more money in music. Transcription: So, I heard somewhere recently […]
The post Can You Make More Money in Music by Optimizing Cash Flow? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Did you set any goals for 2019? How about resolutions? How did things turn out? In this episode of the podcast, I reflect on my three words from 2019. Instead of setting new year resolutions, I’m in the habit of picking three words to set the intention for the year. Tune in to find out […]
The post 177 – Reflecting on My 3 Theme Words from 2019 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
We know that CDs are basically an artifact of an age long gone. But how has that affected music sales? How much are people spending on music today? David Andrew Wiebe shares some important insights on the topic. Transcription: I’m currently reading a book by Donald Passman called All You Need to Know About the […]
The post Are People Actually Spending More Money on Music? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Single or album? What should a new band or artist be focused on creating? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. Transcription: So, what should a new band be focused on as they’re getting started in their music career? I still believe the best thing that you can do is record […]
The post New to Music? Start with an Album! appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What should a musician be focused on in 2020? Facebook? Instagram? Snapchat? TikTok? Other social media sites? In this video, I share the importance of building an email list that you own. Transcription: Hey, are you still sharing your best content as a musician on sites like Facebook and Instagram, hoping that someone will recognize […]
The post What Should You Focus on as a Musician? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you given up on trying to sell your music? Have you bought into the idea that the only way you can profit off your music is if you get a lot of people to stream it? Then you might be surprised to find that people still buy music! Transcription: Contrary to popular belief, the […]
The post You Can Sell Your Music Even in 2020 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
As a student, your finances are likely limited. Plus, you’ve got assignments to do. So, entering the music industry while getting your credentials isn’t exactly a walk in the park, even if you want to get a head start. Reality can often betray expectations, even as you begin to take steps towards developing your fledgling […]
The post Music Business for Students: 4 Important Things to Know appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Is it worth reflecting as a musician? Is there any point in thinking about the past as we look to the future? What can a musician or music entrepreneur glean from their past? Let us know what your thoughts are in the comments below. Transcription: How important is it for you to extract lessons from […]
The post Is it Worth Reflecting as a Musician? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What happened in 2019? What breakthroughs did you have? Did you have any breakdowns? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I use Michael Hyatt’s framework for closing the chapter on another year. I share all the major wins and losses I experienced last year. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:34 – […]
The post 176 – Closing the Chapter on 2019 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Becoming a renowned musician takes years of talent, practice, incredible luck and perseverance. Just ask all the struggling people filling the bars in Nashville, Las Vegas or Los Angeles. There are thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of talented musicians. So, how can you step up your game and prove you are better than others? […]
The post Top Qualities That Many Successful Musicians Have in Common appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How much time do you spend in deep thought and reflection? How do you achieve clarity on your next steps in your music career? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, as promised, I share what I did on Think Week and what I discovered for myself. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: […]
The post 175 – How to Produce Breakthroughs in Your Music Career with Deep Thinking & Reflection appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Dr. Joseph Murphy is a popular book and interest in it has only grown over time. What can one expect to learn in this classic work? What is the true power of the subconscious mind? In this video, I explore seven things I learned from The Power of […]
The post The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Dr. Joseph Murphy Review appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Interested in pursuing a career in music? The music business, much like any other business, requires a variety of people with different skills to run smoothly. And, if you’ve already built your resume, there’s a good chance you possess skill that would be transferable and complementary to the music industry. It all depends on what […]
The post Careers & Jobs in the Music Business appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you ready for 2020? How are you planning to make it your best year ever? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share what’s to come for Music Entrepreneur HQ in 2020. Download the PDF transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:34 – What to expect from Music Entrepreneur HQ in 2020 00:49 – […]
The post 174 – Let’s Start the New Year with a Bang! appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This page contains affiliate links. There are many viable business models for music entrepreneurs. Besides taking an entrepreneurial approach to your music career, which is basically the baseline minimum, there are so many opportunities you can pursue. The challenge, of course, is coming up with the right idea. That’s what this post is for. What […]
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Is there something that keeps you up at night? Can you think of anything that’s been bugging you in 2019? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share how you can uncover your greatest hurts, which is telling you exactly where you need to grow as a music entrepreneur. Podcast Highlights: 00:34 […]
The post 173 – Identify Where You Need to Grow (What Are Your Pain Points?) appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This time of year, people begin thinking about what they’d like to accomplish in the New Year. Yet, many people are so given up on resolutions and goal setting that they don’t even attempt it. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, we’re going to explore how we can navigate our own resignation […]
The post 172 – Are You Resigned & Cynical About Setting Goals? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How The holidays are the perfect time to reflect on the year past and think about what you want to achieve in the year ahead. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share about a practice Bill Gates himself adopted to review and consider suggestions Microsoft employees gave him. Podcast Highlights: 00:34 […]
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You’re a music entrepreneur. And, as a music entrepreneur, you are a leader. Even if you aren’t a leader to a team or anyone specifically, you are a leader to yourself. So, the question is, what kind of leader have you been? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share some thoughts […]
The post 170 – How to Take Ownership of Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Thanks for your interest in working with us – words cannot express how grateful we are for your patronage over the last three years or so. At Music Entrepreneur HQ, we first began accepting guest posts in 2016. There have been many benefits to this initiative and it’s fair to say a good chunk of […]
The post We’ve Officially Closed the Doors on Guest Posts & Advertising Opportunities with Music Entrepreneur HQ… Here’s Why appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It’s fun to think about where we might be if we just had the resources to get to where we want to go. The trouble with this type of thinking is that it’s a trap. It stops us from actively engaging in our careers and life to get the resources we need to achieve […]
The post What if You Had $10,000 to Spend on Your Music Career… How Would You Spend it? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you looking for a way to promote your live shows? Do you wish you could reach more people and encourage more ticket sales? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I pass the mic with Managing Partner of Bandsintown, Fabrice Sergent, who shares valuable insights into live performance as well as entrepreneurship. […]
The post 169 – Building a Thriving Live Music Community – with Fabrice Sergent of Bandsintown appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you getting enough rest? Do you constantly feel tired and exhausted? The music industry is a hardworking industry, and it can place many demands on someone with big ambitions. In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share the mic with wellness coach, artist and songwriter Katie Zaccardi, who shares valuable tips […]
The post 168 – Taking Care of Your Mental & Physical Health as a Musician – with Katie Zaccardi of The Out to Be Podcast appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you trying to get your independent label set up? Are you looking for tips on how to run and grow your own label? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I talk to Nick Sadler of NSDMT and The Label Machine. He shares from his many years of experience and offers valuable […]
The post 167 – How to Get Your Independent Record Label off the Ground – with Nick Sadler of NSDMT appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Do you enjoy setting goals? I know I don’t. It probably has something to do with the fact that I often didn’t achieve what I wanted to achieve or the fact that it took so much effort to set goals that were SMART, SMARTER, or whatever method you subscribe to. It’s not as though I […]
The post How to Set Ironclad Goals You’ll Follow Through on & Achieve Your Desired Outcomes with appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
2020 is almost here. What will you be doing to stay current? Will you be making any changes to your approach? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share some of the challenges facing Music Entrepreneur HQ, and what we’re going to be doing to stay ahead of the game. Podcast Highlights: […]
The post 166 – Steps You Need to Take as a Music Entrepreneur to Adapt in 2020 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Many young people dream of becoming music stars while they are still students. It seems like something impossible, but in reality, any dream might come true. Specialists from ProHighGrades collected some of them on this page, you can find examples of how some students could become music stars as well as tips on how to […]
The post Students Who Became Music Stars and Tips on How to be a Good Student appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Trying to figure out how to make the most of 2020? Looking for productivity advice to help you maximize your efforts as a musician or music entrepreneur? Good – because it’s something you should be thinking about. And, I’ve got plenty of great resources lined up for you. You might even want to bookmark this […]
The post Musicians: All the Productivity Advice You Need for 2020 [Resource Guide] appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you stagnating in your efforts to sell more music or merch? Do you wish you could maximize your sales and revenue everywhere you go? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share a new way of approaching the sale that will result in a breakthrough result. Podcast Highlights: 00:34 – What […]
The post 165 – How to Start Selling More Music Immediately: Online, Live, Anywhere appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Few chords give beginners more frustration than the F barre. It’s completely different from most other chords you’ve probably learned until now like A, E, D, or G. That’s because with the F barre, you have to contort your fingers and hand into unfamiliar positions. And it’s really difficult to get a clear sound – […]
The post A Practice Hack for Mastering the F Barre Chord appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Creating music is a complex task that requires time, knowledge, and talent. To create a song that is pleasant to the ears, it takes hard work. It might explain why we’ve witnessed of plagiarism that has resulted in lawsuits. Plagiarism, in this case, refers to the use of music that you don’t own without the […]
The post How Nature Can Enhance Your Creative Capacity appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever suspected that your music was being used in a variety of media and online content – only, you have no idea on which platform or by whom? This can be especially frustrating when you consider that you might have a fan base you don’t even know about. That’s where Pex comes in. […]
The post Amadea Choplin of Pex Shares How Their Platform Tracks Your Content appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Do you wish you could play better gigs? Do you want to engage in the type of projects and work that will leave you feeling happy and fulfilled? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I pass the mic with Robonzo of The Unstarving Musician, who’s got a podcast and a book of […]
The post 164 – How to be a Happy & Profitable Live Performer – with Robonzo of The Unstarving Musician appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to catch up with Steve Lloyd of Editframe. While social media is an amazing tool, there’s always so much to think about, especially if you’re on multiple platforms. It isn’t just that you need to create different types of content for each site. It’s also that you sometimes […]
The post Steve Lloyd of Editframe Shares How His Online Video Editing Platform Can Help You Streamline Your Tasks appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Many people listen to music while working, claiming that it helps them focus on work. Moreover, research has recently shown that music has a positive effect on creativity. Although modern offices are quite different from old-fashioned offices and cubicles from years ago, back then, even though it might have been depressing, it was quiet and […]
The post The Effects of Listening to Music at Work: Pros and Cons appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you constantly falling behind in some area of life? Do you feel like you’re letting others down? Do you feel like a failure? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share how I’ve been able to accomplish more in four days than in the last four months. […]
The post 163 – How I Got More Done in 4 Days Than in 4 Months appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever thought about using your musical talents in support of business? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, Tommy Zee shares his story, how he ended up becoming a producer and how to determine whether you’re living a fulfilling life. Podcast Highlights: 00:34 – A quick note about today’s episode 00:57 […]
The post 162 – Making Music for Brands & Living a Life You Love – with Tommy Zee of Tommy Zee & Co. appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Making money from music is hard. An informal survey conducted by Larry Fitzmauriceon of Vulture found as much. Most of those asked didn’t own property and needed a number of concurrent side hustles to make ends meet. Some musicians were even losing money on their music careers every year, and debt was a common denominator. […]
The post Here’s What Music Streaming Platforms Are Actually Paying [INFOGRAPHIC] appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
On November 4, 2019, musician and YouTuber Jared Dines uploaded a video titled 7 reasons you have NOT made it in the music industry (video above). Though it can often be uncomfortable to think about where we might be falling short in our attempts to build the music career of our dreams, constructive ideas can […]
The post Jared Dines’ 7 Reasons You Haven’t Made it in the Music Industry appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Writing songs can be tough, especially for beginners. Sometimes you don’t have the foggiest idea where to begin, and in other moments you’re completely stuck. But writing songs doesn’t need to be depressing. There are more powerful tools to aid in songwriting than at any time in recent memory. Inspiration can strike someone when they […]
The post 8 Useful Songwriting Recording Tools for Beginners appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It has long been touted that remote studio collaboration is easier and more convenient than ever. But is it true? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I chat with Ameen Abdulla, Founder and CEO of Soundwhale. Soundwhale brings audio collaboration to a whole new level. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:34 […]
The post 161 – Transforming Remote Studio Collaboration – with Ameen Abdulla of Soundwhale appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever wondered why streaming platforms don’t allow you to create an in-depth artist profile? Have you asked yourself why you can’t view album credits and easily find all the tracks a specific session musician has played on? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I chat with Ursa Music founders Chris […]
The post 160 – Disrupting the Streaming Landscape – with Chris Jones and Chad Royce of Ursa Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Most of us spend a good chunk of our lives dreaming about pursuing a creative endeavor but never actually pull the trigger. We find excuses, we’re embarrassed, lazy, and a lot of times don’t even know where to start. Well today, we’ll be tackling some of the obstacles outlined above. We’ll show that you can […]
The post The Best Ways to Learn Music Production appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
When you’re tackling studying and exams, it is hard to find the time for other things. But, musicians have a great advantage compared to other students – they have music on their side. They use it for motivation and inspiration, to keep themselves happy and self-assured, as well as to enjoy their talents. But, in […]
The post 3 Effective Ways to Promote Your Music in College appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you ever thought about teaching music? Are you already a music teacher looking to increase your revenue? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I talk to music educator Wendy Brentnall-Wood and tease out insights about student retention, building revenue streams, how to avoid burnout and more. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast […]
The post 159 – How to Build a Profitable & Sustainable Music Education Business – with Wendy Brentnall-Wood appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
What inspires you to write? Do you feel like you’re able to write authentically, from the heart? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I chat with Miami-based singer-songwriter Judah Holiday and deep dive into his process. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:34 – Is Judah Holiday your real name? 01:50 – […]
The post 158 – Writing Authentic Music from the Heart – with Judah Holiday appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Learning to play guitar is something almost everyone wants to do once in their life. So, if you are one of those who want to learn to play guitar as quickly as possible, then this post is definitely for you. We are going to offer some tips that will make it easy for you to […]
The post 5 Tips for Improving Your Guitar Practice Sessions appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Listening to music makes everyone’s’ day better! You get out of the house; go for a walk and you plug in your earphones. You play your favorite song from your favorite band and you instantly feel better. But do you know what’s cooler and more relaxing than listening to music? Creating music! Playing an instrument […]
The post Top 5 Sites for DIY Music Education appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Working in the creative industry is exciting, but sometimes it can be difficult to maintain enthusiasm or a constant stream of inspiration. Writing is a lonesome job; it gives you many emotional ups and downs. Our hard work is not immediately visible as it is with some other professions. On top of that, the whole […]
The post 5 Ways to Get Musical Inspiration When Songwriting appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Interested in growing your label? Trying to figure out how to use your budget? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share some tips on how to take your record label national. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:34 – A mysterious question I’ve gotten a few times 01:20 – Tire kicker? […]
The post 157 – I Have $1,000,000 Dollars to Spend – How do I Take My Record Label National? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
While the foundations of DIY music may have been laid by bands like Fugazi back in the 1990s, the music industry landscape in 2019 has changed so much that, rather than a radical decision, choosing to be independent is often the most profitable, sustainable way of earning a living from music. The internet has given […]
The post 5 Skills All Successful DIY Musicians Share appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The musician community seems positively sanguine about funnels. In case you’re unaware, today, a funnel essentially describes a multi-step sales process. The buyer journey begins on Facebook where they are shown a relevant ad. If they click through, they are taken to a series of squeeze pages where they are sold increasingly higher priced offers. […]
The post Where Funnels Fall Short appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Isn’t it frustrating when you put a lot of money into a marketing endeavor that totally bombs? As someone who’s wasted quite a bit of money on Facebook ads, I know the pain of throwing away hard-earned moola on marketing that doesn’t work all too well. At the outset, I can tell you that it’s […]
The post Musicians: Why Your PR Campaigns Are Failing appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Have you been thinking about attending CD Baby’s DIY Musician Conference? Not sure whether it’s worth it? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I reflect on the DIY Musician Conference with Greg Wilnau of Musician Monster. Download the PDF Transcription Podcast Highlights: 00:34 – Special episode with guest Greg Wilnau 00:57 – […]
The post 156 – CD Baby’s DIY Musician Conference Postmortem & Review – with Greg Wilnau of Musician Monster appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Conversations around blockchain and the music business have been going on for a while. And, know it or not, there have been some music startups taking advantage of blockchain technology. The fact that this is not mainstream knowledge, in my opinion, is kind of a red flag. It means that some of the bigger players […]
The post What You Ought to Know About Building Your Blockchain Music Startup appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
As a guitarist, if you’re fussy about your on-stage effect pedal setup, at some point you’re going to want to pick up a pedal board to organize your mess. You don’t want your singer or other band mates tripping on your cables. You don’t want to accidentally rip out your patch cables as you’re playing […]
The post Vangoa (Ghost Fire) Guitar Pedal Board Review (Compact, Lightweight, Sturdy & Attractive) appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Playing fast is something a lot of guitarists would like to accomplish but there are a few things that hold them back. With different advice from different musicians, it can be tough to know what you need to focus on. Luckily, speed isn’t all that complicated. Investing 10 minutes of focused practice every day can […]
The post The 5 Worst Mistakes Guitarists Make When Trying to Play Fast & Clean appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Today, you can get any service online. For college students struggling with assignments, a writing company, such as edujungles.com, could be the answer. To those who do not have time to go shopping, they can shop online and have their goods delivered. Slowly, the world is getting rid of manual tasks and replacing them with […]
The post How to Write the Lyrics to Your First Song appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you want to make the most out of your music career, you need to focus your efforts on the things that are really going to make a difference. If you’re not quite sure how to do that, then you can find out whatever you need to know, right here: 1. Website Your site should […]
The post 5 Easy Ways to Promote Your Awesome Tracks Online appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
There are a plethora of choices available when it comes to spending our leisure time. If you have social media accounts, it’s so easy to just scroll through that news feed and whoa—you didn’t realize you’ve spent your entire break just checking out the latest posts! Or perhaps, you go binge-watch your favorite vlogs on […]
The post What You Need to Know About Playing and Tuning the Flute appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Shopify is one of the most popular and powerful tools for building an eCommerce site. So, why can’t musicians use it to set up their online stores? In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I chat with Tommy Stalknecht of Single Music. Their platform integrates with Shopify and offers relevant analytics to help […]
The post 155 – How to Use Shopify to Sell Your Music – with Tommy Stalknecht of Single Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
They were admired and worshipped, not afraid of taking risks and, of course, ahead of their time. They left an indelible mark in the hearts and minds of people all over the world. Their success stories became the stuff of legend and were made into multiple movies. They were an inspiration for famous writers who […]
The post 6 Prominent Female Figures in Music History appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
If you Google, “How to start writing a song?” you will get about 3 million results in 0.56 seconds. There are a lot of options to choose from, but you know what? There is a high likelihood most of those options will not be helpful.
There are some songwriting exercises that will always work. These include writing as few lyrics as possible or writing from experience.
But, the tips we have provided are special. They put your ideas first. They open up your time for to focus, experiment, and come up with spectacular songs.
Songwriting is a deep and personal process. It involves diving into yourself to pull out a masterpiece. These tips will also teach you how to get better at poetry or find samples on WriteMyEssayForMe.co.uk. Here are eleven useful songwriting tips to get your songs on track.
- Start with Research to Generate New Audiences Research is crucial when it comes to writing an enjoyable and meaningful song. The proper research will also allow you to better connect with your listener. Write about something you know, care about, or have observed and then uncover those little details that will bring your subject to life.
For example, if cases of poverty in India move you, read up on the facts of the country before you write. After conducting research, you will be in a better position to compose a meaningful song.
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Open Your Mind and Refine Your Craft Open your mind as you go about your day-to-day activities. Keep your eyes open for anything that grabs your attention. These include:
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Your responses to individuals or situations
- Anything interesting you observe on TV
- A sudden encounter with a friend that makes you think about life
All these are materials can help you refine your craft.
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Understand Your Listeners Understanding your listeners is among the most important music writing tips. Understating your listeners’ behavior will give you direction. It will also help you know what kind of songs to include in the playlist. As a beginner:
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Note down what genres or artists trigger the most engagement.
- Determine which time your audience visit your music the most. If it is in the morning hours, a playlist filled with happy songs is ideal. If it is after work hours, include relaxing/calm music in the playlist.
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Use a music data service to unveil the demographics of your fan bases. Such services will help you identify what to focus to efforts on.
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Dream Not all your songs should be about Gucci bags and shoes! Cognizance and drifting into a daydream can be good for songwriting. Sometimes you can even jot down a real dream if possible. All these serve as excellent materials for your songs.
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Lyrics Lyrics should come first before you start composing your song. The instrumentation, song arrangement, and vocal lines follow suit. If you want bright, dynamic songs, the instrumentation must match the lyrics. So, always start with the lyrics.
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Do Not Rewrite Some individuals might be tempted rewrite existing lyrics. Rewriting is comparable to Mills and Boon writing. If you want to rewrite, you can call upon an Essay Kitchen. A credible writing service has writers who know the production value that goes into a song. They also know what sells. If you rewrite, you might either get contempt or get sued. It is advisable to come up with original pieces to avoid such instances.
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Line by Line If you are not a natural rhymer or wordsmith, you can develop your songwriting by:
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Finding your subject
- Writing down the important points in lines
- Transforming those points into the lyrics of your songs
To rhyme words at the end of a line, run through the alphabet and find relevant words that match. This is a bit tedious, but it will help your songs turn out more melodious.
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Who to Write For Others Are you interested in writing for others? Or do you want to be a singer-songwriter? Writing for others is a professional pursuit. You can advertise yourself as a songwriter using a LinkedIn profile writing service. But, if you are confident in both your musical talent and songwriting prowess, you are the best person to deliver your songs.
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Put Yourself Out There If you are a skilled musician but have not showcased your material, do not fret. There are many places where you can showcase your music. You can visit friendly venues such as open mic nights where you can get up on stage and present your music.
Individuals who go to open mic events will most likely be in the same position as you. As such, they understand the pressure that comes with being a new and upcoming musician. There is no competition in such crowds.
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Make Your Style Special If your style works for you, who cares! If you only want to use two instruments or make your album acapella, go for it. Trust in the uniqueness of your music. Do not shy away from writing about subjects that drive listeners out of their comfort zones.
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Trust Yourself A lot of famous musicians were not amazing when they first started performing. But, they believed in their performances. The audiences listening and watching loved the authenticity of their performances. Trusting yourself is essential. Remember, you will not always hit the mark on the first try.
Conclusion So, there you have it. With these 11 tips, you should have a stronger idea on how to compose a song. These tips will help you write poetic and meaningful lyrics, with melody and authenticity. Go ahead and start writing your song. You will love the results you get after following our tips.
The post 11 Tips for Improving the Poetry of Your Songwriting appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Science has us convinced that we should keep our goals to ourselves. But does this work?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I explain why sharing your goals with others is crucial to reaching them.
Podcast Highlights: * 00:34 – Science says you shouldn’t share your goals with anyone * 01:10 – The “trying” problem * 02:29 – Action * 02:50 – Getting into conversation * 03:44 – Think And Grow Rich? * 04:54 – Failure and the mistake advantage * 05:20 – Why share your goals with others? * 05:44 – The secret to sharing * 06:19 – Episode summary
Transcription: Today I wanted to share about the importance of sharing your goals with others.
Now, science is saying you shouldn’t share your goals with anyone. But why?
Because when you share your goals and receive early praise, you get a false sense of completion. You can even enter a state where you feel as though the goal has already been accomplished, even if it hasn’t been.
When I first heard that, I thought it made sense.
But based on the training I’ve received in the last year or so, I couldn’t disagree more. I think it’s ridiculous.
I think it might even be a deliberate attempt to disempower and deceive people who are genuinely trying to accomplish something worthwhile.
But you may say, “science is science, D.A. – it’s irrefutable.”
Then tell me this:
If we were to say for a moment that The Secret and Law of Attraction indeed work, then it’s also true that you attract what you are.
What do you attract when you’re trying to reach your goals? Think about it for a second. You attract more trying. So, you get stuck in a cycle of trying, trying, trying.
What do you attract when you’re trying to reach your goals? More trying.
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We have a serious problem with trying in the music industry. Have you ever noticed that?
I can think of many examples, but the one that comes immediately to mind is Carly Rae Jepsen’s hit single, “Call Me Maybe”.
There’s a line in the chorus that goes:
“And all the other boys try to chase me”.
Are the boys trying to chase you? Or are they in fact chasing you? There’s a difference.
The only instance in which they might be trying to chase you is if they’re disabled or hindered by an obstacle. So, they’re chasing you unsuccessfully. Of course, that doesn’t sound as good in a lyrical context.
Now, I happen to think “Call Me Maybe” is a catchy song with a good hook but that’s beside the point.
The point is that we should consider eliminating the word, “try” from our vocabulary when it comes to goals.
We should consider eliminating the word, “try” from our vocabulary when it comes to goals.
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You’re welcome to try new things, whether it’s food, a new hobby or a new routine. But that’s not what we’re talking about.
Again, if we were to assume that the Law of Attraction works, wouldn’t a state of completion be the ideal state to be in? Wouldn’t you attract completion from a state of completion?
But there’s more to this, because I don’t think what people are missing is an emotional state or a vibration. You don’t need to get your thoughts and feelings in order to achieve your goals. You don’t need to meditate for hours to get what you want.
What’s still missing from the equation is action. On this point I think virtually everyone would agree.
If you don’t do something, you won’t get anything.
If you don’t do something, you won’t get anything.
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But of all the things you could be doing, is there anything truly as important as getting into conversation?
Think about all that you can achieve through conversation:
- You can set up partnerships.
- You can persuade investors.
- You can talk to collaborators about starting new projects.
- You can get a date.
- You can sell your significant other on the idea of marriage.
- You can ask for publicity and media coverage.
- You can sell your latest release.
- You can book shows.
- You can land an opening slot on another band’s tour.
- And more.
So, most if not everything you want is on the other side of a conversation.
And, if we were to take it for granted that what happens in our minds isn’t real, we can detach from this notion that sharing will somehow undermine our attempt to reach our goals.
It could be argued, then, that sharing is the critical element bridging the gap between where you are and where you want to be. A lot of people miss that.
The critical element bridging the gap between where you are and where you want to be is a conversation.
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I have immense respect and reverence for Napoleon Hill’s work and his book, Think And Grow Rich. It’s made a difference for a lot of people.
Many have speculated on what hidden secret Hill was referring to in the introduction of his book. Some people even claim to have the answer.
If I had to take my own stab at it, however, I would say that the secret is turning your thoughts into material, physical form.
What do I mean by that?
See, thoughts don’t exist. I don’t have access to your thoughts or anyone else’s. I only have access to my own. But even with access to my own thoughts, I can’t find my thoughts, your thoughts or anyone else’s anywhere in the physical realm. I can’t use my senses to identify them.
If we want our thoughts to become real, we need to turn them into a to-do list, a conversation, an email, a blog post, a podcast episode, a video, a book or otherwise.
So, despite its impact, Think And Grow Rich isn’t quite right. It’s Act And Grow Rich. It’s through action we discover what works and what doesn’t. When something doesn’t work, sometimes it’s just a matter of making a little tweak. And, sometimes we’re way off base and need to rethink our entire approach.
But trust me when I say I’ve tried a lot of things that didn’t work, and 80% of the time, I still fail. Most of what I do doesn’t work.
If I take it for granted that I’m not special and that I will make just as many mistakes as the average person, then all things being equal, it’s better that I make more mistakes. If I make more mistakes, I have a better chance at success. Even with all the failures, there’s bound to be some successes.
But you may still be wondering why you’d want to share your goals with others.
It’s quite simple – because you can benefit from what others have to share with you.
They may see things you don’t currently see about your goals and offer feedback. They may have accomplished something similar and could tell you what kind of effort it’s going to take. Plus, people know people. The people you share with may be able to connect you with others who can help you reach your goals quicker.
Now, you may be saying to yourself, “I’ve done this type of sharing before, and it didn’t get me anywhere.”
Never forget that how you share makes a difference.
When you’re sharing about something that matters to you, the key point is to leave people touched, moved and inspired. How do you know when that has happened? When you feel touched, moved and inspired.
From that context, you will find that people are more open and willing to help, because it allows them step into your world and see things from your perspective.
If they don’t know why your goals are important to you, that question is going to remain a mystery for them. Even if they can’t verbalize it, there will be something missing for them.
So, do we fail to reach our goals because we share them with others? No, I think it’s the complete opposite. Most of the time, we fail to reach our goals because we don’t share them with anyone.
Most of the time, we fail to reach our goals because we don’t share them with anyone.
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Thanks for joining me for part one of this podcast episode.
In part two, I’ll be sharing some of my goals with you. Maybe you can help me reach them.
Until then, jam on.
The post 154 – Why You Should Share Your Goals Part 1 appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Multiple Grammy Award winner Taylor Swift said:
Music is changing so quickly, and the landscape of the music industry itself is changing so quickly, that everything new, like Spotify, all feels to me a bit like a grand experiment.
The ever-evolving music industry is extremely competitive. That makes it pivotal for would-be artists to make themselves stand out from the competition.
While performing regular gigs and occasionally having a newspaper or magazine do a write-up about you was enough a decade ago, you will have to work a lot harder to get heard today.
With more than 56% of the world’s population having internet access, having an online presence is more important than ever before.
Even if you have never thought about sharing your music online and creating website or social media accounts for yourself, a few simple guidelines will help you make your entrance into the world wide web significantly easier.
Set Goals Although building a prolific online presence for yourself may seem rather overwhelming, it is important to understand that it is achievable. If you are aiming to instantly garner an online following akin to that of Ed Sheeran or Beyoncé, however, you are going to be terribly disappointed.
The first thing you need to do to establish this presence is to set realistic goals for yourself. These goals can include anything from having a certain number of Instagram or YouTube followers to having a renowned blog write about you.
There are no right and wrong goals when it comes to building an online presence. Simply do what you believe is going to benefit your music the most in the long-run.
Develop Your Central Hub As tempting as it may be to establish your entire online presence all at once, it simply isn’t possible. Decide where you are going to place your focus first, whether it is a website for your music, a social media presence, or online streaming.
While you will undoubtedly expand your presence, it is essential to first make sure your hub (or online headquarters if that is easier to imagine) has a good foundation.
Maximize your hub’s potential by developing a user-friendly interface and adding only high-quality, engaging content that will appeal to both your current fan base as well as music lovers in general.
Yes, Content is Key To have an online following you can be proud of, you need to pique the interest of prospective fans. One sure-fire way to do this is to post relevant, interesting content in creative ways.
The internet has become extremely cluttered with a plethora of media, which is why it is so important to only post content with substance.
There are a number of artists and bands ranging from Ariana Grande to Maroon 5 that knows the importance of good content that appeals to their fans. Not only do they keep their online content current and of a good quality, but they make sure that all the online platforms they make use of sport a universal feel to them.
Choose Your Platforms Carefully When establishing an online presence, it is important to choose the platforms you are going to share your music and post content on, carefully.
Once you have decided on your platforms, you need to figure out how you are going to grow your fan base. If you have shared your music on YouTube, for example, you would want your videos to rank high in the internal search results.
SEO optimization can make an enormous difference to how many subscribers and video views you get on platforms such as YouTube and Spotify and is definitely an area you would want to place some focus on.
Remember that not everyone will be willing to pay for your music if they have never heard it before, so consider uploading a few songs for free, public spaces as well as pay-to-stream or download sites.
Socialize More It is pointless to share your music online if you have no one that wants to listen to it. But this does not mean you have to spam everyone relentlessly with your music and other content.
Learn to get social without being spammy. Conduct a bit of research into what other artists are doing and use their strategies as a basis when creating your own.
Become more vocal in the music community, sharing other artist’s news and leaving considerate comments. Engage with your fans as well by answering questions and thanking them for their support.
Being a musician is hard work. Thankfully there are numerous things you can do, such as establishing an online presence for yourself, that will make your life a lot easier.
The post 5 Tips to Boost Your Online Presence & Sell More Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How can you have a more effective release? Are there steps you can take to ensure your music is noticed upon launch?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I talk to Outerloop Coaching co-founder Paul Phelps about the effective release strategy they’ve developed.
Podcast Highlights: * 00:34 – Quick personal update * 02:00 – Who is Paul Phelps? * 05:12 – What type of coaching does Outerloop offer? * 07:37 – The overwhelming world of digital marketing for musicians * 11:28 – The importance of systems in creativity * 22:39 – What steps need to be taken to have a successful release? * 30:40 – Launching your release * 35:01 – The importance of focus on social media * 36:26 – Are there other nuances that make the strategy work? * 38:19 – Where can people go to learn more about coaching? * 40:38 – Conclusion
Transcription: I know that I’ve been kind of quiet throughout July.
As usual, this is not due to a lack of content to share with you but rather a mix of burnout, increasing workload, vacation time and planning for my future.
My one-week trip to Ontario, by the way, was entirely too brief but much needed and enjoyable.
But I wanted to talk a little bit about my plans. Though I can’t share any specifics just yet, I am looking to relocate in October.
Hard to believe, but I’ve been in Calgary, Alberta for nearly 23 years.
During that time, I made plenty of trips to Red Deer, Edmonton, Lethbridge, Camrose, Barrhead, various parts of British Columbia – which is Alberta’s neighboring province to the west – Saskatchewan, Ontario, Sandpoint and Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Spokane, Washington, Portland, Oregon, Hawaii, Mexico, Japan, California and more.
In retrospect, I can see that I’ve never been one to sit still. I’ve often felt it important to have a home base of sorts, but that was always with the idea of being able to move freely between different locations, whether it was for the purpose of traveling, touring or otherwise.
That desire has only grown over time. So, as I look to the future, I plan to incorporate more adventure into my life.
In any case, I thought I would share a quick update with you before getting into today’s interview.
If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a release strategy that can help you generate amazing results, you’re going to love this episode. Let’s get into it.
[Interview with Paul Phelps]
And I’m back to wrap up today’s episode.
You may have heard Paul mention a free pre-recording checklist in this episode. If you’re interested in grabbing your own, you can go to MusicEntrepreneurHQ.com/Outerloop. This offer comes with Mike Mowery’s Music Management Primer as well, so again, go to MusicEntrepreneurHQ.com/Outerloop to claim these free offers.
Thanks for listening and keep on rocking.
The post 153 – A Step by Step Process for a Successful Release – with Paul Phelps of Outerloop appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Delay pedals play an essential role in outstanding guitar performance.
Delay effects can be created with a variety of musical devices. In the 1940s and 1950s, guitarists produced delay using tape loops. Analog and digital effect units appeared in the 1970s and 1980s. And, audio software plugins came along in the 2000s.
Some classic guitar solos you love would not be the same without delay. Take some massive hits like “Brighton Rock” by Queen, or “She Sells Sanctuary” by The Cult.
But even seasoned guitar geeks have difficulty choosing the best delay pedals. Reasons vary. Some have no idea about guitar pedals. Some cannot tell apart difference units. And, some do not know how to connect all of them in a sequence. The overwhelming number of delay effects on the market also confuse those who are searching for a quality unit.
That is why the Musical Study team put together a colorful infographic offering insights into choosing guitar delay pedals. Check it out below.
The post How to Choose the Best Delay Pedals for Your Guitar [INFOGRAPHIC] appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Google is now smarter than ever. Using hundreds of ranking factors in the algorithm, the system crawls sites, validates their relevance, and gives them a well-deserved place in the Google search. But the position of this or that website will significantly depend on the quality of content it’s filled with.
What does it mean to you as a musician?
If you want to optimize your presence in search engines, you’ll need to become a bit of a content marketer to leverage your website and increase its visibility. This way, people will get access to the actual information related to you, thereby helping to expand the reach and enhance recognition.
In this article, we’ll cover three ultimate writing tips to upgrade your website text and better site ranking in search engine results pages. Ready to dive in?
Make Your Page Title Stand Out It’s best to start search engine optimization from page titles, and for a good reason. Page titles are the very first thing web users see while conducting a Google search, and the first information they read about you before deciding to visit your website. Therefore, following basic requirements for creating catchy titles can help increase your click-through rates and raise the chances of ranking higher in Google.
The proper page title checklist includes the creation of short, simple, and informative titles for your website. Sounds simple? Wait for it—there are a couple of steps involved in the process.
First, you’ll need to come up with strong focus keywords or keyphrases for your title and supplement them with secondary words of your choice. The point is that keywords should be placed at the very beginning and not exceed the length of 60 characters. Also, don’t forget to write a catchy title that’ll outperform generic ones and welcome people to visit your page.
Craft an Awesome Page Description Meta description is the second essential website element that comes after the page title section. Page description allows you to present a little overview of your music, providing the search engine with more information about the page. Bear in mind that different pages will contain different page descriptions.
For example, the Home page can tell information about you or your band in detail, such as the origin, genres and group members. On the Music page, you can write about the sound, musical style or group projects. The Event’s page will describe the upcoming concerts or mention the places where you play regularly.
No matter what information you write, make sure to use a maximum of 155 characters.
Fill Your Website With Exclusive Content While Google has indeed become smarter—differentiating between optimized and non-optimized sites—it’s still a machine. Thus, it cannot perceive and digest information other than the text, in comparison to humans. So visual data, including videos, audio, and images are out of Google’s sight.
If you want to post audio of your songs, you can add lyrics and kill two birds with one stone: help the engine detect a textual element and make the audio visible, while also providing website visitors with useful content.
Likewise, if you want to post videos from concerts or other important events, write a short video description to help visitors understand what they’re going to see, and, of course, to help the search engine identify the presence of visuals on the webpage.
Including lyrics is an excellent source of information for a website, but what does the exclusive content really entail here?
Pretty much everything you might deem appropriate and helpful to entice as many visitors to your site as possible.
For example, you could share some unique information about your lyrics, telling readers about the time when you created a song while taking the elevator. Also, you might want to release a story about why the lyrics were written or what historical events they refer to. Put a cherry on top and post the very first version of the lyrics before they were tweaked and refined to the current variant.
Even when developing your band’s exclusive content, there might be the times when you’ll ask, “Can someone write my conclusion for me?”, especially when you’re hit with writer’s block. Even in cases like this, essay-writing services will save your day and provide you with original endings whenever you need.
Another significant point for each musician to consider is a news section. These musical life updates can help fill your website with the top information, which in turn will be ranked as relevant by Google. Pair that with the addition of proper links and the Google ranking of your website will increase twofold.
Final Thoughts: Granted, there are few chances to get noticed on the Internet without strategically planned musician website optimization. Such web page elements as content and links are the main drivers of website success that can amplify click-through rates and bring in more visitors.
Now that you know more about how the content works for SEO, you can implement these content writing strategies to make your site more search engine friendly. Create music, share it, and have fun adding off-the-wall information to diversify your site.
The post Сontent Writing Secrets to Enhance Your Site’s Google Ranking appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Now that breaking down the barriers of good old traditions and stereotypes has become the marker of modern living, labelling things and confining them to just one lane seems to be outdated and rather odd.
Today’s youth even rebel against being imposed with unwanted academic duties, ordering their custom essays on some time-proven writing services like WritingCheap. Doesn’t this make it pretty clear that 21st century people shrink from the old-school habit of labelling everything around them?
Instead, they seem to be comfortable experimenting with things, pushing the boundaries, and savouring their freedom in doing so. As one of the most influential and massive spheres of today’s life, the music industry inevitably mirrors this avant-garde trend and establishes new tendencies in dealing with the genre question.
It’s not only a matter of fashion that drives musicians to blend genres in their art, but also the irrefutable fact that sticking to one genre affects your music. Why is that? We’ll try to explain the connection between the one-genre approach to your music and the impact it has on its quality.
1: It Makes Your Music Dull
Fitting music into one particular genre can make it pretty limited and bland. If you follow, for example, the broad and omnipresent pop genre and add some unique and catchy sound in your single, there’s indeed a good chance you will make your album a success, just like the loved and hated performers, including the Backstreet Boys and Justin Bieber.
Even if your song is listed on top of the charts and played endlessly in teens’ lengthy playlists, it might just remain just an ordinary piece of mainstream culture. This is why it’s essential to experiment with genres if you want your music to stand out from the garish rubbish you see on YouTube.
Spicing up your pop track with some strong rock vibes will make it a bright example of a distinctive cross-genre music product. And vise versa, shaping your rock-powered single into a dulcet pop-themed melody will add a striking quality to it.
Probably one of the most prominent musicians who succeeded in blending their music is the widely popular teenage idol, Avril Lavigne. The music icon of the early “double zeros” bridged rock and pop so brightly and uniquely that it made her music an outstanding example of both genres.
Many critics attribute her mind-blowing success to the euphonic mix of the two seemingly distinctive genres that she put in her songs. The pop-rock queen herself admits that she rose to fame mainly due to the ear-pleasing hybrid she turned her teen-oriented music into.
2: It Stamps Your Art
If you label your music with a specific genre or subgenre, it will fix your artistic image solely to that genre, leading your audience to only associate your music with that genre box.
Subsequently, if you decide to adopt a different genre, your audience may not be ready for the upgraded version of your music style. As a result, your fans might simply turn their backs on you as a performer, unable to come to terms with your style alterations. So, maybe it’s better to restrain from labelling your music in the first place?
3: It Boxes You In
Assigning one typical genre to your music means restricting it to the features of that genre. You basically smother the idiosyncratic spirit of your music by keeping it within the tight bounds of the genre you’ve picked. Instead you should expand your music to new genres and balance them neatly in your singles.
In writing this passage on breaking out of the one genre trap, we can’t help but mention one of the most legendary and memorable bands who reached world-wide success by balancing two epic genres in their music — rap and rock. Yes, as you may have guessed, we are dedicating this section to the epitome of rap-rock music, Linkin Park.
The band managed to sharpen the rap and rock fusion in their music so beautifully and masterfully that the then raw genre became associated with these music virtuosos from that time on.
4: It Sickens Your Fans
No matter how deeply your fans love your music, they may get jaded to the regular sound of your songs with time. The audience will get used to your style very quickly, which is the main reason why they may get fed up with your music and no longer want to accept it as something valuable and attractive. In order to avoid this, just freshen up your music style by combining the genres!
Listeners have no mercy even when it comes to the world’s most phenomenal musicians. Yes, the music industry has witnessed several cases where the public reproached some insanely popular performers such as “Rap God” Eminem or pop diva Britney Spears for their disregard for genre experimentation.
Conclusion In this article, we tried to broaden your knowledge in finding the right approach to music genres, demonstrating that adhering to one genre in your musical style can negatively affect its quality as well as the way it’s perceived by your audience.
We hope that we have provided you with the proper insight into why holding to one particular genre can devalue your music and why it’s crucial to experiment with new styles to keep your audience listening.
The post 4 Reasons Why Sticking to One Genre Can Harm Your Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Are you saving up money for your very first-ever ukulele? You’re probably thinking your local music store is the best bet. However, there are some things you should consider before you go spending cash on your first instruments.
The Ukulele is a good choice for beginners, but in our experience, the regular music stores do not contain the variety of premium quality instruments that you should consider as a beginner.
You might find some top-notch brands like Diamond Head’s collection, but other stores may only carry a few Mahalo Ukulele’s, which may come in a variety of exciting colors, but won’t necessarily be the best choice for your first ukulele.
If you find your local market starved for quality products, you’ll be tempted to take a look at the online shops, but before you give your money to an online retailer, you should do the proper research.
We know what to avoid because we made these mistakes when buying our first instrument so here are the 5 things you should know before you buy your first ukulele.
Download the PDF version of this article
1: The Size of Your Ukulele
First of all, you need to know which particular ukulele size that is right for you. Although the Soprano is the standard model, we recommend you take a look at our previous review on the different ukulele sizes and how they are capable of affecting the playing capacity and tone of your ukulele.
If you have a bigger hand, then you might want to take a look at a baritone, tenor or concert-size ukulele, because these sizes have larger fret boards, giving you more space to work with while you are playing your instrument.
2: Proper Budget
Once you’ve figured out the perfect size, now it’s time to consider the price. We believe it’s essential that your budget fits the level of performance that you are aiming for.
You would not want to spend tons of money if you’re only looking to play for personal enjoyment or if you’re brand-new to the ukulele. You can find lots of beginner soprano ukuleles from between $25 to $125.
3: Acoustic or Electric
All right, you’ve set the budget and identified the perfect size, now we need to focus on whether you would like to go for an electro-acoustic or merely an acoustic ukulele. We may suggest an electro-acoustic ukulele if you’re considering performances that will need the sound and volume that only an amp speaker can provide.
If you aren’t playing to a crowded room then your best bet is to stick to the classic and save some money on the acoustic. Plus, you won’t lose faint tonal features reverberating from the ukulele body due to the pickups placed inside the instrument.
4: Tuning Pegs and Other Accessories
Right now you have all the research down. The last piece of the puzzle comes down to the premium quality of the tuning pegs, also known as machine heads. If you’re still hesitant about that, feel free to leave a comment below.
We all know that the pegs contain a significant influence on whether your ukulele stays in tune over extended play or if you’re forced to keep making annoying adjustments.
We believe it’s essential that the pegs you choose to purchase will hold their tune because you’ll be left extremely annoyed if whenever you pick up to play you find your instrument falling out of tune right when you need it most.
From our experience, proper tuning pegs might be the most important aspect to whether or not you find satisfaction with your instrument. If you’re struggling to find the right pegs for the right price, do not hesitate to get in touch with us, and we’ll be pleased to help you.
Last, but not least, you have your ukulele accessories. Many ukuleles come with a performance bag, but if yours doesn’t we recommend thinking about picking one up for keeping your instrument protected when both storing and transporting.
You may also find a tuner is reasonably necessary. You can go for either a clip-on or a pitch pipe tuner and both will serve you well even if you have sprung for top-quality pegs.
For displaying your beautiful instrument when not in-use, consider a sturdy and long-lasting stand.
Finally, you may want to grab a nice pick for when you aren’t plucking away with your fingers.
5: Last, But Not Least – The Brand!
If you want to buy a ukulele for your own musical enjoyment, it’s utterly sensible to pick-up a second-hand ukulele as long as you consider the above tips.
But if you’re committed to the ukulele, you need to be confident in the tune, brand value, and support that one Ukulele brand may have over another brand. Here are several famous ukulele brands:
- Kala
- Hola! Music
- ADM
- Mahalo Ukuleles
- Diamond Head
- Everjoys
- Hricane
- Donner
- HUAWIND
- AKLOT
- honsing
- Lohanu
- Ranch
Final Word: Picking the perfect ukulele is about getting the one that works right for you. If you are a new musician, the Ukulele is a good choice for beginners. We want you to be satisfied with the proper instrument for your needs and ensure you purchase your ukulele with the utmost self-confidence.
Have an excellent time!
Adios!!
The post 5 Things You Should Know Before Buying a Ukulele appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Regardless of where you’re currently at in your music career, it’s critical that you go over the basics every now and then. Doing so will enable you to think like a beginner, the time when you could easily visualize various possibilities.
If you look at it closely, to be a musician in the 21st century requires you to be an entrepreneur.
Technology has had a widespread impact across all industries over the past two decades, and music is one of them.
While artists of generations past had to work hard to land a record deal to grow a global fan base, nowadays, with the help of technology you can easily get your work out to every part of the world.
Furthermore, the music industry of the modern times has forced musicians to adapt to ensure their survival.
While the older musicians maintain their stand of working only alongside sources that pay them, younger musicians are seen taking a much wider view of their music careers.
If you, too, are a budding musician, trying to make your mark in the present-day music industry, here are some important tips that might help you.
Work on a Plan You should think about a plan to advance your music career and jot it down on a piece of paper. It has been scientifically proven that hand written goals bring a lot of focus and clarity.
This process will also help you gain new insights into your strategy, enabling you to take a better approach. Furthermore, it is important for you to lay out your goals so clearly that there is not even a slight bit of uncertainty around them.
Network In the music industry and in other industries, it’s not so much about what you know, but who you know.
Other than knowing the key people, you should also learn to walk a mile in their shoes. There is no point handing out your cards to every single person you meet. You must figure out how you can benefit each other.
Networking is all about developing a mutually beneficial relationship where both the parties benefit from each other’s resources. Rather, it would be best to help others first, before asking for help.
Everything is About Sales A fact that a large majority of musicians never come to terms with is that apart from being musicians, they also must be good at sales, to progress their careers.
While on one hand music is a transcendental language that breaks down all the barriers, it is also a type of entertainment. And to succeed as entertainers, you should be adequately compensated for your effort and time.
You should appreciate, learn, understand, master and execute sales to the best of your ability. And that should be done at all times, whether you are online, at a music conference or on stage. Sell, sell, sell!
The post Top 3 Tips to Advance Your Music Career appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
When guitar players are looking to buy effects pedals, one of the questions that inevitably comes up is, “which effects do I need?”
The simple answer is that this is highly individual. Different guitarists need different effects for different purposes.
Here I’m going to introduce some of the more popular choices. But this doesn’t mean this is all there is. There are so many more effects pedals out there.
Either way, let’s get into it.
Tuner Technically not an effect, but useful nonetheless, your pedalboard should be furnished with a quality tuner.
Tuners can often be used as mute buttons, which is great for live gigs, and of course, you can use them to tune your guitars too.
Now, some guitarists already have a lot of pedals and don’t necessarily want to thin out their signal further by adding a tuner pedal to their rig.
It’s recommended that you find a true bypass pedal to minimize the effect of adding another pedal to your signal chain.
There’s nothing wrong with using an external tuner too, of course, if that’s what you prefer.
Distortion/Overdrive/Fuzz Even if your amp already has a great dirty channel, it can be nice to have a separate compact pedal, which you could use as a boost or as a means to tighten your tone.
If your amp doesn’t have a dirty channel, then it’s essential period.
Now, each pedal tends to have different tonal characteristics, so you should always choose something that sounds good to you.
Distortion is associated with heavier tones, which is not surprising, because distortion pedals basically overload your signal to create the crunch.
Overdrive pedals offer that “cranked up” tube amp sound.
Fuzz hard-clips your signal too – even more than a distortion pedal. And, that gives it a different tone.
But this doesn’t mean that all distortion, overdrive or fuzz pedals sound the same. Far from it.
So, again, if you’re serious about picking up a pedal to dirty up your tone, you’ll want to do your research.
Delay With reverb being one of the most commonly included effects on an amplifier, there’s a good chance you don’t need a separate reverb pedal.
There are exceptions, of course, and there are some great sounding reverb pedals out there to tempt you.
But delay is one of those effects that’s seen on virtually every guitarist’s pedalboard, regardless of whether they think of themselves as a soundscaper in the vein of The Edge or Jonny Greenwood.
Slapback echo can be great, even for the most complex of solos. And, longer delays can be awesome for atmospheric parts. There are plenty of great settings in between too.
One of my guitar teachers didn’t leave home without a delay, even if he was just teaching lessons, so that should tell you something. To me, delay is essential.
Chorus There are many types of modulation pedals, with one of the most popular being chorus.
When you think of the word “chorus”, what probably comes to mind is the part of a song everyone sings along to.
But the term is also used in choir settings, which is where the expression “singing in chorus” comes from.
From that description, you can get a sense of what the effect does. It basically layers slightly out of tune voices behind the original voice to give you more thickness and sparkle.
Chorus can be great on both clean and distorted tones, but I find it especially useful for clean tones to give it some extra warmth.
There are a lot of other great modulation pedals worth checking out too – although we won’t be covering them here – whether it’s phaser, flanger, tremolo, ring modulator or otherwise.
Wah Certainly not essential, but useful nonetheless, a wah pedal can give you more tonal variety in your rhythm and lead playing.
Just as the name suggests, the pedal offers a frequency sweep “wah” that can be controlled with the expression pedal (by rocking it up and down).
Guitarists like Jimi Hendrix and Kirk Hammett are well-known wah users.
For many funk guitarists, wah is usually a staple, though again not necessary. In general, wah has a wide range of applications across the many musical genres that exist.
Compressor One more effect that can be incredibly useful is compression.
Basically, it tightens the dynamic spectrum, making the quieter notes louder and the louder notes quieter.
It sounds simple enough, but it’s important to know when and where to apply a compressor.
For instance, if you’re doing a lot of intricate picking on your clean channel, along with harmonics and maybe even tapping or hammer-ons, using a compressor can help every note come out crisp and clear.
There are certainly other applications for compression, whether it’s for lead work, specific genres or otherwise.
Final Thoughts As I mentioned before, there are many products for guitars, and I only covered a few of the more popular effects here.
Whether it’s modulation, pitch (vibrato, octaver, pitch shifters, etc.) level (volume, noise gate, limiter, etc.), depending on what tones you’re trying to achieve, there are pedals suited to every need.
Don’t be afraid to experiment, as the first pedal you buy might not be the perfect workhorse. If you keep at it, however, you will find what’s right for you.
The post What Effects Pedals do I Need for Electric Guitar? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It’s exciting when your band starts to establish an online following. It can mean the start of a true fan-base, more attendees at gigs and a buzzing platform on which to release your music, gig dates and any other news you’d like to share.
But what if the likes start diminishing, and names who were once regulars on your notifications start to become “rares”? How do you stop that from happening? How do you keep your online following?
Well, as somebody who has experienced declines as well as increases in online attention, I’ve learned a few things about how to keep an online following interested. Here are eight things you can do, to keep those “likes” growing.
Run Competitions Everybody loves to feel involved, and more than that, people like to win stuff! If you run regular competitions on your page, you’re sure to gain interest (and likes!).
These can involve your material, random prizes that are linked to your songs, tickets to gigs, merchandise, or anything else that you can think of.
To keep it financially sensible for you, make sure what you’re offering is something that doesn’t directly cause you to lose money, but that what you’re giving as a prize also works as promotion for you/your band.
Tag Loyal Fans People like to feel appreciated. Especially if they’re loyal fans.
Something you can do to ensure those who follow you loyally stick around is show them how grateful you are.
This doesn’t necessarily mean writing gushing statuses about how much you appreciate them, tagging them with lots of heart emojis.
It can be as simple as tagging them when you advertise gigs, tagging them in gigs they’ve attended or sharing a song by another band who’s inspired you and tagging them, saying you think they might like it. That last idea brings me on to the next point…
Be Entertaining! …For heaven’s sake, be entertaining. You’re an entertainer, after all! On social media platforms, it can be the case that you find yourself simply sharing information – gig dates, release dates, and the like. This is all well and good, but it isn’t entertaining. It’s unlikely to keep your following interested.
You don’t have to be a comedian to share a few jokes. Just post something funny once in a while. Share songs that you like that weren’t written by you. Tell everyone why you like those songs. Share stuff that isn’t predictable. Make people smile, they’ll thank you for it with their gig attendance.
Host Polls Something else you can do to keep people’s attention as you involve them in your page is setting up polls.
These can be silly things along the lines of: “Does pineapple belong on pizza?” (Although, please don’t use that one – it’s way too obvious!), or they can be questions about your band’s next moves. You could ask which song of yours they’d next like to see a music video for, or even which songs they’d like to see you perform cover versions of.
Again, this makes members of your following feel involved and will excite them enough to interact (and stick around!).
Interact on Other People’s (or Band’s) Posts Something else that can keep your name buzzing is commenting on other people or bands’ posts.
It’s easy to do, offers a simple message of support and also might get you some new followers.
Remember to be nice in your interactions!
Tag Venues/Towns Tagging venues or even towns that you’re playing in works in a similar way. It helps to create a buzz about the town or city you’re in, and people always like to feel a buzz about the place they live.
Each time you tag a venue or town, your followers who live near there are going to have their attention roused. That makes them a lot more likely to continue following you. Adding something about how much you love the venue, enjoy the town, like the people there, etc. will make this even more effective.
Again, it’s largely about being nice! Charm is your magic ingredient here.
Keep Selfies Limited! Hopefully, I don’t need to say this. Please, please, please, don’t post a load of selfies on your band/artist page. People don’t want to see them. I’m guilty of posting selfies occasionally but at the same time I’m endlessly baffled by those who do so with seemingly no self-awareness.
People follow or like your music page because they want to know more about it or find out about gigs. Don’t bore them to death with pictures of yourself pouting. They’ll quickly press “unfollow”.
Sorry, rant over.
Post Interesting Pictures To end on a positive note, there are sure to be a lot of interesting pictures you can be posting.
This can involve studio gear, cities/towns you’re playing, things that have given you songwriting inspiration, interesting people you’ve met… the list goes on.
Keeping your pictures meaningful and unpredictable will make those who follow you more inclined to look at them, and to keep looking at them. A photograph of a fader set to the half-way point is a lot more enticing than yet another photograph of the front of a face (sorry, now the rant really is over).
Summary I hope these tips will help you to keep your fans and your band happy and in touch with each other. Keep on rocking, and remember to post wisely!
The post 8 Ways to Keep Your Online Following as a Musician appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
As technology continues to advance each day, there’s no denying that establishing a business has become tougher now more than ever. That said, you’ll need to have a well thought of marketing strategy that can give your company a competitive edge.
With the availability of so many game plans these days, video marketing benefits remain hard to ignore. Its popularity has grown over the last few years, providing marketers with a unique and unforgettable voice that has the power to convert audiences instantly. Read on to find out why.
How Video Drives Results One of the simplest and most obvious proofs that video marketing benefits its viewers is the use of motion picture at school. Apart from enhancing students’ learning experiences, educational videos also boost classroom motivation. The same principle applies to the use of video in marketing.
Biologically, people respond to video differently as it combines pictures with captivating motion, a union that certainly compels our attention. Simply put, our brain engages fully with a cohesive sequence that tells a story.
It’s safe to say that the use of videos remain an undefeatable strategy as it helps consumers learn and generate interest around a product more effectively. Let’s also not forget that there are a lot of different ways you can share a video such as on YouTube, social media, email marketing, landing pages and more.
With just a little creativity, videos can help your brand stand out from the rest and boost your company’s online presence. Take a look at the infographic we have prepared below to see the numbers better and understand more the science behind video marketing benefits.
The post Why You Need to Use Video in Your Marketing Plan [INFOGRAPHIC] appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
It used to be that finding music for your movie or YouTube video was a hustle.
First, you needed to get the appropriate license for the song. In some instances, you would be required to pay royalties on the song.
The good news is that things have gotten easier than ever.
Now you can easily access thousands if not millions of songs for your YouTube videos.
With royalty free music (licensing that enables purchasers to use music in their videos for as long as the license is valid), it’s easier than ever. But how does it work?
Subscribing to the Service If you want to gain access to royalty free music you’ll need a subscription.
There are two roads you can go down, and they are both easy and convenient. Let’s have a look.
Premium Subscription Premium subscription is the gem. It only costs $21 per month, but since you’ll be billed annually, it costs $252.
This will give you access to all the available services on the platform. You’ll enjoy unlimited music licenses to all the music in the library, and you may use the music in your videos.
Similarly, all the music available is exclusively selected from real producers, composers and artists to ensure you get a top-notch experience.
In the same vein, there are robust filtering and curated mechanisms for playlists.
Time is of the essence. As a premium subscriber, you’ll be able to filter all the playlists to find the perfect song in a snap of the fingers. Be it genre, instruments, mood, or duration of the song; it only takes minutes.
You want fresh music to keep viewers glued to your video. And, you might even be creating fresh content regularly and ongoingly.
Playlists are updated with new songs weekly. You can even sample pre-released music, more than 1,000 songs with stem and 30,000 plus sound effects.
Standard Subscription Standard subscription is a more convenient avenue for those who wish not to pay annually. You may prefer to pay out $15 per month.
Here you get unlimited access to music licenses to all the songs in the playlists. You enjoy a curated and filtered playlist on demand for all the videos you wish to enhance. Additionally, you’ll access weekly new music at no extra cost.
The benefits don’t end there! All members’ licenses stay valid in perpetuity even when your membership is canceled or has lapsed.
But the regular subscription doesn’t give you access to sound effects, songs with stem or any pre-released music.
Use of Sound Effects Use of sound effects is a vital part of most YouTube videos. These are sounds that will be heard alongside the primary voice on a video.
Whenever you choose to add them as background scores, you’ll first need to fade in and out, then attach them to your video. This will ensure that the sound effects don’t affect the clarity of other voices in the video.
Use of Songs with Stems Stems are open musical element formats that create stem tracks enhancing creativity in music. They may include drum stems, melody stems, vocal stems and baseline stems.
As with sound effects, when effectively incorporated into songs and then used in videos, songs with stems give the videos a more spicy twist that may be appealing to viewers.
Customer Service Our qualified and friendly customer service is excellent. We’ll ensure you get full round the clock assistance with our entire membership licenses you subscribe to.
You may be wondering what happens when YouTube disapproves your video citing piracy. In such an event, never hesitate to reach out to us. We’ll help you resolve the issue quickly so that you can continue enjoying our services.
Also, once you download a particular song for a project, you can continue using the song as many times you wish. But our license covers all other video use provided the video doesn’t contain pornographic content.
Conclusion Users should note that we do not offer single song subscription.
But if you’re a YouTube content creator, enhancing your videos with great music and sound effects should be a priority. Take advantage of what’s available, and you’re sure to engage your viewers.
The post How to Enhance Your YouTube Videos Using Royalty Free Music appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Is burnout total B.S.? Can you just sleep it off and be on your merry way?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share the dangers of burnout and why constantly hustling, and grinding isn’t the way forward in your career or business.
Podcast Highlights: * 00:34 – Back to the land of the living * 00:55 – Burnout * 03:02 – Overcoming burnout and solving business challenges * 05:32 – Summary * 06:01 – Transforming your career or business
Transcription: Well, I’m finally back to the land of the living.
And, based on the level of burnout I was experiencing, I honestly thought I wouldn’t be feeling better until after summer.
Now, this isn’t to say I’m in ship shape now, but I’m beginning to feel a lot healthier.
I’ve already talked a little bit about my situation in episode 150 of the podcast, so if you need to catch up, you can start there.
But there’s one thing I didn’t address there, which is burnout.
Unless you’re a close friend of mine, there’s no way you would know that I’ve been slowly and steadily burning out this year.
For one thing, I haven’t taken a vacation since my trip to Japan in November 2017. So, that’s a major factor.
For another, I was taking an intensive four-month personal development program that started in January and ended in May. That program helped me generate some incredible results in life and in business, but it’s fair to say it was just one more thing on top of the many things I was already working on.
Because of the effort I’d put in, as summer neared, I was getting slammed with work.
This is a good problem to have, and honestly, it’s not a problem at all. But I had to come up with a strategy to keep the ball rolling.
But as the days wore on, I had trouble getting out of bed, my mind was foggy, and my shoulders were tense. I was in no place to come up with a workable solution.
That went on for weeks, even months. Since I hadn’t seen my naturopath since 2018, I decided it was high time to tap into his expertise again.
It took a while, but thanks to his help, I’ve started feeling healthier again.
If you’re an entrepreneur constantly hustling, then you probably know what I’m talking about.
But based on the kinds of things I’ve heard others say, I honestly think most people haven’t experienced burnout at this level, which is typically linked to adrenal and thyroid fatigue.
I’ve mentioned burnout in conversation before, and the most common response I’ve gotten is:
“Oh, you’re burned out? Me too.”
If that’s how you respond, you probably aren’t burned out.
If you can sleep it off over the weekend and feel fine again, you’re not going through burnout.
If you’re inexplicably exhausted and lethargic for weeks and months on end without any end in sight, that’s how you know you’re pushed it a little too hard.
So, when people say, “burnout is B.S. – just sleep it off”, I don’t think they know what they’re talking about.
Burnout is real. It can happen to anyone. You can push yourself too hard to the point where your body just can’t handle it anymore. And, it can take several months for you to recover. Some people even continue to push themselves to the point where they end up with a major illness or worse.
So, burnout is not B.S. It’s real.
Burnout is not B.S. It’s real.
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So, how exactly did I cope with burnout and what did I do to solve the problem?
When you’re burnt out, the last thing you want to do is eat or exercise.
But what you eat does make a big difference, so you want to make sure you’re eating better. I started drinking more smoothies and celery juice.
And, so far as exercise is concerned, I try to workout at least once per week, if not two or three times per week.
But I also know that you don’t want to push yourself too hard when you’re going through burnout. A good, 20- to 30-minute walk in the sun can be refreshing, but you must be consistent.
I did some walking, but most of the time I just worked out from home, as that’s the easiest solution.
Massage can also be a difference maker. I’ve only gotten one massage recently, but it helped me reset my sleep and helped with my shoulder injury besides.
Meditation is another mechanism I’ve found some value in. Last year, when I was emotionally burnt out, I was adamant about keeping to my meditation schedule, and in time, it started to work.
I haven’t been meditating consistently these days, but I still get some meditation time in.
And, of course, as I mentioned, I saw my naturopath, who is versed in organ adjustments, chiropractic work and cranial sacral therapy. I have found this to be immensely effective.
Of course, you get your homeopathic drops and pills too.
Now, I’m not a healthcare practitioner, so this episode comes with the disclaimer that you should see a professional if you’re wondering if any of what I’ve mentioned here would be beneficial to you.
As for the strategic aspects, I had to determine what I wanted to do with guest posts.
Every day, I get people emailing me wanting to contribute a guest post on my site, and while I appreciate the interest, I was finding that I didn’t have enough time to deal with all of it.
My first instinct was to discontinue guest posts, as I said I would do at the beginning of the year.
But then I started to see an opportunity. So, the next thought that came to me was, “maybe I could hire someone to handle this aspect of my business.”
And, that’s exactly what I did, and we now have a guest post manager who handles all inbound inquiries.
After that, I felt a huge sense of relief. I felt freer to work on the things I needed to work on.
After all, what should the CEO of a company be focused on? Marketing and sales.
What should the CEO of a company be focused on? Marketing and sales.
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If the work I’m doing isn’t tied into marketing or sales, then it should be handled by someone else.
If you get that, your music entrepreneurship career is going to take off like nobody’s business.
So, to summarize, burnout isn’t B.S. And, when you’re going through burnout, it’s unlikely that you will be effective on an individual level.
And, if you want to keep the ball rolling in your career or business, the key point is to identify the opportunity. Is there an aspect of your career or business that’s already profitable? If so, should you be the one handling all the work? Could you systemize that aspect of your business and have someone else handle it?
This is something I talk more about in my book, The Essential Guide to Creative Entrepreneurship: Making and Selling Your Neon Yellow Tiger, so if this has got your attention, I would recommend checking it out on Amazon.
At the core of what I’m talking about is transforming your career or business.
Our mission at The Music Entrepreneur HQ is to turn starving artists into empowered entrepreneurs who can achieving their desired level of success.
Are you tired of starving, releasing music that no one listens to, playing shows that no one comes to, making less money than you’re worth?
Then you’re in the right place at the right time. And, the time to transform your career is now.
So, if you’re ready to gain access to tools and resources that will make a difference in your career, I would encourage you to go to MusicEntrepreneurHQ.com/join to join our mailing list. I look forward to sharing with you on the inside.
The post 152 – Burnout in Music is B.S. – Sleep it off! appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
You may have heard me reference my “forthcoming EP” a few times and wondered when it was coming out.
Well, in this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I offer a sneak preview into the No Escape EP, which will be hitting online music stores and streaming platforms any day. Enjoy.
Podcast Highlights: * 00:34 – My latest solo release * 01:43 – No Escape * 03:52 – Sleepless Blues * 05:16 – Don’t Wait Too Long * 06:43 – Hope * 08:08 – Grace Is Bittersweet * 09:24 – Keep an eye open for the No Escape EP
Transcription: Any day now, my latest solo release, No Escape will become available on all online music stores and streaming platforms.
But because I wanted to do something special for you, I put together a sneak preview for the EP right here on the show.
As a listener of The New Music Industry Podcast, you’ve shown that you’re looking to take your music career or business beyond and that you’re willing to invest in yourself.
Although it’s been said many times by many people, it’s worth saying again – there are few things as important as your willingness to invest in yourself.
Most people will go through life investing in their education to get a job. But if you’re a listener of this podcast, it’s clear you’re looking to live a different kind of life. You want to live your passion and not be constrained by anything.
You’re special. That’s why I wanted to give you a sneak preview of my forthcoming EP, No Escape.
Now, usually the term “sneak preview” is reserved for an early viewing of a movie.
There are no music videos yet, and I have not filmed a movie in connection with the EP. So, this is a sneak peek into the music, what prompted me to write and record the songs I did and how they came together.
The first track on the EP is the title track, “No Escape”.
I wrote this song in fall 2017, which is hard to believe.
In the months leading up to writing “No Escape”, I noticed that my life was synchronizing with my best friend’s, sometimes in subtle ways and sometimes in more overt ways.
For example, we would sometimes wake up at the same time or make meals at the same time.
But our emotions and physical circumstances would also sync up. So, if one was feeling restless, it was common that the other would be feeling restless. If one was feeling exhausted and having trouble sleeping, so it would be for the other.
So, while “No Escape” was written about my best friend, the truth is that I was going through the same things she was.
The song is about restlessness and escapism. It’s human nature to avoid problems and difficulties instead of leaning into them.
And, sometimes we feel the need to escape. At times, that can manifest in relatively innocuous daily activities – going shopping, eating out, traveling, visiting the gym more frequently and so on.
But it can also show up as more harmful and destructive behavior – compulsive gambling, drinking, partying, bringing harm to yourself and others and so on.
An entrepreneur, of course, learns to lean into the challenges instead of trying to avoid or escape them. That’s what leads to personal expansion in the areas of leadership, resilience and problem solving.
Anyway, there’s something someone who’s experienced a lot of life intuitively knows. No matter where they go, they take themselves with them.
That means there truly is no escape from your problems unless you’re willing to dig for the core issue. Outside of that, there’s only temporary relief.
That’s the backdrop against which “No Escape” was written.
The next track, “Sleepless Blues”, predates “No Escape” by many years. I believe I first wrote it in 2007 or 2008.
2008 is when I fell in love for the first time. Of course, I’d had crushes up that point, but I’d never felt how I felt about someone up until that year.
When my heart was broken, I wrote a series of songs to begin the healing process.
I think “Sleepless Blues” was written prior to that time but I was thinking about including it on the same album, to be titled Back on Solid Ground.
That album, unfortunately, didn’t come to be in that space and time.
But I had worked on a couple of demos with my producer-engineer Patrick Zelinski a few years later, and “Sleepless Blues” happened to be one of them.
Originally, I was going to record three songs with him last year, but Patrick managed to dig up the demos we had been working on, including “Sleepless Blues” and “Grace Is Bittersweet”, which resulted in their inclusion on this five-track EP.
Up next is “Don’t Wait Too Long”.
Musically inspired by They Might Be Giants‘ “Man, It’s So Loud in Here”, I wrote the music for “Don’t Wait Too Long” around 2012.
Lyrically, I knew what I wanted to do with the chorus but hadn’t written the verse yet.
I dug up the music in 2016 and decided to put the finishing touches on this track. I released it as a single the same year.
This version of “Don’t Wait Too Long” is distinct in that it features more organic instruments.
The song is about the vacuum of depression and the resulting downward spiral.
It’s not autobiographical, at least not in the sense that I was the one who was depressed when I was writing it.
Prior to selling my home in 2012, I was living with a roommate who was going through difficult times and clearly wasn’t happy with his life. I was remembering him as I was writing the verses.
The song is certainly open to interpretation, but how it shows up for me is that if you don’t believe there are good things coming for you, you have no hope, and if you have no hope, you begin questioning your existence.
The next song, “Hope”, like “Don’t Wait Too Long”, was also released as a single in 2016.
This version, again, features more organic instrumentation than the original.
I’ve already said quite a bit about the song publicly, but in case you’re wondering what it’s about, it’s not about hope at all. It’s about being in limbo.
I once heard that hell is living the same experiences over and over without any change. Sometimes, that’s how life feels.
So, from the perspective of the song, the writer is seeking answers. He’s saying even though he believes good things can happen, he never sees any evidence of them happening. And, he just keeps waiting.
In that sense, this could even be a song about bad luck, if there is such a thing.
Does this song reflect my life experiences? At times, it has.
I now have a broader perspective on who I am and why I am the way I am and that allows me to step outside of my autopilot way of being.
But if that weren’t the case, I’m not certain there would be any hope.
The final track on the EP is “Grace Is Bittersweet”, a song that I started recording with Patrick in 2013 or 2014. It was written when I was still living in my old house.
I tend not to write folky tunes, so I think this is the closest I’ve ever come to that.
The song is about being human, making mistakes repeatedly and bowing down at the feet of the divine, asking for forgiveness.
But when you know it’s in your nature to keep doing the same things you’ve always done, when you know you’re going to be making more of the same mistakes, grace doesn’t feel liberating at all. It feels like a constraint.
The writer doesn’t have the answers. He’s merely living the life he was given.
What I like most about this song is what Patrick was able to do with it. He added keyboards and bass, which made the song far more engaging throughout.
So, keep an eye open for the release of No Escape, which should be coming soon to your favorite online music store or streaming platform. The physical release will be soon to follow.
The post 151 – Sneak Preview: No Escape EP appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
This post first appeared on Megaphone Agency.
In this digital age of music streaming and social media, it is easier than ever to objectively measure an artist’s reach and influence. Whether you like it or not, every social media site and music streaming platform is collecting loads of data about their users. This information can be used to your advantage to draw powerful insights about your audience.
On a high level, anyone can see how many total streams or social media followers an artist has. These superficial stats can be useful for sizing up an artist’s overall popularity.
Digging deeper into the data, however, can give a much clearer picture of who your fans are and where they are located. Most platforms have some kind of reporting interface that exposes more granular metrics. This allows content owners to see how their audience is segmented along various demographic and geographic dimensions.
It is here that you will find detailed information about your fans such as what cities they are in, what age range they fall into, and even what other interests they have. Analyzing this data will reveal valuable findings about your followers that can be used to expand your reach and attract new fans.
Each platform has slight variations in what information is available and how it is presented. Here is a look at few of the most popular platforms and how to access your organic audience data from each.
Facebook To access Facebook Page Insights you must be a creator of the page or be assigned a role on the page. To see your insights simply navigate to your Facebook page and select the Insights tab at the top of the page.
Facebook shares a lot of interesting information about post engagement, page views, and audience stats. The People tab is particularly useful for seeing the age and gender breakdown as well as the geographic location of your fans.
Note that demographic data is only available once Facebook is able to collect data on at least 100 page followers. This is to protect the identity of Facebook’s users.
According to Facebook:
Insights provide information about your Page’s performance, like demographic data about your audience and how people are responding to your posts.
You can use Insights to:
-Understand how people are engaging with your Page.
-View metrics about your Page’s performance.
-Learn which posts have the most engagement and see when your audience is on Facebook.
For more information click here to visit Facebook’s Page Insights help page.
Spotify Spotify has a platform called Spotify for Artists. Any artist with music on Spotify can gain access to their Spotify for Artists dashboard and can also give other team members access by making them admins. See Spotify’s FAQ page to find out how to gain access to the platform.
From your artist dashboard you will be able to see information about which songs are most popular, where people are streaming from, and who your audience is. Spotify also has a cool feature that lets you compare your audience to other artists. Note that there is a distinction between streams, listeners, and followers. Each metric provides a slightly different perspective on your audience.
According to Spotify:
With access to Spotify for Artists, you’ll be able to track which of your songs are performing best and learn how fans are discovering and listening to your music around the world. Your stats can help you run promotional campaigns, pick new singles, or even route your next tour.
For more information click here to see the Spotify for Artists guide.
Twitter Twitter’s platform is called Twitter Analytics. To access Twitter Analytics, click on your Twitter profile photo to bring up the menu bar. Then click on Analytics in the pull-down menu.
Twitter Analytics displays information about your individual Tweets, follower demographics, and stats about Twitter users as a whole. Like Facebook, some audience data is only available once you reach a certain number of followers to protect the identity of Twitter users.
Twitter’s audience data is a little less transparent than other platforms since it is derived using aggregated estimates from Twitter and their third-party partners.
According to Twitter:
Twitter’s analytics help you understand how the content you share on Twitter grows your business.
Youraudience insights dashboardcontains valuable information about the people who follow you on Twitter. You can track your follower growth over time and learn more about your followers’ interests and demographics.
For more information click here to visit the Twitter Analytics info page.
Concluding Thoughts There are a lot of great insights you can gather from all of this data. Use it wisely and it could help you promote your music more effectively, grow your audience, or route your tour.
Explore other online platforms you use to see if they provide stats on user data as well. A few others to look into are SoundCloud Stats, Pinterest Analytics, Pandora Next Big Sound, and Apple Music for Artists.
The post Find Your Fans: Using Data to Analyze Your Audience appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How do you handle challenging situations? What do you do when your life seems to be going sideways?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share my reflections from a recent heartbreak.
Podcast Highlights: * 00:34 – Heartbreak * 01:32 – Turning to a mentor for help * 02:35 – The stories we tell ourselves * 02:59 – Have you ever considered that it’s not your fault? * 03:53 – The trap of “more, better, different” * 05:01 – Parable of the Mexican fisherman and American investment banker * 06:35 – Living your dream life * 07:12 – How to create breakthroughs
Transcription: In my life, I recently encountered what we commonly refer to as “heartbreak”.
I’ve discovered from my training that heartbreak isn’t real. It’s just how certain situations show up to us in life. What sustains the emotional response is what we tell ourselves about the situation and what we make it mean.
But that doesn’t mean I didn’t encounter a wide range of emotions after a conversation one fateful night.
At first, I felt shocked and heartbroken. I was in pain.
Because I started sharing what I was going through with friends and my extended support group, I turned that around in about half a day.
At that point, the situation was showing up as clarity, freedom, energy in my world.
But only two days later, it was showing up as responsibility.
If only I had read between the lines. If only I had shared my inauthenticity sooner. If only I had spoken up earlier. If only I had been more forthright with my feelings.
I was beating myself up. My mind was foggy, and my emotions clogged.
I was stuck, so again, I turned to sharing, and this time, I called up one of my mentors.
Having explained the situation, my mentor said, “there’s one thing I haven’t heard you say yet, which is that it’s not your fault.”
My mentor continued to reinforce this idea that it wasn’t my fault. And, he shared with me that I am who I am, and that I’m meant to live that out. He also shared that the right person would embrace who I am and even be drawn to it.
We tend to change our behavior around those we care deeply about. We adapt to create a version of ourselves that we think others will accept, without even knowing if that makes us more acceptable. We make up stories about what we think others would find more interesting, more attractive, more valuable, and so on.
That’s not the person others were drawn to in the first place.
So, I got to try on that what I’d experienced was not my fault.
Suddenly, the situation in question was showing up in my world as peace and light excitement.
Of course, I will allow myself to feel whatever I feel over the coming days, weeks or even months.
There is nothing wrong about what any of us we feel.
The problem is the stories we construct around that, which are sometimes subversive but usually detrimental.
I’m not worthy of love.
I’m not attractive.
I’m not valuable.
Those types of thoughts can circulate in our minds, and we accept them as normal.
But then we carry them into future relationships and situations, oftentimes without any sense of awareness. That’s where things get tricky.
Have you ever considered that it’s not your fault?
Have you considered that you are who you are, and that’s who you’re meant to be, that there’s nothing wrong with you?
So, why do I share this with you?
It’s not as though this episode is going to give my site a ton of SEO value, drive traffic, generate book sales or otherwise.
First, I wanted to share this with you because if you’ve listened to all the episodes to this point, you’ve heard me talk about the different types of summer as well as boundaries.
Even my friend, Christopher Sutton of Musical U could tell I was going through something when I published those episodes. I wasn’t explicit in sharing details on the podcast, but he told me he could tell something was up.
What I’m sharing with you today is the impact of what I went through and the choices I made. So, it relates to the episodes just mentioned.
Second, I’m sharing because I want you to look at who you are and what you’re up to in life.
So often, we are in pursuit of something we don’t have.
And, when what we’re doing doesn’t work, and we don’t reach our goals, we try to do more of it, do it better or do it differently.
Have you ever noticed how more, better, different only offers incremental progress or change?
But we keep repeating that cycle of more, better, different. And, I admit that there have been some podcast episodes in the past that focused on more, better, different.
But what my mentor was showing me was that maybe we can shine just as we are. Perhaps we would be better served coming from a place of self-acceptance. Not trying to be someone else. Not trying to be more, better, different. Just shining as we are.
We don’t choose people, projects, jobs or businesses in a vacuum. It’s coming from somewhere, nature, nurture or otherwise. It’s coming from the people we regularly interact with and the media we choose to consume.
And, our choices can solicit criticism from others.
Why are you doing what you’re doing? Couldn’t you do it this way? Why not expand?
When you begin engaging in a project you care about, you start to see that other people have all kinds of other plans for you.
What comes to mind for me is the parable of the Mexican fisherman and investment banker. If you’ve read any personal development books before, you may have come across it.
The essence of the story is this:
An American investment banker was vacationing in a small coastal town in Mexico when he noticed a fisherman in a small boat. He noticed that the fisherman had been successful in catching several large, fresh fish.
So, the banker asked how long it took for the fisherman to catch the fish, and he said it only took him a little while.
The banker then asked him why he didn’t stay out longer and catch more fish.
The fisherman responded that he’d caught enough to support his family and immediate needs.
The banker asked what he did with the rest of his time.
The fisherman shared that he slept late, fished, played with his children, took a siesta with his wife, strolled into the village to sip wine and play guitar with his friends.
Seeing an opportunity, the banker suggested that the fisherman spend more time fishing, buy a bigger boat, upgrade to a fleet of boats, sell his fish directly to a processor or open his own cannery. This would involve moving, of course.
The fisherman asked how long this would take, and the banker responded it would take 15 to 20 years. He explained that the fisherman could then go on to sell his company and make millions.
The fisherman asked what came next.
The banker explained that he could retire, move to a small coastal fishing village where he could sleep late, fish a little, play with his kids, take a siesta with his wife, stroll to the village, sip wine and play guitar with his friends.
The point is this – if you’re already living your dream life, you don’t need to change anything!
Maybe playing the local bar circuit is exactly where you need to be and where you would have the most fun. Maybe releasing the occasional single is down your alley. Perhaps sharing your music with your friends and family is enough.
Who am I to judge or criticize?
There are plenty of people out there who will tell you that you should do it more, better or different.
And, maybe you’re excited about that, and you want to pursue that path. That’s fine too.
But maybe, just maybe, you’re already shining exactly where you are. And, maybe a deep sense of self-acceptance will allow you to be at peace with what you’ve chosen.
In conclusion, there will be more episodes about more, better, different in the future. Let me be 100% clear about that.
But we must recognize this may only bring incremental progress. If you want breakthroughs, it’s about seeing what you don’t see right now. And, that’s not going to come from thinking and reflecting. That’s going to come from action and conversations.
You are not a mistake. There’s nothing wrong with you. When choosing a person, a career, a job, a business or otherwise, choose from the core of your being and be unapologetic about it.
The post 150 – It’s Not Your Fault appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Automation can help you systemize your life so you become more effective at what you’re trying to do, be it work, creativity, or anything in between. By “setting and forgetting” a tech process, you can get even more done – without expending any extra effort.
With less time and energy devoted to mundane activities, you can be motivated to pursue your passions, be more productive, and focus on things that matter to you. All it requires is the simple tap of a button (and an app or two) to optimize your entire life.For easy ways to automate every part of your life, check out this infographic from Turbo:
The post Improving Your Life With Automation [INFOGRAPHIC] appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
How effective are you in meeting people and creating meaningful and strategic connections? Do you have contacts that can help you take your music career beyond?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I chat with musician Brian Bob Young, who gave this podcast’s music a makeover.
Podcast Highlights: * 01:11 – Who is Brian Bob Young? * 04:16 – Being specific about your goals * 04:45 – Reading and writing books * 08:38 – Being focused in networking and music production * 09:34 – How to cold call or approach strangers * 11:37 – The evils of non-sequitur networking and marketing * 12:47 – Creating context in conversation and generating opportunities * 16:55 – Avoid burning bridges * 19:37 – Drama is always created * 24:03 – Open mics are a great place to network * 27:20 – How Brian wrote the music for The New Music Industry Podcast * 33:29 – Music on the podcast * 34:14 – Finding a need and filling it * 37:03 – Getting your first clients * 37:45 – Meeting people (or how David got over his fear of talking to people) * 39:35 – Booking gigs * 43:22 – How many projects does David have? * 48:27 – Begin creatively free * 52:16 – It’s not just what you know but who you know
Transcription: David Andrew Wiebe: Today I’m chatting with musician Brian Bob Young. How are you today? Brian?
Brian Bob Young: Great, David Andrew Wiebe. Thank you so much for having me on, man. It is actually a really cool experience to have a working relationship with you and hear my music be a part of a show that I genuinely enjoy, and then be able to talk about it with you too is pretty cool. So, thanks man.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, thanks for joining me. I guess my listeners have now been hearing your music for probably a few months at this point, right? I’ve been using it for many episodes. And of course, your name is mentioned at the end of every episode. We should maybe get a sense of who you are and then recount how it is that you came to do some of this music?
Brian Bob Young: Yeah, I guess so. Just like most of the people that have been on the show, I love music and I’m engaged with it my whole life. That’s kind of the given for most of us in this field, right. But I guess, I don’t want to be too tangential and like a life story of how I ended up on the production side of things. So, I’ll just be specific with how I was able to work with you was that I made goals about a year and a half ago of what kind of work would I want on the production side and what projects could I do that would help me to get there that would also be meaningful projects.
And then, happen by actually a kind of like a lightning bolt moment where I was working a bunch of jobs, and I came across a buddy of mine that I didn’t even know he was a film producer. He knew that I was starting to reel on the production side and more of the creativity side of the music stuff, which will put a pin in that that I worked on the business side for a long time before doing this. He had a film script and was like, “Hey, do you think you could try your hand on scoring this independent film?” And in the human mode, I was so excited because I love this guy. He’s worked on some of my favorite movies actually. He worked on the movie… He was a part of Whiplash. That kind of fell through a little bit for him but I just know that he had worked on projects that I would be really excited about. But at the time, I was not equipped at all to execute doing a film score. I had no idea what would go into that. Neither the resources nor the skill to execute.
So, I learned that pretty quickly and talked to him about it. He said, “Dude, that’s fine.” But it really got the wheels in motion of like, okay, if another script or something ends up in my lap, I want to be prepared because you’ve heard the quote, “Luck is where preparation and opportunity meet.” right? Yeah. So, that’s kind of what got the wheels in motion.
One of the first ideas I had was like, why not try to help out podcasts that I like and see if they want their music updated or a little bit more catered to the show and all that. And your show, of course, is one of the shows that I enjoy and reached out to see if you want some updated music that kind of had its own little different sounds. So, that is a little bit of the story of how I specifically ended up on doing the production for your show.
David Andrew Wiebe: That’s great. I like what you said about specificity, which is something that Matt Star was very adamant on when he came on the show and talked about that too. So, being really intentional and clear about your goals.
Brian Bob Young: And that’s so hard for me man. It is drudgery for me to be specific and not be idealistic in my head in the clouds. It is hard for me but when I do it, obviously, it’s fruitful. There’s something there.
David Andrew Wiebe: I’m at the same boat for sure. And the thing that I kept talking about this year and continue to talk about this year is publishing 10 to 12 books. I think I’m set up fairly well to do that. And even if I don’t reach that goal, if I end up with five or eight books, I think I can still say, “Okay. If I want to do 10 the following year, I can at least make that adjustment.”
Brian Bob Young: Two things there. Not to go on tangents with it but I know listening to your show that you’re like a voracious reader. You read a book a week last year. Is that true?
David Andrew Wiebe: I did that in 2015 and 2016. Yeah.
Brian Bob Young: That’s insane. I love to read too but I just got done this book called Educated by Tara Westover. Have you heard of that?
David Andrew Wiebe: I haven’t.
Brian Bob Young: It’s a memoir of her gnarly story of growing up in an oppressive Mormon household off the grid and how she ended up studying at Cambridge and educating herself and becoming this wonderful speaker and author.
So, I tore through that book in like a week but I’m reading the Subtle Art of Not Giving an F right now and I’ve been on a month, which is like half the size. So, you know, if I’m passionate about it I can get through it but if not, I’m going to take my time. But I know that you were doing that because it’s kind of like the CEO thing, right, of like CEOs read a book a week and now they’re like awesome.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, no, it’s exactly right. I was inspired by that for sure. But another thing that happened was, I think, I want to say its Triple A accountants, it actually might be Double A Accountants. I’m going to look that up real quick but it’s it was Shas Nawaz. Shahzad Nawaz is the managing director. It’s Double A Accountants. I interviewed him once. It was for a different podcast. I was doing pre-interviews to kind of get the guests answers and coax out cool tidbits from them before they actually went on the show and did the real interview.
Brian Bob Young: Gotcha.
David Andrew Wiebe: But he sat there. Some people you create a relationship with. He sat there and talked with me for I don’t know, 10, 20, 30 minutes after the show. I was asking him because he just seemed like really competent with marketing.
Brian Bob Young: Oh, cool.
David Andrew Wiebe: And then he told me, “Oh, well, the reason I know how to do this is because I read a book a week.”
Brian Bob Young: Good. I am always reading. I never stopped reading.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah. He recommended me some Dan Kennedy material, which at the time I was not into but I am actually really into it now, which is funny.
Brian Bob Young: Right. I assume you’ve read like the Seth Godin stuff and all that. Yeah.
David Andrew Wiebe: Oh, yeah.
Brian Bob Young: Yes. That’s like, if you haven’t, it’s like get out of entrepreneurship. It’s like the Bible of entrepreneurs. But anyways, yeah, that’s it. That’s enough. I’m reading everything I could go off on. I love reading but that’s really cool that you’re able to do that.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah. And getting back to what she said too, yeah, I think for a long time I was not terribly specific. It still can be a bad habit of mine at times. But what happened through much experience and reading and learning and growing was there were some people that were just not worth working with. You begin to learn that through experience, you know, kind of the warning signs, “Is this going to work out?” Or is this really going to be just a total disaster that they’re going to be constantly calling me, which I don’t accept calls from clients to begin with. Except on a completely scheduled basis. Are they going to be a huge bother? That’s just going to suck up my time and I’m not going to make any money on that.
Brian Bob Young: Yeah. Well, I hear you on the specificity can be kind of like… or probably like an umbrella to our entire conversation because you talked about one. We talked about networking and some of the music production creativity side. All of it has been slowly learning how to be focused for me, because I am naturally just not a focused individual. And whenever I would read or experience any sort of opportunity, I realized that it’s because people were able to focus and achieve what they wanted to achieve and just sit down, put their head down, work hard, but also be really passionate about it. So, maybe that can kind of transition a little bit into the networking side. Because I feel like that’s been my experience with networking is because I’ve achieved at least some level of being focused there and not just like, walking around Nashville trying you’re trying to run into a bigwig.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, I think one of the biggest things that I noticed is when you talk to me, it wasn’t like you were talking to a complete stranger. Like you didn’t know anything about me. You were actually asking very specific questions. I find that something that people don’t do well. I’ll probably go off on a rant about non-sequiturs in a moment but that was one of the things you did very, very well.
Brian Bob Young: Very cool. I think that the only reason that happened, I’ll get some consistent work on the production side. And definitely, I’ve been really focusing hard on my original music too. Playing shows and doing all that is because of doing some just some fairly simple research. I listened to your show. I was like, “Man, this guy has a wealth of information.” And then I realized like, “Oh, he’s talking about the new music industry and maybe I could make some really cool creative music for it to make the show even that much better. So, that’s where it’s a mutually beneficial working relationship.
So, when I’m reaching out, when I reached out to you, it wasn’t just like, “Hey, man. Let me do your music because that’d be cool and I’d get money.” It’s very specific. You have a very specific vision. And if I don’t mind saying so like it’s a noble one, you know, giving so much information to people that are trying to work in a field that is so complex, and so heavy and draining or discouraging at times. You just need to have the right information to navigate it. And you do that. So, I’m very proud to be able to be a part of such a show, man. Not be too aggrandizement or anything?
David Andrew Wiebe: No, thank you. I think you’re right. I am pretty transparent. You wouldn’t have to spend hours researching me, who I am, or what I do to kind of come up with that. At the same time, you took the time to do it, which I know many people don’t. It’s a really good teaching point there.
Brian Bob Young: Cool. Cool.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah. So, I kind of hinted at the whole non-sequitur nature of some of the networking that happens these days. The reason that I have trouble with it, I think, is because there’s no established context. So, in other words, people will come to me and suddenly go, “Hey, you’re doing this wrong with your business?” You know, sort of like they were Tai Lopez or somebody like that, who is the perfect example of the non-sequitur? You know, you’ll watch his videos on YouTube and it’s just like, “I just made $10 million last week.” He just doesn’t talk about that. He talks, “Oh, I just read 52 books in a day.” That was kind of his thing for a while.
I just thought like, a, I don’t know who you are, b, you establish no contacts before jumping into this conversation, which I understand why. In the advertising world, you don’t want to spend too much time like introducing who you are and stuff like that. I’ve had investors and people like that come to me, same thing right, without any context, without establishing a rapport. Not even saying, “Hello, David.” Right?
Brian Bob Young: Yeah. And I think some people we know these kinds of people that are the domineering dominant types that just their steamrolling, and they’re in it to win it. I guess it works for them but I don’t know if there’s a lot of like joy and substance with it too. I assume there’s like a trail of tears behind it. You know what mean? That’s just my assumption. But it’s also because I’m biased and that’s not how I naturally operate. In fact, it’s worked for me to create that context, right. And I do have I think myself a pretty good story to share with how I got my first job in a studio in Nashville due to creating context, I guess, if you will.
Maybe in Nashville for six months. I’m originally from Philadelphia. My first career path actually out of college was become a music therapist. That didn’t work. I burned out. We just did a fresh start in Nashville. My wife got a job as a nurse and I was job hunting. About six months in, I was in a steam room at a YMCA. And there’s one older gentleman there. In the steam room, I’m usually head down but I wanted to talk to somebody. I was like, “Hey, I’m Brian. How’s it going today, sir?” We get to talk for like 20 minutes. Long story short, he has been the CEO of a company called Red Ridge Entertainment here in Nashville since the early 90s. He gave me an internship at the studio just to kind of shadow and see if there’s anything I could do that fit which, being a session musician was definitely out as a sidebar, so humbling to be around these musicians. So humbling.
I realized that there was very quickly a need for rebranding. The company’s website had been around since like the early 2000s. So, it was just like a total hodgepodge, total mess. It just needed to be updated for the 21st century. They were getting a steady flow of clients but my kind of pitch was like, “If we can rebrand this company, you might be able to really expand the network.” That turned into a two-year job with that company in rebranding and bringing in people to do that. And then, I also functioned as pretty much an ANR guy. And by ANR, I mean, like, not the classic sense of like Tom Petty’s ANR that’s like, you know, very much of a part of choosing what single they put out, right? I’m talking about kind of half assed ANR of more of like a talent scout. [unclear 15:35] I was just finding people online to see if they want to do professional recordings of their music and do music videos.
All that to say, though, that whole experience, which was an adrenaline shot of knowledge about the music industry, came from talking to a dude in the steam room. I wasn’t sitting there trying to say like, “Oh, maybe this guy is like a bigwig around here and I can get an in.” I just wanted to have a conversation. And although ended up leaving that company, we still have a great relationship. The head guy still calls me just to see how I’m doing. And that is so important, right? I’m sure you’ve experienced that where you don’t burn bridges and you’re able to continue to have healthy working relationships because it was built on the foundation, the context of a relationship. As opposed to just trying to work up some ladder and capitalize off people. Right? So yeah, that was I guess my best networking anecdote, and a few others of just my philosophy of it, for sure, but that’s probably a pretty good story for it.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah. Oh, yeah, that’s great. I think what came to mind for me was playing in this one band. It was a Def Leppard tribute band. I’ve done that before. I’m still with him. There was just a period when I had kind of a sense of graduation goggles. In other words, not like, “I’m too good for this.”, just like, “I’m kind of done with this. I think I’m ready to move on.” I did for a couple years. I didn’t burn any relationships. It was just kind of like, “Hey, this will be my last gig for a while. When I came back, it was just the perfect timing based on the need for another player, as well as the economy for us to start getting out there and playing in bars.
Now, I don’t totally believe in this whole concept of economy. It’s mostly based on the confidence of the people involved in that side of things, but yeah, it was great.
Brian Bob Young: I love that that’s so not dramatic. All the things that are portrayed on like rock and roll stories and videos are like, the band is literally kicking the crap out of each other on stage and just total the Bockarie and then it ends and it’s just so much drama. And for you it was like, “Yeah, we’re moving on. And we’re all very professional.” Like, that’s actually the normal story.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, for the most part. What did end in not so good… No, my band was Breaking Silence, which went on for about a year and a half, which is in retrospect, predictable. There was no project with those specific people that went on any longer than that. There was a band before that was Lightly Toasted Touché which was the same…
Brian Bob Young: What was the name of that?
David Andrew Wiebe: Lightly Toasted Touché. There’s some music on my YouTube channel. Yeah, it’s the weirdest name ever.
Brian Bob Young: I love it.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah.
Brian Bob Young: And to that travel point to like, put my foot my own mouth. In high school, I played in a lot of different bands. There is so much drama. Just like looking back to the high school and the college days. I mean, I’m an emotional guy to begin with but especially in high school, everybody’s so touchy and emotional and going into college even still the same. And pretty much like all my band stories, there’s some sort of like extreme drama looking back. So, I might take it back a little bit but once you become like an adult, that stuff subsides a little bit, I think. I hope.
David Andrew Wiebe: Oh yeah. That’s a part of it. I’ve been going through a series of seminars where we learn that drama is always a creation of our own and trying that on but when you do accept it as being your reality, you begin to see. “Oh, yeah. I guess there’s no need for it.
Brian Bob Young: No, no, absolutely. And you know, to bring it back to like, if you are working with people that have a specific vision, you’re going to be focused, right? I think something, for me that is kind of an anecdote to speak to that was how I got this live gig on Friday in Atlanta. The show’s not a big deal itself but I’m really excited for the location and the artists that I’m opening up for. This can speak to kind of the networking side of I didn’t even really look at how I went about this as networking but it was.
I think I genuinely believe networking is the outcome of what you want to achieve. So, for me, I’m reverse engineering right now from my goals with what I want to do with music production projects and my original music over the next five years. The people I reach out to and people I interact with, if I’m talking about a collaborating thing, then it’s under that umbrella of the goals that I have.
So, if I’m just like walking around Nashville hoping to bump into somebody and say, “Look how awesome I am.” That’s just naive for lack of a better word but it’s probably not going to produce any work. But if I’m intentionally going to gigs that I love and respect and learning from other artists that I love and respect. And then, I have what I have to offer. Who knows what can come in to that and I’ve definitely had some really in experiences?
Back to the Atlanta gig, what I did was I researched some small venues that really support independent artists. And then, I researched who was performing there, who has performed there over the last year. And then I listened to dozens of artists music, and I found a few that I really liked. I reached out to those artists and asked them if they’d like an opener or how they booked at that said venue. That’s how I’m opening for this wonderful artist I can’t wait to meet on Friday named James at the Mosaics. He’s based out of Atlanta and he’s like a folksy jazzy Avant Garde artist. That’s a genre, right? Folksy jazzy Avant Garde.
I think my musical sitting quite nice to open up the night. But again, if I were just to network to try to find someone who’s cool and has some sort of in, that definitely wouldn’t have happened. I literally have no idea how this dude is doing other than his music is friggin’ awesome and he plays out regularly. And he seems weird so that means he’s probably human and I’ll probably enjoy his company.
That is a maybe my most recent example. I guess that is really essentially networking but I really wasn’t looking at it like that. I was just looking at consistent gigs and play with good people.
David Andrew Wiebe: That’s always a good starting point. It’s just to go after what you think is interesting. I recall that I met a local musician years ago when I was just getting started as kind of a solo artist, so probably somewhere in 2003 to 2005 timeframe. It just happened to be at one of the venues that I regularly played at. The singer from there called me up because he worked at the cafe and said, “Hey, you should come check out this guy on Friday night or Saturday night or whatever it was.” And so, one time I finally did see him. He was coming through that venue regularly. I met him then in there but he doesn’t remember. Fast forward a few years, he owned another different cafe in Calgary. He was running a weekly open mic that everybody kind of swore by. And so, I went to check that out. I hung out there. And of course, he looked familiar to me. I think he still thinks that’s where we first met. The first was many years before that.
Brian Bob Young: Right. I mean, for the networking thing, I definitely believe open mics are still really great.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah. Right.
Brian Bob Young: It’s a little different here in Nashville. There is a bit of… and I don’t mean to say this in any sort of cynical way per se, but there’s a bit of a machine here, right. So, the way that operates is a little different. Have you ever been to Nashville? I know you’re in Canada but.
David Andrew Wiebe: I haven’t been I’ve heard a little bit about the open mics that first of all, they can be a little bit hard.
Brian Bob Young: All right. So, when I was working with this studio and young people would come in with kind of stars in their eyes, I guess, right. One thing I would say is like it’s great to be passionate about this but don’t go to an open mic and expect a record deal because you played your song. Go there and enjoy and work up your chops playing live and meet a few people but try not to think of it any more than one this.
I don’t say this story on my end to boast. It’s just weird the way it happened. So, I’d lived in Santa Barbara California for the past year. I played my first open mic in a really long time playing my original music. After a booking agent came up to me and said, “Dude, can you play in two nights for a set at this venue?” And I was so shocked because I spent two years telling people not to expect that, right. But I was like, “Let me look at my schedule next. I got to wrap my head around this.” So I think the way that these open mics or things like an open mic song writing rounds, they can function so differently in different places in the country or the world. Again, it gets back to that focus and specificity of what you want to achieve. I really wanted to get my live champs going and play as much as possible. And so, my radar was up for that. And I was really… I was prepared, you know. So yeah, I guess that’s another networking thing, I would say, right.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah. I think open mics too are just kind of a great way to keep the momentum going sometimes. If you’re in a busy city with no gigs, guess what, go play a few open mics and you can kind of keep your grassroots tour going, so to speak. With a smaller town with a few gigs, it’s kind of the same thing because there’s only so many venues you can go around to so an open my can kind of fill that space too.
Brian Bob Young: No, for sure. And you know what, I probably was a bit prideful going into these first few of them like, “It’s just an open mic and blah, blah, blah.” I feel bad about that because I’ve met some of the greatest friends and some people that I ended up playing live with weekly at venues because I was just consistently going to open mics. And so, there’s like these great communities there and everything. I’m thankful for that. My perspective has totally changed on that for sure.
So, one thing I did want to talk about though is the… I know we talked about before recording here was the actual production of the music on the show.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, of course because it is an important topic. The music that you did, I know the intro theme was inspired by the original intro theme, which was almost like a GarageBand funk kind of thing.
Brian Bob Young: Yeah. So, I remember so vividly working on this project. It’s really, really fun. I think, you know, as a sidebar, so this is the whole point of all that time and energy of cold emailing you, I guess, and researching you. It’s because the end goal is the ideal situation where I’m producing music for a meaningful content, right.
So, if that is not enjoyable to a person, don’t do this job. Because there’s so much work on the front end that goes into it. But doing that music was so much fun. Maybe this is a good opportunity to talk about kind of my perspective of work and art, right? Because in that setting, I’m sitting down and I need to treat it like work and a certain amount of time where no matter what I’m getting this amount of stuff done in order to meet deadline. On the other side, I need to treat it like art. So, I can’t approach it like I’m going to be sitting in a proverbial cubicle.
When I first sat down to work on the theme song, I was really, my head, like everything I’m putting down sounds so dumb and like, “I hate this.” So, I went for a walk. Fortunately, at the time, I was living in beautiful Santa Barbara, California, where it’s just like perpetually beautiful. I went on a walk just to at least come up with a little melody line. That’s when I was like, you know, just walking down the street and I was going to
David Andrew Wiebe: Which I liked. Yeah.
Brian Bob Young: Thank you. And you know what, I knew I was taking a risk too because I think the sound of it is like jovial and over the top.
David Andrew Wiebe: It is over the top.
Brian Bob Young: And I was like, you know, for theme songs that I love and I think there are those people like me out there that they’re pretty over the top. They might be like tongue in cheek almost, you know. Like I grew up with like Ren and Stimpy, their theme song is like
David Andrew Wiebe: Yes.
Brian Bob Young: Man, when I hear that I’m like, “I’m really happy with that.” It was so fun to make. And actually, it came from ice… Do you remember the first one I sent that was literally twice the tempo?
David Andrew Wiebe: Yes. And it was also pretty cool.
Brian Bob Young: Yeah, thank you. Yeah, I want like
David Andrew Wiebe: I’m so glad to hear that. It definitely turned out great. The intro theme kind of has that news show vibe or let’s say independent news show vibe. Because there are theme songs that are always a little bit over the top, which is why I said, “Okay. Let’s go.”
Brian Bob Young: Yeah, I wasn’t offended at all. I knew what I was getting myself into. I grew up with, yeah, like local news stations and stuff that are so ridiculous with their theme songs.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, exactly. They are.
Brian Bob Young: I will never forget channel six ABC News theme song. That’s the thing.
David Andrew Wiebe: It’ll stick in your head. Yeah.
Brian Bob Young: Yeah.
David Andrew Wiebe: And you had originally come to me saying, “For podcasts that’s in the music industry, there’s so little music in it.
Brian Bob Young: I was like, I feel this is a good pitch but I’m also like, I do not hope he’s offended. I didn’t want it to be like condescending or anything because on the email that could sound like, “Where’s the music, bro?”
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, totally. I said that’s a fair point. You know what, you just have blind spots. You do. And you know, we were talking about music entrepreneurship. This is a tough sell from the very start in a way, right? For those who are like, “Oh, yeah. I want to do this.” I have no hustle and grind, which I don’t advise. But like, those kinds of people are gone come going, “Oh, yeah, I can do this more efficiently. I can do this more systematically to make it work for me.” But that was a blind spot in the sense that, yeah, not only have I not included a lot of music, I haven’t actually talked about the music that I enjoy.
Brian Bob Young: Well, you do have your specific content on the show and all that. So sometimes, it’s just not going to be a part of it. I totally get that. But, you know, part of this too is that came from a typical sales perspective, where you find a need and fill the need.
David Andrew Wiebe: That’s right.
Brian Bob Young: So, that was just kind of a simple, “All right. There might be a need here. I might be able to fill it. Let’s see what we can do.” But you’re doing this project though to kind of expound on and really put the wheels in motion for me to have getting some more production jobs. I’m working on a show right now called Vitality Radio. That’s like a wellness show. So, that music is a ton of fun, but actually back in November and December, so not too long after I finished your project, I worked on what has been one of the most profound experiences for me, a show that’s essentially about Holocaust survivors. I got the gig through a friend of mine. She’s a producer in LA. Mainly producer of podcast shows and everything. It was really heavy but it was definitely such a profound learning experience, both on a life side and on a work side. And that’s why this business, I guess, can be so rewarding. So, for a month and a half I was reading like Holocaust survivor stories. I was reading all the research that they did for the show and really had my head in the emotion and the philosophies that came out of this unimaginable time in human history, right. And they wanted music that was kind of like explosions in the sky stuff. So, that really kind of droning but beautiful and heavy music. And I thought that was very smart of them that that kind of sound could be perfectly matched up with the content of the show so heavy.
So yeah, I got to complete that project right before the new year. I’m excited for it to come out. Because I produced five songs for it. I think they’re going to use at least three or four. So yeah, they kind of arranged from having explosions in the sky type sound to being just very light instrumentation in the background to fill in space. But yeah, that was just another story of kind of building on these projects. Right? You learn what we learned. I learned a lot from working for this to apply to the next one. So yeah, that’s another experience there.
David Andrew Wiebe: Well, yeah. And imagine like in this kind of business, really getting your first couple of clients is a big deal because that gives you a bit of a confidence boost and potentially a momentum boost. There might be referrals that come through that. So, yeah, that’s really important to just get those first couple of clients then you know it’s something that’s workable.
Brian Bob Young: Right. Yeah, you’re going to learn so much. In any capacity, taking risks is just part of it. You’re going to be humbled but you could experience things that are really rewarding, of course. I know when we talked, I was really inspired to hear about a little bit of your story of like, I remember you said that for a long time you found it difficult to meet people, correct? And you made it a goal to just go out and talk to people regularly. Is that kind of how that story went?
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah. I was going to work my way out of my shell and I got into network marketing in 2011. I kind of used that as a catalyst to start getting into conversations every day.
Brian Bob Young: That’s brilliant. Now you’re a really great interviewer. That’s crazy.
David Andrew Wiebe: Thank you for saying that.
Brian Bob Young: That’s so crazy.
David Andrew Wiebe: I think I am too.
Brian Bob Young: But no, that is the human spirit, right? That is perseverance and like seeing, you know, a bit of a flaw, right? Or not a flaw but just a weakness and saying like, “I got to work at this.” It was probably so hard for you, man. That crosses over into everything, right? Life, music, and the business. That’s so cool.
David Andrew Wiebe: Oh, yeah. I don’t necessarily think about it now but I’m sure if I look back, I could see that it was a challenge. Part of the challenge too was just going into environments that are unfamiliar to me. Maybe I was comfortable stepping into a subway but not comfortable stepping into an Applebee’s. Whatever it was. I just went in anyway.
Brian Bob Young: Yeah, I don’t know if you can cuss on your show so I’m not going to cuss but I really love meeting people. I’m pretty extremely extroverted. But with that said, it’s still nerve-wracking, especially when you’re putting your art out there to bring it back to the music side. In my experience over the last year of trying to play out as much as possible of playing my original music out was that I had a wakeup call on how incredibly difficult it was going to be to get booked.
You know this better than I do but I would say in my experience, it has been like a 30:1 ratio of getting clients. And because I don’t have like a professional electronic booking tape, I have fairly reasonable iPhone videos of me playing and then I have to go by word of mouth. So, what I did was there was this spot in Santa Barbara that I really wanted to play. Really cool Loki brewery that compensated but also was very intentional on getting up and coming independent artists playing there. I was like, “This is the place I got to get into.” So, I worked hard playing on these little venues in the area and getting some footage and emailed the booking agent there. Of course, they didn’t get back to me. I followed up. They didn’t get back to me. I was like, “You know what, I’m just going to go there and just yell wildly. Show me the gatekeeper.” No, I didn’t. I wasn’t crazy about it. But I did just go to the brewery and say like, “Who’s in charge of booking here? Can I speak with them? I wanted to follow up.” And the person was just really busy, right. I was really nervous because I didn’t want to be overbearing. And then be like, “This kind of awkward. We don’t want you here. We don’t like your music.” But they were so sweet. And you know, I was booked out like a month after that. And I played that spot twice. And each time was the most fun best gigs that I’ve played to this point. I got to play with some great artists that really wanted to play there too. The reason this is specific too is because although it’s just a brewery, they’re very focused on the arts. They have an art gallery that’s literally right next to the tap room area in the bar. And the music is very specific and where it’s set up so the bar can either kind of just like having the background or be right there in the foreground. So anyways, that was definitely my story of being like, I really got to… I guess I have to seriously put myself out there in new ways that are actually quite difficult.
David Andrew Wiebe: We’ve got breweries like that too that are pretty arts focused and open minded as far as what sort of entertainment they bring in. The Indie YYC is one of my new projects that I started or co-founded basically. We had an opportunity to take one of our events because we sponsor two events right now. One is the new beat and what is storytellers. The new beat is basically sort of beat poetry inspired but a fresh take on it, a non-depressing take on it. We were able to bring that to the to the brewery.
Brian Bob Young: I think I overlooked for so long that craft breweries, they are artists. They are so passionate about their product. And a lot of them are passionate about music and the arts and they want very intentional artists to play there to match the vibe they’re trying to create. And I love beer so it just totally works out. That’s cool, though. I mean, how many projects do you do? I feel like you have… when I listen to your shows like, “Wait. He was just talking about like five other projects he’s done. That’s crazy.” You’re pretty busy. Yeah.
David Andrew Wiebe: That’s one way of framing it for sure. Well, the Music Entrepreneur HQ has got the blog and the podcast. I am the one creating most of that content, although I do have a transcriptionist. There’s the Indie YYC. I am a staff writer at Music Industry How-To and I’m working hard on helping build that into a bigger thing right now. I also have Your Music Matters.
Brian Bob Young: I actually heard about that. I listen to… I think it was a podcast episode where you explained about it. That sounds really cool.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, thank you. Yeah, that’s been an ongoing project because a series of seminars that I’ve been taking. In a way, it supports what I’m already doing with Music Entrepreneur HQ and at the same time it’s a complimentary project because it’s a way to give back something to artists.
Brian Bob Young: That’s so cool. I love that because something I’ve tried to really have a part of my philosophy, I guess if you will, as of over the last year we’ve worked really hard at this stuff is that arts purpose is its ability to connect. Right? And this is something that… Have you listened to the Creative Pep Talk podcast?
David Andrew Wiebe: I did a little bit, yeah.
Brian Bob Young: With Andy J. Pizza.
David Andrew Wiebe: Right.
Brian Bob Young: So, this is like his ongoing theme. The art’s purpose is its ability to connect. Remember that. He has this incredible podcast with a huge listener base. He’s in the visual arts. He’s just pretty wildly successful. So, for him to share such a humble and kind of beautiful philosophy has been really inspiring to me to keep an integral rudder, if you will, to all this. Because like, when it comes to it, we can get so egotistical and in our heads that we forget. In life and art, it’s about connecting with people and doing meaningful projects like you are. So yeah, that is definitely making me all jazzed.
David Andrew Wiebe: Maybe we’ll have to talk about your involvement.
Brian Bob Young: Who knows? To maybe go off on a little tangent with it, I am applying that philosophy to business though it’s really hard. Because for me and I’ll just speak from my experience because I’m the authority of my own experience. If art and music is something for somebody to just vent, like, they come home from work and the jam a little bit and that’s it, that can seriously affect their livelihood in such a beautiful way. But if they’re trying to share it with people or God forbid, make a living with it, then they have to both hold intention this artistic integrity mindset, while also saying, “If its purpose is to connect, I need to think about what people want, and what people want to hear.” And that’s the reason I don’t play certain spots because they’re going to be pissed if I don’t do a cover of wagon wheel and I play my quirky stuff for an hour, right.
David Andrew Wiebe: Oh my God.
Brian Bob Young: But it’s because of my respect for the people there. Like, I could probably get a little bit more gigs but I know that I won’t deliver that well and that would crash and burn, as opposed to this brewery that I was talking about where they were like, “That was really cool. What you provided us was really cool.” And so, I’ve been trying to think about that a lot. And now, I paint and draw a lot actually. But the beautiful thing with that is I give zero Fs. Can I say that?
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah.
Brian Bob Young: I give zero F if people are affected by my paintings and drawings. It is really I’m just throwing paint. I have no technical skill with it. I think they’ll look cool. And that’s it. But with my music, I can’t stand behind the concept of subjectivity and say, well, this little venue or if you didn’t like my music, he just subjectively sees it differently. If there is a bit of objectivity, then I need to provide something that is fitting, right. So yeah, that’s just a complex tangent on the artistic perspective, right?
David Andrew Wiebe: I totally get that. I think it is great to have something in your life where you’re creatively free. If it’s not your music, hopefully it’s something else you do just like you do with your art. For me, I get to write and that’s a little more where the cash is made. But the music side is where I’ve chosen and I always get to be free. I tend to write from a relatively pop mindset to begin with because I really love the melody but I also like intricacies in forming that too. So, it’s not just like put it put a bead on and think through it. But even some of the track, I have nothing against covers at all. Some of the tracks that I’ve been working on in my spare time lately are covers of some of my favorite songs.
Brian Bob Young: Oh, man. I mean, the gigs I’ve played recently, they’re 50/50 for the most part, original and covers. So, I’ll do a Hendrix song all day. I’m all about it but that’s very intentional, you know. And I was going to say too, on the original music side. So, this year I plan on releasing original music. I totally agree with you that I really try to approach it with a lot of freedom. I get my inspiration from independent artists that when I hear them, I’m like that sounds absolutely vulnerably who they are. Have you heard of Courtney Barnett or Mack DeMarco or even guys like Father John Misty, when they hear these independent artists of today, I’m like, I don’t hear any fluff but I also hear music that they are thinking about their audience? They’re thinking about people that enjoy, like you said, a simple melody. But at the same time, they’re achieving creating art that sounds really quite almost revolutionary, I don’t know revolutionary. But pretty amazing, you know?
David Andrew Wiebe: I think it just speaks to the fact that you can sort of do it without compromise because everybody is worried about selling out, right. And the reality is you can still be very expressive in how you want to be expressive while still being commercial. It’s possible.
Brian Bob Young: Yes. Yes. Have you ever been around people that really don’t care about selling out though? It’s incredible.
David Andrew Wiebe: Well, yeah, because you’re free. You’re free to create more in the ways that you want to create.
Brian Bob Young: Actually, I’m using his example for somebody that holds this bounce really well. I’ve been working with this pop artists for the last year, a good friend of mine, Jamal Anthony. We grew up actually in the same hometown. He ended up in LA. I think he achieves this balance so well. He is totally functioning in the pop world. He writes songs for guys like, and this isn’t to name drop it’s just what he’s doing, like Grace and Chance and everything, just read one of his singles. But it’s totally who he is. He is having a ball. And it’s been so fun to like play gigs with him or for him and just be around this guy that’s totally doing pop stuff. And is like, this is genuinely who he is. Like, there’s no element of selling out. He is just being Jamaal Anthony, which is cool to be around. I like a lot of his music too, man. It’s kind of R&B, pop, and all that. I can get into it. So yeah, there’s always a balance with it but it’s achievable.
David Andrew Wiebe: Absolutely, yeah. For some people it’s just how they write and who they are. Well, this has been a really great conversation. I guess to kind of offer a final thought. It’s not just what you know but who you know that counts. It doesn’t mean you have to know everybody on this planet to succeed at the level that you want to succeed. And I don’t either. I just happen to know enough people that they book shows for the band that I play in or they give me references for solo shows that I could potentially play to where I never have to book my own gigs. And in fact, when I try to book my own gigs, usually it goes very badly.
Brian Bob Young: Yeah, it’s so hard.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, exactly. I used to do the booking but yeah, that’s been years. I got enough gigs from other people’s recommendations.
Brian Bob Young: Good for you, man. Oh, my gosh. Well, thank you so much, man, too. It’s going to be pulled in to the queue in Brian Young outro.
David Andrew Wiebe: Exactly. Absolutely. So yeah, we’ll talk again soon.
Brian Bob Young: All right, David Andrew Wiebe, I appreciate it.
David Andrew Wiebe: All right. Thanks, Brian.
Brian Bob Young: Bye.
David Andrew Wiebe: Bye.
The post 149 – A Conversation on Networking & Collaboration – with Musician Brian Bob Young appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
I probably spent the better part of three years trying to find the right guitar for me.
I owned a classical guitar, so that’s what I started taking lessons on. As it turns out, it was the perfect guitar for me to learn on.
But it wasn’t long before I started getting into classic rock and hard rock. That meant that I needed an electric guitar.
As with many beginners, I started learning on a Squier Stratocaster and before long had upgraded to a Mexican made Fender Stratocaster, which I still own to this day.
But that wasn’t my “perfect” guitar and the search continued until I found the Ernie Ball Music Man Axis.
The search stopped there. I’ve been playing guitar for 18 years now and haven’t felt the need to find a substitute.
But it’s fair to say the process was painful at times because I didn’t think I’d ever find the Holy Grail.
Looking for your perfect guitar? Feeling discouraged in the process? Don’t worry – I can help.
Classical, Acoustic or Electric Guitar? There are a lot of guitar products out there and it can be challenging to wade through all the brands and models.
The first thing we should consider is whether to invest in a classical, acoustic or electric guitar.
I say “invest” because a guitar makes a huge difference in how motivated you feel to play, and as we all know, the more you practice, the better you get.
So, here’s a basic breakdown of the different types of guitars and what they’re good for.
Should I Get a Classical Guitar? A classical guitar generally comes equipped with nylon strings, which are easier on the fingers. That’s what makes it ideal for beginners.
It’s great for classical, flamenco and Spanish style guitar as you might expect.
But it can also be used for jazz, guitar solos in practically every genre, and for those beautiful fingerpicked interludes.
Though you certainly can use it in other genres, the fact that you can’t effectively bend notes makes it less appealing for blues, rock and metal players.
A beautiful instrument all around and great for the genres and purposes already mentioned, classical guitars are perfect for fingerstyle.
Is Acoustic Guitar Right for Me? Acoustic guitars usually come with steel strings. That can make it tougher on your fingers (if you don’t have your calluses yet), but an instrument that’s been properly set up can still be a joy to play.
Acoustic guitars are used in many genres, even in metal. But you’re probably not going to hammer out those bloodcurdling heavy riffs on an acoustic. You’d used it for strumming, picking and maybe the occasional solo in that context.
And, let’s face it – there is a time and a place for an acoustic guitar solo, but these sections of music are usually reserved for electric guitar.
Acoustic guitar is ideal for folk, country, bluegrass, blues, singer-songwriter and the like, and bands like Heart and Extreme proved they can be great for rock too.
Another advantage of acoustic guitars in general is that you can basically take them wherever you go so long as you’ve got space in the car.
Today, many acoustic guitars come equipped with microphones and/or pickups, which means you can plug them into amps and PA systems, and even run them through effects (even with custom pedalboards for guitar or bass) if you so desire.
I don’t want to drone on too long here, but one more thing. Percussive style guitar has become quite the niche market thanks to innovators like Michael Hedges, Don Ross, Andy Mckee and others like them.
You can see what I mean in this video:
So, if you want to play percussive style, you’ll probably want to pick up an acoustic guitar.
Is Electric Guitar the Best Choice? Electric guitar can be heard in practically every modern rock band’s music. Like acoustic guitar, they come with steel strings, but they are generally lighter gauge.
Electric guitars can be heard in all types of rock, including hard rock, punk rock and metal, and of course, blues, country, reggae, funk, R&B and others.
They are less common in classical, flamenco, bluegrass or folk, but they still show up there from time to time too.
And, there is an incredible amount of outboard gear for electric guitar, whether it’s amplifiers, effects pedals, rackmount units or otherwise. Honestly, I don’t think there’s any other instrument with as many peripherals.
In simple terms, that means you can produce a lot of different sounds on electric guitar.
When I was searching for my perfect guitar, I was looking for an electric, because I was inspired by players like Jimi Hendrix and Eddie Van Halen.
What Comes Next? Hopefully you have a better idea whether to get a classical, acoustic or electric guitar now.
Of course, this isn’t the only consideration. There are plenty of other criteria to think about.
I’m going to go rapid fire from here but knowing what type of guitar you want (classical, acoustic or electric) can help you narrow things down considerably. It only gets easier from here.
Here are a few more questions worth asking:
Does it Meet Your Needs? When I was on the hunt, I was looking specifically for a guitar that had humbucking pickups, a whammy bar and kept proper tune.
That’s quite broad when you think about it. But it gave me a good sense of what I did not want.
I played a few Ibanez guitars that met these criteria, but they didn’t feel right (see next section) and didn’t keep tune the way I needed them to.
One day, I went down to a guitar store with my bandmate and he went around grabbing different guitars going, “try this”.
I don’t remember how many guitars I tried but I played quite a few, including Fenders, Parkers and GIbsons.
Finally, he came back with an Ernie Ball Music Man Axis and said it felt natural to him, even though he only knew how to play a few chords.
It felt perfect to me too. I tried the whammy bar a few times and the guitar seemed to keep tune. And, it sounded great.
So, that guitar more than met my needs. Finding the right amp to suit the guitar took a lot longer, but that’s another story for another time.
Does it Feel Right To You? It may be too obvious to say, but how a guitar feels has a lot to do with the materials it’s made of as well as how it’s shaped.
The Axis felt right to me because the neck wasn’t too bulky, and it wasn’t too thin. By comparison, Ibanez tended to have thin or “fast” necks. Some people prefer that.
The neck also plays a significant role in the instrument’s playability. Guitar necks basically come in three different profiles – C, V and U. Knowing this can help you find a neck that feels great to you.
As for the body, the question is how does it feel against your body? Does it sit nicely against your abdomen? And, if you’re sitting down, does it feel comfortable on your lap? Also, what does it feel like when you touch the body with your hands?
The Axis is kind of a small guitar. Technically, it’s about the same size as a Strat, but the body is rounder, making it quite comfortable.
You may not be able to find 100% comfort. That’s generally only possible if you get your own signature series guitar made to your specifications.
But you can easily get 80 to 90% there.
Feel is especially important. And, the only way to determine if something is right for you is by experimentation and trial and error.
Does it Sound Awesome? Different guitars tend to be good for different genres and playing styles.
The Axis is awesome for rock and metal. But if I’m wanting to play funk, country or blues I tend to lean on my Strat.
I experimented a bunch with acoustic guitars too. One of my first purchases was an Ibanez acoustic and it served me well for a long time.
Because it was an intermediate guitar, it didn’t last me forever, and though I still own it, I use it less and less.
My current acoustic guitar is a Gibson, which has a full, warm tone, but it also cuts and just generally sounds great, even plugged in.
I once rented an Epiphone acoustic once too, and kind of wanted to hold onto it. But since I have a Gibson it would be redundant now.
Keep in mind what sounds awesome to you won’t necessarily be the same for anyone else. It’s your own journey, so be prepared to try a lot of guitars.
And, listen to others play too. Go to concerts and open mics. Watch YouTube videos – live shows, reviews, demos and the like.
Final Thoughts If you’re looking for the perfect guitar for you, then be prepared to shell out a good amount of money (i.e. $1,500 – $3,000 or more). Screw budget. You’re not going to find an instrument you’ll be happy with a decade from now if you skimp on it.
If you’re looking for an instrument that’s right for you right now, then go to the guitar store and try out a bunch of axes. The front counter staff are generally quite helpful and knowledgeable, so ask plenty of questions.
There’s plenty more that could be said on this subject, but I think this is a good starting point.
If I missed anything, please leave a comment below.
The post How do I Choose a Guitar That’s Right for Me? appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
In April 2015, Rihanna famously made tabloid headlines when a video surfaced online. It appeared to show her snorting cocaine inside her tour bus.
It is hardly shocking in today’s culture to learn that artists and singers smoke or take drugs whilst on tour. Sometimes, if they are careless, their activities are caught on film and documented by the media online, on TV and in the press.
The question is, how does this impact the brand image of the artist and what are the knock-on effects for record sales and concert ticket sales?
One Direction Going in the Wrong Direction One Direction star Zayn Malik was photographed on several occasions smoking marijuana and the story was eagerly publicized in the media.
What must be taken into account is that a large percentage of the fan-base idolizing superstars such as Rihanna and Zayn Malik are children and young teenagers.
These younger fans are impressionable, and it is their parents who buy the merchandise. Whether it’s a Rihanna T-shirt or a One Direction calendar, responsible parents will certainly think twice before spending their money after reading headlines about these artists their children adore, being publicly shamed for taking illegal substances.
The Label’s Responsibility In the pop world, it should be in a record label’s best interest to help their artists develop a marketable image; to both the parents and youngsters. Artists often act as role models to their fans, and as ambassadors for their record labels.
With social media, bad news travels fast, so record labels need to keep their artists under tight control and protect them from illicit substance abuse. In addition to bad press, an artist is also subject to being arrested if caught whilst taking illegal substances.
Bieber’s Scandal & The Downward Spiral Justin Bieber was famously arrested on Miami Beach for drag-racing following a drug-fuelled evening with friends. Being arrested mid-tour will undeniably cost a record label considerable funds if they have to cancel dates and refund tickets. This also alienates and frustrates fans who have been eagerly waiting to see their favorite singers live.
Late and lamented superstars Amy Winehouse and Whitney Houston died as a result of alcohol and drug abuse. When young pop stars such as Rihanna and Justin Bieber are caught taking drugs people can assume they may well be on the same downward spiral.
Whether this is the case, onlookers will make their own assumptions, and may stop supporting artists they had previously enjoyed listening to as a result of bad behavior.
Positive Artist Reception Positive artist reception is the fundamental prerequisite that leads to revenues for a record label, in the form to music purchases; merchandise sales and the sales of concert tickets.
Ultimately, for younger fans of pop stars such as Justin Bieber and Rihanna, it’s the parents who will fork out $300 for a pair of concert tickets. If parents no longer deem these pop stars as suitable role models for their children they will not be prepared to do so.
Other Incessant Image Issues Substance abuse and antisocial behavior is just the tip of the iceberg. Parents will take notice of the visual content of specific pop stars, and many will not agree with the direction of their visuals, choices of outfits, lyrical themes and dance routines performed on set.
Nicki Minaj, Ariana Grande and Cardi B are arguably some of the biggest stars on the planet right now. But their entire pop star regimes are built on sexualized outfits, videos and lyrics.
Obviously there is an enormous demand for these singers, and their successes are down to the fact that kids, teens and adults love their music and performances.
But many parents begin to question these full-blown pop icons and their image – consider Ariana Grande’s album cover for her 2016 album Dangerous Woman; donning latex fetish wear and singing about promiscuous sexual encounters.
Whilst Ariana Grande boasts over 155 million Instagram followers, there is something intrinsically questionable about her record label’s marketing tactics and choice of promotional tools that enable her to be adored by children, often oblivious to the meaning of many of her songs and performances.
Conclusion Whether a pop star is built on the foundations of sexualized themes, or perhaps more substantial and meaningful messages, one moment of poor judgment caught on camera can ruin a career.
Artists need to consider their behavior in the light of their audiences and record labels need to ensure that their artists are protected and chaperoned on a continual basis. This is not just a matter of good social responsibility it is a matter of business.
The post When Any Publicity is Not Good Publicity in the Music Industry appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Ariel Hyatt is in the house!
Are you looking to get more publicity for your music or band? Do you wish a major media outlet would cover your story?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, we learn from the best. Ariel Hyatt of Cyber PR sheds light on the current state of publicity in the music industry as well as what she’s excited about creating.
Podcast Highlights: * 01:30 – What brought you to this point of helping musicians and music related brands? * 03:51 – Dyslexia * 04:50 – How long did it take for you and your company to get established in your space? * 08:39 – Creative projects are closed loops * 09:41 – The dangers of comparison * 12:29 – How important is publicity for musicians and what is PR? * 14:13 – FYRE: The Greatest Party That Never Happened * 15:40 – The media will cover you if you have something newsworthy to share * 19:11 – The grind * 23:05 – How effective are press releases? * 25:53 – Copywriting skills * 26:57 – Why write books? * 35:39 – Is there a project you’re fired up about working on right now? * 37:58 – Am I on track? – An assessment of The Music Entrepreneur HQ business * 45:35 – Concluding thoughts
Transcription: David Andrew Wiebe: Today I’m chatting with founder of Cyber PR. Ariel Hyatt. How are you today, Ariel?
Ariel Hyatt: I’m fantastic.
David Andrew Wiebe: Great. Glad we could finally talk and have you on the show. Now, I’ve been blogging about the music industry since 2007. But in 2012, I invested in music industry startup and ended up creating a position for myself as a blogger and digital marketer for the company. And that’s when I started taking it more seriously. And in those days, it was people like you and Derek Severs, and Tom Hess, and Andrew Dover, that provided me with a lot of inspiration. So, thank you for being one of the giants whose shoulders, I could stand on.
Ariel Hyatt: My pleasure. Those are all names that just brought me so much warm and fuzzy. That was amazing.
David Andrew Wiebe: Oh, I know. I mean, Derek Severs I’m sure is many people’s favourite human being. He’s just smart and knowledgeable. What an incredible guy. Can’t really say enough about him.
So, you have a tremendous amount of experience in marketing and PR. What brought you to this point of helping musicians and music-related brands?
Ariel Hyatt: I guess the real honest answer is my mother who is an amazing career coach. That’s what she did my whole life and continues to do. She pointed out when I was pretty young that I had a knack for communication. I started really young interning at a PR firm and realised that that was actually true, I did have a knack for communication. Although even though that was my knack, I had a passion for art. That was my interest. And so, I guess my whole career is a combination of the thing that I’m really passionate about, which is art, not only music but I love visual art and all types of art. And then, you know, getting to support artists with what I’m really good at, which is communication and simplifying things, I think is something that as a dyslexic, which is something that I have, you look at the world really differently because everything feels confusing, especially when you’re young and you can’t read and everybody else can. You don’t see the world the way other people see it. You start filtering things in a way to make it easier for yourself to understand. And so, I think part of why I’m good at what I do is, I understand that artists don’t see the world, especially the business world, the way that most people do. And so, I’ve kind of made it my journey. Like, if I could break down the world so that I could understand it when it didn’t make sense, I certainly could help other people do that.
David Andrew Wiebe: Wow, that’s really cool. And a couple of things by way of comment. When I first got started, or really, after I was born, the first thing I got into was not music but rather art. And so, I did a lot of arts and crafts, and a lot of drawing and painting. That was sort of my first expression of creativity, which later evolved into music and writing. But I think it’s so common that people in this space also have a huge appreciation for other types of art. The other thing was what you said about dyslexia. I had a backing singer in my group who is also dyslexic, without revealing too many details, but it was just one of many things she seemed to be afflicted by and struggling with at times. But you know, she’s still a great singer, which is why I work with her.
Ariel Hyatt: Yeah, it’s a lot of people that have dyslexia have an excellent year. Most a lot of really famous artists like Carly Simon, James Taylor, they’re dyslexic. They have this like, perfect pitch. And it’s like, “Well, why is that?” Well, it’s because they can’t read so it comes out in other ways.
David Andrew Wiebe: Right. It’s almost like you’re just compensating for what doesn’t come to you naturally, right? And then instead, using your ear or using your other senses to really fine tune what it is you’re doing. So, I could see that. They would be better pitch than probably most amateurs.
I’m not sure who originally came up with this but in the entrepreneurial space, we often say everything takes five years. So, how long did it take for you and your company to get established in your space? What was your experience like along the way?
Ariel Hyatt: I had a really interesting and very cool thing happen. So, I guess if we counted the painful journey from getting out of university and getting into the music industry, where you realise that you’re just young and one of many, many people trying to get your foot in the door, if we counted that as year one, I think this is actually going to make a lot of sense. Let’s see.
So, my journey was struggled a lot trying to find work. I found some really small unpaid internships. And then, parlayed those into a job at a small record label. Worked at the record label for a year. So, that would be two years out of school. And then the third year, I worked. I got a job at a concert promotions company. I worked there for probably about two years, year and a half, two years. And then, I started my own business.
I had some luck in that I was living in a small town at the time, I was living in Boulder, Colorado, which is a place that at the time, I mean, the music scene is rich there, but the music industry is not. There was not a lot of people. There was like two record labels, and you know, a couple of music venues. That was it. So, there wasn’t a lot happening in the town. It was very easy to get known pretty quickly. That was a huge benefit.
So, I was working at the only record label there, one of the only concert promoters there. And then when I started my own business, very early on, I got a very amazing gig, which was I became the PR director for the Fox Theatre, which is this fabulous music venue that’s still there. And so, I would say that, in a way, my curve was a little shorter because I had this incredible venue. But you know, I don’t have that story where all of a sudden, I was working with one band that had a meteoric rise. I’ve had much more of a slow burn in my career, which has been interesting. And a lot of major label record industry types have said to me over and over, “Well, you really just need a big star to attach your name to.” which is one way that you can look at success. And there are many people that have that. They worked with one particular person that is massively huge. That’s a great thing to rest your laurels on. I don’t have that same experience. Although I have worked with a lot of people, some very famous, many are not. That’s not how I viewed my career.
Let’s see. I started my business in ’96. ’97, ’98, ’99, 2000, 2001. Five years as an entrepreneur, I was, you know, I was in a groove. I would say I was in a groove. I didn’t write my first book until 2007 though. So, you know, it’s been a journey just like you. It’s been… Although I was blogging. I don’t feel like there was. I guess when I look back, 2020 hindsight everything, isn’t it, I can see that there was like a really… there was a time where things were really accelerating. But I didn’t realise it until much later in the game.
David Andrew Wiebe: It’s very relatable. I love that. I think I heard somewhere recently that creative projects are almost always like closed loops. Whereas we think, you know, if we were to look at a bar graph, it just continually goes up over time. But that’s not always the case when you’re in the creative industry. It’s like you take on one project and you complete it. And then, you start a new project. And the process looks much the same as the last.
Ariel Hyatt: Yeah. And especially in our industry. And I think this goes for artists as well as people that are supporting artists in any way. It there’s no white-hot moment. I mean, there are once in a while these crazy outliers like Maggie Rogers, where Burrell heard her song, and then now she’s playing Coachella. And it’s a year later. I mean, you see that and you’re like, “Oh, wow.” But that’s really not how it happens for most mere mortals, as we know. It’s always astounding when I do see an artist like that, it’s a Marvel to look at but it’s not realistic.
David Andrew Wiebe: I’ve been in this seminar since January where every participant starts a community project, which has been really cool. But the other temptation there is to compare your project and how it’s taking off to other people’s projects, because inevitably there’s a few peoples whose project is just exploding. You might still be sitting here with 27 likes on your Facebook page or something like that, going like, “Huh, I wonder if I’m going about this the wrong way.” But everybody chooses a project that’s a reflection of them. And of course, depending on the niche and industry, or just how you’ve framed the project. There’s a lot of factors there. And I guess comparison is just not how you want to go about things.
Ariel Hyatt: No. No comparison is the root of all evil, I’m pretty sure of it. Social media certainly is not helping us in this domain, is it?
David Andrew Wiebe: It isn’t. It’s all too easy to look at somebody else who’s really blowing up in a significant way, and you kind of end up analysing it’s like, “I thought I was doing all the right things. And based on the podcasts I’m listening to, there’s nothing I’m missing.” But you just don’t know. You don’t know what got them to where they are and you also don’t know the toil or the effort behind the scenes.
Ariel Hyatt: And you know, all those photos they’re posting from EBITDA or wherever they are, you know, I mean, that’s… My favourite, and it’s not really a favourite story, because it’s actually sad. But I think about one of my closest friends who at age 40 found out she had breast cancer. She battled it and she got through it, but and you know, of course, her inner circle knew and her best friends knew, but the world didn’t know. And if you looked at her Instagram, there she was on holiday with her kids. And, you know, doing her family and her career was taking off and she was going on TV. She’s a lawyer. She’s not in the music industry. But from an outsider’s perspective, you know, it looked like absolutely nothing was wrong. But if you really knew what was going on, you would know that she was fighting cancer, which is obviously a very intense, horrible thing to do. So, there you have it. You never know what you’re not seeing.
David Andrew Wiebe: So true. And I would be torn about that, too. I’m not sure I would share that kind of thing with the world. Like you say, my inner circle or my friends might know but I’m not sure that’s the kind of thing I would reveal on social media.
Ariel Hyatt: Exactly. And that’s another, you know, that’s a major choice that people make. How much they’d like to reveal versus what feels appropriate for them. So, you just never know what’s going on.
David Andrew Wiebe: Nope. Yeah, you really don’t know. Now, to ask a more generic question although I really like that trail we’ve been going down. How important is publicity for musicians? And for those who don’t know what it is, what is PR?
Ariel Hyatt: PR has changed dramatically in the many, many years since I’ve been doing it. But basically, the simplest definition is PR is getting attention for yourself from others, getting attention in the media. Now that word media is the tricky part. Because back in the day, like 30 years ago, media meant newspapers and television, and magazines and radio. That was media. Then of course social media came and disrupted all of that. And now, media could be getting a tastemaker to tag you on Instagram. A media could be your own Twitter feed. Media could be what you create on your Facebook page. Media could be your own blog that you write.
PR has had a bit of a shift in that still standard traditional PR, however, is getting covered. And so, in the world that I live in, that for an independent musician, that would mean getting your music reviewed or paid attention to on music blogs, on podcasts, on Spotify or other playlists. Those would be the three areas that I think are the most modern definition. And then of course, we still do have newspapers. Newspapers also have online aspects. So, your newspaper might also have a website. So, that could also be coverage. But that would be how I would define PR right now.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, exactly. It has evolved a lot. It has changed a lot since social media has been a disrupter in a huge way. What came to mind was a documentary I watched recently on Netflix, which is Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened.
Ariel Hyatt: Oh, gosh. I couldn’t look away. It’s like watching a train wreck.
David Andrew Wiebe: Exactly. That’s what I was going to say. It’s so captivating that you can’t actually turn it off once you get watching it, but yeah. I mean, it is a good example of what sort of PR or coverage you could get in the sense that you know, they had social media influencers and that was a key part of their strategy in getting the word out about that. So, there were some genius behind it. It just didn’t extend into execution in that situation.
Ariel Hyatt: No. No, it certainly didn’t. And if there is a great companion movie, also on Netflix to watch called American Meme. If you haven’t seen that, it’s fantastic. It’s a lot of huge digital celebrities telling their stories. It covers everyone from Paris Hilton, the fat Jewish, to some other people who you may or may not have heard of or seen but it all goes to show you that what you see and what’s real are two very, very different things. It’s a very important documentary to watch.
David Andrew Wiebe: I’ll have to check that out, too. And then another thing about PR or just getting media coverage, you know, that’s something I’ve been thinking more intentionally about since starting this community project because that’s kind of part of the project parameters. I think I just had it in the back of my head that it’s so hard to get media coverage, but then when I see the kind of projects that ultimately end up on TV, I go, “Oh, well.” Like it may not necessarily be that it requires a lot. It’s just that, I guess, on some level, I mean, the media has to find it interesting or fascinating for it to be newsworthy.
Ariel Hyatt: Exactly. And so, back to your original question, which was when is an artist ready for PR, which we didn’t get to is, this is really the best question to ask because I think there’s been some bad information that’s been given out, which is, you know, the minute you record something, get PR. Well, not necessarily and not yet. So, I think that was a party line that used to be very, very popular back in the day. Like, the minute that you had recorded something, the first thing that you’re supposed to do was hire a publicist. The publicist was supposed to go and get you coverage on that new thing.
Well, now that 40,000, new things are going up on Spotify each and every single day, not all of them are going to be newsworthy and publicizable because some are going to be massive artists but most are going to be from small independent artists that don’t have a following yet, which doesn’t merit getting publicity. So, this idea that everybody just deserves PR because they’ve recorded something is unfortunately, where I see a lot of artists just like have… It’s just bad news. It’s bad advice. It’s not the order of things.
Once you do have some things out in the market, once you’ve got a following, once you’ve got people coming to your shows, once you’ve got fans, that’s when you can start getting publicity. But I often see artists put the cart before the horse. I mean, I had a young woman call me yesterday and she’s ready for PR. I looked and she has no bio on Spotify. She has 58 plays a month. She doesn’t have any photo on her Spotify page. She has less than 200 fans on Facebook. I was like, “Well, I think maybe what we should do is work on getting your foundation a bit stronger.” And she just wasn’t interested in that. She’s hell bent. She wants to hire a publicist right now. She wants to put out her new track. And that’s it. And so, she’s going to waste thousands of dollars. She’ll probably get a little bit of PR from some small blogs but unfortunately, it’s not going to get her what she wants, which is exactly what she needs to work on, which is getting more fans first. That’s the part that I think artists don’t understand so well in many cases. And they don’t really know like, a lot of this is about having to take the time to connect to people and build your fan base before you go and try to get a PR team.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, and what you’re talking about is kind of the grind. And it’s a matter of whether you’re willing to do it or not. It might take time to build that foundation, your social media following, your website, your email list, but once you have that, you can definitely leverage it for a lot more.
Ariel Hyatt: Totally. And it is a grind. I mean, it’s a grind. There’s no question. It’s the hardest part of the work. And I know a lot of artists get into this because they want to just make music. That’s fine. Derek Severs, back to him. He said something years ago. He wrote this fabulous blog post, which I hope you can put in the show notes. I’ll go back and find it. But it basically says that when he started CD Baby, he went around the country. He was talking to all these artists about marketing and promotion. And now that your CDs are ready at CD Baby and we’re distributing it for you, it’s time to like really marketed and get fans and get people to buy it. And he realised for half or more of the artists that he was jumping up and down on the tables with and like going to all these conferences and exhausting himself on a global scale. For them, it was enough that they just got the CD to CD Baby. They were done. They weren’t interested in marketing and promoting and getting fans and building a mailing list and playing shows and getting a clipboard and like all the things that he was talking about. They were done.
And he said some really profound things in the blog post that he wrote about, where he was like, “You know, for some of you, just having the music is enough. And that’s it, you’re done with your journey and just be a hobbyist, just play a show once in a blue moon for your best friends and your family in your house. Or just rehearse with your best friends in your basement. And don’t try to make a career out of this. Just do it because you love to do it.” The way that I’ve boiled that down is some men play golf and some men play guitar. Like, just because you play golf doesn’t mean you’re going to have to go and be a competitive golfer. It means that you can like go and enjoy yourself and go to a new golf course with friends once a year. I don’t know spend money on great golf equipment. You can do the same thing with your music career, and you don’t have to kill yourself with all the marketing and promotions and crazy if you don’t like it.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, that’s so interesting. And I think it still is that way to an extent. There are definitely artists that just want to make music and keep it at a hobby level. I always say that’s fine if that’s how you want to do it. Maybe at some point, you’ll feel like pursuing more, maybe not. And it doesn’t matter. Nobody should belittle you for what it is that you’re wanting to accomplish, whether that’s big or small or somewhere in between.
It’s interesting because like, with what I do, oftentimes my friends don’t get me because I spent a lot of time playing the local scene and getting into festival and going all around with my music wherever they would have me. And now I still play lots of guitar, I still go to rehearsals, I still play live. But a huge, more significant part of my focus is creating this content that helps other musicians. They don’t get it. There’s just no way to kind of explain to them what this entrepreneurial journey is like, why I’m doing it. Even sharing in the vision, they often kind of go like, “I don’t get you.” I just try to let them know, “Hey, I’m here to help you. If you don’t need my help, that’s okay too.”
Ariel Hyatt: Totally.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah. Another thing that I think maybe just people are confused about or at least something that I’ve observed is this whole thing about press releases. I think, you know, 10-15 years ago, they were incredible tools for getting media attention, for getting backlinks to your website, for generating traffic. Press releases still have their place. But they’re definitely not a catch all solution. And they don’t do all that or generate quite as much attention for you like they used to.
Ariel Hyatt: No. No, they don’t. The reason for that is there’s a misunderstanding about what a press release is. You said it earlier in our talk. You said you’re watching these projects getting on television and you think it’s so hard to get on television but then you realise if you have what that television station or news program is looking for, and I’m just going to make this up. But like, let’s say specifically the television show is looking for something that is community based, that happens within a certain radius of where the community is and lives that has an angle that’s appealing, like let’s say a charity angle or an angle where they’re doing something good for the community, they’re giving back in a way, they’re doing something heartwarming, they’re doing something helpful. I mean, that is a recipe to get on the five o’clock news, no question.
So, compare that to releasing a record and writing a general press release about so and so sophomore album just released and they’re from Toronto. Like, okay. That’s not news that is going to be appealing for most news outlets. Now, however, if it is Mental Health Awareness Month, which is coming up in May, and you are an artist that wrote a song that was inspired by your friend who committed suicide or attempted suicide or something that is deeply related to mental health and the song is about helping people who are suffering with mental health. And you’re from a specific town and you’re throwing a concert to raise awareness. Now, you’ve got a press release. Now you can write something that is very specific, that is timely, that affects the community. And that is absolutely perfect for local news.
It’s funny because so many artists still call me today. And they say, “Well, we just want you to write a press release and blast it.” which is was very much a thing that we used to do. But it is very much not a thing with music blogs. I mean, unless of course, you have a local angle.
David Andrew Wiebe: And basic copywriting is something that I’ve been teaching for quite a while now. I often just ask artists, which of these two is more powerful to you? Atomic Penguins releases new album or Atomic Penguins, new metal mayhem release leaves your drums bleeding. Which one would you click on?
Ariel Hyatt: Right. I mean, definitely, when you’re surfing around the internet, even when I go to read the news in the morning, sometimes you’re reading news, like legit real news, and then all of a sudden, something shiny down at the bottom of the page, like, you won’t believe what these 10 celebrities look like today, and you almost can’t resist going there.
David Andrew Wiebe: Exactly. Exactly.
Ariel Hyatt: You know, you’re in that world. So, if you can make exciting and interesting catchy titles, that is some of the most important stuff that you can do for sure.
David Andrew Wiebe: Agreed. I can tell you’re super passionate about PR. And I would love to spend the entire half hour just talking about that but some other questions to get to. So, in this space of helping independent musicians, I’ve noticed there seems to be quite a few authors and you’re certainly one of them. But a book is no small undertaking. And in many cases, it’s not a profit generating machine. So, to prove a little bit below the surface, why write books?
Ariel Hyatt: You know, why record albums? I mean, I feel like, because you can’t help it is really my answer.
David Andrew Wiebe: I love that.
Ariel Hyatt: It’s because it’s what you’re called to do. I really feel that way. I never thought about writing a book. You know, my mother was an author. That was her thing. I watched her and she was a New York Times bestselling author so she was the kind of the opposite author of what I am, which is like a self publishing, talk your books at your next talk author, which is a totally different type of author. But I was at a seminar. I was at a great, wonderful seminar. I had spent a lot of money going to the seminar. It was in Palm Springs, California. I’ll never forget this. This is probably 2005-2006 and Brian Tracy… Do you know who Brian Tracy is? Of course, you do.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah. I think it was The Science of Self Confidence. Like that was one of the first personal development audios I got into and it was so vital.
Ariel Hyatt: Oh, my God. So, for those of you who don’t know who Brian Tracy is, you just Google him and you’ll get a sense. He looks like your grandfather if you are a daughter of the Mayflower. He’s like this white older… He always has a suit and tie. He’s very fit. He talks very fast. He talks like this. He talks very, very fast. And he’s going to tell you how to change your life. And he’s going to tell you to change your life very rarely. He’s really fast. And he’s like, “We’re going to talk about your mindset. If you have problems with your parents, just stop. You don’t need to have those problems anymore. Those are problems in the past.” Like he’s just like this. He’s got all these like really cutting-edge ideas but they’re coming out of this older, white haired dude that looks like he should be the CEO of a Fortune 100 company. It’s so confusing. But he’s brilliant. Absolutely brilliant. And he’s incredibly motivating. And he’s been doing it a very, very long time. And you just said one of your favourite books. One of my favourite books that he ever wrote was a time management book called eat the frog.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yes.
Ariel Hyatt: Which is incredible. But you know, he wrote, Earn What You’re Really Worth and The Psychology of Achievement. He’s just a genius guy. However, what he did that day was he stood up on the stage and he did his whole talk. And I don’t even remember what the talk was about. I’m sure it was about success and how to manage your time and all the things you need. But at the very, very end of his talk, he said, “You all have to write your book. Every single one of you has a book inside of you.”
David Andrew Wiebe: Guaranteed.
Ariel Hyatt: And I sat in my seat, you know, in one of these big conferences. You’re like one of a thousand people in a giant room in a hotel in Palm Springs. It is what it is, fluorescent lighting and all. I just started sobbing. Part of the sobbing was a complete resistance to go, “No, I don’t want to write a book.” But then part of it was a knowing that I really do.
So, you know, people that write books, when they’re forcing themselves to do it, like I get up at six in the morning and I write my pages. I’m not quite sure that that’s how a really good book gets written. I think, you know, I don’t know. My book… I don’t want to say it was channelled because that’s a little too woowoo. But when I was finally ready to write my book, my book just came out of me. It just… It was a really big undertaking, for sure. But it’s also just like I hope it feels to record music. It’s natural. I don’t think you get up at five in the morning and like, “I’m going to record.” You know, like, I don’t think that that’s the… I don’t know many musicians. I mean, I do a lot of songwriters that do have that discipline, especially the Nashville type of songwriters that are like doing a lot of collaboration, and they need to come up with a lot of different writing ideas and lyric ideas. Okay, get up early and do your morning papers, I get it. But I don’t know that that’s how you write an album, or that’s how you write a book. That’s a different type of discipline.
So yeah, the first book I wrote just kind of flowed right out of me. I printed it myself. Bob Baker, one of our other early, early, early men in the industry that helped point everyone in the right direction, he advised me how to publish my book. I did it. There was a spelling mistake on every page, which an independent musician who is also an English teacher called me and he said, “I’ve just corrected your book. Would you like me to send it to you?” And it was basically like getting my homework when I was a kid. There was like a red mark on every page. So, you know, I corrected and continued and kept going. And here we are so many books later. I love writing books. I think books are a bigger expression. Yes, blogging is one thing but writing books is something else. It’s a much… It’s just like, you know, do you put out singles or do you put out albums? You know, one thing is a bigger concept.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, I think it’s just coming from a place of inspiration. And I totally know what you mean. It’s like, sometimes you don’t even know what you’re writing but it just comes out of you anyway. And I have a few drafts like that that I still don’t know if I’m ever going to use them but they were still really cool when they were coming from somewhere when I wrote them. Bob Baker was actually on Episode One of the podcast. So, I still follow along with a little bit of what he’s up to. And it’s always… You’re right, he really did point the way for many of us. It’s cool.
And this year, I’m looking to publish 10 to 12 books. I’ve launched two to this point. So, I’m wondering if you enjoy the writing process and if there’s any tricks or hacks you’ve come across that allow you to be more efficient with the process.
Ariel Hyatt: I’m not much of a hacker but I really do… And it’s funny because I didn’t write my last book this way but I have in the past. I do love dictation. You know, it’s pretty amazing. You can just make a voice memo and talk and it writes for you.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yes.
Ariel Hyatt: So, I find that to be really helpful, especially if you’re trying to do like some free association or just have some ideas that aren’t sussed out. It can be much easier to do that than bang away at a typewriter. I also still do the old school pen to paper. I love to write in cursive because I learned how to write cursive as many people my age did. Back in the day I heard they don’t even really teach that anymore, which is so sad but I write cursive in a typical cop notebook, you know the black and white marble notebook with the lines. I tend to love to write pieces of the book that way. And then, you can dictate them or type them up. And so, things end up in many different forms but pen to paper I like to sit in inspiring places. I have a really beautiful garden in my house. I could sit outside when it starts getting warm in the spring and write in the sunshine or write at a coffee shop or you know just write in a place that isn’t your desk or your home office or work. It’s much better to write also when I go away on vacation. I love to sit on the beach, sit with the ocean. I tend to do a lot of writing when I’m not in my workdays.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, I think pen to paper is exactly how John Maxwell has been writing his many, many books. So, I can see that being effective, too. I think there’s just something about pen to paper. I was looking up a stat as well because I think what Brian Tracy says makes so much sense. There are various stats out there but one of them is 90% of Americans want to write a book. And how many of those will not be published? Many. I’m sure the majority will never be published because we don’t put the pen to paper.
Ariel Hyatt: Right.
David Andrew Wiebe: Is there a course, a book, or some other project you’re fired about creating right now? And if so, what is it?
Ariel Hyatt: I’m in the middle of creating labs, which is my new education series. It’s been really fun because it’s a collaborative effort. And so, it’s one a month. It’s a different topic that I think is helpful for people in the music business. Some of them I teach on my own but most of them I have a guest that is my co-teacher. The labs are designed to not be… They’re supposed to be incredibly focused. So, the idea is like, there’s plenty of courses where you can get on board and take like, you know, 12 months of coaching or like 57,000 videos. I’m trying to make it so you get in, you get out and you get exactly what you need in a very short amount of time.
The labs are three classes. The first class is 45 minutes, so is the second class. And the third class is 90 minutes. They drill down very efficiently into specific areas. Lab ne was all about how to get your own PR. Lab Two is about Facebook advertising. Lab Three is about how to release your music with ease. Lab Four is level up your email game. Lab Five taught by one of my clients who went from brand new to 100% self-made, self-sustaining independent musician in 18 months called Mobilise Your Fan Army. Lab Six is booking successful shows and tours. And it goes on and on like that.
I’m just finishing up Lab Nine this month. It’s crowd start, which is finally I brought my book of how to do crowdfunding to life. And that’s been amazing. That’s one, just me. But next month, I’ve got Randy and Jason who wrote making money with music, and the indie band Survival Guide. They’re going to teach three weeks on making money, just how to look at different income streams around your music. So, I’m really excited for Lab 10.
David Andrew Wiebe: All very important topics for sure. I think we’ve had a great chat. And so, I’m going to skip the boilerplate questions. I think we’ve got a pretty good idea of what some of your challenges have been, what some of your victories have been, as well as some of the books that you’ve delved into. So, what I’m going to do is this. I’m going to ask for a little bit of feedback. I mean, you’re only going to be able to give me the feedback to the extent that I’m able to give you information. But with my current business, I’m just always open to hearing what others have to say about what I’m up to because it helps me see what I’m doing from a different perspective. And currently, I get about 15,000 views per month on my website. I’m getting 110-220 people signing up for my email list monthly. That results in a little under 20 sales per month, although relatively small sales. I’ve had people share with me that the only thing missing now is a demonstrated impact in the lives of musicians. From your perspective, do you see that my business is on track? Is there anything missing to make it more powerful?
Ariel Hyatt: I do think you’re on track. I mean, half of the people I talked to have no idea how to even look at statistics. It’s tremendous that you know this is how it’s building. It sounds like in your case, slow and steady wins the race. Again, it’s so tempting. Like, take my course and I’ll teach you how to get 10,000 people on your mailing list in five minutes. You hear these things and you’re like really, okay. I don’t know that that’s necessarily a thing. So yeah, it sounds like you are doing that. And that is interesting. It is true that unless you are having an impact, unless there are people who can come back to you and say, “You taught me how to do this and because I did this, something really shifted for me.” I mean, I think that is something that if you could begin to get some data from the people that you’re touching and moving and inspiring, you could really begin to show a shift.
But I think there’s always an interesting issue with helping people. And, you know, Brian Tracy thinks 90% of all people want to write a book. Well, what percentage of people actually do write a book? I had an artist that we wrote a plan for and our plans, unlike your plans of really thinking that plan should be one page, our plans are 150 pages that we write for artists. So, they’re like brutally long and painful and involved. And, you know, I sent her a plan in December and now it’s April, and she’s hysterical on the phone with me going crazy screaming that, you know, the plan was too long and there was too much in it. And, you know, her album is coming out. She just she read it once. It was so overwhelming. She just made up this whole story that she just wants to be overwhelmed. And, you know, she’s screaming at me. I’m like, “Girl, this is not my problem. I spelled out exactly what it is you need to do in December. That was four months ago, and you’ve done none of it. Now your album is coming out and you’re flipping out.” If you had just read 20 pages per month, that’s less than a page a day. You might not be hysterical and overwhelmed right now. So, you know, half of that is on her but half of that is on me. If you deliver someone something and they can’t figure out how to get it into play and how to make it work, part of our job as the educator, as the person that’s providing the solution… Well, it’s not part of your job. But the question is, do you want to make it part of your job? Is it part of your job, David, to call that artists to check in with them to find out are you putting the pedal to the metal? What has resonated with you? And why? And how can I help you get it to resonate a little bit more.
But, you know, I think that’s where you might have some success is like when you can drill down with people. It always amazes me like, some people come and they coach with me and they spend a lot of money with me holding their hands and we do their PR, and we do their marketing, we do their branding, and we do their social media. And yes, we move the needle and things move well, and they spend a lot of money in order for that to happen. That’s Plan A. I mean, that’s Client A right. But I’ve also had Client B, who comes up to me at a conference and I’ve literally never met them. And I don’t even know their name. And they say something like, I’ve never even purchased one of your books. I just read your blogs. And I did three things that you said. I mean, I once met an artist who said, “You once said on one of your earlier blogs. Be a shark in a sea of tuna.” And I think I got that from T. Harv Eker, who was a huge mentor to me back in the day. And this artist heard me say that, realise that he was just another hip-hop artist in New York and whatever. He went to Japan. He literally became a shark in a sea of tuna. And his whole career opened up like he was the only rapper. He was the only black man half the people that ever seen. He started learning Japanese. He really got into the culture there and created an amazing career for himself. I meet him four years later and he’s like, “Thank you. That was all because of you.”
So, you know, you don’t even know how much you’re affecting people. And even when you like send an email out to your newsletter and be like, “Hey, can you all send me a testimonial?” People don’t even sometimes realise how much you’ve helped them until, like I said, you know, like you said about your career until the loops are closed. And those loops can take a long time to close. But my advice for you and your journey is… and I think the most powerful thing that any of us can do. And when this goes for artists, ask your people how… You know when you’re driving on the highway, and you see the little sign on the truck, it says how’s my driving. It’s that. It’s like, if you can ask people how am I doing? Talk to me. Give me a sign. Tell me how it’s going for you. And yes, some of it might be what you’re teaching them but you might learn something completely different that you didn’t even know you’re going to learn about them that might inspire you for your next book. I’ll put a whole other section in that you didn’t even think to do because you started asking for feedback that wasn’t necessarily just feedback about you.
That would be my one piece of advice. It sounds to me like everything is going really well. Slow and steady does win the race. I know this because I’ve been in business for 23 years. And no, I don’t have one big giant artist that I can wave in front of you and brag about. I do that for one person. I did a little thing for thousands.
David Andrew Wiebe: I love that. Yeah. And I think there probably is no magic bullet to the whole thing. It’s just sticking with the process. So, thank you so much. That’s fantastic and well thought out answer. Thank you so much for your time and generosity, Ariel. Is there anything else I should have asked?
Ariel Hyatt: No, this has been a great chat. I love… I mean, I listen to your podcast so I knew what was coming. And, you know, unlike tell how you came up with… you know, you don’t do that. And I love that. I think that’s what’s great about listening to you is you get in the crevices where other people don’t.
David Andrew Wiebe: I’m glad you noticed that. That’s very intentional. I try not to ask too many straightforward questions. I’m more interested in the story. If you use that as your metric, you can probably go back into my archives and figure out which is the least favourite interview I’ve done. There was one with no story, but it’s still worth doing. It’s not like it’s not worth doing. So, great.
Ariel Hyatt: Excellent.
David Andrew Wiebe: Thank you so much.
Ariel Hyatt: Pleasure.
The post 148 – How to Get Media Coverage as a Musician – with Ariel Hyatt of Cyber PR appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Majoring in music is not easy. Mastering musical skills is hard work and it requires devotion and sometimes even sleepless nights.
But since you clicked on this title, it means that you are interested in a music major. The enthusiasm alone doesn’t cut it – what you need is passion.
Depending on the school, there are many stages of auditioning to get into the program. But one thing they all have in common is that students applying for the course are mad about music and ready to put all their efforts to reaching their goals.
So, when choosing a program that’s creative and demanding in nature, you need to prepare.
Here are some useful tips for prospective music majors. They will help you prepare for the programs efficiently and complete the studies successfully.
Take Private Lessons Before you even apply for a course, it would be wise to take private lessons.
Some colleges also require students to take lessons for both primary and secondary instruments or vocals. In other cases, you will only need to learn one.
Find an excellent instructor who has a degree in music, with some experience in professional performances. To get into a music program, it is recommended that you find an instructor that’s a good mentor, because not every great musician is a great tutor.
Study Music Theory Students who don’t have any prior knowledge of music theory often find themselves struggling in college. To overcome these obstacles and troubles, devote your time to studying theory.
Further, it would be wise to apply for Music Theory class in High School Advanced Placement, as it will give you the needed theoretical knowledge. If local education doesn’t offer anything of the sort, search the Internet for relevant videos and courses.
Practice with Diligence You will need to spend plenty of time practicing. If you’ve been playing your instrument for any length of time, this should not be a foreign concept to you.
Plan a personal schedule and don’t cheat yourself out of practice time. With a dozen things to concentrate on, a strict routine might be the only way to find the needed time to practice regularly.
There are other ways of effectively managing your time, especially if you find the homework demanding. Getting help creating an essay outline can be helpful.
There are online services offering highly competitive services to assist students with both the school and academic works. Right from drafting essay outlines to crafting an elaborate research paper, these platforms help students in completing the most challenging tasks.
With their help, you can stay on top of assignments and free up time to practice consistently.
Work on Your Vocals Most music colleges have vocal classes as part of the compulsory course. Why not join a choir? Vocals are prioritized there, and begin in a choir also gives you the opportunity to read music, which is always good practice for beginners.
Play with Others Being in a band or an ensemble will boost your resume and give you a chance to improve your skills. Once in college, you will have to take part in performances and other events as a member of an ensemble.
Having prior experience working with a team could benefit you a lot. If the high school does not have a strong music program, you can always look for possibilities outside. There are many opportunities you can pursue at community and private music schools, junior colleges or religious centers.
Improve Your Skills Traditional skills like music reading, blending or tuning can’t necessarily be gotten in band practice.
As a music major, you will need to learn how to follow a conductor and work in a team context.
If you are going to apply for a serious music college, try to find a local ensemble with skillful players who can help you to master new music skills.
Get Familiar with Technology Computer notation programs play a significant role in the industry these days. Sooner or later you will need to learn how to use them. So, it’s time to work on the basics.
Finale and Sibelius are the most common standalone notation programs. Logic includes a larger platform with MIDI, notation and digital audio.
There are also many PC-based music applications which can do a lot more than notation. It is no longer an aspect of music These are powerful tools everyone who wants to start a successful career in music should learn.
Listen to Music The easiest way to advance your rhythm and timing skills and continually challenge yourself is to listen to music.
Sure, it’s something you do all the time. But adding some new music styles to your library and actively listening can help you make new discoveries.
If you are listening to rock or jazz every day, download some hip hop or neoclassical and listen to them every morning.
Know What to Expect Preparing for a music major also includes knowing how the program works.
A music major has requirements in terms of credits, often making it necessary to take more classes for fewer credits.
They must also start on their coursework right away. Required courses extend beyond theory, ear training, private lessons and ensembles, because they will be required to take general courses.
Music majors should expect fully and busy semesters.
Final Thoughts Now you have a better idea of what to expect as a music major. But if you love music, the work won’t seem too demanding to you. You can focus on self-improvement and enjoy every step of the journey.
The post What You Should do Now to Prepare for Your Music Major appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
John Oszajca is in the house!
Do you know what funnels are? Are you using them to promote your music? What level of success have your achieved with your marketing funnels?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, you’ll learn about this timely and vital topic from the best of the best – John Oszajca of Music Marketing Manifesto.
Podcast Highlights: * 01:11 – Four record deals!? – John’s story * 07:16 – What led to your breakthrough? * 16:50 – Trying and failing – finding a winning formula * 20:56 – What type of results do musicians achieve with your method? * 28:07 – What are the main upsides of using funnels to build an audience? * 31:50 – Are there any hiccups or downsides to the method? * 35:20 – What’s the biggest challenge you’ve encountered as an entrepreneur? * 38:15 – What’s the biggest victory you’ve experienced as an entrepreneur? * 43:47 – Are there any books or other resources that have helped you on your journey? * 47:29 – Is there anything else I should have asked?
Transcription: David Andrew Wiebe: Today, I’m chatting with the creator of Music Marketing Manifesto and singer/songwriter John Oszajca. How are you today, John?
John Oszajca: I’m great. Thanks for having me on your show.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah, thanks so much for coming on. And on that note, I know that in the space of music marketing, we can sometimes become precious about our ideas and methods but always find it such a joy to talk and share with experts like you. I always learn a lot. The more I dig into this niche, the more I find that there’s probably only a few dozen of us or maybe a hundred of us out there doing this kind of thing.
So, I want to thank you for your willingness to come on the show, and also for the important work you’re doing for artists.
John Oszajca: Thanks. Yeah, my pleasure.
David Andrew Wiebe: So, I’ve done a bit of reading about you. One of the things I found interesting is that you had four different record deals, none of which really benefited you in the way you hoped it would.
John Oszajca: I did.
David Andrew Wiebe: So, what happened there?
John Oszajca: Well. Yeah, so I can’t say none of them benefited me financially, you know, particularly the first deal was very successful. That set much of my life in motion. So, I don’t regret any of the experiences but certainly, when you’re a young, aspiring musician, and we all dream of getting record deals, the idea is not just that you’re going to fill your bank account, it’s that you’re going to go on to have a meaningful career and become a household name.
So, cut me off if I go into too much detail, but the sort of short version is that, you know, like a lot of young musicians… I’m from Hawaii. I left my small town and moved to [unclear 02:01]. I went to Seattle first, later to Los Angeles in pursuit of success as an artist. I eventually, after a lot of hard work, a lot of, you know, I really hustled. I was one of those guys that really worked my butt off. I promoted clubs and pursued every opportunity I could to find success. I eventually did land a record deal after many demo deals and a lot of struggles. I signed with Interscope. The trade paper said it was the largest new artists signing in history. It looked very good for a moment.
I had one of those deals where I was on a soundtrack and my song became the single for that soundtrack. It started taking off all over the United States. That song did. And I had no record deal but was getting heavy rotation on the biggest stations in the country. That’s what sort of kicked by this big bidding war. But there was no album and by the time the album actually got finished, and by the time… I had Jimmy Iovine as my A&R rep, you know, the Head of Interscope, which sounded fantastic, but all it actually turned out to mean is that I had the busiest guy at the label as my A&R rep. And so, there was a lot of confusion. Music changed a lot at this time. This is back in like 2000 when there was that shift from alternative to sort of active rock, if you remember that. This is like when the No Doubt, Bex, and Sugar Rays of the world were supplanted by that Metallica, Korn, and Limp Biscuits. And so, by the time my album came out, it didn’t really fit in the alternative world so it got ultimately put out on pop and hot AC. So, my album came out the same week as Madonna and 98 degrees. It was nothing like that music.
I don’t know. I had a few things stacked against me but at the end of the day, you know, I had a fantastic experience. I toured and had song/music on the radio across the country and was on MTV and all that kind of stuff, but I just didn’t sell enough records. With no conversation about it, it was dropped. You just kind of get a letter to your lawyer. When some board makes a decision, or some, you know, not literally a board, but some… what’s their committee that makes a decision. And was sort of back at the drawing board. I had a weird thing that’s sort of a double-edged sword. I had this blessing of this massive publishing deal as well, where we’re talking about a half a million dollars per album. The first one is even a bit more, but I was half a million on the second album but I needed the album to come out on a major label in order to trigger the advance. So, rather than just going back to doing what I did before I got that deal and going back to hustling, I was more of one of these… I don’t know what you’d call it, but you know, I was… Not a studio musician but I was living in this industry bubble just trying to get another deal. So, years passed, frankly, I did eventually. I got a deal with Universal. That triggered half the advance as it got closer to release. Some shifts around there. They decided not to put it out. Then, I got a deal with a Warner Brothers sub called the Record Collection. They put it out as a one off, and that triggered the publishing but they did very little to promote it. And then a third album came out… sorry, a fourth deal, third album came out on an indie and it just sort of seemed to go worse and worse and worse, to be honest. But yeah, I wouldn’t categorize it as a regretful experience. As I say, I still feel quite good about the things, the accomplishments that I had during that time.
And you know, the albums did come out and I toured to support them and you know, had a blast. But yeah, it didn’t… The people that promised they were going to do a lot of things on my behalf, in the end didn’t do a lot of those things. I kept being, you know. At one point I was more or less put myself on a hiatus as I turned to try to figure out ways to make money without having to get a traditional job. I don’t want to keep riffing and rambling on into the story. But that was chapter one. That was basically the sum total of those initial record deal experiences.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah. And I’m sure there will be some benefit to any record deal, even if it’s just a lesson that you learn along the way, which it sounds like you did. I’m just wondering, like, obviously, your music did not belong with new metal but was there any advantage to being placed with pop?
John Oszajca: No, not for me. I don’t think so. No. I don’t think I really ever stood much of a chance in that genre. We really needed to come out when I had that initial radio success before the album was done. It was right for that moment and we missed the moment, I think. But I don’t even know that that was necessarily it. I think anyone at the label at the time would tell you there was just a lot of confusion surrounding the album. Nobody was really shepherding the project, and I think that was probably my biggest downfall on that first album.
David Andrew Wiebe: Seems like a common story with many of my favorite artists. I know that They Might Be Giants went through a similar thing where the label they were working with knew what they were about and how to market them. And then suddenly they were working with people that didn’t know. They went independent from there. So, I can definitely understand where you’re coming from.
And I’m really interested in hearing about, you know, this is what led to the creation of Music Marketing Manifesto. I’m kind of fast forwarding but I’m wondering what sort of researching and digging you were doing at the time that ultimately led to that breakthrough.
John Oszajca: Well, so where it actually started, and I always sort of neglect to mention this when talking about it is in the album number three that came out on indie, which basically meant I did everything to try to market it. And I knew nothing about marketing at this time. I want to say and actually I have to check the back of the album. I want to say this is 2005-ish, 2006 maybe. I don’t know. But if you remember… I don’t know how old you are but in the days of Myspace…
David Andrew Wiebe: I remember MySpace.
John Oszajca: Yeah. We all jumped on Myspace and bought these bots and spam the hell out of everyone saying, you know, “Click on this link.” and send them to iTunes or CD Baby or wherever and hope that they’d buy our music because it was all we knew how to do. I did it too and the bots would always break because Myspace would change the way their sites work so the bots couldn’t do what they did. And we’d all jump in or many of us anyway would jump in the support forums and start asking questions. I’d see all these other people in the forums that were using these bots to do other things to clearly make money online. It had nothing to do with music. And that was what first kind of made me go, “What’s this? What’s this make money online thing all about?” I did not jump into buying Myspace bots and spamming the world to try to make money but I started reading.
John Oszajca: Actually, one day some flashy red headline was selling some internet marketing course promising to teach me how to make millions of dollars in my underwear while I slept or whatever. It jumped out at me. I finally bought it. I spent 200 bucks, which was a lot for a course back in 2006 or whatever it was. It was an advertising-based strategy, so a Google Ad strategy with affiliate products. I sat up all night. I spent $10 on advertising. I set everything up, went to sleep, woke up and had sold a $20 eBook. I went, holy crap, this isn’t a “scam”. It actually works. I got the bug, you know, where there was one sale, I knew there were more.
Unfortunately, I still had some of that record deal advanced money in the bank so I had time to figure it out. I didn’t have the pressures of a job or anything breathing down my neck and I became obsessed. I tend to be an obsessive guy when I’m into something and I went and probably bought the… I went through probably about… I don’t know somewhere between 500 and 1000 books and lectures and courses and things on marketing. I just went out to learn everything I possibly could. I experimented a lot, you know, like a lot of new internet marketers, I probably had 100 domain names, each one representing some failed experiment. And when I say failed, many of them would generate a little bit of money but nothing that was going to set me for life.
I finally had one product and it was a great product. This is good. I don’t talk about this too often but it was electronic cigarettes of all things early like in 2007, I think. Yeah, somewhere around there. They were unheard of, you know, no one had ever heard of them. And again, I was just trying anything at this time. I thought, “Anytime I could find a cool product that I could set up a website for I was keen.” So, somebody brought it to me. I set up a website, and lo and behold, it sold. It sold almost by itself. I was really into search engine optimization at the time. I ended up striking a deal with the company. I became basically an independent online distributor and started selling the crap out of these e-cigs. I sold a couple million dollars worth of electronic cigarettes within a couple of years.
Once you kind of have a success online it all kind of falls into focus. You suddenly understand what it is you’re doing. And you get much better at it very quickly and things scaled up really fast. Once my finances were kind of in order and I wasn’t so much worrying about paying the bills anymore and I had this newfound skill, I thought, “What if I started using some of the stuff on my music?” I initially used myself as a guinea pig. I’m always in a precarious situation because record labels and publishing companies own all of my material. But I can go and quietly do a few things here and there so I’d go and build a list, send out my link to buy it to my list. Wake up and have $300 worth of album sales.
This was shocking to me. Like, my entire career I needed a manager, I needed lawyers, I needed a record label, I needed musicians to tour, I needed a budget for all of it, I needed producers. I need all of these people to run a career. And that was what most of my early career was, was just amassing a team hoping that they would do the work. This was something that I could do really easily, you know, in my own home with very little overhead. And was just amazing.
Shortly thereafter, friend of mine, Billy Burke is his name. He was going to put out an album and he had a pretty big Twitter following, but, you know, having a big following does not necessarily translate into generating a lot of money if you don’t do it the right way. He told me what he was planning. I thought I could do better. I said, “Hey, why don’t you let me handle the marketing for this? We’ll put it out to be our little case study.” And put it out and I think we’ve been $400 on marketing total, and we ended up just setting the all time single day sales record at CD Baby, he landed on the heat seeker, you know, Billboard Heatseekers Chart, recoup the first week and you know, and then some, of course, and we thought it was a tremendous success. So, at that time looking for something else to do, I was not particularly passionate about electronic cigarettes. And I’ve since sold that business.
At one point, I was thinking maybe I’d start educating people about marketing, but this opportunity to teach what I had done with Billy arose and I turned that into a course and that was Music Marketing Manifesto. Technically, I had actually, in one of my early failed “experiences” I put out a little eBook called Music Marketing Manifesto. It was in late 2009 that I beef that up and turned it into a sort of video course. Again, my own knowledge really grown since that time. I put it out and it’s sold really well with the initial launch and I had really enjoyed communicating with the music community and being sort of back in the industry, so to speak. I felt that I was really good at it. So anyway, that kick started basically what’s been my journey for the last 10 years. That’s how I make my living primarily is through Music Marketing Manifesto and teaching independent artists how to use basically online marketing strategies, more specifically direct response marketing strategies, to build their audience and to monetize the relationship with that audience at the time.
So, this is you know, I teach people how to basically build funnels. At the time, there was really nobody. This concept was new. If there was someone out there, I don’t know who they were and I’m pretty sure I knew everyone. So, I was very early in the space in terms of teaching people how to do this. It’s not a magic bullet. It still takes a lot of hard work. You have to have something remarkable about you as a person and as an artist, but it really can work and it has worked for thousands. There’s nothing more rewarding than getting emails from people who have sold their first album to some fan who had never heard of them until a couple of days ago when they clicked on a link. And yeah, the rest is history.
David Andrew Wiebe: I have a few comments there. And one of the things is I can kind of relate to you in the sense that the whole thing about music entrepreneurship, when I was first starting to look around, they were definitely people talking about the connection between business and music. I’m not certain anybody had quite made the leap to music entrepreneurship yet. And that’s actually becoming more of a common term these days on podcasts and blogs and so forth. I’m not taking credit for creating it necessarily, but it’s cool how it’s spread.
I definitely remember those days with the landing pages and the big read headlines. I was looking at a lot of them and I was just sitting there going, “Oh, man. If I had the money, I would try to buy that thing.” But at the time, I wasn’t quite that independent. But on that whole topic of being independent or working independently, I mean, just like you, maybe you had a couple of Joe jobs here and there, but I couldn’t stand them. I think I’ve worked in traditional employment for almost six months because you never get paid on performance. It was always, you know. No matter how little or how much I did, it was a flat rate that I got. That wasn’t sitting well with me.
John Oszajca: I’m with you.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah. The other thing was just trying and failing. I think that’s the part that a lot of people don’t see. This online space looks sexy and attractive and awesome. You feel like it’s a promise that you’re going to succeed if you just put enough work and effort into it, which is one of the messages going on out there. But that’s not always the case. You kind of have to keep digging until you find that loading formula.
John Oszajca: Sure. Sure. Yeah, I think… I think, you know. Okay. I don’t know if I should say this or not, but like, when you do what we do, there’s a lot of people… Or anytime you’re selling any kind of marketing advice, there’s a lot of people that are quick to kind of call it scammy, or a scam or something like that. I see it every day, frankly, in my comments. I also see, “You changed my career.” every day in my comments. But a lot of that I think comes from the fact that people have been burned many times over buying different kinds of marketing courses. But for the most part, I can tell you as someone who spent probably… I don’t know if I’m in the 10s of thousands or not. I’ve spent a lot. I’ve spent many thousands of dollars on marketing training and almost all of it has been really valuable.
I’ll give you an example. I bought a $2,000 on internet marketing course early in my days. It was one by Frank Kern. It was 2000 bucks. That seems so crazy to me. I didn’t do it until after I was making a lot of money. I did his little freebie thing that he offers to kind of whet your appetite before you even start the course. I applied it to my e-cig business at the time. I made like $24,000 in five days or something or four days. The point of this is that, all of it can work. It’s not actually that hard. Where people fail is that they are trying to cut corners trying to sell crappy products, not following through, not sticking with it. I mean, you can’t go and take… you know the old saying you can’t Polish a turd. You can’t go and take a crappy product or a not very unique solution or in the case of music, not very good music from a boring and uninteresting person, and just run traffic and turn that into something. You really need to provide genuine value. If it’s a traditional product, you need to genuinely help people and offer real solutions. If it’s music, you need to inspire and entertain and excite people. But if you can do that, then you can take just about any of our courses, apply the steps, stick with it, and you’ll find success. It really just comes down to whose style you like and whose approach resonates with you the most.
Business is not that difficult. It’s just going, finding, and having a great product or service, and then creating a compelling offer. And then, getting more and more people exposed to that offer. Anyway, I’m kind of rambling but what you described is fairly common. There are a lot of people who get burned because they don’t stick with it. Like I said, I had probably 100 failed domain or websites before I finally had one that succeeded. And my process wasn’t very different with any of them. Just one of them just took off. And it turned out that I needed a great product. And when I finally had one, my marketing skills took over and propelled me to a success.
David Andrew Wiebe: No, I really like how you address that. I’m glad you brought it up. I was, you know, at one point, having 12 or so niche blogs that I tried to update all the time. It certainly did not last forever. When one of them kind of stuck out, I decided to go and run with it which happened to be in my passion area of the music industry, hardly surprising that it’s something that I care about. What type of results do you see musicians achieving with your method? I’m sure it varies a lot because everyone’s music is at a different level and their skills as a marketer and copywriter could vary. But is there such a thing as a typical result, you’ve noticed with the artists who’ve taken advantage of your material?
John Oszajca: Well, there is such a thing as kind of normal or optimal metrics or average metrics. But results are really, really, really going to vary based on you know, how much work someone puts in and how much someone is spending on advertising and all these kinds of things. I mean, of course, naturally, I’ve had people who’ve had no results. They’ve taken the course and they’ve done nothing. I have one artist who’s, I think on target to generate half a million dollars this year. So, it’s all over the place.
I surveyed my customers at one point and I asked all the people who had bought the course, or I asked all the people that had implemented the course, if they saw a positive impact on their career. I think I got… it was about 70% said yes. I say that knowing that some people might not for some reason think that that’s a good result. But to me, those numbers are fairly astonishing. It’s hard to do this stuff. I’m teaching people with no experience with marketing, how to get out and generate something and to have 70% of those people ultimately get results that they’re looking for, see a positive impact on the career, to me feels pretty astonishing. I couldn’t be happier with it.
In terms of metrics, what I kind of like to look for… I don’t know if this is getting too down the rabbit hole because people don’t necessarily know what it is that I teach, but I teach people how to build these online funnels for their music. On average, I like to see people’s landing pages converting at around 25% or more so the range is like 25 to 40%. That means 25 to 40% of the people that land on your squeeze page are handing over their email address and signing up to get some free music, and then getting added to your email follow up series that does the job of trying to build that relationship and get them to read posts, watch videos, become more acquainted with you. It’s not an intense selling environment. It’s much more of a relationship building environment with little links here and there if they do want to listen or buy. Eventually, we run some more aggressive promotions where we try to get people off the fence and say it’s, you know, now or never because of some advantageous terms like a discount or a bundle or something like that.
When it comes to sales, I’m typically seeing probably between four and 6% of those people to sign up. So, if 100 people signed up, you might see 6% of those, let’s call it 5% of those people will actually buy again. That can range anywhere from zero to… the highest I’ve seen is about 30%. That’s exceptional and rare. Ten percent is exceptional but happens a fair amount. And then, we also would typically or at least I’ll suggest that people offer an upsell. So, they’ve ordered, now let’s give them maybe a box set or some slightly higher priced product at a really great deal and even better deal than the retail price they just paid for your initial product. What we’re doing though, what is important to realise or remember is that what we’re doing is we’re basically buying a fan base, and we’re using the initial offer to try and cover our advertising costs. Many profits right there. Some lose a little bit of money, but what we’re doing is that we’re buying an audience so that we can monetize our relationship with that audience for years to come. We don’t just run them through our funnel, make a sale and stop. I mean, I suppose you could. And like I say many do profit there. So, if you were fine making a fairly small profit margin and just letting that grow, you could. However, the idea is that now you’ve got the attention of an audience, let’s keep them engaged over the course of the year and then some and run maybe a few months after they sign up, you’re running a Patreon campaign or a membership site. Maybe a few months after that you’re doing a house concert tour. Maybe a few months after that you’re running a holiday promotion or whatever works for you. But that’s kind of the bird’s eye view of the strategy is basically create a funnel to cover our advertising costs. And then, once we’ve got this machine that builds our audience for us, we can we can monetize our relationship with that audience forever. You can scale that up based on whatever your budget is, and your stomach for risk. But that’s kind of how this works. So, instead of going out and spending millions on “exposure” and waiting for those people to come to us, we’re spending a relatively small amount of money going out grabbing the attention of these people and pulling them into our… by comparison to the mainstream models, our tribe, and we’re making a vastly greater amount of money from each fan with a small… Sorry, let me rephrase that. We’re making a vastly greater amount of money from a very small audience as compared to the more mainstream model, which is to make a very tiny amount of money from a huge amount of people.
I think the reason that the mainstream industry does it the way they do is because they need to systematise their process to a certain extent. In that sense, they do find some talent, throw a bunch of money at the wall and see what’s sticks. Rinse and repeat. But as independent artists who can’t, you know. We are our only business. We are our only client. If we fail, our career is over. It ends. And so, we can’t afford to throw a bunch of money at the wall and see what sticks. We need to go out and employ these smart strategies that allow us to really measure our ROI. And, again, make a large amount of money from a very small number of people. When I said the major labels need to do what they do because they need to systematise it, you know, every artist is different. It would be challenging, I believe, for a label, for example, to go and manage these very personal campaigns for 100 different artists, each one of them be different, as opposed to an artist who can craft their own marketing campaign around who they are and manage it themselves because they are the product, if that makes sense.
David Andrew Wiebe: Oh, yeah. I think those are some impressive results. For sure. That’s great. And it makes sense that if you put more effort into it, you get more out of it. So, what are the main upsides of using a funnel to build an audience?
John Oszajca: The main upsides? Well, I think I kind of touched on it with that answer but, you know, the biggest beauty of this approach is that you can measure your ROI. You can change your stimuli to affect the ROI. Again, when I was on the labels, you know, it was just throwing a bunch of money at the wall and see what sticks. Pay a bunch of money for radio promotions. If they got phones, if people liked it, then you know, it would spread. And if nobody else was putting out an album that week that competed with you, things might look good. And then, you’d have this album life cycle and people would move on and the album will be over and you need to go and do it again.
But it didn’t function like a normal business. There was no spend X amount of dollars and measure the results. Any every business works that way. You spend your money and you measure the results. You change the stimuli, meaning the advertising, the packaging, all those variables, until the results are favorable. But the music industry didn’t really work that way. No one really ever talked. I never heard any kind of talk of ROI or things like that. There certainly would have been, you know. People in marketing would have been conscious of ROI, but it was kind of a… Again, throw it at the wall and see what sticks. It was all or nothing sort of approach to ROI. Whereas, as an individual artist, we go out and we spend, let’s say, X amount of dollars on our clicks and we measure our conversion rate. So, how many people are signing up? Did we spend $1 or $4 to get a subscriber? Well, if it’s $4, that’s going to be too expensive for us to stand any chance of profiting so what can we do to bring that price down? Well, we can try different images in our ads. We can try different copy. We can try different targeting. We can change up the colours of our landing page or the copy on our landing page.
And most likely, try changing all of those things. But each thing is going to have a measurable result. If you let the math lead you and just keep making changes, you can continue tweaking and pushing until you get within the optimal range. And we can do that with every aspect of the experience. If people are signing up but they’re not buying, let’s take a look at the email open rates. Let’s take a look at you know, maybe it’s the content that people aren’t engaging with. So, let’s change the nature of that blog post. Let’s change the songs we’re giving away for free. Again, every variable becomes something that will impact the final results and that gives you control, as opposed to just hoping and praying that the world thinks you’re amazing.
There’s so many very talented artists that just didn’t connect in the right way with the millions of people that they needed to connect with in order to be successful, according to the major labels with that model, but just because maybe your stuff doesn’t have what it takes to appeal to the masses doesn’t mean that you can’t find 1- 5-10-50,000 people out there in the world that think you’re amazing. By going and using the funnel approach and relying on metrics and math to point you, to steer you towards those fans, virtually anyone with good music can find a path to success.
David Andrew Wiebe: Have you noticed any hiccups or downsides with the method?
John Oszajca: Not really. I mean, it takes great music. It takes a lot of refining. Well, it usually takes a lot of refining. If there are any hiccups, it’s more with the temperament of maybe individuals and employee. Not every musician is, you know, it’s not in the DNA of every musician to care about marketing, to care about metrics, to pay attention to this stuff, to want to do this stuff. There are a lot of musicians, frankly, who really just think that their music is amazing and everyone else should see it. And if they’re not successful, it’s everybody else’s fault. That’s a thing.
There are also many musicians who are willing to work their asses off and do what it takes to make a life in music. I mean, the things that I’m teaching, the method, I mean, it’s not even new. I mean, while the internet’s new and some of the catalysts are new, direct response marketing as it’s known has been around since the old days of the giant catalogues since 1800s. You know, where we’d send out catalogues. It was the same thing. They’d write, copy it, send it out to X amount of people and they’d see what kind of results they got. And then, they either change with the next pressing of the catalogue or they’d continue on based on the results they got. Those ads we used to see in the back of our comic books when we were kids, that was direct response marketing. We can do it much more effectively and much more inexpensively with the internet. It offers musicians in particular, opportunities that traditional direct response marketing didn’t. But when I say not really, I don’t mean to be, I don’t know Cavalier or silly or arrogant. There’s no question that this approach works. But it’s not always easy and some people can struggle to really ever get into that optimal range. But more often than not, that’s because of a lack of follow up. I mean, there are… Again, this is just the reality of it.
A lot of musicians who their life’s work is one album and ask them to communicate, ask them to continue to produce, ask them to tour and they don’t have that follow up. The people that are succeeding are incredibly vibrant. They’re out there connecting with people, making a lot of art. And if you’re not going to do all of that, and a lot of people don’t want to, a lot of people would prefer to be that JD Salinger in music where they live in their little bubble and release an album once a year and pretend not to care about any of it. You’re going to have a much harder time because the world has changed and many, many millions of people are out there willing to do all of that stuff. So, I’m not trying to say there’s no problems and that everyone is happy. The majority are, as I said in those stats, the majority of the people to apply it feel that it’s benefiting them. But we all have different work ethics and some of us come to it more naturally than others.
David Andrew Wiebe: Totally fair. What’s the biggest challenge you’ve encountered as an entrepreneur?
John Oszajca: As an entrepreneur? Are we talking about me and Music Marketing Manifesto or are we talking about as a musician? Are we talking about my clients? Like, what are we talking about?
David Andrew Wiebe: Whatever comes to mind.
John Oszajca: I don’t know. Like, I mean, it’s always taken a lot of work. I feel like I’m going to sound arrogant. Like, my life has always worked in this way. Universe has never given me anything for free but if I work really hard, the universe is kind of knock on wood always rewarded that. So, I don’t feel that the world is full of obstacles. There are little things, you know for MMM, there’s a whole lot of competition now that I probably wish wasn’t there but it really hasn’t impacted the bottom line.
I suppose one challenge that I’m conscious of is 10 years ago. This was such uncharted territory that it felt very easy to stay on top of. There is just new stuff coming so rapidly right now that even for someone who works in the space, I feel it can be a little intimidating. Like, “Oh, man. Am I going to suddenly be irrelevant at some point?” I don’t know. There’s a lot of new technology and it can be challenging to stay on top of it. However, again, I think one of my skills more than any of the other stuff is just I have a solid grasp of copywriting and I think that hasn’t, you know, that’s at the core of all the strategies I teach. I don’t think that changes too much but I suppose that is an obstacle. Just the rapidly changing landscape and the struggle to constantly stay on top of every little new opportunity so you’re always the expert, increasing competition.
On a more practical level, as a musician, you know, the one real challenge is always just to get those initial conversion costs high enough or the subscriber acquisition cost low enough to get you in range so you can comfortably spend and spend and spend and grow that fan base. I suppose on the other side of that coin, another obstacle is scaling. It can be relatively easy to pull in a small audience and get them to engage and convert, but to go from $10 a day to $100 a day and then on to $1,000 a day, that’s not easy. That’s a very real challenge.
David Andrew Wiebe: Actually, I really love that perspective. And it just sounds like if you stick with it and you’re committed to it, and you find the right method, it’s going to work. What’s the biggest victory you’ve experienced as an entrepreneur?
John Oszajca: Well, I don’t know if you’d call this as an entrepreneur, but you know, I’m still going to go back to that initial record deal that I had with Interscope. My dream in life as a young person, as a teenager, was to be a rock star to go out and get a major label deal. I remember very consciously feeling as a teenager that stardom is never guaranteed, but I wanted that major label record on the mantle, so to speak. I wanted to be part of the annals of rock and roll history. To me that meant releasing an album on a real record label.
I’m quoting something that somebody else told me so I’m not sure how far off I am. Something from Dirt, The Mötley Crüe Book. It was explained to me and I’ve quoted this so many times, I don’t even know if he actually says this in the book, but there’s somebody, I think Nikki Sixx or somebody was talking about success as being this big machine full of spinning cogs. And a lot of people jump and they make it onto the first cog, and it’s spinning. It’s hard. You got to hold your balance and stay on top of that cog so you don’t fall. And then at some point, you try to make it leap to the next cog and you go higher and higher. Very few people make it to the very top cog. Most people fall somewhere lower. Fall off of the machine somewhere lower in the hierarchy. A few people do. But everyone falls at some point. Some fall all the way. Some fall a little bit. But that is the kind of reality of the music industry. So, whether I became the next Bob Dylan or had the success that I did, I still feel very good about it. I was part of the major league, so to speak. I’ve talked about it elsewhere so I’ll just drop. And it was very publicised, but you know, with the publishing deals and everything it generated like $2.1 million or something like that.
For a 25-year-old kid to get this bidding war where you’re… I went from so broke I remember having holes in my shoes and I tried to stay in when it rained because my boots had holes in them and my feet would get soaking wet. I had a tooth cracked because I didn’t have money for the dentist. I had no car. You know, busing around Los Angeles is fun. I had nothing. I lived in a $400 a month apartment on a very gang infested street. It was hard but exciting because as young and you’re up for it when you’re young. When I got that first deal, or it was just… I shoot around New York.
I remember this is a very funny anecdote. Do you remember Crocodile Dundee? You remember that scene where he gets out of New York City and the guy puts his hand out for a tip and he shakes it and says, you know, “Good day, mate!” or whatever. You know the scene I’m talking about? I remember getting flown to New York as part of the bidding war. Picked up in a limousine. Taken to the hotel. And the… whatever he was, whatever you… What do you call those guys that stand the bellhop or whatever? Put out his hand and I shook it. He was looking for a tip but I just shook his hand. “Hey, man, nice to meet you.” And he’s like, “No sir, your bag.” And I remember feeling like so Crocodile Dundee at that moment because I was a very unsophisticated, never had a cent kind of guy and my world changed. I remember literally kind of dropping to my knees in the privacy of my own home just kind of thank you to God or the universe or whatever for what happened. So, that will always be a tremendous career victory for me.
The other victories were less profound and more spread out over time. The fact that I can live anywhere I want in the world and do what I do, make a living, change lives, have a community that trusts and follows me, and still make music and get to talk about it with people that care. I still perform and record and all of that. That’s a tremendous victory. I work from home so I get to have breakfast with my children every day and lunch if they’re not at school and dinner. Not that I felt like my dad was missing from my life. I didn’t but when I think back on it, I do realise like, “Wow, I never saw him in the morning because he was gone before I woke up and he came home for dinner and my life was just dinners and weekends.” Whereas, you know, I’ve been lucky enough to not have that relationship with my kids because I’m always around. So, all of that is victory as well. It’s just a less, you know, there is no chequered flag thrown at the end of it. It’s just a slow and wonderful victory. But, you know, I love a world where you can work hard and get rewarded. I feel pretty successful or feel pretty fortunate or blessed or whatever that we do live in that world. Knock on wood, my perspective has led me to believe that it does work, or my experiences have led me to believe that it does work like that.
David Andrew Wiebe: Are there any books or other resources that have helped you on your journey?
John Oszajca: Lots of books have helped me. A lot of where I’ve really gotten stuff is internet marketing stuff, you know, a lot of it’s expensive. As I said, that Frank Kearns first course was a big one for me. It’s the Copywriters Debt. So again, there are people that are just fantastic with algorithms and you know, they’re either SEO guys or they’re CPA guys. I’m better with understanding just the fundamentals of selling and copywriting and human psychology. Those people are the copywriters. They’re the people behind the funnels. They’re the people that understand what it takes to take a person who’s never heard from you or heard of you and make them care about what it is you have to say by the end of it and that’s more where I find my home or whatever, that’s my wheelhouse.
Frank Kern was one. He’s a bit intense, perhaps for my liking these days but you know, he is good at what he does and it helped me in my early days. But copywriters like Dan Kennedy. Kind of anything by him is great. A lot of it doesn’t apply to music, but none of it really applies to music, but the lessons learned can be applied to anything. It’s really just about understanding human psychology but on a totally different tip. People like Gary Vaynerchuk just kind of helped keep the ethics grounded. And he’s so about just treating people well. He’s inspired me from the get go and that’s, you know, customer support is where I put all of my focus. You can’t please all the people all the time, but we hear wonderful things about our support just about every day. I feel pretty good about the value exchange between me and my tribe. Tim Ferriss was such a big one. His Four-Hour Work Week was pretty instrumental to me when it came out in terms of just representing a mindset shift.
Who else? I’m trying to think. There’s so much good stuff out there but those are at least real business. You know, books people can easily find that are out there. Chris Rempel is a marketer. He’s become a friend. We’ve done a few things together that also I got a lot out of. I don’t think he’s doing it anymore. He’s moved on to other… He’s wildly successful as far as I know but he’s moved on to other things in the marketing space. He’s not teaching it anymore as well. Who else? Inevitably there’s a bunch that I’m probably forgetting. I like Ryan Deiss stuff in general. But I don’t have any one book or course that really stands out. He’s just someone who I generally find valuable. That’s what’s coming to mind.
David Andrew Wiebe: Awesome. It’s so funny because Dan Kennedy is one of those that I’ve been hooked on recently in the last couple of months. I’ve been getting a lot of value out of that. Like you say, it’s not music industry material. I can see some areas that could be applied but yeah, it’s just general business copywriting advice that could benefit anybody on a general level.
John Oszajca: Indeed.
David Andrew Wiebe: So, thank you so much for your time and generosity, John. Is there anything else I should have asked?
John Oszajca: No, I think we covered it. I’m sure I’ll think of it as soon as we wrap up. But no, I think we’re good. And yeah, it’s been a pleasure to chat. Hopefully, it turned on a light bulb for somebody.
David Andrew Wiebe: Yeah. And people can find you at MusicMarketingManifesto.com as well as JohnOszajca.com. Is that right?
John Oszajca: That’s right.
David Andrew Wiebe: Awesome. All right. Thanks again.
John Oszajca: Thank you. Cheers.
David Andrew Wiebe: Cheers.
The post 147 – How to Hypercharge Your Music Career with Funnels – with John Oszajca of Music Marketing Manifesto appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Countless people around the world would love to work full time as a musician.
Children and adults alike dream of a life where working in music for a living is a reality.
There are a lot of people out there who have tried and failed. Those mistakes often revolve around missteps including some of these common blunders:
- Thinking a college degree in music is the only way.
- Striving only for a record deal.
- Spending more time in the studio than out playing live shows.
- Working with the wrong musicians.
There are countless individuals who know how to transcend the ranks and make a living with music, and that’s enough evidence to know it’s possible.
As you’re looking to break into the professional music scene, a few tips can go a long way.
So, here are the best things to focus on when you want your dream to become your job.
How to Break into the Professional Music Landscape As many people that have worked in professional music will tell aspiring professionals, talent and timing are everything. Much of the process relies on good timing and knowing the right people or places to play.
With that in mind, individual ability also makes a difference. That leads us to the first point in the journey…
Know Your Instrument or Voice as Well as You Can There are few things more frustrating than someone who wants to work in professional music but lacks the know-how. So, you must work on your skills.
Open mic nights tend to be great for honing your craft, as the community is generally supportive. But keep in mind that people won’t want to book you for a show unless you know your stuff.
So, if you want to play at specific venues but don’t have the ability to do so, keep improving until venue owners and booking people start looking your way.
Regardless, a total control and knowledge of your instrument or voice makes a huge difference. So, keep practicing until you feel comfortable doing what you do.
Play Live as Much as Possible There are a lot of things that could help build talent and experience, but nothing compares to playing live.
First and foremost, you get experience playing in front of an audience, which is key. It forces you to roll with the punches, whatever they may be. And, gaining experience can help you do something about those jitters.
Second, live shows are essential for breaking into the professional scene. Since it’s difficult if not impossible to make a living with album sales, you must supplement your income elsewhere. Live performance is a good place to look.
While you’re still developing as a musician, play out every chance you get. As you get booked for more and more gigs, you’ll get more regular and paid gigs.
Network with Other Professional Musicians An important part of breaking into a music scene, no matter what the size, is knowing the others in the scene.
That doesn’t just mean musicians. Venue owners, promoters for local shows and concerts and even local media outlets are worth getting to know.
Build a presence locally, and take it from there. New opportunities should begin to present themselves as you get yourself out there.
Find a Music Scene Mentor This goes hand-in-hand with networking with professionals. A mentor helps guide you through the early stages of a music career.
Not only can they offer helpful advice and tips; they can also be a sounding board for your ideas.
Your mentor also knows much more about the industry than your friends or family who are simply providing support.
To make the most of a professional career, find a mentor early and utilize their knowledge and support often. They can likely offer some other useful suggestions as well, whether it’s networking or show opportunities.
Market Yourself on Social Media Marketing as a local musician doesn’t mean putting up posts on Facebook or Instagram saying, “listen to this great song I just wrote.”
People want to see that you’re out supporting the arts and playing live shows. You can share the writing process, practice sessions or other behind-the-scenes footage with your fans.
Overall, social media is the cheapest way to market your music. Take your existing social profiles and make them work for your aspiring career.
Summary Breaking into the professional scene can be tough, but it’s doable when done right. Take the time to let yourself ease into a role in a local scene, and be patient with yourself and your craft.
The post How to Break into the Professional Music Scene appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
The growing popularity of vinyl isn’t just associated with vintage fashion, but with high-quality sound.
The fall of lossless audio formats has brought vinyl records back into focus, so many musicians have started releasing their albums in digital and analog formats to capitalize on this trend.
Is this something all musicians should consider doing? Here are five reasons you should release your music on vinyl.
Vinyl Records Have Unique Sound Qualities The combination of a high-grade player and the best budget receiver can improve the already amazing quality of vinyl and deliver an even warmer sound, the kind vinyl fans have come to love.
But where do these qualities come from?
First, vinyl produces an analog sound.
Second, the mechanics. The needle height fluctuations and impacts from a running motor create additional vibrations.
Vinyl lovers say that this effect “animates” the player, making the sound unique. It is important to realize that the transition to vinyl in terms of sound is not a step backward, but rather a new path.
Analog sound has its inherent characteristics, which some people love.
Listening to Vinyl is an Immersive Experience People who are passionate about vinyl collect everything from players and components to records. They keep their devices in good working order by wiping them from dust, washing the phonograph disks, changing the needles, performing upgrades and even preventive maintenance.
It seems the process of caring for their players and music library brings them pleasure and emotional satisfaction.
Listening to the music itself also turns into a ritual. Unpacking the envelope and observing the circular motion of the faceplate with the disk is much more fascinating than a couple of clicks or taps on the screen.
Today, when people listen to music, they do not listen to whole albums, only a few selected tracks. That’s fine for most modern music.
But what about concept albums? What about albums that are cohesive from top to bottom? What about albums where every track matters?
Here the vinyl manifests its magic. Listening to records is an immersive experience you can’t duplicate with lossless audio formats on high-quality modern devices.
Additionally, with records, the listener can’t change the track. Listening to a record is a commitment
You Can Include Exclusive Bonuses with Vinyl Releases Thousands of musicians release their albums on vinyl.
In addition, vinyl versions of their releases often contain extras.
The Stars Wars: The Force Awakens vinyl, for example, comes with a multi-page booklet and hologram.
To further illustrate the growing popularity of vinyl, about a decade ago, The White Stripes’ lead singer Jack White founded the label Third Man Records, which specializes in vinyl music. The studio is experimental: it makes scented records, disks with liquids or dried rose petals inside.
In the same building, there is a concert hall where you can record a performance and stamp the first edition of it on the same day. All these things mean that the culture of vinyl is not in stagnation.
Physical Media Brings in More Revenue Than Digital Media According to the RIAA, the revenue from sales of physical media exceeds revenue from music purchases on the Internet. CDs and records bring more money to publishers than purchases on iTunes, Google Play and other digital platforms.
This data speaks of one thing: vinyl remains on an upwards trend, and the most progressive way to listen to music today is to listen to records.
The Growth of Quality Record Players & Parts Record players are available in abundance. Some are cheap. Some cost more. Whether you’re a casual listener or a serious connoisseur, you can find a player that’s right for you.
The same goes for accessories. You can find just about anything you’re looking for, should you need to replace parts or upgrade them.
Higher-priced items are made of sturdy materials and since there are plenty of tutorials and how-to guides out there, you can easily care for your records, record player and accessories with no additional hassle.
What this means for you as a musician is that you can sell records without worrying about whether your fans have the right equipment to play them. They can get set up easily without spending a pretty penny and enjoy your record on their own time.
Summary There are plenty of great reasons to release your music on vinyl.
At the end of the day, however, it depends entirely on your fan base. Do they want your music on vinyl? If you released your music on vinyl, would they listen to it?
If you find that most of your fans listen on streaming sites and they’re not interested in owning physical media, then there might not be much point releasing your music on vinyl.
So, be sure it’s something your fans want before you rush into pressing your music on vinyl.
The post 5 Reasons to Release Your Music on Vinyl appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.
Not sure how to get started in your music career? Looking for guidance on how to set up an online presence that will support your goals and dreams?
In this episode of The New Music Industry Podcast, I share about the forthcoming Digital Marketing Essentials for Musicians webinar.
Podcast Highlights: * 00:43 – Late or missed podcast episodes * 01:31 – Your Music Matters community project * 02:07 – How a project evolves through conversation * 03:38 – What the Digital Marketing Essentials for Musicians webinar is about * 05:11 – Register now!
Transcription: Today, I’m going to interrupt the regularly scheduled program to share a little bit about my forthcoming webinar with you. It will be taking place on Wednesday, May 15.
Before I get to that, though, I just want to acknowledge that lately there have been times when I’ve published the podcast late, and some weeks I didn’t publish at all.
This is not because I have a shortage of content to share with you. It’s quite the opposite.
I recently recorded some incredible interviews with some of my music marketing heroes, and honestly, I can’t wait to share those with you.
I still have content from the first ever Headquarters Show as well as from Your Music Matters Live to share with you too.
If I’ve been late or missed a week, it’s because of everything I’ve been up to.
But gradually, I’ve been freeing up my time with the help of freelancers, and I’m also getting into a productive routine.
So, I just wanted to let you know what was going on because I didn’t want to leave you hanging. Honestly, I hate missing a week, but you’ve all been patient with me, so thank you.
Now, onto the free webinar, which is stemming from my community project.
If you listened to an earlier episode about Your Music Matters, then you already know what the project is about.
At its core, it’s about equipping and empowering musicians with marketing knowledge to help them make a living from their passion.
I started this project in January and I’m looking to fulfill powerfully on the intentions of the project and the commitment I made to it by May 16.
This doesn’t mean that I won’t continue working on Your Music Matters afterwards. But I started this project as part of a seminar I’ve been taking, and that seminar is coming to an end next week.
What’s so interesting about a project like this is that as you get into conversation about it, you see it shift and morph before your eyes, which is exactly what happened.
Thanks to everyone who was willing to get into conversation about it, even if it was just to answer a few quick questions. There are many who helped along the way, and I can’t get to everyone right now, but for now I’d like to thank:
Brent Vaartstra, Christopher Sutton, Ariel Hyatt, James Moore and Keith A. Link.
Anyway, I had some important realizations along the way as result of the conversations I was getting into.
The original scope of the project was considerable. Over time, I came to see and understand that I could cut down significantly on time commitments by looking at the project differently.
Originally, I wanted to book an event at a community center or something along those lines. I realized I could simplify quite a bit by doing something online instead.
After all, I was doing weekly Facebook Lives for Your Music Matters, so to me it made sense to complete this phase of the project by going live with a webinar.
At the outset, I also wanted to develop a marketing curriculum from scratch. I quickly realized that was unnecessary because there is already a lot of great content out there. I started thinking about talking to various course developers and licensing their content instead.
Well, that’s what I hope to do in the future at least. I didn’t get that far into the project because I haven’t found a leader to can take that on.
For the webinar, I’ll be the one putting together the content and presenting it.
So, when I finally decided that a webinar is how I was going to fulfill on the intentions and outcomes of the project, I instantly knew what would come next – namely, building an audience for the webinar.
And, of course, that’s one of the reasons I’m sharing about the webinar with you right now.
The webinar is called Digital Marketing Essentials for Musicians, and I’m sure you can get a sense of what it’s about just from hearing the title.
But I thought it would be worthwhile to talk a little bit about what you can expect to learn if your register.
In a broader sense, I’ll basically be talking about:
- Music distribution. How to get your music onto streaming platforms and online stores so you have visibility everywhere.
- Target audience. How to get a better sense of who your target audience is so you can powerfully attract a larger following.
- Website. How to get your website to do your heavy lifting for you while you’re busy creating.
- Social media. How to generate meaningful results with social media.
- Email marketing. How to create a solid, long-term strategy for your music career.
This will be my first time doing a webinar like this, but rest assured it’s not my first presentation. I just spoke at WordCamp YYC today and I love public speaking.
Anyway, I have a lot of gold nuggets to share with you, and regardless of what level you’re at, there will likely be a takeaway or two you can implement.
Certainly, it’s most suited to beginners who don’t know where to start or how to get going, or even those who haven’t set up an online presence yet. But there will be a few advanced tips sprinkled throughout for others who are looking to up their game.
So, here’s my call to action:
Register for the webinar. Immediately.
It doesn’t matter if you can’t be there. The moment you commit to change, you set it in motion. This is something I shared in episode 137 of the podcast as I was heading out to Vancouver to deliver on a promise I had made to my friend.
So, go to MusicEntrepreneurHQ.com/webinar and set yourself up powerfully for your future.
The post 146 – Digital Marketing Essentials for Musicians Webinar (Register Now) appeared first on Music Entrepreneur HQ.