In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Ashleigh Stevens, better known as Fearlessly Taylor, one of the UK’s leading Taylor Swift tribute acts who has rocketed from a DIY promo to packed theatres, festival stages, and even Alexandra Palace. Ashleigh shares her journey from graduating drama school during COVID, to discovering the tribute world by accident, to building a brand that now includes dancers, a band, and an entire roster of managed tribute artists. She then opens up about the nightmare that hit this year: her Facebook business page being permanently disabled without warning, wiping out years of followers, enquiries, and paid ads. We break down what happened, why Meta’s system is so broken for performers, what she tried to fix it, and the changes she’s now making to protect her business going forward. We also cover booking theatres, building a fan base, avoiding reputation pitfalls, growing multiple tribute shows at once, staying mentally grounded when the industry feels uncertain, and the surreal moment she stepped onto the stage at Ally Pally. It’s equal parts inspiring, frustrating, eye-opening, and full of genuinely useful takeaways for tribute artists, musicians, and anyone running a small entertainment business.   Connect with Ashleigh www.fearlesslytaylor.com @fearlesslytaylortribute   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this episode, I sit down with Lily Kerbey, a Yorkshire-based alternative wedding singer and guitarist who’s redefining what live wedding music can be. From performing Slipknot and S Club 7 mashups to running fully booked seasons years in advance, Lily shares how leaning into her niche transformed her career. She opens up about her journey from teaching to becoming a full-time musician, how a simple Instagram ad filled her diary, and why authenticity and community matter more than ever. This conversation is packed with inspiration for any function musician looking to build a thriving business by being unapologetically themselves. Key Takeaways: How to find (and own) your niche as a wedding performer Why branding and consistency matter more than fancy gear How low-cost Instagram ads can outperform expensive wedding fairs The power of community over competition in the wedding industry Balancing boundaries and burnout when success hits fast   Connect with Lily @lilykerbeymusic www.lilykerbeymusic.co.uk tiktok.com/@lilykerbeymusic   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this episode, I chat with international session singer and tribute artist Calli Malpas, the powerhouse performer behind Pink-ish – one of the UK’s standout Pink tribute shows. Calli shares her journey from pubs and club gigs to building a high-production tribute act with dancers, a live band, and even aerial performances.   We dive into: How Calli turned a long career as a full-time singer into a thriving tribute show The rapid rise of the tribute industry and why it's booming today The business strategy behind launching and scaling a tribute act Managing dancers, band members, and production elements while keeping authenticity at the heart of the show Taking the leap into theatre shows and festival lineups Why community and collaboration (not competition) drives the tribute world If you're a performer looking to carve your own niche, build a premium live product, or explore the tribute scene, this is a must-listen packed with inspiration, laughs, and practical insight.   Connect with Calli @pink_ish_tribute www.callimalpas.rocks/pink-ish www.woodville.co.uk/events/pink-tribute-p-nk-sh/   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this episode, I'm joined once again by Ian Marx from The Fireflies Party Band for a deeper look at what it really means to run your band like a business. Ian shares how he’s built a successful, full-time function band over 11 years, from managing bandmates and keeping communication clear, to creating systems that save time and secure more bookings. They talk about treating your band like a brand, building a professional image with promo and EPKs, and why consistency, organisation, and customer service are just as important as the music itself. Key Takeaways: Create a simple calendar system to manage your band’s availability. Use a professional EPK to showcase your brand, reviews, and visuals. Reply to enquiries quickly — fast responses win bookings. Expansion isn’t always about more bands; it’s about improving your product. Learn to say no to low-value gigs so you can focus on better opportunities. Whether you’re just starting out or already gigging regularly, this episode is packed with practical advice on turning your passion into a sustainable business.   Connect with Ian @ianmarkx www.ians-tracks.co.uk www.sussexpartyband.co.uk @thefirefliespartyband   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I chat with professional magician and Giggio founder Martyn Rowland, whose software has become the go-to booking management system for entertainers across the UK. Martyn shares his journey from performing at corporate events to creating a tool that now processes millions of pounds of bookings every month. We discuss: The early days of Giggio and how it evolved from a personal spreadsheet fix to a full-scale platform Why every function musician should use a CRM before they “need” one How automation, follow-ups, and pitch reminders can win you more gigs The lessons Martyn learned building tech for creatives — and the overlap between magicians, musicians, and other live entertainers Whether you’re juggling client admin or trying to scale your bookings, this episode is packed with practical insight on streamlining your business and freeing up time to focus on performing.   Connect with Martyn @getgiggio @martynrowland www.getgiggio.com www.martynrowland.co.uk   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I chat with Danny Bigland — guitarist, bandleader, and founder of the Musicians Community / DepsApp, a UK-wide network that connects musicians to paid work opportunities through WhatsApp. What started as a simple solution for finding dep musicians for his own band has grown into a nationwide community of over 1,000 players, helping musicians collectively earn more than £250,000 in paid gigs all without ads, commissions, or outside funding. Danny shares how he built everything organically through SEO, word-of-mouth, and genuine connection, turning a personal project into a purpose-driven movement. He opens up about balancing his creative ventures with a full-time job, hiring a team to support the community, and keeping the focus on helping others first — not profit. We dive deep into: How DepsApp became one of the UK’s largest musician networks Using SEO and social proof to grow a business without spending on ads The importance of authenticity and slow, steady growth Why giving back to your peers builds trust, loyalty, and good karma How helping others can open unexpected doors for your own success This episode is a reminder that good things happen when you focus on value over money, community over competition, and the belief that what you give will come back to you. Whether you’re a working musician, a creative freelancer, or building your own project from scratch, this is a powerful conversation about purpose, generosity, and sustainable growth in the modern music world.   Connect with Danny @db16lnd @depsapp www.depsapp.com @peakspeakerhireltd www.peakspeakerhire.co.uk   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco  

In this episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I sit down with guitarist, educator, and author Dan Lundholm to unpack two decades of hard-earned wisdom from the world of professional gigging. Dan shares his journey from gigging solo across Europe to touring with Paolo Nutini and Girls Aloud, before carving out a new path as an educator and author of 12 Rules for Band Life. We discuss: How the function band scene has evolved — from amps and chaos to in-ears and agency duplication. Why most great musicians are forged on stage, not in college. How to run your band like a business, prepare for lineup changes, and build a system that lasts. The importance of positioning, turning your act into a show, and making the leap from pubs to theatres. The real secret to getting better: gig more, fail more, and fix it on stage.   Whether you’re a full-time performer, an aspiring function musician, or just fascinated by the realities of working life in music — this one’s packed with insight, humour, and brutally honest advice from someone who’s truly done it all.   Connect with Dan @danlundholm www.spytunes.com 12 Rules for Band Life The Guitar Conspiracy  YouTube     This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco  

In this episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I'm joined by 50's swing and rock & roll singer Simon Lane. At 60 years old, Simon brings decades of experience from pubs, weddings, vintage festivals, and even busking on the streets. He shares candid insights about what it’s like to navigate the modern music industry as an older performer. We discuss how self-awareness, smart positioning, and finding the right niche can help older musicians stay relevant, book the right gigs, and continue to thrive in the industry. Whether it’s pacing yourself physically, choosing the right events, or embracing modern marketing in a way that works for you, this conversation is packed with practical insights for any musician who feels they might be “too late” to the party.   Connect with Simon www.simonlanemusic.co.uk @simonlanemusic www.facebook.com/simonlanemusicpage www.tiktok.com@swampvox   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I’m joined by pianist, singer, entrepreneur, and coach Michelle Lynne. Originally from Canada and now based in Europe, Michelle has built a thriving international career both as a performer and as co-founder of The Fearless Artist. We dive into her journey from classical training in Montreal to performing across Europe, building communities for freelance musicians, and creating mastermind groups that offer accountability and support. Michelle shares her insights on: How to use social media effectively as a musician without falling into the influencer trap. Why community and accountability are essential for avoiding burnout and self-doubt. Branding beyond logos and colours — finding your voice and your audience as an artist. Practical strategies for visibility, nurturing fans, and even building an email list that works. Whether you’re a classical player, function musician, or creative in another field, Michelle’s advice on carving out your niche and building an authentic brand will help you move your career forward with confidence.   Connect with Michelle @thefearlessartistmastermind @thisismichellelynne www.michellelynnepianist.com   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this week’s episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I’m joined by vocalist, arranger, producer and musical director Joe Ringer — founder and MD of Juke (formerly The Joe Ringer Band). Joe shares his journey from starting out in pub gigs to building a successful luxury showband that’s now over a decade strong. We dig into: The decision to rebrand from a personal name to Juke — and how to do it without losing clients Why his background in graphic design gave him an edge in marketing the band How Juke balances being musically exciting while still delivering what clients want The steps he’s taking to turn the band into a sustainable long-term business If you’ve ever thought about rebranding your act, or you want to learn how to balance the creative and business sides of being a function musician, this is a must-listen.   Connect with Joe @joeringermusic @jukeshowband www.jukeband.co.uk   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this week’s episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I’m joined by wedding and event singer Jessica Clarke-Wheatley to talk about her incredible first year in the wedding industry. Jess went from having no promo, no contacts, and no experience in the wedding world to landing on 37 recommended supplier lists – all in under 12 months. She shares how she got started, why saying yes to free opportunities opened doors, and how she’s built strong relationships with venues, suppliers, and fellow singers along the way. We cover: The power of wedding fairs, open days, and free gigs for building momentum Why networking and collaborations have been key to Jess’s rapid growth How to approach venues about becoming a recommended supplier Using social media and personality-driven content to attract couples The importance of persistence, resilience, and “throwing ideas at the wall” when starting out If you’re looking for inspiration on how to break into the wedding industry or taking your bookings to the next level, Jess’s story is packed with insights and practical tips you can apply straight away.   Connect with Jess @jcw_sing www.jcw-sing.co.uk   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

Many musicians blame being undercut, bad venues, or unmotivated bandmates for why they’re not progressing, but is that really the issue? In this episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I’m joined by drummer and content creator Johnny Fiacconi to dig into the mindset and habits that actually move the needle in your career. We talk about why extreme ownership is a game-changer, how regular band check-ins can prevent frustration and burnout, and why niching down (and sometimes even going ultra niche) helps you stand out in a crowded market. You’ll also hear practical tips on building a consistent social media presence that feels authentic, and how personal branding can open doors for your band as a byproduct. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overlooked, or frustrated with your progress, this episode will give you a fresh perspective — plus clear, actionable ideas to help you take control, stay consistent, and grow your music career.   Connect with Johnny @johnnyfiacconi www.johnnyfiacconi.com @thedreamboats www.thedreamboatsband.com   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

A lot of musicians are saying the wedding market for bands is in decline — but is that really true? In this episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I’m joined once again by Matt and Joey from Dirtbag Entertainment to unpack what’s really going on in the industry. We discuss why some bands are busier than ever while others are struggling to get gigs, the common mistakes that hold musicians back, and how branding, social media, and adaptability make the difference between fading away and thriving. If you’ve ever worried that live music at weddings is dying out, this episode will give you a fresh perspective, and some practical ideas to help you stand out, book more gigs, and future-proof your band.   Connect with Matt & Joey @dirtbagentertainmentagency @thehustlebanduk www.dirtbag-entertainment.com www.thehustleband.co.uk   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I sit down with singer, songwriter, and author Leo Ihenacho to talk about the principles behind building a career in music that lasts. Drawing on the lessons from his book, Leo shares why talent alone isn’t enough, the habits and values that separate professionals from amateurs, and how function musicians can create stability in an unpredictable industry. We dive into the importance of professionalism, humility, and preparation, why your reputation will always open more doors than a one-off performance, and how to balance creativity with treating your music as a business. Packed with practical advice and honest reflections, this episode is a blueprint for any musician who wants to build not just gigs, but a career.   Connect with Leo @leotheliongram www.highpaidsinger.com   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I sit down with award-winning wedding and events musician Ellen Blane to talk about her leap from corporate recruitment into a thriving full-time music career.Ellen shares how she prepared for the transition, the strategies she used to land bookings fast, and why investing in professional content was the game-changer for her business. We dive into the power of social media, booking platforms like Encore, using paid ads to “turn the tap on” for enquiries, and how to stand out in a competitive wedding industry. This is an inspiring listen for anyone ready to take the leap!   Connect with Ellen @ellenblane www.ellenblane.co.uk   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this final episode of our mini-series, Stu and I answer a couple of rapid-fire listener questions to wrap things up. We chat about how to prepare for gigs both physically and mentally — from nailing your songs to managing those pre-show nerves — and dive into what skills beyond music every function musician should build, like marketing, budgeting, and investing in your own learning.   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this mini episode, Stu and I tackle two listener questions: How do I find my unique selling point as a function musician? and How can I get more local bookings? We talk about finding your niche by trying things out, following your music taste, and leaning into what you love. We also share some practical marketing tips—like separating out different projects, building local relationships, and even booking your own shows when venues aren't biting. Whether you're unsure how to position yourself or you're struggling to get gigs close to home, this episode has a bunch of ideas to help you get clear and take action.   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this mini episode, Stu and I answer another listener question: What advice would you give to someone about to go full-time as a function musician? Stu recently made the leap himself, so we dig into what that transition really looks like—from gigging at open mics and busking in the streets to building confidence and getting those first paid bookings. We also talk about the financial side: how to prepare, why a part-time job can actually be a smart move, and what it means to "cut your teeth" as a performer. If you’re thinking about going full-time, or you’re right on the edge, this one’s for you.   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this mini episode, we answer another listener question: Is social media actually necessary for function musicians? We explore whether you can build a successful career without constantly posting on Instagram, and how some musicians manage to stay fully booked with barely any online presence. We talk about using social media as a portfolio, the power of networking, and how to strike the right balance between online content and real-world connections. If you're feeling overwhelmed by content creation—or wondering if it's even worth it—this episode will help you decide where to put your energy.   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco

In this episode, We answer another great listener question about low fees and whether agencies are driving down standards in the function music world. I share my own experience working with agencies and explain why I still think they’re a valuable part of the ecosystem—especially when you’re just getting started. We talk about how to strike the right balance between agency gigs and direct bookings, why it's important to be confident in your rate, and how to use the time saved by agencies to invest in building your brand. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should rely on agents or go fully independent, this one’s for you.   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco