Separating being a fan from being an industry professional sometimes can be challenging and frustrating. Episode 659: It is that time of the year again, we run the apps and tools with LOVE! Tools and apps that we can’t live without and in some cases use every single day! Michael’s picks: Buffer – https://buffer.com Publer […]

Separating being a fan from being an industry professional sometimes can be challenging and frustrating. Episode 658: We are fans AND we work in the music industry. Sometimes when a artist we love releases a new album/single/video and even though we aren’t working with the artist we can get frustrated when we see what they […]

The importance of professional conduct and following up after events Episode 657: Challenges in Tour Artist Interviews Michael and Jay discussed the challenges of scheduling artist interviews on tour, noting that many artists are reluctant to do interviews while on the road. They highlighted the importance of securing interviews before tours begin, as post-tour interviews […]

Be aware that AI platforms may not always provide accurate information about the sources of their content. Episode 656: Chris Castle joins us to discuss AI from a musicians perspective. Before you use AI in your career Chris goes over a few things you should be aware of with regards to ethics and legalities. We […]

Your subscription, streams, tips, and merch spend go straight to the artists without vague pools or algorithms. Episode 655: Neil Sheehan the President of Vocana joins us. Vocana is where independent music and community come together. Join a music-loving movement, connect with artists and fans who share your taste, discover new music, and stream on […]

Giant Steps is a must-read for fans of prog, rock, hip-hop, and more Episode 654: In Giant Steps, Derek Shulman chronicles a truly incredible life and career in music—first as the leader of the progressive-rock pioneers Gentle Giant, then as the record-label executive responsible for cultivating and signing the likes of Bon Jovi, Dream Theater, […]

Please let us know if this is a feature in Spotify that you want, need, desire. Episode 653: So Spotify is rolling direct messages between users. Awesome, another DM platform for us to get spammed. Please let us know if this is a feature in Spotify that you want, need, desire. Episode inspired by:    • Will you, too, like me, also not use it?   […]

As you seek out new fans be careful that you don’t take your superfans for granted and ignore them. Episode 652: Using KISS and Jay and Mike’s own diehard fandom as an example, as you seek out new fans be careful that you don’t take your superfans for granted and ignore them. KISS recently announced […]

You can record and release your music!! Episode 651: Gene Simmons and Glenn Hughes each recently said the music industry is dead, Gene going so far as to say fans have killed the business. Wrong! This is now the best time ever to be in the music industry. The gatekeepers from decades ago that decided […]

If this is your career you NEED to understand your recording contracts! Episode 650: Jay brings up a topic and might open a can of worms for some people… but how does a major, international recording have so little understanding of how the money flows with regards to streaming? Education, education, education! If this is […]

Things that we guarantee will hurt your career. Episode 649: Jay takes the lead in this episode. We start off discussing some common things you can do that will help lead you towards success and we end we some things that will guarantee failure. We have always said if someone tells you they can guarantee […]

There seem to be so many contests out there going after musicians. But… are they legit? Episode 648: Jay has been getting offers quite frequently to enter many different contest… songwriter of the year, rock band of the year, website of the year, marketing campaign of the year and more! Almost everyone one asks for […]

It’s not the end of your career as a musician. Episode 647: We have commented that so much of the music business is a game of whack-a-mole. People looking to take advantage of the system before someone shuts down the “hole” they are taking advantage of. Well, AI is and streaming services is just the […]

In addition to touring and recording full-time for the past 25 years, Paul Koehler is also a full-time artist manager. Episode 646: Paul Koehler, drummer for the iconic emo hardcore band Silverstein and music industry entrepreneur joins to discuss the challenges faced when you are a manager and a touring musician. In addition to touring […]

Bassist Gary Shea has led a long career performing in 17 countries and recording music around the world. Episode 645: An outstanding account of the music business, A riveting story of determination and focus, Musical teenage dream come true, Against all odds musical ups and downs, Defying logic following your heart, Climbing the musical ladder […]

Bandcamp offers a sustainable path for independent musicians to thrive. Episode 644: J. Edward Keyes, the editorial director of https://bandcamp.com/, one of the most artist-friendly platforms in the industry. With over 20 years of experience writing for outlets like Rolling Stone, SPIN, Pitchfork, Entertainment Weekly, and The Village Voice, J. Edward has a deep understanding […]

Can anyone legitimately take your career to another level? Episode 642: I am sure all of us have heard the pitch… “We will take your band to the next level.” What does that even mean? Should you be concerned if someone says that to you? What are the levels in your music career? Can anyone […]

Pophouse invests in and develops brands within entertainment – specializing in music catalogue investments. Episode 641: Johan Lagerlöf, Managing Partner – Investments at Pophouse Entertainment joins us to discuss what Pophouse’s vision is for the future of music properties. Most recently, Johan was Global Head of Catalogue at Spotify and in the music leads team. […]

You should recognize and treat your Superfans with respect. Episode 640: Superfans are real, this isn’t just another buzzword that will disappear. We discuss the importance of your Superfans, but we also stress that you shouldn’t just see your Superfans as just another transaction. Do not treat your Superfans as a deep pocket that you […]

Remember this is the music BUSINESS and people want to work with you to make money. Episode 639: There is an old saying, It’s not about the money… it’s about the MONEY. Remember this is the music BUSINESS and people want to work with you to make money. Everyone assumes you are releasing the best […]