Music Business Hacks

Latest Episodes:

#119 - How to Deal with Hecklers May 30, 2018

Show notes

It happens to the best of us: hecklers. When you're performing at venues, especially bars with drunk audience members, people can sometimes get unruly. But instead of responding in anger or frustration, you can use a bit of compassion and humor to defuse the situation. In doing so, you'll win over fans in a new and unexpected way.

#118 - Art and Activism May 29, 2018

Show notes

The worlds of art and activism have been connected for as long as social structures have existed, however, we're living in a new era of inter-connectedness where the lines between activism and art have blurred, on and off stage. How can artists passionate about a cause advance incorporate their values into their work in a meaningful manner? Songs in this episode: Childish Gambino - This is America Bob Dylan - Times Are a Changin' Bruce Springsteen - Born in the U.S.A

#117 - Weekly Recap: Takin' Care of (Music) Business May 28, 2018

Show notes

This week, we focused on developing some core music business practices that every artist should have a grasp on: trademark registration, accounting/finance, press photos, and having the best EPK/press kit possible. Are your materials up to date? Do you need some inspiration? Then listen in! Resources: Episode #111 - How to Get a Registered Trademark Episode #112 - Music Business Budgeting Episode #113 - Hiring a Photographer to Get Your Best Press Shots Episode #114 - How to Improve Your EPK (Electronic Press Kit) Episode #115 - How to Become a Famous Singer Episode #116 - Interview: Matt Westin on Meeting Danny Trejo on a Slayer Set, Making Meaningful Music, and Gary Vaynerchuk

#116 - Matt Westin on Meeting Danny Trejo on a Slayer Set, Meaningful Music, and Gary Vaynerchuk May 27, 2018

Show notes

Matt Westin's first single, “Our Redneck of the Woods” reached the IndieWorld Country chart and the European Country Music Association charts. Matt is nominated for a 2018 International Music and Entertainment Association award. In this episode, we talk about making a record dedicated to the memory of his father, hanging out with Danny Trejo on a Slayer music video film set, and social media hacks from Gary Vaynerchuk. To learn more about Matt, check out: http://www.mattwestin.com https://www.facebook.com/MattWestinMusic/ Resources: Favorite books:

The Holy Bible Prophecy Edition (NKJV)
Live Like You Were Dying: A Story About Living by Tim McGraw
A Case for Christ by Lee Strobel
Crushing It - Gary Vaynerchuk

Favorite microphone: Shure SM58 (wired and wireless) "Our Redneck of the Woods" lyric music video: [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Pslvqzdtr0[/embed]

#115 - How to Become a Famous Singer May 26, 2018

Show notes

Recently, I came across an oft-asked question: "How do I become a famous singer?" It's so common that Alexa and Google suggest it, leading to a generic article with advice that won't really get you anywhere. So today, I'm going to answer the bigger question under this sentiment (while helping you with an activity that will ultimately get you there).

#114 - How to Improve Your EPK (Electronic Press Kit) May 25, 2018

Show notes

Here's the hard truth about submitting anything via Sonicbids or Reverbation, your press kit to a record label, or trying to book a big show: You have less than one minute to get the person's attention. With those kinds of stakes and competition for attention, you better get it right by having an EPK that is up to date, has great information, and gets the right details across! Related: Episode 9: Perfecting Your Pitch Sonicbids (EPK site) ReverbNation (EPK site)

#113 - Hiring a Photographer to Get Your Best Press Shots May 24, 2018

Show notes

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. So what are your press photos saying about you? In today's episode, we talk about why you should have better press photos and how you can find the right photographer.

#112 - Music Business Budgeting May 23, 2018

Show notes

Do you have a business for your music business? Have you forecasted your revenue or expenses for the year to include touring, new albums, and merchandise? In this episode, we cover this crucial (and sometimes painful) business essential: the budget Resources: Episode 62: Interview with Scott Stratton (Finance for Musicians) WikiHow: Create a Business Budget Sample Music Business Budget/Template

#111 - How to Get a Registered Trademark May 22, 2018

Show notes

What is a trademark and why should every artist get one? How does it differ from a copyright? In today's episode, we discuss some of the most important information about getting a trademark registration for your music business. Resources: Need a trademark registration? Try one of these attorneys: Ron Coleman Joel MacMull Anthony McNamer Want to try it yourself? Go to the official United States Patent and Trademark Office

#110 - Weekly Recap: Hacks for a Touring Musician May 21, 2018

Show notes

Touring is a staple for most performing musicians. This week, we focused on some best practices for artists who travel for a living. Check out the episodes to build your skillset and professionalism: #104 - How to Soundcheck Like a Pro #105 - How to Overcome Common Obstacles on Stage #106 - How to Use Special Effects for Your Live Show #107 - How to Keep a Tour Vehicle Running Properly #108 - How a Tour Driving Schedule Can Save Your Life #109 - Interview with Ed Wimp

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