Secrets From The Scene

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 30: Pitbull, Pop Saxophone, and Pushing Your Boundaries with Lucia Sarmiento Apr 24, 2024

Show notes

What do Pitbull, pop saxophone, and pushing your boundaries have to do with one another?

After finishing her degree at McNally Smith, Lucia Sarmiento read Ari Herstand's book "How To Make It in the New Music Business" and decided to write down her goals and dreams for her music career.

On that list, she included:

Tour with a big pop star
Grow her social media for opportunities and community
Get better on the saxophone

Whether you attribute it to manifestation, luck, or hard work, talent, and courage - they all play a role.

Sarmiento's story is compelling. She's a remarkably talented multi-instrumentalist and, as you'll discover in this episode, quite brave, too. I think her willingness to push her own boundaries and take BIG risks when the opportunity presents itself is pivotal to her impressive successes so far.

In this episode, Sarmiento discusses her experiences performing on huge tours with Pitbull and Karol G and also shares her mindset and strategy around growing her social media to an impressive 100k followers across Instagram and YouTube. There are some real gems in this one. I gleaned a wealth of knowledge, and I trust you will, too. Enjoy!

Episode Links and Mentions

🌐 See Lucia Live at Berlin!

🌐 How To Make It in the New Music Business: Practical Tips on Building a Loyal Following and Making a Living as a Musician by Ari Herstand

🌐 Miguel Zenon

🌐 Mario Castro

🌐 Rob Trujillo

🌐 Luis Fonsi

🌐 Pitbull

🌐 Matt McIntyre

🌐 Karol G

🌐 Jemma Heige

Connect with the Guest:

🔗 Lucia Sarmiento Website

🔗 Lucia Sarmiento Instagram

Featured Song:

"Escape" by Lucia Sarmiento

👀 Watch on YouTube

Get new episodes by email: Join the Secrets From The Scene newsletter.

Secrets From The Scene is made by Helvig Productions, a Twin Cities recording studio for artists and bands.

Ep. 29: The Recording Decision: Exploring Studios, Producers, and DIY Routes with Matt Patrick Apr 17, 2024

Show notes

Deciding where you’d like to record your first project can be a little daunting. Like many industries, the advancement of technology has made for an incredible amount of choices. For this reason, a lot of people just opt for the path of least resistance: choosing to work with someone they know, a place nearby, or whatever is cheapest. For others, the natural first choice is to start doing it on their own.

While there is no single right or wrong way to make a record, there may be a right or wrong way for you. And the last thing anyone wants is to find out the hard way that they're working with the wrong producer or studio. Or to invest a lot of money into a home setup only to discover that they don't have the time, energy, or skills required to meet their own expectations.

It can be tough to sort through every option and weigh the potential tradeoffs to find the right path forward for your situation. Fortunately, Matt Patrick, owner and producer at The Library Recording Studio, joined me for this important conversation to weigh in on all the essential factors that go into this decision. Matt has been producing records for nearly 2 decades and is among the most respected producers and studios in the Twin Cities.

We discussed setting goals and expectations for your recording project, understanding the investment, how to choose a producer, thinking through the recording experience, and much more. Matt shares a ton of wisdom in this episode about producing music and shares many stories to demonstrate the variety of ways it can be done.

If you've been wondering where to start in your search for recording options, this episode will help you think through the major pieces and make the best decision for you. Enjoy!

Episode Links and Mentions

🌐 Cory Wong

🌐 Caitlyn Smith

🌐 Annie Mack

🌐 John Mark Nelson

🌐 Iron and Wine

🌐 Tom Herbers

🌐 Third Ear Studios

Connect with the Guest:

🔗 The Library Website

🔗 The Library Instagram

Get new episodes by email: Join the Secrets From The Scene newsletter.

Secrets From The Scene is made by Helvig Productions, a Twin Cities recording studio for artists and bands.

Ep. 28: Packaging THE PITCH: Tips on Branding, EPKs, and Emailing Venues with David Ostrom Apr 10, 2024

Show notes

There are three essential components every musician must have to successfully pitch their music for gigs: an artist brand, an EPK, and the ability to craft effective emails. Missing any of these can potentially cost you the gig.

In this episode, David Ostrom joins me to delve into the art of "packaging the pitch." David, the brains behind Ostrom Entertainment, an agency specializing in entertainment and bookings for local artists, shares insights on:

The significance of an effective artist brand and why it's crucial.
Strategies for crafting a compelling EPK.
Tips and best practices for composing emails when reaching out to talent buyers and venues.

With five years of experience as a booking agent for the Minnesota Music Coalition, David has facilitated numerous gigs for Minnesota artists both locally and regionally. His exposure to countless EPKs and email exchanges provides valuable insights into what works and what doesn't.

Whether you're just embarking on booking your own shows or seeking to enhance your pitching skills, David generously shares his wealth of knowledge and even suggests some invaluable resources for DIY artists towards the end. Enjoy the episode!

Episode Links:

🌐 How to Connect with Your Audience: A Branding Guide For Musicians

🌐 Indie on the Move

🌐 Tip Tree

Episode Links and Mentions

🌐 Big Turn Music Fest

🌐 Midwest Music Fest

🌐 Mile of Music

Connect with the Guest:

🔗 Ostrom Entertainment Website

🔗 Ostrom Entertainment Instagram

🔗 Ostrom Entertainment Facebook

🔗 Irie Minds

Get new episodes by email: Join the Secrets From The Scene newsletter.

Secrets From The Scene is made by Helvig Productions, a Twin Cities recording studio for artists and bands.

Ep. 27: Photo-Ready: Strategies for Your Next Shoot with Maddi Waldo Apr 03, 2024

Show notes

Ever put off getting professional photos for your artist profiles because of the dread associated with staged photo shoots? You're not alone. For many, the process is nerve-wracking, struggling to bridge the gap between imagination and actual capture.

I've had my fair share of awkward photo shoots; it can be intimidating. Thankfully, Maddi Waldo joined me on this episode to give insider advice on prepping for your next shoot so you can feel confident that you'll get the results you're after.

With extensive experience covering weddings, couple portraits, band sessions, and concert photography for the likes of First Avenue and Twin Cities Media, Maddi offers a wealth of knowledge and expertise.

In this episode we cover invaluable insights on how to prepare for your next shoot with confidence. From researching your vision to effective communication with your photographer, navigating the shoot itself, and understanding rights and credits, Maddi shares practical tips and tricks to ensure that your next photo session yields the results you desire.

Tune in and equip yourself with the tools and strategies necessary to transform your apprehension into excitement, and turn every photo shoot into a rewarding experience. Enjoy!

Episode Links and Mentions

🌐 Silver Warehouse

🌐 Generationals

🌐 Krooked Kings

Connect with the Guest:

🔗 Maddi Waldo Instagram

🔗 Maddi Waldo Website

Get new episodes by email: Join the Secrets From The Scene newsletter.

Secrets From The Scene is made by Helvig Productions, a Twin Cities recording studio for artists and bands.

Ep. 26: Gear Maintenance and Tech Advice for Live Gigs with Johnny Balmer of Alchemy Audio Mar 27, 2024

Show notes

If you've ever experienced a gear failure during a gig, you know just how stressful it can be. The frantic scramble to find a workaround while trying to conceal the issue can seriously disrupt your flow. And depending on the severity of the failure, it can throw off the entire performance.

The aftermath of such mishaps? You're left feeling distracted, frustrated, embarrassed, or simply annoyed – definitely not the vibe you were aiming for.

But fear not! With the right approach to maintenance, having basic backup items on hand, and honing your troubleshooting skills, you can swiftly get back on track without breaking a sweat. Instead of succumbing to panic, you can feel confident in diagnosing and promptly addressing any technical glitches.

In this episode, I'm joined by Johnny Balmer, the founder of Alchemy Audio, a renowned repair shop specializing in guitar effects pedals. With years of experience as both a live sound engineer and a guitar pedal repair tech, Johnny has encountered and tackled all manner of common problems that may arise during gigs.

Together, we dive into the world of guitar pedal repairs and share invaluable tech wisdom. From discussing preventive measures to troubleshooting techniques and best practices, we cover everything you need to know to navigate through technical difficulties seamlessly.

Whether it's preventing gear failures, troubleshooting on the fly, or optimizing performance, the insights and tips shared in this episode may just be the saving grace for your next gig!

Episode Links and Mentions

🌐 Aster Cafe

🌐 Green Room

🌐 Cloudland Theater

🌐 Cheapo Discs

Connect with the Guest:

🔗 Alchemy Audio Website

🔗 Alchemy Audio Instagram

Get new episodes by email: Join the Secrets From The Scene newsletter.

Secrets From The Scene is made by Helvig Productions, a Twin Cities recording studio for artists and bands.

Ep. 25: Performance Opportunities and Building Connections with Coffee Break Entertainment Mar 20, 2024

Show notes

In this episode I’m joined by Alek Glauvitz of Coffee Break Entertainment. Coffee Break Entertainment is a new booking and events agency located here in the Twin Cities, serving local artists and businesses by coordinating and hosting live music events. If you’re a singer-songwriter and you’ve been struggling to figure out where your next show is going to be, you may be in luck.

Alek’s company looks to connect artists with live performance opportunities. From new and emerging artists looking to play their first show at a small cafe to experienced acts hitting the road, Alek has experience making shows a success for both the artist and the venue.

Alek and I chat about his background as a musician, the services Coffee Break offers, and the many nuances of choosing and booking shows. We also discuss the benefits of building your connections in the community via live events, whether you’re attending as a performer or a fan.

Alek's commitment to empowering artists and enriching our live music culture shines through in every aspect of his work. So, whether you're craving a night of soulful tunes or seeking to elevate your own musical career, don't miss the opportunity to connect with Alek and Coffee Break Entertainment. Dive into the rhythm of our city, support some local talent, and discover the magic of showing up for live music.

Episode Links and Mentions

🌐 Scott Bauer

🌐 First Avenue

🌐 The Current

🌐 Matt Hagner

🌐 Love Sequence

🌐 Early Eyes

🌐 Guytano

🌐 All in the Couch

🌐 Walt Boyd

🌐 Nick Benson

🌐 Whiskey Stone

🌐 Emily White

🌐 Bryant-Lake Bowl Theater

🌐 Third Space Cafe

🌐 Lakes and Legends

🌐 Rok Music Lounge

🌐 Johnny Ostlund

🌐 Emma Jeanne

🌐 Sammy Jean Cohen

🌐 The Grand Event Center

🌐 Dan Engsberg

🌐 Eli Gardiner

🌐 Mike's Tav

🌐 Roundhouse Brewery

🌐 Ava Levy

Connect with the Guest

🔗 Alek Glauvitz Instagram

🔗 Coffee Break Entertainment Instagram

🔗 Coffee Break Entertainment Website

🔗 Beyond the Trees Instagram

🔗 The Lone Oaks Instagram

Featured Song

"Ice Cold Beer" by Russ Parish and the Lone Oaks

🎧 Listen on Spotify

👀 Watch on YouTube

Get new episodes by email: Join the Secrets From The Scene newsletter.

Secrets From The Scene is made by Helvig Productions, a Twin Cities recording studio for artists and bands.

Ep. 24: From Beats to Breathing - Balancing Music and Wellness with Chance York Mar 13, 2024

Show notes

Music has long been recognized for its ability to contribute to mental health, relaxation, a sense of community, and more. However, it's intriguing that many musicians, despite creating this therapeutic art, often struggle with anxiety, substance abuse, poor habits, and a myriad of unique challenges found in the music industry. In this episode, I’m joined by Chance York, an independent musician well-acquainted with the hurdles of the industry. During a difficult period, York turned to Yoga for self-discovery and answers. Today, he stands as a leader in the health and wellness space. This conversation delves into the vital aspects of self-reflection, understanding motivations, embracing authentic artistry, and prioritizing self-care. As an emcee who has shared the stage with notable names like Chance the Rapper and Dead Prez, York offers profound insights into maintaining mental health and creativity. Whether you're a seasoned artist feeling the weight of music, money, and everyday life, or a budding creative, the wisdom and advice shared in this episode are invaluable. I hope this episode will inspire better habits for you and, ultimately, better art. Enjoy!

Episode Links and Mentions

🌐 Eric Mayson

🌐 Crunchy Kids

🌐 Vie Boheme

🌐 Big Cats

🌐 Big Zach

🌐 Medium Zach

🌐 Brandon Allday

🌐 River Rock Studios

🌐 Dem Atlas

Connect with the Guest:

🔗 Chance York Instagram

🔗 Outside Chance PBS Series

🔗 Peace in Practice

🔗 Waking the Oracle

Featured Song

🎧 Listen on Spotify

👀 Watch on YouTube

Get new episodes by email: Join the Secrets From The Scene newsletter.

Secrets From The Scene is made by Helvig Productions, a Twin Cities recording studio for artists and bands.

Ep. 23: How to Improve Your Music Game for Free with Mike Hallenbeck Mar 06, 2024

Show notes

Trying to pursue music can be financially challenging, especially when you're just starting out. If financial constraints have been impeding your progress in the realm of music, Mike Hallenbeck offers a valuable list of cost-free and time-efficient ideas to propel your musical pursuits forward.

Hallenbeck, a versatile audio enthusiast, boasts a skill set spanning across multiple instruments, composition, sound design, and mix engineering. As the proprietor of Cool Cat Audio, a post-production sound house, he brings a wealth of experience to the table. Recently, Hallenbeck rekindled a former project, 10 Items or Fewer, after a nearly two-decade hiatus. The revival process served as the inspiration for this episode, recognizing that many aspiring musicians grapple with financial constraints and/or time limitations. But these challenges don't need to hinder your progress.

In this episode, we explore the nuances that can significantly impact your musical career, emphasizing the minutiae that, despite their simplicity, wield substantial influence. Whether you find yourself restricted by a shortage of resources or time, these topics are readily accessible and can yield immediate positive impacts on your music career. Enjoy!

Connect with the Guest:

🔗 Cool Cat Audio Website

🔗 Cool Cat Audio Instagram

🔗 10 Items or Fewer Website

🔗 10 Items or Fewer Facebook

Featured Song

🎧 Listen on Spotify

👀 Watch on YouTube

Get new episodes by email: Join the Secrets From The Scene newsletter.

Secrets From The Scene is made by Helvig Productions, a Twin Cities recording studio for artists and bands.

Ep. 22: From High School Bands to Sold-Out Shows - The Uncertain Journey of an Indie Artist with Colin Bracewell Feb 28, 2024

Show notes

Where do you start when you don’t know where to start?

That’s the question that many musicians face when they first get the itch to start sharing their music. There’s no real guide when it comes to weaving your way into the fabric of our local scene. That’s because it’s different for everyone, and there is no “right” or “wrong” way.

Do you want to start a band? Go solo? Do you want to write your own songs or collaborate with others? How do you meet other musicians, record your music, and build a fanbase? The amount of unknowns can become overwhelming.

Although everyone’s paths will be different in many aspects, in one way, the answer is always the same: You just have to start.

Colin Bracewell is an indie artist making a name for himself in our local indie scene. He’s a great example of what that uncertain and winding road looks like from a high school kid to a recognizable artist selling out 7th St Entry and charting on The Current.

Colin and I discuss his unique journey over the past 4 years and the steps he took to break onto the Twin Cities scene. Colin shares the wins and losses along the way and the mindset he’s developed to help him learn from every action and continue to grow and define himself as an artist.

If you’re just starting out or yearning to take your first steps toward a similar goal - this episode is for you. If you’ve been at this for a while, but feel plateaued, this episode is also a great reminder that no matter where you are on your journey, the next step can often feel overwhelming and out of reach. But the answer is always the same: You just have to start.

Episode Links and Mentions

🌐 Radio K

🌐 Acadia Cafe

🌐 G O W N S

🌐 Durry

🌐 Tangerine Recordings

Connect with the Guest:

🔗 Colin Bracewell Instagram

🔗 Colin Bracewell Website

Featured Song

🎧 Listen on Spotify

👀 Watch on YouTube

Get new episodes by email: Join the Secrets From The Scene newsletter.

Secrets From The Scene is made by Helvig Productions, a Twin Cities recording studio for artists and bands.

Ep. 21: Propel Your Music Career - Mastering Your Mindset with Brandon Commodore Feb 21, 2024

Show notes

In our quest to advance in our music careers, the usual path often involves practicing our instruments more, penning more songs, and aiming for more gigs. However, there's a foundational skill that's often overlooked yet crucially significant: cultivating a positive mindset. Effective communication, strong leadership, and strategic goal-setting all stem from a mindset that propels you forward rather than holding you back.

In this episode, we are joined by the multi-talented Brandon Commodore, who shares invaluable insights from his journey in the music industry. As a musician, music director, producer, and songwriter, Brandon has an impressive portfolio. His experiences range from touring with the Sounds of Blackness, Mint Condition, and the New Power Generation, to his current role as the drummer and musical director for Stokley.

In our discussion, Brandon sheds light on his major successes and the lessons learned along his career trajectory. He offers insights on various topics such as effective networking, skill acquisition, leadership strategies, and handling constructive feedback. This episode serves as a masterclass on emotional maturity and mental resilience, critical attributes of a successful professional in the music industry.

The episode is brimming with nuggets of wisdom, making it a worthwhile listen, perhaps even twice over. Enjoy this enlightening conversation; I know I did!

Episode Links and Mentions

🌐 Stokely

🌐 Yohannes Tona

🌐 Ian Allison

🌐 Cory Wong

🌐 Erick Ballard

🌐 Michael Bland

🌐 Jellybean Johnson

🌐 Sounds of Blackness

🌐 Mint Condition

🌐 The R Factor

🌐 Courtney Richards