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Main Street Business

#565 The Secrets To Taking Over ANY Niche w/Wendy Starland

Feb 25, 2025
Wendy Starland, a music industry icon who helped launch Lady Gaga's career, shares her insights on the exploitation artists face from streaming services. She reveals that artists earn shockingly little from billions of streams. Wendy emphasizes the need for change in the industry, introducing Music Soul, her new platform that allows artists to keep 70% of their revenue. The discussion also highlights the importance of differentiation in music while balancing artistry with smart business strategies.
36:03

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Wendy Starland emphasizes the grim reality of streaming revenues, revealing that artists earn less than $45,000 for a billion streams, necessitating additional income sources.
  • The innovative platform Music Soul aims to revolutionize the music industry by allowing artists to retain 70% of streaming and advertising revenue, fostering a fairer ecosystem.

Deep dives

Understanding the Music Industry's Business Side

Artists often assume that the quality of their music directly correlates with sales, which can lead to disappointment and confusion. The reality is that the music industry is complex, with numerous gatekeepers influencing how music is promoted and monetized. For example, despite achieving billions of streams, artists may receive minimal revenue, often relying on merchandise and ticket sales for their income instead. This stark difference highlights the necessity for musicians to grasp the business aspects of their craft to pursue sustainable careers.

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