

Modern Musician Podcast
Modern Musician
An educational podcast for musicians looking to grow their audience online and make a sustainable income. The host, Michael Walker provides artists with the tools necessary to create a lasting career in the music industry.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 7, 2024 • 39min
How Mastering Music Foundations and Networking Can Accelerate Success with Luca Pretolesi
With over 25 years of experience and more than 40,000 hours logged in the studio, Luca Pretolesi has become a world-renowned mixing and mastering engineer. Founder of Studio DMI in Las Vegas, Luca’s award-winning work has touched projects for artists like Drake, Diplo, Steve Aoki, and J Balvin. His portfolio includes Grammy wins, Platinum records, and countless accolades. Luca’s unique approach to blending creativity and technology has made him a go-to expert in electronic and pop music production.In this episode, Luca shares his journey and insights on how to stand out in the music industry, focusing on personal growth over shortcuts.Key Takeaways:Why mastering creativity and skills is more important than relying on tools and trends.How exploring global music styles can spark innovation in your own work.The importance of building genuine relationships and industry support over self-promotion.-----Learn more about Luca and his work at: https://www.studiodmi.com/Apply for an Artist Breakthrough Session with the Modern Musician team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast

Oct 2, 2024 • 47min
AI, Authenticity, and the Future of Music with Adam Lewis
Adam Lewis is the head of Planetary Group, an artist development firm based in Los Angeles that helps emerging musicians gain exposure through radio, online PR, and social media. In addition, Adam also currently handles all publicity, promotion and media buying for Great Northeast Productions and has previously worked with TVT Records, managing artists like Sevendust and Snoop Dogg. He brings a wealth of knowledge in artist management, tour production, and music promotion.In this episode, Adam dives deep into the evolving landscape of the music industry, discussing how AI, digital marketing, and human creativity are reshaping artists' paths to success. Key TakeawaysDiscover the essential strategies for building a sustainable artist career in today’s industry.Learn how AI and digital tools are transforming music production, while raising questions of authenticity.Explore the importance of human connections and live performances in an increasingly digital world.----To learn more about Adam Lewis and his work at Planetary Group, visit their website: https://www.planetarygroup.com/Apply for an Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast

Sep 28, 2024 • 46min
Balancing Self-Care and Strategic Goal Setting for Musicians with Bee Adamic
Bee Adamic is the founder of Liberty Music PR, a leading agency dedicated to helping independent artists gain visibility and success in the music industry. With a passion for music and years of experience, Bee has navigated the challenges of building a PR business while guiding musicians through the evolving landscape of the industry. She advocates for perseverance, self-care, and strategic planning for artists looking to stand out and build sustainable careers.In this episode, Bea Adamic dives deep into the world of independent music PR, sharing her personal journey, insights on industry trends, and valuable advice for musicians seeking to break through.Key Takeaways:Learn how to persevere through setbacks and stay consistent, even when progress feels slow.Discover how to set measurable goals, define your brand, and release music strategically to grow your fanbase.Understand the importance of self-care and avoiding shortcuts that can derail long-term success.----To learn more about Bee Adamic and Liberty Music PR, visit her website: https://www.libertymusicpr.com/Apply for an Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast

Sep 25, 2024 • 37min
Overcoming Industry Challenges and Building an Engaged Fanbase with Patrick Ross
Patrick Ross is the COO of Music Ally, a leading authority in the music industry’s digital transformation. With years of experience, Patrick specializes in helping artists navigate the complexities of the modern music business. He emphasizes the importance of building real connections with fans, leveraging community-building strategies, and making informed use of advertising platforms. Through his work, he equips artists with the knowledge and tools to thrive in an evolving industry.In this episode, Patrick Ross dives into the current challenges facing artists in the music industry, sharing practical advice on how to cultivate a real fan base, build a thriving community, and grow your audience authentically.Key Takeaways:Discover how to build genuine fan connections and a strong community.Learn why real relationships matter more than vanity metrics for long-term success.Understand how to effectively use advertising platforms to connect with the right audience.To learn more about Patrick Ross and his work with Music Ally, visit: https://pro.musically.com----Apply for an Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=rss-feed&utm_campaign=podcast-cta-2024

Sep 23, 2024 • 42min
Planning a Successful Crowdfunding Campaign Start to Finish with Salvador Briggman
Salvador Briggman, founder of CrowdCrux, is a crowdfunding expert who has helped creators raise millions on platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo. With a background in marketing and business development, Salvador focuses on helping entrepreneurs, musicians, and artists navigate the complex world of crowdfunding. He shares actionable strategies on his blog, podcast, and YouTube channel, making him a go-to resource for anyone looking to leverage crowdfunding to fuel their passion.In this episode, Salvador Briggman dives deep into how musicians can run successful crowdfunding campaigns on platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo. From understanding pledge amounts to creating exciting event-like launches, Salvador offers expert tips on maximizing campaign success.Key TakeawaysLearn how to set realistic expectations and break campaigns into manageable phases.Discover the power of value-loaded rewards and limited quantity tiers to boost engagement.Understand the ethical use of marketing principles to deepen fan relationships and drive pledges.To learn more about Salvador Briggman and his crowdfunding strategies, visit https://launchandrelease.com/----Apply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Sep 21, 2024 • 38min
How Gussapolooza Empowers Emerging Artists with Russ Robson
Russ Robson is the founder of Gussapolooza Music Festival and the Indie Distributor Project. With a deep passion for supporting emerging artists, Russ has grown Gussapolooza into a thriving platform where musicians can showcase their talents and connect with a like-minded community. Beyond music, Russ is committed to using alternative therapies, including plant medicine, to help individuals facing trauma and addiction. In this episode, Russ shares his journey, insights into the power of music, and the role of leadership in overcoming personal challenges.In this episode, Russ dives into the transformative power of music, community, and personal growth—revealing how artists can overcome fear and build meaningful connections with their audience.In this episode, we explore:How Gussapolooza is creating real opportunities for emerging artists to thrive.The healing power of music and community for individuals struggling with trauma and addiction.Embracing fear and leading with courage in both life and creative pursuits.To learn more about Russ Robson and his work, visit: https://gussapolooza.com/----Apply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Sep 18, 2024 • 32min
Moving Beyond Vanity Metrics and Building Authentic Fan Connections with Mershad Javan
Mershad Javan is the CEO of Octiive, a music distribution platform committed to helping indie artists thrive by providing transparency, artist support, and a wide distribution network. With years of experience in the music industry, Javan understands the challenges artists face and is passionate about fostering authentic growth and real connections. His leadership at Octiive has empowered countless indie musicians to focus on creating quality music while building loyal fan bases.In this episode, Mershad dives into the challenges indie artists face in the music industry and how to avoid common pitfalls. He explains the value of focusing on genuine fan connections and discusses how Octiive’s unique features are designed to empower artists for long-term success.Key TakeawaysWhy high-quality music and a solid fan base matter more than chasing artificial streams.Proven strategies for building meaningful relationships with fans, both online and in person.How Octiive’s transparent artist support and distribution network set indie artists up for success.------To learn more about Mershad Javan and Octiive, visit their website: https://www.octiive.com/Tune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community here: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Sep 16, 2024 • 45min
Co-Creating VIP Fan Experiences to Boost Revenue with Evan Price
Evan Price, CEO of Artist Collective, has over 15 years of experience in the music industry, having worked in nearly every aspect of the business. Launching Artist Collective from his dorm room at Columbia College Chicago, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Music Business, Evan has since helped over 100 music brands transform into thriving "artistpreneur" ventures. His mission is to help artists build strong, sustainable business foundations that will carry them throughout their careers.In this episode, Michael Walker and Evan Price dive deep into the art of creating high-ticket offers and VIP fan experiences for musicians. They explore how artists can position and package their unique value to stand out in the crowded music industry. Learn how to co-create offers with your fans and leverage testimonials and stories to boost your confidence in delivering these premium experiences.Key Takeaways:Discover how high-ticket offers and VIP fan experiences can significantly enhance your income while deepening fan engagement.Learn the critical importance of positioning and packaging your offers to rise above the noise in the music world.Gain insights on overcoming sales fears and reframing the process as a way to provide genuine value to your fans.------To learn more about Evan Price and his work with Artist Collective, visit: https://www.artistcollect.com/120Tune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community here: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Sep 14, 2024 • 32min
How to Thrive in the AI-Driven Attention Economy with Jeremy Sirota
Jeremy Sirota, CEO of Merlin, champions independent music labels by leading global digital licensing efforts. At the helm of a company representing 15% of the global market share, Sirota helps artists secure premium deals with platforms like Spotify, TikTok, and YouTube. His career spans roles as a technology lawyer, senior executive at Warner Music Group, and a key player on Facebook's music team.Jeremy Sirota unpacks the ever-evolving music industry landscape, emphasizing how artists can leverage AI, build genuine audience connections, and reframe selling as value-driven relationships to thrive in today’s attention economy.Key Takeaways:How the attention economy is reshaping the music landscape.Why authentic audience connections are key to lasting success.How AI can streamline music rights and boost monetization for artists.------Discover more about Jeremy Sirota’s work with Merlin by visiting: https://merlinnetwork.org/Tune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community here: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast

Sep 10, 2024 • 39min
Audiomack’s Approach to Artist Growth and Monetization with Brian Zisook
Brian Zisook is the co-founder of Audiomack, a pioneering music streaming platform with a strong emphasis on artist discovery and engagement. With a background in music journalism and digital media, Brian has been instrumental in championing emerging artists, especially in underserved markets like Africa and the Caribbean. His deep understanding of the music industry, combined with his innovative approach to digital streaming, has made Audiomack a go-to platform for both artists and fans.In this episode, Brian Zisook dives deep into how Audiomack is changing the game for artists worldwide. From its focus on emerging markets to the role of AI in music creation, Brian offers valuable insights for artists looking to grow their careers in a rapidly evolving industry.Key Takeaways:Learn how Audiomack's unique features are designed to help artists find and grow their audience, especially in underserved regions.Discover why human creativity remains irreplaceable, even as AI becomes more integrated into the music-making process.Get practical advice on how to build a community, create a catalog, and strategically monetize your music using Audiomack's tools, including the sponsored songs feature.To learn more about Brian Zisook and his work with Audiomack, visit: https://audiomack.com/Tune into the live podcast & join the Modern Musician community here: https://link.modernmusician.me/join-podcastApply for a free Artist Breakthrough Session with our team: https://masterclass.modernmusician.me/apply-success?utm_source=podcast