What’s a record label looking for?
These five questions are ones a record label needs answers to if you hope to get attention and a potential deal. Read the post
Music Industry News
A collection of articles from the Disc Makers blog that relate to the music industry, including trends and news that relates to the independent musician.
The album release in the streaming era
In today’s streaming era, while music promotion should launch a new album release, your music is always “on the shelf” and lightning can strike long after it first hits the marketplace. Read the post
The data is in: Physical music sales are UP in 2021!
It may be hard for skeptics to believe, but physical albums were up a robust 37.5 percent compared to this time last year, from almost 28 million units to over 38 million units. Read the post.
Is your music marketing working?
Is your music marketing working? Is it generating streams, views, sales, and (importantly) revenues? Would you even know if it was? Read the post.
What you need to get great music PR: Interview with Ariel Hyatt
Disc Makers Blog manager, Andre Calilhanna, sat down for a Zoom interview with Ariel Hyatt, founder of Cyber PR and author of the new book, The Ultimate Guide To Music Publicity. Read the post.
Making money from songwriting
The final track you release to the public is just the start when it comes to making money with songwriting. Read on for ideas to tap additional revenue streams, generate greater publicity, and protect your music. Read the post.
You’re an indie artist — do you need legal protection?
When music becomes more than just a pastime and you set out to write, play, and release music, it’s time to consider steps you should take to protect yourself. Read the post.
The art and science of vinyl records
Excerpted from “The Musician’s Guide To Vinyl,” we review a brief history of vinyl records and share some basics when it comes to mixing for your vinyl release. Read the post.
Can You Sell Your Music as an NFT?
What the heck is an NFT? And is there any money to be made as an independent artist selling your music as one? Read the post.
Why you should set a date for your music release (and make it a Friday)
There’s a reason why you should set your music release for a Friday. It’s not just a random day — there’s method behind the madness. Read the post.
The profound healing quality of music
An intense desire to create and share her music helped indie music artist Sarah Fimm recover from a debilitating accident and find gratitude for the lessons she learned. Read the post.
The Flying V: The history of an iconic guitar
Since the first production electric guitar rolled out of its plant in 1936, Gibson has crafted some of the industry’s most iconic guitars — from the Les Paul and SG to the Memphis blues classic. But the lore and design of the Flying V and its modernistic siblings hold a special place in the Gibson catalog. Read the post.
How to use Spotify Canvas to add looping video to your streams
With Spotify canvas, you can include short looping videos that will play while your music streams. It’s a great way to increase shares and engagement, and it’s easy to use. Read the post.
Setting (and achieving) your music career goals for 2021
Get 2021 started right by adjusting your music career goals and plans to make the most of the continued lockdown. Use this list to get the ideas flowing and help you decide where to put your time and energy. Read the post.
Musicians who died in 2020
The list of notable musicians who died in 2020 is expansive, with Coronavirus and gun violence making unsettling contributions. A number of masters, mavericks, upstarts, and icons are now sadly part of the cast of musicians who have played their final note. Read the post.