Challenge yourself to discover new music
Actively discovering new music not only helps broaden your musical landscape, it can help you learn something about your friends and bandmates — and yourself. 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.
What was the first CD ever released?
There are a few albums vying for the title of “first CD ever released,” and how you phrase the question makes a difference. Read the post.
Spotify’s selling concert tickets? Is this a good thing?
There’s news that Spotify may be getting into concert ticket sales. The app already knows what music you like — so, is this good for music artists? Read the post.
Music business advice from an entertainment lawyer
Entertainment lawyer Ben McLane sits with Bobby Borg to discuss three important topics bands need to consider in the new music age. Read the post.
NFTs are not ready for indie music
There has been so much hype and activity centered around NFTs that I felt compelled to dig in and lay out why NFTs are not ready for indie music. Read the post.
The MLC’s $424 million royalty distribution conundrum
The music industry has long had a royalty distribution problem, AKA the infamous “black box,” which represents hundreds of millions in mechanical royalties collected on behalf of publishers and songwriters who have not been paid because they cannot be tracked down. Read the post.
There’s a CD revival in the making
CD sales are up for the first time in over a decade, and we take a dive into the DIY market to explore the details of what’s being hailed as a CD revival. Read the post.
Preparing your music for distribution: How to release and sell your music, Part 3
There are many steps to successfully releasing and selling your music, and getting your product prepared and your distribution channels aligned are critical elements of your plan. Read the post.
How songwriting contests, challenges, and awards can boost your music career
Song and album challenges, song contests, and battle of the bands are great opportunities to get your music heard — and they often get covered by the press and media. Read the post.
Musicians who died in 2021
In addition to all the heartache last year wrought, the list of notable musicians and producers who died in 2021 is extensive, with notable innovators, groundbreakers, and icons joining their departed brethren at the eternal post-gig party. Read the post
Tony’s 2021 recap and 2022 predictions for the music industry
Let’s take a look back at the year in review and go out on a limb for what could happen in 2022. We’re in unpredictable territory, but there are encouraging trends in the music industry. Read the post
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
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.