Musicians who died in 2019
From new wave pioneers to hip hop artists who were just making their mark, the list of music icons and notable musicians who died in 2019 is lengthy and significant. 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.
Are we witnessing the rebirth of physical media?
With the explosion of music streaming, physical media appeared to be out for the count. However, the majors are now reporting physical music revenue growth compared to 2018. Heck, even cassettes are making a comeback. Read the post.
What can you learn from Taylor Swift’s master rights predicament?
Taylor Swift’s latest industry tussle raises lots of questions for music artists. Who’s right, who’s wrong, and most importantly, what can you learn so you can avoid having to fight for your master rights? Read the post.
You need to sell merch — here’s why
Why pass up the chance to make additional revenue, build your artist brand, and cement a special connection with your fans?
Read the post.
Fifth time’s the charm: The Carpenter’s smash hit, “Close to You”
Before and after the Carpenters scored a massive hit with “(They Long To Be) Close To You,” others tried, but they all seemed to miss what Richard Carpenter figured out: When you have a great melody, great lyrics, and a great singer — less is more.
How Much Does Streaming Pay?
When you analyze the money you can earn from streaming, you’ll find it’s difficult (at best) to earn enough to support yourself as an artist. But streaming is still valuable: it can be a gateway to discovery and other means of monetizing your fan base. Read the post.
When musicians justify piracy
If you won’t respect somebody’s art enough to pay for it, what makes you think you deserve the same in return? Read the post.
The Indie Music Minute’s greatest hits
Here are three of our most popular Indie Music Minute videos so far, tackling the topics of being your own record label, mixing vs. mastering, and getting a mechanical license for YouTube. Read the post.
From independent musician to independent author
The parallels between the changes in the music industry and the publishing industry are striking. Just as the music industry tilted to give independent artists a fighting chance two decades ago, writers are enjoying the same power to bring their books to market as independent authors. Read the post.
Are you going basic or premium?
As the music industry evolves, artists are thinking about physical product in new ways: there’s a split between basic and premium CD packaging and which best reflects their brand. Read the post.
CDs just sound better
I listen to a lot of music and listen to a lot of streaming when I drive or while I travel — and I also listen to vinyl. And while I love all of it, when I want the best audio quality, nothing sounds as good as a CD. Read the post.
How to unlock dozens of revenue streams from one song
Your one song can create dozens of hidden revenue streams. Make more income from the fans and musicians who want access to your source tracks, stems, sounds, and more. Read the post.
Define your persona, find your voice, and build your artist brand
You’ll never meet most of the people who will hear your music or encounter your creative work. Instead, what they’ll “meet” is your persona. Use these tips to create a genuine and engaging artist brand. Read the post.
The PA Bill that should worry professional musicians everywhere
New “feel-good” legislation passed in the PA House allows venues to hire minors as long as they don’t pay them. The implications for professional musicians seems to have been overlooked in the process. Read the post.
Fully independent, and damn proud of it!
Disc Makers’ CEO Tony van Veen shares his history with the company, the changes in the industry, and where things are heading. Read the post.