SoundCloud vs Spotify: Which is better for indie musicians?
These two streaming platforms can help you achieve different goals as an artist. Discover key differences and which platform is best for your music journey. 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.
How to get signed to a record label
Wondering how to get signed by a record label? Read to learn some steps you can take to maximize your chances of getting a record label deal. Read the post.
Digital music distribution Q&A: Pricing, payment, support, and more
In part three of this series on digital music distribution, I address things that I get the most questions — and complaints — about from artists: finances, ease of use, and customer service. Read the post
What’s the difference between a Digipak vs. Jewel Case?
What’s the best CD packaging for your next album: a Digipak or Jewel Case? Discover what makes them different before ordering your next CD. Read the post.
Digital music distribution: It’s not just about streaming
In part two of my series about digital music distribution, I address the other platforms where your distributor will deliver your music content beyond the streaming sites. Read the post.
Choosing a digital distributor for your music: Part 1
I’m jumping in on the weighty topic of how to choose the right digital distributor for your music. Here’s part one in my series. Read the post.
What a Grammy award could mean for your career
Independent children’s hip-hop artists Alphabet Rockers captured their first Grammy award this year. This is what the award means for their mission and music. Read the post.
The movement to end the merch fees charged by venues is growing
Senate hearings and calls from music artists to end the merch fees assessed by live music venues are making an impact on the industry. Read the post.
How Bands and Co-Writers Divide Percentage Shares in a Song
What does copyright law say about your rights when an original idea is formed between two or more people? Here’s how some co-writers divide percentage shares in a song. Read the post.
Streaming vs. CDs — Who wins?
We live in a streaming world — yet revenues from physical media (i.e., CDs and vinyl LPs) continue to grow every year. Read the post.
Musicians who died in 2022
2022 may not have been the bounce-back year we had all hoped for, and sadly, we saw too many beloved musicians — icons and up-and-comers alike — pass on to the great afterparty in the sky. Read the post.
How to fail as an indie music artist (in 7 easy steps)
Music success is fine for some, but if you really want to fail at this whole indie music thing, here’s a sure-fire recipe to achieve that goal. Read the post.
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.
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.
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.