How to build a music career (and hold down a day job)
Here’s a seven-step plan to help you manage the practical reality of building a music career while living your “regular” life. Read the post.
people who make music
Songwriting tips: Insights and advice on the craft of writing a song
We’ve posted songwriting tips that cover music theory, the use of interesting chords, lyric writing advice, and ways to channel creativity. Read and enjoy.
How to produce with soft synths
Software synthesizers can open up huge musical possibilities when you’re producing music. Here’s how to get started. Read the post.
Dave Smith: The Godfather of MIDI
Music technologist, inventor, and synthesizer creator Dave Smith died on May 31, 2022. His innovations will continue to shape music for years to come. Read the post.
Be ready when musical inspiration strikes
Remove all barriers between you and playing/recording your instrument so you can be ready the moment musical inspiration strikes. Read the post.
Mechanical royalty rates are going up… Or are they?
The Copyright Royalty Board announced plans to increase the mechanical royalty rates for product sales, which is great for songwriters. But will streaming rates do the same? Read the post.
Nine mic placements to record a snare drum in your home studio
Getting a quality drum recording in your home studio requires a space with proper acoustics and mics that are up to the task — and your mic placement goes a long way when you record a snare drum. Read the post.
Things every lyricist should know
If you are a lyricist, or if you also write melody but you think your strength is more lyric, this is for you. This is more mindset stuff, so this will be helpful no matter what your thing is. 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.
The beginner music producer’s checklist
Are you a songwriter ready to record your songs but not exactly sure how to go from song idea to music producer? These ideas will get you started. Read the post.
Finding inspiration for your songs
Songs can be about anything, so why not look in unconventional places to find the creative spark your next song needs. Read the post.
The pros and cons of a major-label record deal
Getting signed to a major label is a dream come true, right? Well, there are definite advantages, but your chances of career success are somewhere way south of guaranteed. Read the post.
Should you sign a record deal or stay independent?
There are downsides to being an independent artist, but there are so many incredible advantages, as well. We look at the pros and cons of signing a record deal versus staying independent. Read the post
Record — and protect your files — on the road
With the right technology, strategies, and planning, indie artists can record and produce amazing music anywhere. Read the post
How to maximize music income from songwriting and recording: Part V
The fifth and final chapter in our series on maximizing music revenue with your songwriting and recording focuses on the various final versions and formats you can create and the different ways you can promote and earn money with them. Read the post.