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.
physical packaging
Happy 40th Anniversary to the CD!
The CD turns 40 this year. We’ve got fun facts, personal anecdotes, and an answer to the mystery of “what was the first CD ever made?” Sorta. Read the post.
How to make a superfan in 90 seconds
Here’s my real-life story of how an artist I like took 90 seconds and converted me into a superfan. Read the post.
Your 90-day record-release plan
This post is excerpted from The 90-Day Album Release guide, which helps you plan and organize all the events and decisions that go into making an album — from day one in the studio to your continuing sales and promotion efforts. Read the post.
How to promote your record release
Now that your music is recorded, your product and assets have been created, and your release calendar set, it’s time to promote your record. 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 to promote a record release, Part 2: Your release schedule
There’s a lot of planning and production that goes into releasing and selling your music. The second post in our series focuses on planning your record release schedule. Read the post.
How to promote a release and sell your music, Part 1
There’s a lot of planning and production that goes into releasing and selling your music. This series of blog posts breaks it all down and gives you a blueprint to achieve success. 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
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.
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.
Disc Makers is making face shields to help combat COVID-19
There’s more social distancing, more quarantining, and more medical emergencies ahead. But it’s heartening to see so many companies rushing to help defeat this crisis — and I am so proud that Disc Makers is among them. Read the post.
The vinyl manufacturing process at work (watch the video!)
Whatever your relationship to music is, the manufacturing process for CDs and vinyl is just plain cool to see in action. Let’s take a look! Read the post.
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.