The Big Picture: Beyond the Stream For too long, indie musicians have been told that streaming is the only path to success. But the latest insights from industry experts reveal a different story: success comes from diversification, relationships, and understanding the business behind the music. Whether it’s placing music in animation, selling beats with smart … Read more
Introduction The music industry never stands still, and this week’s digest is packed with moves that matter for artists, marketers, and tech enthusiasts alike. From new hires at major organizations to groundbreaking audio tools and a passionate debate about AI, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll explore strategies to grow your YouTube channel organically and … Read more
Why Most Indie Musicians Leave Money on the Table If you’re an independent musician, you’ve probably heard the same tired advice: network like crazy, sign with a label, and never turn down an opportunity. But what if that advice is actually hurting your career? Across a recent wave of expert commentary—from entertainment attorneys to producer … Read more
Introduction Welcome to your weekly music business roundup, where we cut through the noise and bring you the insights that matter. From streaming platform comparisons to branding tips and the pitfalls of selling beats, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we call out the frustrations of dealing with ticketing giant AXS and share advice from a … Read more
The New Rules of Indie Music Marketing In the fast-evolving world of music marketing, independent artists face both unprecedented opportunities and challenges. Recent discussions across the industry highlight a crucial shift: success no longer comes from just making great music—it requires smart adaptation to new technologies, platforms, and audience behaviors. From AI detection mishaps to … Read more
Phonorecords V: A Turning Point for Songwriters? The music industry is closely watching Phonorecords V, a critical legal case that could reshape how songwriters are compensated. Recent developments suggest that the judges are asking the right questions, potentially paving the way for fairer payouts. This case hinges on mechanical royalties and the rates paid by … Read more
LANDR and Spotify’s Game-Changing Partnership The music industry just got a major shake-up: LANDR has partnered with Spotify on Fresh Finds Forward, a multi-year initiative aimed at empowering 10,000 independent artists annually. This isn’t just another playlist—it’s a comprehensive support system offering software, community, and career-building resources. For indie musicians, this signals a shift: major … Read more
Atlantic Records Drops Star-Studded ‘Grand Theft Auto VI: The Album’ In a groundbreaking move that blurs the lines between gaming and music, Atlantic Records (part of Warner Music Group) has announced the release of ‘Grand Theft Auto VI: The Album.’ This highly anticipated compilation features an eclectic mix of global superstars, including Morgan Wallen, Rauw … Read more
The New Rules of Music Discovery In 2025, Spotify’s editorial playlists have lost some of their luster, and the indie playlist scene is where discovery happens. This shift demands a fresh approach: instead of chasing gatekeepers, build your own community. As EKENE, a breaking artist from Lagos, puts it, ‘I know the names of my … Read more
Macklemore and Kraft: A Philanthropic Challenge In a surprising turn of events, Macklemore challenged New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft to match his $1 million donation to support the Palestinian people. Kraft responded by revealing that he and Ed Sheeran had already donated four times that amount. This exchange highlights the ongoing humanitarian efforts in … Read more