Episodes

  • Episode 13: Neurodiversity In The Music Industry: James Delin's Story
    Sep 17 2024

    What if the key to unlocking unparalleled creativity lies in understanding and embracing neurodiversity? Join me, Jonny Amos, as I uncover the fascinating world of neurodiversity within the music industry. This episode of "The Music Business Buddy" promises to enlighten you on how conditions like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and Tourette syndrome contribute to the vibrant tapestry of music creation. My insightful conversation with music producer James Delin, who has ADHD, highlights the unique strengths and perspectives that neurodiverse individuals bring to the table.

    Ever wondered how an unexpected venture can shape your understanding? Listen to the tale of a surprising foray into creating a pro wrestling theme amongst other creative pursuits. This journey is packed with lessons on the importance of solid contracts and legal advice, as well as balancing independent projects like film scoring with collaborative sound design work. These experiences are a testament to the delicate balance between creativity and business.

    Meet James Dellin, whose ADHD diagnosis was a turning point, offering him a profound sense of relief and identity. Hear his candid account of how treatment transformed his daily life and productivity, enabling him to excel in his creative endeavours. We'll also spotlight a remarkable journey through a high-pressure university presentation, illustrating the resilience and ingenuity that comes with being neurodivergent. This episode champions self-discovery, mental health awareness, and the celebration of neurodiverse creativity both in personal and professional settings.

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    31 mins
  • Episode 12: The Power of Owning Your Masters Rights
    Sep 10 2024
    Ever wondered how owning your master recordings can change the trajectory of your music career? Join me, Jonny Amos, on the Music Business Buddy as I unravel the intricacies of master rights. Using Taylor Swift's early albums as a case study, we break down how ownership of master recordings can empower artists and shape their control over their work. You'll gain a clear understanding of why multiple versions of a song can have distinct master rights and the implications this has for artists and producers alike.

    We also delve into the often-murky waters of business relationships between music producers and artists. Highlighting fair and transparent practices, we explore the pros and cons of charging a flat fee versus taking a share of copyright. Learn about the struggles bands face with streaming income and the essential nature of having clear agreements to avoid disputes. Discover the significance of "points" on record sales and how this practice has evolved. We look at the myriad benefits of artists owning their master rights and discuss alternative arrangements, such as partnering with label services companies. We also hear soundbites from Ryan Pinson of RML Studios who shares his insight. Don't miss out on these crucial insights that could help you navigate the business side of the music industry with confidence.

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    22 mins
  • Episode 11: From Open Mics to Media Scores: Chris Tye's Musical Journey
    Sep 3 2024

    What if the journey from small-time gigs to the realm of documentary scores was more attainable than you ever imagined? Tune in to this captivating episode of "The Music Business Buddy" where we sit down with the versatile and talented media composer, Chris Tye. Chris takes us through his inspiring transition from playing open mics in Birmingham to becoming a critically acclaimed artist, eventually discovering a new passion for composing media scores. Along the way, he shares poignant moments that defined his artistic evolution and offers a candid look at the obstacles and successes that have shaped his career.

    In our conversation, Chris opens up about the complexities of the music industry, shedding light on the intricacies of co-writing, music rights, and the process of reclaiming master rights. His experiences working on various recording projects underlines his values on open-minded collaboration and constructive feedback. Chris's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and adaptability in a rapidly changing industry, as he delves into the business aspects that every emerging artist should be aware of.

    We also explore Chris's unexpected transition into composing for documentary films, revealing the unexpected opportunities that reignited his passion for music creation. From booking studio time with Michael Clark to navigating upfront payment discussions, Chris's journey is packed with lessons on the importance of continuous creation and professional growth. Discover how focusing on a specific genre and collaborating with like-minded professionals can open doors to opportunities, and gain practical advice on simplifying royalty collection and succeeding in the competitive world of production music. This episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and actionable insights for anyone looking to make their mark in the music industry.

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    43 mins
  • Episode 10: Pre-Release Tactics When Preparing Singles
    Aug 27 2024

    Ready to make your next single a hit? This episode promises to equip you with all the essential strategies for a successful music release. We break down the critical steps, from picking the right distributor to crafting a killer electronic press kit and creative asset bank. You’ll learn how to upload your music and metadata correctly and why these details are crucial for your song's success. We also delve into the art of connecting with tastemakers and leveraging social media to extend your music's reach, offering practical advice for targeting influencers through platforms like SubmitHub, Musosoup, and Groover.

    But we don't stop there—discover innovative tactics to maximize your music release's impact in today's digital age. From pitching your songs to Spotify editorial playlists to strategically planning special content for release day, we cover it all. Hear why sharing personal insights can resonate more deeply with your audience than traditional marketing techniques. Finally, get insights into how to use your existing music catalog to boost visibility for new releases and utilize Spotify's Discovery Mode to enhance discovery rates. This episode is a treasure trove of actionable tips and strategies designed to help you navigate the complexities of the music industry and ensure your next release is a smashing success.

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    23 mins
  • Episode 9: Navigating Ethical Waters in AI-Driven Music
    Aug 20 2024

    What if AI could compose music just as emotionally compelling as your favorite artist? Join us as we uncover the transformative power of AI in music creation with insights from Emily Jackson of Horus Music. This episode dives into how innovative tools like Suno, Boomi, SoundDraw, and Google's latest advancements are reshaping the music industry. Discover how AI is not only democratizing music production but also expanding the creative horizons for music creators by generating unbiased musical suggestions. We'll discuss the longstanding role of AI in music through MIDI messaging and advanced composition plug-ins, setting the stage for today's revolutionary developments.

    But it's not all smooth sailing—there are ethical complexities and intellectual property issues that need to be tackled. Can an algorithm legally mimic the style of a band like Coldplay? What rights do original artists have in this new landscape? We'll explore these pressing questions and the cautious approach of streaming platforms towards AI-generated content. Emily Jackson provides a balanced view, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges that AI brings to the table. As we look toward the future, we ponder whether original creators will reclaim their dominion in an AI-influenced world. This episode promises a thought-provoking journey through the evolving landscape of AI in music creation.

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    17 mins
  • Episode 8: Balancing Beats and Business: Lauren Bough's Songwriting Journey
    Aug 13 2024

    Ever wondered how a talented songwriter navigates the modern music industry while balancing both writing and performing? Join me, Jonny Amos, on the Music Business Buddy as we uncover the journey of Lauren Bough, an emerging artist and songwriter from the Midlands (UK). Discover how Lauren's education at a contemporary music institute, coupled with strategic career moves, propelled her to become a sought-after name in the dance music scene and the Asian markets of K-pop and J-pop. Gain invaluable insights from Lauren as she shares her experiences and offers advice for budding songwriters aiming to make their mark.

    Curious about the intricacies of music industry contracts and publishing deals? Lauren sheds light on her career, managed by True Love Music in Ibiza, and her approach to navigating single song agreements. Learn about her expectations from labels, her preference for equitable splits on masters, and the real challenges songwriters face with current DSP deals. Lauren's candid discussion highlights the importance of strong management and fair compensation in this ever-evolving industry, providing listeners with a clear roadmap through the often murky waters of music contracts.

    Finally, get an insider’s view into Lauren’s unexpected foray into K-pop songwriting and her ability to adapt Western pop influences to fit the evolving K-pop sound. Reflect on her university experiences, the connections formed with key industry figures, and the role of proactive networking in her career development. We also explore the unique dynamics of songwriting camps, career aspirations, and the boundless opportunities that continuously reshape the music landscape. Tune in to be inspired by Lauren’s journey and the endless possibilities that await in the music industry.

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    41 mins
  • Episode 7: The Journey of Artist Development with Sarah Nagourney
    Aug 6 2024

    Ever wondered how rising stars in the music industry hone their unique sound and build their careers from the ground up? In this episode of Music Business Buddy, we promise to equip you with the essential tools and insights that underpin artist development. Join us as we delve into defining an artist's identity and sound, crafting early work that resonates with audiences, and much more. We’re thrilled to be joined by Sarah Nagorny from Glassbeat Music in New York City, an accomplished songwriter and artist development strategist, who shares her extensive experience in shaping artists' sounds, live setups, and career paths.

    Exploring the vibrant live music scenes of New York City and London, we dig into the evolution of an artist's style and the invaluable lessons learned from live performances. Sarah shares personal anecdotes and professional insights, emphasizing the importance of artists developing their unique voices instead of merely imitating their idols. We’ll also touch upon the practical benefits of self-recording, empowering vocalists to refine their craft independently with modern recording technology. The balance between honing vocal skills and maintaining individuality is a recurring theme you won’t want to miss.

    Navigating the complex landscape of image and branding in the music industry, we contrast iconic artists of the past with today’s stars leveraging social media to connect with their audiences. From creating memorable logos to sourcing unique clothing and maintaining a robust online presence, Sarah offers practical tips on standing out in a crowded market. We also discuss the challenges of industry relationships and the importance of patience and originality in achieving long-term success. Tune in for a deep dive into the quality of music as the ultimate driver of opportunities and triumphs in the music industry.

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    38 mins
  • Episode 6: What Actually Is Music Publishing?
    Jul 30 2024

    Ever wondered why songwriters often struggle to understand what music publishers actually do? On this episode of "The Music Business Buddy," I promise clarity and answers as I demystify the world of music publishing. Join me, Jonny Amos, as we trace the rich history of music publishing from the Tin Pan Alley days to the modern complexities of copyright management. Distinguish between music distribution and publishing, and discover how music publishers tirelessly pitch songs, monitor usage, and secure royalties, ensuring that the creative minds behind the music get their due.

    Dive deep into the terminologies and systems of music publishing, contrasting the UK and US models and revealing the types of contracts available to songwriters. From single song assignments to exclusive deals, learn the benefits and drawbacks of partnering with major publishers versus self-publishing or working with smaller firms. I'll share personal experiences and stories from fellow songwriters, shedding light on finding the right publishing arrangement tailored to your unique goals. Whether you're an aspiring songwriter or a seasoned composer, this episode is packed with invaluable insights to help you navigate the intricate landscape of music publishing.

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    17 mins