Music Business Episodes

Ready to take your DJ sets beyond mixing tracks? This episode is your blueprint for incorporating live elements and creating unforgettable experiences. Rhizome Music founders Calhoun McDougall and Louis DeMarco share their decades of experience managing hybrid electronic acts and producing major festivals to help you level up your performance game without breaking the bank. If you've ever wondered how to start adding live elements to your shows, felt intimidated by the technical requiremen...

In this powerful episode, dance music icon Nadia Ali—the voice and songwriter behind explosive hits like "Rapture" and "Pressure"—breaks her silence on the industry's biggest blind spot—the lack of recognition for singers, songwriters, and collaborators who help create electronic music's biggest tracks. With 23 years of experience and countless chart-topping anthems, Nadia shares candid insights about collaboration, credit, and creating authentic art in an increasingly individualistic scene. ...

Are you looking to stand out in the music industry and secure more bookings? This episode features Drew Dapps, who shares how creating a unique community around his concept, Camp Dappington, not only differentiated him from the crowd but directly led to numerous gig opportunities. Drew discusses his journey as a boutique house artist and the strategic moves behind Camp Dappington, a themed activation that has captured attention at festivals. He emphasizes the power of building a community as ...

Are you ready to hit the road and make a name for yourself beyond your local scene? In this episode, Max Pohlmann, co-founder of Audisbliss and a veteran touring manager, unpacks the essentials of moving from local stages to nationwide tours. With extensive experience managing tours for artists like Subtronics and Boogie T, and orchestrating over 150 events globally, Max brings unparalleled insights into making it big in touring. Join us for an exclusive opportunity to connect with industry l...

Do you think a manager is your all-in-one solution in the music industry? Let's set the record straight. In this enlightening episode, I chat with Corynne Burrows, the founder and CEO of Midas Touch MGMT, where we dive into what managers truly look for when scouting new talent. Corynne demystifies the role of a manager and underscores the essential skills artists must already have polished before teaming up with a management team. In our discussion, we tackle personal branding, fan e...

Can perfect harmony in a DJ Duo amplify your success in the music industry? Dive into this special rerun with Walker & Royce as they unpack the secrets behind their dynamic partnership. Explore how they've turned their complementary skills into a tech-house powerhouse and learn how you can apply these principles to your own musical endeavors. Join us for more transformative discussions at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. The code PODCAST gets you $30 off for a limited time. Secure your spot ...

Are headlining DJs truly untouchable, or do they face the same hurdles as rising stars? Dive into a unique episode of Elevated Frequencies, where we unravel the reality behind the excitement of festival fame. I joined forces with ARC Music Festival to bring you candid interviews with top-tier artists, revealing the persistent challenges and strategies that define their careers. This isn't just another festival highlight reel; it's a profound look into the industry's core, highlighting that...

Producers: are you missing out on a major revenue stream? In this episode of Elevated Frequencies, Celia Rose, co-founder of the boutique sync licensing agency What Up Pitches, demystifies the lucrative world of sync licensing. Celia breaks down how this underutilized strategy can transform tracks into a significant source of income by aligning them with TV, film, and ad placements. In this episode, we cover: Sync Licensing 101: Celia explains the basics of sync licensing, from c...

How do you slide into DMs and ACTUALLY get results? This episode of Elevated Frequencies features Austin The Manager with Black 17 Media, who turns DMs into music opportunities. As an artist manager and digital marketing mogul, Austin reveals how authentic engagement and strategic content creation are key to thriving in today’s digital music landscape. In this episode, we dive into: Mastering DM Etiquette: Austin shares his personal success story with DMs, including the strategic appro...

Is the electronic music industry leaving you behind? Recent stats reveal that despite the growth of the EDM market, only 20% of producers make a living from dance music. This episode of Elevated Frequencies dives into why Chicago Music Nexus is the revolutionary event needed to combat these grim statistics and propel artists into successful careers. Don’t miss your chance to connect. Secure your spot now and save $30 with code "PODCAST": www.chicagomusicnexus.com In this episode, ...

“WE WERE GOING TO LOSE EVERYTHING.” Is the festival scene surviving the post-pandemic world? What does it take for a festival to thrive amidst skyrocketing costs and a new wave of attendees? In this deep dive with Mikey Lion, co-founder of Desert Hearts Festival and a pivotal figure in the house and techno community, we explore the seismic shifts in festival production and what artists need to do to stand out. Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and mor...

Should you stream your DJ sets on Twitch? How does a DJ grow a streaming audience? Is a large streaming presence helpful in booking in-person DJ gigs? In this conversation with DJ and streamer Whistleface, we discuss how he built his career in live streaming his music, which platforms he uses and why, and how he found monetary success in this nontraditional format. Join my Patreon for business and branding tips to take your DJ career to the next level. For a limited time, tiers start as lo...

Have you thought about pivoting to a full-time music career? What would leaning into your authentic passion do for your overall well-being and happiness? How can mental health support or detract from the success of your creative career? In this conversation with producer Fredy Lane, we talk through her own mental health journey when transitioning from running a successful events company to pursuing music. Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and more at the...

Are you scared to promote your music on social media? Do you feel lost on how to make entertaining content? Do you get stuck on negative feedback from peers or online comments? In this conversation with DJ, producer, and social media expert Goshfather, we discuss the importance of social media promotion for artists and how to effectively commit to creating content. Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and more at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Get presal...

NOTE FROM OLIVIA: Hey guys! I shot this episode live at my friend's pizzeria. You may hear some slight background noise - so just a fair warning if you use headphones. Special shoutout to Professor Pizza for sponsoring this episode: How can you convert social media followers to loyal fans of your music? Can going viral make you an overnight music success? How can a manifestation and meditation practice support your music career goals? Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, pr...

How do you get signed to a record label that values artist development? What will a label do to evolve your artist story and support individual releases? Should you be producing for DJ promo or to play your tracks directly to your audience? Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and more at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Presale tickets go live TOMORROW, June 21, 2024. In our exclusive Patreon clip, Deron and I discuss how AI is changing music promot...

Do you know where to find resources to take your music business to the next level? When should you invest in tools, products, or additional people on your team? How can you negotiate deals in a professional manner? Watch this episode to learn the common mistakes music industry professionals make when trying to grow their careers. Learn more tips like these from experienced DJs, producers, managers, and more at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Presale tickets go live on June 21, 2024. ...

How do you make money as an artist? How much does it actually cost to turn your music into a career? What steps should you take before you spend a penny on achieving your goals? In this episode, talent manager Mario Danza takes us through the hard numbers that go into making a music career take off. In our exclusive Patreon clip, Mario explains how to make sure you're getting the best deal through contracts and negotiations - EVEN if you don't have a manager or lawyer to help you out. Join...

What does it take to create your own record label? What are the benefits of having your own label? How can you take control of your music career by running releases and events? This interview with Maxinne shares her step-by-step experience in creating Red Alert Records. In this episode, we cover: A comprehensive guide on creating your own label The level of control you have over your music career when you have your own label How to set up label operations and build a brand How...

Does your creative process fuel your motivation? How can you build up your tenacity and self-confidence in your craft? How can you intentionally create timeless, career-building music rather than get caught up in trendy sounds? This interview with Kevin Knapp shares his expertise on fostering longevity in your music career. In this episode, we cover: Living and working with a partner (Kevin's spouse, Hutch, is co-owner of Plump Records) Building a creative process that inspires and ...

We're running it back with Lucati! How can you take part in controversial conversations and still get booked? How can you share your beliefs in a productive and open way? What do you do when you realize your take isn't quite right? In this conversation with Lucati, we talk about his ability to own his voice and engage his audience in a real way. In this episode, we cover: Finding purpose in your art Standing up for your beliefs, but knowing when to admit if you were wrong Buildin...

In Relevant Frequencies, we cover all of the hot topics in the electronic music industry, from making friends on SoundCloud, brand cohesion across projects, pivoting creative ideas, and inspiring yourself with a secondary creative outlet in addition to music. We spoke about having fun with your social media and promotion and finding the balance between mindfulness of others and authenticity. We discussed filling up your own cup and protecting yourself from media burnout. In this episode, w...

What steps can you take to ensure you're supporting diverse EDM artists? What opportunities are gatekept from BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, women, and gender-expansive artists? How can you, as part of the music scene, engage in conversations around these topics effectively? This episode is guided by two experts in diversifying electronic music. Lauren HERMIXALOT Spalding and Lauren "Mini Bear" Kop give their advice on how to be an activist in the music industry. In this episode, we cover: Inclus...

Do you need a big social media presence to become a successful DJ? Do you need to go viral for your music career to thrive? How can you create a social media strategy that feels authentic, sustainable, and on your terms? DJ duo Z3LLA prioritizes their music over social media, meaning that when they are on social, they engage with intention. Find out their tips for building a brand off of social media and navigating as women in electronic music. In this episode, we cover: The balance betwe...