291: Music Marketing Real Talk With Jesse Cannon - How To Actually Get Your Music Heard

In this episode, we sit down with Jesse Cannon - producer, engineer, author, YouTuber (Musformation), and one of the most respected music marketing strategists today.This episode is absolutely packed with real-world, data-backed insights on what actually works in 2025/26 and beyond - and what artists should finally stop wasting time on.⸻What We Cover:🎯 The #1 thing artists must do before promoting anythingWhy understanding your identity, strengths, aspirations, and position in the market is no longer optional - and how Jesse’s LAMES analysis helps artists finally get clarity.📱 The truth about social media in 2025/26Why you must start on all three short-form platforms (TikTok, Reels, Shorts).Why you can’t predict where you’ll grow.Why “I don’t want to be a content creator” is no longer a useful mindset.When it is possible to grow without social media - and why it’s rare.🎧 Release strategy: The 4–8 week ruleWhy consistent, sustained releases are the #1 growth driver for new artists today - and how Jesse discovered the pattern by analyzing major breakout acts.🎵 Playlists: Overrated? Underrated? Misunderstood?Jesse breaks down:Why playlists are not dead.Why most people misunderstand their role.Why editorials still matter even if fewer people listen.Why taste-curated playlists are a massive opportunity.Why random SubmitHub blasting can destroy your account.💸 Paid ads: When (and when NOT) to use themWhy Meta ads are overrated for artists.Why they do work for retargeting, merch, and warm audiences.Why ads fail without proof of concept.Why organic early adopters are worth more than paid traffic.🧠 The mindset artists need if they want to growIncluding:Why overwhelm is largely psychological.Why most people never look at analytics correctly.Why you should never check stats unless you’re ready to change something.How to avoid depression loops around growth.🌍 Websites, email lists & direct-to-fan toolsAre websites still relevant? (Answer: yes - but only certain types.)Why email is still incredibly effective even with young audiences.Why Shopify beats Squarespace/Wix for artists with merch.Why Tribly.FM is one of the most underrated tools for artists.🔥 Creative promo ideasIncluding the example of artist Audrey Hobert and her brilliant “Archive” page that builds a universe around every song. ⸻Jesse's Links:Jesse’s YouTube: MusformationJesse’s newsletter: Music Marketing TrendsJesse’s books: Processing Creativity & Get More FansLAMES analysis video⸻If you’re a self-recording artist and want help making your music sound professional and releasing it effectively, apply for our coaching program at:👉 theselfrecordingband.com/coachingFor links to everything we've mentioned in this episode, key takeaways, as well as full show notes go to: theselfrecordingband.com/291Send us Fan MailIf you have any questions, feedback, topic ideas or want to suggest a guest, email us at: [email protected]