The Wholesome Music Podcast

No one thought you could have a festival in the desert! Did you know that Coachella, arguably America's most famous music festival, was not originally conceived as a glamorous cash-grab? We track its origins, including how the 90's yarlers Pearl Jam were instrumental in the festival's origins.LinksCoachella Was Born from a Boycott by IG: pop__economy Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Your super fans are on Instagram! A new report from music Luminate details how Instagram users are different from all other social media groups. Why do they buy more, spend more time with artists off-site, and engage with more music content? And how can you use that to connect your music to more people than ever before?LinksInstagram Impact Study by Luminate Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

What working musicians need to know about AI music. We share the unexpected acquisitions, under-the-radar features, latest lawsuits and even unexpected academic research behind the headlines. Subscribe for more AI music news without the hype.LinksSuno has acquired Songkick: What it means for Artists by Bruce Houghton for Hypebot Udio admits to scraping YouTube audio for AI training in answer to Sony Music lawsuit by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business WorldwideYouTube creators hit by music copyright claims can now replace tracks with AI – at the touch of a button by Tim Ingham for Music Business Worldwide Listeners Engage Less Deeply with Music Labeled as AI – Even When It's Actually Human-Made, Academic Study Finds by Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Is the concert industry cooked? Lackluster sales are causing artists to cancel shows—and even entire tours! What's behind the trend, what does it say about the music industry, and what does the data REALLY say?Links‘Blue dot fever’: the real reason pop stars are cancelling tours by Keiran Southern for The Times What ‘blue dot fever’? Live Nation CFO says ‘There is absolutely no data that supports any issues’ with ticket sales. by Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Indie musicians NEED to do this! Your songs aren't just content — they're your catalog! How can you protect your catalog from bad deals, and use your assets to your maximum advantage? We break it down.Links8 Ways Independent Artists Can Protect Their Masters in 2026 by Buzz Music LA Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Your content needs to go further! We've all been there: your music is great, but how do you get people to listen and care? That's where STRATEGY comes in. Whether you are a reluctant poster or a screentime junkie, you need a plan to turn your songs into evergreen content.LinksHow To Turn One Release Into an Evergreen Content Strategyby Randi Zimmerman for Symphonic Blog Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Inside the AI music scams targeting indie musicians!  Why are indie musicians particularly vulnerable to AI scams? We learn from some of the most recent scams to and look at why AI impersonation scams are impacting more artists than ever before.Links‘This Is Not Me’: Inside the AI Scams Driving Musicians Crazy by Jon Blistein for Rolling Stone Curtiss King YouTube Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

London police break up a fake vinyl operation! Inside a recent bust in London where police seized over $350,000 worth of fake merchandise.LinksThe Vinyl Comeback Has a Dark Side: London Police Shut Down Major Counterfeit Vinyl Operation—Over $350,000 in Dupe Discs Seized by Ashley King for Digital Music News Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Is ANYTHING real on the Internet? How did a small-time musician's observations about music promotion blow up the entire world of social media marketing? We trace a story that begins with the band Geese, travels to a little-known SXSW talk, and ends with us rethinking the entire landscape of social media marketing. This story contains a ton of helpful tips for how to get your music to more people. It ALSO contains food for thought that might make you wonder if ANYTHING is real online?LinksThe Fanfare Around the Band Geese Actually Was a Psyop by John Semley for Wired Fake Fans by Eliza McLamb, on her Substack "Words from Eliza" The Secret to How a Song Goes Viral on TikTok, With Digital Marketing Agency Chaotic Good by Billboard On The Record Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Don't make these mistakes! What's it take to stay safe and still have a good time during festival season? Our friends at No Creeps Movement and Gritty In Pink share some tips on how to get the most out of your festival tickets by ensuring the safety of everyone you came with.LinksNo Creeps Movement https://instagram.com/nocreepsmvmtGritty In Pink https://instagram.com/grittyinpinklifeStay Aware During Festival Season: Ways to Stay Safe While Still Having a Good Time by No Creeps Movement and Gritty In Pink https://www.instagram.com/p/DW10uNuicAY/Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

The end of ticket gouging?  Live Nation, which owns Ticketmaster, has been found guilty of operating an illegal monopoly and overcharging fans. Could the company be broken apart? Will this decision make it easier for musicians to operate successful tours? Will concert prices get cheaper? LinksTicketmaster-owner Live Nation ran a monopoly and overcharged fans, jury finds by Archie Mitchell and Kali Hays for BBC Live Nation and Ticketmaster lose antitrust trial: What happened, what it means, and what comes next by Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

CW: Murder, Child Abuse Reports and online speculation have been circulating around singer D4vd following alleged developments tied to an investigation in the Hollywood Hills.We break down everything currently being reported — what’s been confirmed, what remains unclear, and how this story has evolved over time. We also take a closer look at the potential legal implications.This is a developing situation. Details may change as more verified information becomes available.Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Do YOU want to play Coachella? It takes more than luck to play the big festivals. We discuss how to think strategically about your goals and approach your career with intention.LinksSo You Want a Set at Coachella? by IG: @beatcave.ca https://www.instagram.com/p/DXEy0uYjUck/Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

$10M to surf YouTube! Justin Bieber promised his Coachella performance would be an exciting comeback, then stunned audiences and critics with his laidback set, whose highlights included watching memes on YouTube. What does the Canadian superstar's new era of laidback stagecraft have to say about culture, stardom, and the passage of time?LinksJustin Bieber negotiated $10M fee without an agent, highest paid artist in Coachella history by IG @themailcart and IG @assistantsvsagentsCoachella 2026: Justin Bieber launches a major comeback in the desert by Benjamin Lee for The Guardian Justin Bieber at Coachella review – pop’s troubled prince mostly hits right notes in low-energy set by Adrian Horton for The Guardian At Coachella, Justin Bieber spends half an hour surfing YouTube by Timothy Karoff for SFGateSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We react to Kanye's comeback, his $33M SoFi Stadium performance, Anthony Fantano's reaction to "Ye's" new album "Bully" and updates on the backlash and evolving situation with cancelation of prominent UK "Wireless Festival"Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We talk boundaries! Cameron shares the reason why he says "no" first, and we talk about how establishing boundaries in your personal and professional life and help your creative career flourish. Next, TikTok and iHeartMedia are forming an unholy alliance, and generating some decent promo ideas in the process. What can you learn from their new partnership? In news, we discuss ElevenLabs' new Music Marketplace, get an update on TaTa Taktumi "signing" to Ne-Yo's Pacific Music Group, as well as discuss an exciting update for Artist Corporations, which represent a brand new way for artists to monetize and own both their work and their labor.Lastly, our Take It Or Leave It Advice is about building career momentum.Links5 Boundaries Every Artist Needs to Set by @kristinerapohina IGTikTok Radio launches on iHeartRadio, as TikTok ends SiriusXM partnership by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide iHeartMedia and TikTok say they developed ‘a new blueprint for artist launches’ with Bruno Mars’ ‘The Romantic’ by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide Having paid $11M to voice creators to date, ElevenLabs launches Music Marketplace to let its users monetize their AI-generated tracks by James Hanley for Music Business Worldwide TaTa Taktumi, Timbaland’s AI Artist, Signs to Ne-Yo’s Label, Pacific Music Group by Harry Levin for New Industry Focus Colorado to introduce A Corps by @artistcorporations IG ArtistCorporations.comSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

A recent SXSW panel has lifted the veil on Spotify playlist pitching, and we have the details. Then we talk about Afroman’s vindication in court over the cops who raided his house in ‘22. What can Chance The Rapper’s ongoing courtroom drama with his manager teach us about contracts? Finally, why is HYBE losing money despite BTS’s record-breaking album release?Along the way, we drop hot takes about The Beatles, Star Wars, cats, and more. And Cameron leaves you with some excellent advice in our Take It Or Leave It segment. LinksHow to pitch to Spotify by @unhurdmusicRapper Afroman wins lawsuit against police over mocking their 2022 raid in viral music videos by Associated Press Afroman keeps trolling cops after winning “Lemon Pound Cake” defamation case by Ars Technica Afroman - Lemon Pound CakeChance the Rapper prevails in legal battle with ex-manager by Selena Fragassi for Chicago Sun TimesBTS Smash K-Pop Records With New Album Arirang – But HYBE Shares Drop After Comeback Concert Draws Smaller Crowd Than Expected by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We close out our History of Music Production series on a high note with a fascinating discussion on the weird history of delay: from hijacking telephone wires to oil cans, it just keeps getting more bizarre. Next, pundits have been saying for a long time that rock music is dead and the future of music is country. But not so fast! Rock music seems to be having a cultural resurgence and we get into why.Then...whew. We have a music news extravaganza for you. First a few stories that serve to illustrate how the music industry is still alive and thriving—from Taylor Swift to boutique hotels. Next, surprising news about the Live Nation antitrust case (file also in the "It's not dead!" department); YouTube takes another crown as the world's largest media company; but it's the subject of an important AI lawsuit; Tidal may be gunning for Bandcamp's business; and Fender wins a lawsuit against Stratocaster copycats in Europe.Finally, we close out with Take It Or Leave It advice about how to be a better live performer.LinksThe Taylor Swift effect: US vinyl sales top $1bn for the first time since 1983 by Owen Myers for The Guardian US wholesale recorded music revenue reached $11.5B in 2025, as paid streaming subscriptions hit 106.5M — adding 6.5M accounts YoY by Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide UMG’s hospitality arm strikes JV with lifestyle investment group IMI to develop ‘music-led beach club concept’ by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide Rock Music Fastest Growing Genre by Substream Magazine Live Nation antitrust trial resumes as 30+ states push on despite DOJ settlement by James Hanley for Music Business Worldwide YouTube Lays Claim to Another Crown: The World’s Largest Media Company by Alex Werpin for Hollywood Reporter Tidal Introduces New Feature Allowing Artists to Selel Music Directly to Fans Indie artists sue Google, claiming it mined music from YouTube to train Lyria 3 AI music tool by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide Fender secures legal ruling to protect the Stratocaster body design  by Matt Owen for Guitar World Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Our History of Music Production series rolls on with the history of reverb. Just think: they used to dig underground chambers to get the sound that now comes free with every DAW. Next, we discuss a great post by the music marketer Finch Bergling about some things more important than Spotify, which turned into an extended chat on the power of PR.In AI news: you still can't copyright generated material, Charlie Puth has joined an AI music creation platform, and Apple begins requiring distributors to label AI-generated music and assets. Also, listen as we change our slogan in real time, and discuss some truly spectacular Take It Or Leave It advice about reverb.Links12 things more important than Spotify streams by Finch Bergling Charlie Puth joins AI music creation platform Moises as Chief Music Officer by James Hanley for Music Business Worldwide Apple Music launches AI transparency tags — but only if labels and distributors declare them by Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We continue our History of Music Production series (the name for which we can not remember during our recording session!) with a look at the history of equalizers, aka EQ. After that, industry leaders are taking aim at Suno. We look at a couple open letters written by some prominent industry watchers. Don't let the AI bros fool you into thinking AI music is inevitable! Speaking of AI, Sony has released several papers about how their AI detection technology works, and where it still falls short. And a big change is coming to how artists get paid when their music is played on TikTok. Finally, we respond to handful of comments you've all made online. Thank you for joining us, asking questions, challenging us, and even calling out our mistakes! Lastly, our Take It Or Leave It segment explores the two most common things you will do with EQ, which is adding or subtracting—knowing this will seriously help your mixes!LinksOpen Letter: Say No to SUNO by Music Technology Policy An open letter to Suno’s Mikey Shulman by Tim Ingham for Music Business Worldwide Sony Group’s Blueprint for AI Music Detection Tech is Promising. Here’s What It’s Working On… by Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide TikTok Is Changing How Music Artists Gets Paid in 2026 by IG @successwithsound Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Our History of Music Production series carries on with the history of compressors and limiters—from the early radio days to today's exciting plugins and everything in between. This series is not a tutorial, but a bit of background and context so you really know what you're talking about in your next session. Next, Jeffrey Epstein's unrealized plans for the music industry have been revealed. It's as vile as you think, but it says a lot about how elites think of the industry as well as the women who populate it. Composer and Radiohead guitarist Jonny Greenwood thinks that music should be elevated above the concerns of politics. We discuss his remarks, and we actually don't entirely disagree with him. In news, Google is making big strides in the AI music production scene with a big acquisition, we'll talk about how that shakes up the AI industry, and close out with a look at Soundcloud's latest report, with tons of actionable items for underground musicians and labels.LinksInside Jeffrey Epstein’s unrealized “P factor” plan for EMI by Casey Epstein-Gross for No Creeps! LA Radiohead’s Jonny Greenwood: ‘I’m surprised we all enjoyed the tour so much’ by Richard Morrison for The Times Google Acquires AI Music Platform – and SUNO Challenger – ProducerAi by Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide Soundcloud 2026 Music Intelligence Report Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We continue our History of Music Production series with the history of microphones. Then we take a look at some prominent hip hop music college programs, and discuss what the state of hip hop in higher education says about the times we live in (also, Cameron reveals some more of his lore). In news, we discuss Casey Wasserman selling his namesake agency, Spotify's next "AI Derivatives" move, UMG's acquisition of Downtown, and finally finally(!) get some clarity on what Sony's AI strategy is. Our Take It Or Leave It advice is all about microphone technique.LinksThe first human voice recorded World's oldest recordings Princeton Launches Spring 2026 Course Centering Women as Architects of Hip-Hop by The Source Casey Wasserman to Sell Talent Agency Amid Fallout Over Epstein Files (Report) by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide Spotify eyes AI ‘derivatives’ as new revenue stream for artists – says its tech to let fans make remixes and covers is ready by Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide UMG's Downtown Acquisition Approved by EU Competition Regulator by James Hanley for Music Business Worldwide Sony Group Launches New Tech to Track Copyrighted Material in AI-Generated Music by Harry Levin for New Industry Focus  Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We kick off our "History of Music Production" series with The History of Mixing and Mastering: what is mixing, how does it differ from mastering? Then, Casey Wasserman, founder and CEO of Wasserman agency, who represents a huge swath of the music industry, is in the Epstein files, and his clients and employees are speaking out. Udio and Suno have differing visions for the future of AI music. Finally, Cameron leaves you with some sage advice about how to fix your most common mix issues.LinksBethany Cosentino Calls on Wasserman CEO to Step Down Over Epstein Emails by Hattie Lindert for Pitchfork Wednesday leaves Wasserman over CEO’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein Music Agents Give Casey Wasserman Ultimatum: Leave Over Epstein Ties or They Will  by Sharon Waxman for The Wrap Universal and Suno are in a PR battle over ‘walled gardens’ in AI musicby Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide ElevenLabs, Creator of SUNO Rival Eleven Music, Raises $500M at $11BN Valuation by Music Business WorldwideSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Plus, how can you keep your venue safe from ICE? We have a checklist that will help you prepare. Also, Spotify and the major labels are suing activist and archive group Anna's Archive for 13 trillion dollars (that's "trillion" with a "T"). Then, which musicians are in the Epstein files so far? Finally, this week's Take It Or Leave It advice helps your songs get more radio play.LinksWomen Won Big at the Grammy Awards and Used Their Platform for Good by @amplifyhervoice Bon Iver Talks about the Whistle on His Jacket" by @rollingstone "You give America color" by @revolt This is what Using Your Platform for Good Looks Like... by @naacp The Queer Artists Who Won At the 2026 Grammys by @soundfynd Preparing for Immigration Enforcement: Keeping Music and Performing Arts Venues, Staff, Artists, and Audiences Safe by Tamizdat Red Cards / Tarjetas Rojas by Immigrant Legal Resource Center Spotify, Major Labels Sue Anna’s Archive for $13 Trillion by Rod Yates for New Industry Focus Jay-Z, Harvey Weinstein and Pusha T mentioned in latest batch of Epstein files released to public by Poppy Burton NME Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

It's a new year and many of us are thinking about how to plan out our music drops. How should you plan your year? And what about your music video strategy? We look at how music videos remain relevant—and how they don't.Next, a major shift has taken place in the social media landscape with the transfer of TikTok to its new (rightwing billionaire) American owners. What does this mean for the future of the platform, and your fans out there who rely on it to connect with you?Scott LeGere is a major name in the Minnesota music industry, and his recent blog post about the future of music education in light of ICE raids gives us a lot to unpack— from the decision on where to begin your music career, to whether or not music even matters in the face of growing authoritarianism.In news, we look at a new deal between Udio and Merlin, and then yet another Ye apology. Gee, guys, do you think he means it this time?LinksThe Best and Worst Months to Release Music in 2026 by Randi Zimmerman for Symphonic Do music videos still matter in 2026? by IG @shesaid.so Are New Owners Censoring TikTok? Top Democrats, Influencers, Celebrities Raising Concerns by Conor Murray for Forbes TikTok users freak out over app’s ‘immigration status’ collection — here’s what it means by Sarah Perez for TechCrunch Can My Minnesota Classrooms Still be About Opportunity? By Scott LeGere on his Substack Udio Signs New AI Licensing Agreement with Merlin by Harry Levin for New Industry Focus To Those I've Hurt By Ye Formerly known as Kanye West Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Bandcamp recently announced, "music and audio that is generated wholly or in substantial part by AI is not permitted on Bandcamp." But what does that mean, and how will they enforce it? We dive in. In good news, we share a fundraising effort by Fender and Habitat for Humanity to raise money for housing in LA by auctioning custom guitars made from trees affected by last year's fires. Then we discuss a new global initiative by Universal Music Group to empower music education. Is it a good thing, or just another corporate cashgrab?Stay to the end for this week's Take It Or Leave It advice, which has to do with doomscrolling.LinksKeeping Bandcamp HumanAI companies will fail. We can salvage something from the wreckageby Cory Doctorow for The Guardian Fender Is Turning Fire-Damaged Trees Into Custom Guitars To Help Rebuild Altadena After The Eaton Fire – Here’s How by Sarah Nash for Secret Los Angeles GiveButter - Altadena Telecaster Universal Music Group Launches 'Sound generation' Education Pilot in the UKby Rafaela Fornitani for Music Business Worldwide Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We have roots in Minneapolis, and felt we couldn't have just a regular episode given the murder of Renee Good in Minneapolis at the hands of ICE agents. What can musicians do in times like this? We read Renee Good's wife's statement in its entirety, as a way of honoring her memory and life's work. Next: Spotify has said they're no longer running ICE ads but it's not because of a moral stance. We talk about how independent journalism is a form of resistance, and what lessons we can learn as musicians from the fracturing news media landscape—and what they could learn from us. In news, we look at one company (Bose) making some pro-consumer moves, discuss Elon's lawsuit against music publishers (how much money is enough for this guy?), and finally look at a class action lawsuit claiming that Ticketmaster is surveilling its customers illegally. This week's Take It Or Leave It advice has to do with how to set up your vocal chain when recording.Note, we recorded this episode January 12, 2025 and the situation is rapidly unfolding in Minneapolis.LinksBecca Good, Wife of Renee, Releases Statement: "We Had Whistles. They Had Guns" by Samantha Riedel for Them Spotify won’t say it’s done with ICE by Casey Epstein-Gross for Paste How independent journalism is a form of resistance: ‘I’m not answering to anyone’ by Mallory Carra for The Guardian Bose is open-sourcing its old smart speakers instead of bricking them by Stevie Bonifield for The Verge Elon Musk's X sues music publishers, alleges industry 'collusion' by Tim Ingham for Music Business Worldwide Ticketmaster faces lawsuit over allged website tracking and 'surveillance' tools  by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We're back for 2026 with a look at the Grammy's. Are they still relevant? What's it take to get nominated? Is being part of the Grammy's something indie artists should aspire to? Next we look at how rap is embracing the visual art world. YouTube is set to stop reporting to Billboard because of a disagreement between the two organizations about how free streams should be counted. Finally, Spotify has been hacked! Who did it, what did they steal, and how can you get in on it?Plus we're adding a brand new weekly segment called "Take It Or Leave It" where we drop some quick knowledge for you to take or leave as you please. Stick around to the end to hear it!LinksThe Data Behind The 2026 GRAMMY Awards by New Industry Focus 2026 GRAMMYS Nominations: Record Of The Year Nominees 21 Savage & Slawn Kid Cudi Reinvents Himself as Scotty Ramon, a Visual ArtistA$AP Ferg Painted His Album CoversArt is Back on Album Covers in 2025 YouTube removed from Billboard charts by Resident AdvisorPirate Activist Group Spotify Hack By Mitchell Peters for BillboardSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Kids, mom and dad love you very much, but things got a little hectic this holiday season, so we just got you something small... a Christmas mini-episode! We talk about holiday music strategy, trends in Christmas music—including why it starts so early now—and how and why musicians choose to do so many Christmas songs. It may be a little late for this year, but we'll set you up to succeed for next year.LinksOPINION: Modern Christmas music doesn’t hold up by Ashley Ragone for The SignalIs Christmas Starting Earlier and Earlier for the Music Industry? by Ashley King for Digital Music News Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

They say politics make for strange bedfellows, and that's never been more true than when The Wholesome Music Podcast is forced to give props to Gene Simmons (who is gross). He recently testified before US Congress, urging them to close the loophole that lets radio stations not pay for music. Next, we catch up on iHeartRadio's efforts to brand themselves as "Guaranteed Human," and finally we look at investments Jay Z is making in K-pop and "K-culture" and what that could mean for the future of music.Links'That's Called robbery': Gene Simmons Urges US Congress to End Loophole That Allows Radio Stations Not To Pay for Using Recordings By Daniel Tencer for Music Business Worldwide iHeartRadio Exec Says Company Won't 'Play AI Music' or Use 'AI Generated Personalities' in Staff Memo by Billboard Jay-Z’s MarcyPen Capital eyes $500m Korean culture investment fund in partnership with Hanwha Asset Management by Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide Gene Simmons testifies at Senate hearing about American Music Fairness Act | full video Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Are you sure that Spotify actually knows what your musical taste is? And do you really want to outsource your opinions to a profit-driven algorithm? It's Spotify Wrapped season! Next, we look at 2025 vinyl sales trends. Vinyl is on the rise, but why? And what do you need to know about vinyl for your own career? Finally, we talk songwriting: mega-songwriter Dan Wilson shares great tips on songwriting, and we discuss natural language, why it's dominating the charts, and how you can use it in your songs!LinksThis Spotify Wrapped season, don’t outsource your love of music to AI by Liz Pelly for The Guardian Vinyl Sales On Track to Grow for the 19th Year in a Row by FraimNaturalistic Language from Dan Wilson Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

This episode has a decidedly backwards-looking approach. Did you know the last time a band had a #1 song on the US charts was all the way back in 2001? We dig into why are there so few bands in the charts these days. Next we look at two retro trends and discuss if they're linked as well as what they say about tech backlash in the music industry. Finally, we talk about why local music is in decline in Australia, why that matters globally, and what can be done about it.LinksAre bands becoming obsolete in the era of Spotify and individual stardom? by Dave Van Dyke, President Bridge Ratings Media Research Why Aren't Kids Starting Bands? - MattyBallz‘Everyone’s in Sync’: Phone Ban on NYC Dance Floors Is Getting Rave Reviewsby Alexandra E. Petri for New York Times Why are MP3 players making a comeback? By Dazed Australian local music is in decline, and UK, Canada aren't far behind by Music Business Worldwide Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Should YOU register your music with the copyright office? Our final installment on How Musicians Get Paid has answers! Next, in the spirt of Thanksgiving we talk about what we're grateful for in our music careers this year. After that: a major spate of music industry and AI collaborations were announced... but what does it actually mean? We discuss the backlash to Tidal's new upload program, then look at a few hip hop artists still making moves in 2025 (Hip Hop is not dead!).Be sure to check the links for our our copyright guide!LinksDownload Our Free Music Copyright GuideMusic Copyright Basics: Do Musicians Really Need To Copyright Their Songs by D4 Music MarketingUnited States Copyright Office - Register WorksUMG, Sony, and Warner Strike Licensing Deals with New AI Music Platform KLAY by Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide WMG settles Udio lawsuit, strikes licensing deal for ‘next-generation’ AI music platform coming in 2026 by Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide WMG strikes deal with Stability AI to ‘build the next generation of responsible AI tools for music creation’ by Murray Stassen for Music Business Worldwide UMG strikes strategic alliance with Stability AI to develop ‘next-generation’ AI music-making tools by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide Universal Music settles Udio lawsuit, strikes deal for licensed AI music platform by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide TikTok is testing limiting AI generated content in user feeds by Music Business WorldwideTyler, The Creator named Apple Music’s Artist of the Year for 2025 Travis Scott Closes His 'Historic Chapter' As He Breaks Solo Rap Tour Sales Record By Tomás Mier for Rolling Stone Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Part three of our "How Musicians Get Paid" series zeroes in on how performers get paid, including the ins and outs of distribution, SoundExchange, and a couple little-known revenue sources for session musicians. We look at TIDAL's new direct upload feature and what this means for indie musicians and the culture. We profile a recent Spotify acquisition and their new efforts to offer more robust credits and discuss SUNO's new fundraising. Finally, we react to "Walk My Walk," the new AI-generated song that is actually charting in the Billboard country charts.LinksHow Songwriters, Composers, and Performers Get Paid by copyright.govTIDAL Announces New Upload Feature for Indie Artists by Rod Yates for New Industry Focus Spotify acquires music database WhoSampled by Sarah Perez for TechCrunch Spotify to Offer More Song Credit Information by Harry Levin for New Industry Focus Suno Raises $250 Million in Latest Round of Series C Funding by Harry Levin for New Industry Focus Breaking Rust's "Walk My Walk," an AI-Generated Song, Tops Billboard Country Digital Song Sales by HypeBeast "Walk My Walk" videoSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Part two of our "How musicians get paid" series dives into how songwriters make money, followed by a discussion on publishing deals. Then we break down Spotify’s new “payola” lawsuit, look at Ireland’s universal basic income for musicians, and talk about Kanye West’s recent public apology. A lil’ music-biz, a lil’ legal tea, and a whole lot of game for songwriters trying to level up.LinksHow Songwriters, Composers, and Performers Get Paid by Copyright.gov Class Action Lawsuit Accuses Spotify of Engaging in "Payola" in Discover Mode By Daniel Kreps for Rolling StoneIrish government to pay musicians basic income of €325 a weekby HeadlinerCalls grow for basic income scheme for artists in England and Wales after Ireland’s success by Gabrielle Pickard-Whitehead for Left Foot ForwardIreland vs United States - Cost of Living Comparison by LivingCost.orgKanye West Apology VideoSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

For months we've been promising you a breakdown on how to get paid in the music industry, and we launch part one of this discussion with a quick overview on the history of music copyright, to help us understand why music copyright is so convoluted. After that, we look at why there are no rap songs in the Billboard Top 40 — the first time since 1990. In AI news, ASCAP, BMI, and SOCAN have announced new plans to accept some kinds of AI authorship. Next, we cheer on Billie Eilish for calling out Mark Zuckerberg for being a POS billionaire. Finally, what does the beef between Cam'Ron and J. Cole about their song "Ready '24" teach us about contracts and split sheets?LinksHow Songwriters, Composers, and Performers Get Paid by United States Copyright Office The Brief History of Mechanical Royalties and Music in the U.S.January 21, 2021 by Jeffrey E. Jacobson for The Jacobson Firm Ernest Bourget's Revolution in Music Rights for Mone Tunes No Rap Songs Are in the Billboard Hot 100’s Top 40 for the First Time Since 1990 by Andrew Unterberger for Billboard.com ASCAP, BMI and SOCAN align on musical compositions using AI tools alongside human authorship by Andre Paine for Music Week Billie Eilish Calls Out Mark Zuckerberg and Other Billionaires After Announcing Her Own $11.5 Million Charitable Donation by Scoop Harrison for Consequence Cam’Ron Takes Legal Action Against J. Cole Over Their Song “Ready ’24” Claims He Wasn’t Properly Compensated by Jamal Osborne for Hollywood Unlocked Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Can you place creative restrictions on yourself and actually grow as an artist? We use a fun blog post as a jumping off point to discuss how "doing less" can actually fuel your process. Next, we look at how Billboard is tweaking its "Hot 100" charts, and what that means for who will chart (or not). Lizzo—no stranger to lawsuits—is facing another one about an unreleased song, presenting an interesting wrinkle in how samples are monetized. We celebrate Chappell Roan's Midwest Princess Project which is donating hundreds of thousands of dollars to LGBTQ+ organizations, and finally look at YouTube's massive $8B music industry payout and implications for your social media output, as well as the music industry as a whole. LinksRestrict yourself to grow as an artist by Scott Aumann, originally featured on The Legit Musician blog via Indie on the Move After months of the same songs on the Hot 100, 'Billboard' tweaks its rulesby Stephen Thompson for NPR Lizzo sued for alleged copyright violation in unreleased song snippet referencing Sydney Sweeney jeans ad by Daniel Tencer for Music Business Worldwide Chappell Roan Launches The Midwest Princess Project for LGBTQ+ Supportby Ron Yates for New Industry Focus YouTube’s ‘twin engine of ads and subscriptions is firing on all cylinders,’ says Lyor Cohen, as platform makes $8bn+ payout to the music industry over the past year by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Finally it's gig day! After all the rehearsals and promotion, it's time to jump on stage and show the crowd what you've got. How do you make the best of this day, make sure it goes smoothly, and get the most of your opportunity? We'll share some hard-earned experiences and lessons. Next, we look at SoundExchange's new global AI registry, what it does (and doesn't) do. Then, our first villain Timbaland (see ep. 3 for more) returns with a new AI artist called Tata Taktumi, and we react to "her" music video. Next we discuss UMG's new influencer app and initiative called "House of Carmen" before turning our attention to Beatport's new ticketing initiative and what it could mean for the future of ticketing in the music industry. In this episode, observe Cameron desperately try and hold it together as Augustus uses his most egregiously thick Minnesota accent to throw him (and everyone) off their game.LinksSoundExchange Developing Global AI Sound Recording Registry https://www.soundexchange.com/news/soundexchange-developing-global-ai-sound-recording-registry/Beatport Launches Ticketing Platform Exclusively for Dance Music Events by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/beatport-launches-ticketing-platform-exclusively-for-dance-music-events/Timbaland Debuts AI ‘Artist’ TaTa Taktumi’s First Music Video and It’s as ‘Soulless’ as You Expected It To Be by By Stephen Andrew Galiher for Vice https://www.vice.com/en/article/timbaland-debuts-ai-artist-tata-taktumis-first-music-video-and-its-as-soulless-as-you-expected-it-to-be/Tata Taktumi - Glitch x Pulse (Official Music Video) https://youtu.be/JXFn32yhvh4?si=GOYc4vR5zq3R_py8Beatport Launches Ticketing Platform Exclusively for Dance Music Events by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/beatport-launches-ticketing-platform-exclusively-for-dance-music-events/Build excitement for your tour with Set Lists via Apple Music https://artists.apple.com/support/5551-build-excitement-for-tour-set-listsSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We break down how to pitch yourself as an artist — from telling your story and defining your “why” to stating your artistic pedigree. Next we also unpack Bob Brody’s piece “Stay True to Yourself – and Fly Closer to the Sun” and his lessons from 50 years of rejection. Then we look at how Portland’s music scene stood up to Live Nation–Ticketmaster, and dive into Spotify’s new ChatGPT integration that’s changing how artists get discovered. Finally, we briefly dunk on Drake for losing his lawsuit against Kendrick Lamar.Links‘Stay true to yourself – and fly closer to the sun’: what I’ve learned from 50 years of rejection via The GuardianMusicians Against Live Nation–Ticketmaster via JacobinSpotify Brings Music Recommendations to ChatGPT Via New Integration via Music Business Worldwide‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Now Has Four Songs in Top 10, a Historic First via VarietySir Lucian Grainge on UMG’s AI policy: ‘We will NOT license AI models that use an artist’s voice without their consent.’ via Music Business WorldwideTaylor Swift’s ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ shatters US sales records, dominates singles chart via Music Business WorldwideDrake lawsuit against UMG over Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ dismissed by US court via Music Business WorldwideSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We discuss a marketing masterclass to help you cut through the noise and get your music heard. Then we look at the newest AI detection measures from Spotify, Universal, and Sony Music. We share Ed Sheeran's plan for his posthumous album. Then we deploy our dueling hot takes about ticket prices. Finally, we look at the new D4VD updates (with a CW for violence and grooming).LinksSymphonic Masterclass Recap: Fueling Your Next Release with Marketing Drivers by Randi ZimmermanSpotify has deleted 75m+ ‘spammy tracks’ – as it unveils new AI music policiesBy Murray Stassen for Music Business WorldwideUniversal and Sony Music partner with new platform to detect AI music copyright theft using ‘groundbreaking neural fingerprinting’ technology by Daniel Tencer for Music Business WorldwideEd Sheeran Says Wife Cherry Will Help Him Select Songs for Posthumous Album Eject: 'It's Actually in My Will' By Marina Watts for PeopleSpotify is Now in Serato DJ"Ticketmaster CEO says concert tickets are too cheap!"Justin Bieber has made history as the highest-paid performer in CoachellaEven, direct to fan Platform expandsSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We answer one of the most commonly asked questions in music: how do I legally cover other people's songs? Hint: it's easier than you think! Then we take a deep dive into all the agencies, labels, artists, and genres behind this year's Coachella, and what the data reveals about the state of the music industry. Next we discuss tools and strategies for avoiding burnout when it comes to the business side of your career. Then some news about Kate Hudson, Green Day, and songwriter Julia Michaels' new label, GFY Records. And an update on the D4VD story.BONUS: We got through an entire episode without talking about AI!LinksWho Booked Coachella? The companies & data behind 2026's lineup by Mark Williamson, CEO of The ROSTR GroupHow To Build a Scalable Music Business Without Selling Your Soulby Randi Zimmerman for Symphonic BlogCops Search House for Near Tesla D4VD Location via TMZGreen Day References 'Boogie Nights' Dialog During Acceptance Speech at iHeartRadio Music AwardsSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Like it or not, gatekeepers are a part of the music industry. We talk about some ways to connect with gatekeepers, and help you get a "Yes!" Next, we discuss how Bad Bunny is protecting his audience from ICE by skipping America on his upcoming world tour. We look at 21 Pilots' lawsuit against Temu, what King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard are doing on Bandcamp, get juicy with the D4VD gossip, and round it out with a Kanye West's Donda Academy — who could have possibly expected Ye wasn't up to the job of running a school?LinksBad Bunny skipping America on his world tour because of fears of ICEby Suzy Exposito in i-D21 pilots Suing Temu for Merch Trademark Infringement by Daniel Tercer in Music Business WorldwideKing Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard are back in the news this week with a Bandcamp story by Lars Brandle for Billboard.comFree albums from The GizzSinger D4VD Body Found In Tesla, first day of tour - Gave away FREE Labubus in Minneapolis same day via TMZBreaking Bad's - Raymond Cruz arrested for hosing down his neighbor's daughter with water via TMZKANYE HAS TO GO TO COURT - The Rise & Fall of Donda Acadeny via TMZSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Everyone's talking about AI and algorithms but there are still plenty of people and places to find human-curated music, so we highlight a few places to look. Next we profile UMAW — United Musicians and Allied Workers — who have been doing great work to support indie and DIY musicians. We talk about some tools designed to automate your music marketing, and go over the latest on tariffs and vinyl.LinksWhy Local Radio Is The Antidote To Your Algorithm Blues by Elliott Nielson for Mixcloud BlogBandcamp Launches Human-Curated 'Bandcamp Clubs' at $13 a Month by Daniel Tencer for Music Business WorldwideUMAW Is Changing How We Think About Musicians’ Rights by Ryan Dombal for Hearing ThingsAs AI Reshapes Music, Artists Embrace Marketing Automation by Andrea Zarczynski for ForbesVinyl records and CDs spared from Donald Trump’s new US import tariffs by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business WorldwideSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We talk about what we've learned from years of running DIY spaces, events, and groups, and how you can apply these lessons to your own career. Then we go over some great tips for SEO and discoverability for musicians. On the AI front, we discuss a new generative AI model that claims to be fully licensed (and how we might be wrong about AI slop), look at the latest developments on Suno's indie artist lawsuit, and how a lawsuit in the book publishing industry could impact musicians. Finally we look a couple new features from streamers, including YouTube Hype and Spotify's messages.LinksSEO for Musicians: Why It Matters and How To Use It by Randi Zimmerman for Symphonic Blog https://blog.symphonic.com/2025/07/15/seo-for-musicians-why-it-matters-and-how-to-use-it-2/Beatoven.ai Luanches 'Fully Licensed' Music AI Model - With Artist Payouts https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/beatoven-ai-launches-fully-licensed-music-ai-model-with-artist-payouts/Anthropic Settles Authors' Lawsuit Over Pirated Books ... And It Could Be a Gift for Universal Music Group's Lawyers  by Mandy Dalugdug for Music Business Worldwide https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/anthropic-settles-authors-lawsuit-over-pirated-books-and-it-could-be-a-gift-for-universal-music-groups-lawyers/Suno argues none of the millions of tracks made on its platform ‘contain anything like a sample’ by Tim Ingham for Music Business Worldwide https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/suno-argues-none-of-the-millions-of-tracks-made-on-its-platform-contain-anything-like-a-sample/Spotify: Introducing Messages, A New Way To Share What You Love on Spotify with Friends and Family https://newsroom.spotify.com/2025-08-26/introducing-messages-a-new-way-to-share-what-you-love-on-spotify-with-friends-and-family/Hype: Giving Fans a Stake in the Success of Their Favorite Emerging Creators https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/youtube-hype/Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We discuss the the pros and cons of email marketing vs social media. Then we highlight an artist who has quit social media and streaming entirely. We discuss the new ASCAP and BMI rate increases for radio, go over a service to promote live events on YouTube, and discuss how the streaming economy is unflattening as streaming services look to capitalize on superfans. We talk about Lil Nas X, Taylor and Travis, Chance The Rapper's comeback, and finally Apple Music's new LA studios.LinksPromoting Your Music: Email vs Social Media Marketing by Musician Indie Coalition on Indie On The Move https://www.indieonthemove.com/blog/2024/8/promoting-your-music-email-vs-social-media-marketingWhy I Pulled My Music from Spotify, YouTube, and Social Media—for Goodby Scott Helmer for Indieonthemove https://www.indieonthemove.com/blog/2025/8/why-i-pulled-my-music-from-spotify-youtube-and-social-media-for-goodAscap and BMI strike deals to increase US radio royalty rates by Stuart Dredge https://musically.com/2025/08/20/ascap-and-bmi-strike-deals-to-increase-us-radio-royalty-rates/BMI, ASCAP Secure Big Radio Rate Hikes With RMLC SettlementsBy Cameron Coats https://radioink.com/2025/08/19/bmi-secures-record-radio-rate-hike-with-rmlc-settlement/Bandsintown Inks YouTube Deal to Become Platform's Exclusive Provder of Concert Listings by by Tim Ingham on Music Business Worldwide https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/bandsintown-inks-youtube-deal-to-become-platforms-exclusive-provider-of-concert-listings/The unflattening of streaming by Mark Mulligan for Midia Research https://www.midiaresearch.com/blog/the-unflattening-of-streamingSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

Are music lawyers the biggest secret in the music industry? How do major labels ACTUALLY recoup your money — the math is worse than you think! What is "Fair Use" and how is it impacting YouTube? How songwriters are adapting to the new rules of the music industry. Also, Cameron drops his Chappell Roan hot take.LinksFair Use: https://copyright.wp.musiclibraryassoc.org/statement-on-the-copyright-law-and-fair-use-in-music/More Fair Use: https://digitalpromise.org/initiative/360-story-lab/360-production-guide/investigate/360-media/post-production/copyright-fair-use/How Music Attorneys Help Artists Navigate Confusing Record Contracts in a Post-Streaming Revolution, Chappell Roan-Enlightened World by Todd Longwell for Variety https://variety.com/2025/biz/entertainment-industry/music-attorneys-help-artists-navigate-confusing-contracts-1236474097/Recoupment: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RecoupmentRecording contracts: https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/recording-contract2.htmThe music business is splitting in two. Here’s why songwriters are reinventing their role by Tatiana Cirisano via MIDiA Research https://www.hypebot.com/hypebot/2025/07/how-the-songwriters-are-reinventing-their-role-in-a-divided-industry.htmlMIDiA Research Bifurcation Report: https://www.midiaresearch.com/bifurcationTranter's Label Will Be First to Give Master Points to Songwriters by Music Connection https://www.musicconnection.com/tranters-label-will-be-first-to-give-songwriters-master-points/Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

A number of established artists are leaving Spotify. Should you? Should we? How artists support each other as they stand up against the genocide in Gaza. Yung Thug and the RAP act. The collective building the next Bandcamp. We have an update on Super Fans. We spotlight ONErpm. What's YouTube doing to combat AI slop on their platform? And how can artists use AI to help their careers — without generating songs?LinksMassive Attack, Kneecap, Brian Eno, Fontaines D.C. announce formation of musicians’ alliance to repel Zionist attacks by David Walsh https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/07/21/ckjv-j21.htmlMusic Industry Backs Reintroduced ‘RAP ACT’ That Would Bar Lyrics From Being Used As Evidence In US Court Trials by Daniel Tencer via Music Business Worldwide https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/music-industry-backs-reintroduced-rap-act-that-would-bar-lyrics-from-being-used-as-evidence-in-us-court-trials/Subvert https://subvert.fm/Super Listeners https://artists.spotify.com/blog/super-listeners-your-guide-for-developing-fans-who-go-deeperONErpm’s Emmanuel Zunz: ‘There Are No more Distribution Companies, There Are No More Record Labels. There Are Just Companies Providing Solutions to Creators.’ by Dave Roberts via Music Business Worldwide https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/onerpm-emmanuel-zunz-no-more-record-labels/Humanable - certified non-generative AI https://www.humanable.comIt Looks Like YouTube Is Getting Serious About Eliminating AI Slop by Bobby Owsinksi for Music 3.0 Blog https://music3point0.com/2025/07/11/it-looks-like-youtube-is-getting-serious-about-eliminating-ai-slop/I created a music manager with AI. Here's how... by Musicben on their Substack https://ziggyziggymusic.substack.com/p/i-created-a-music-manager-with-aiSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

We got so excited to talk about DIY music videos that we came back around for another round. When should you shoot vertical or horizontal? How can you find great locations? What video editing software is best?After that, we look at the proliferation of music business education. How does a degree stack up against real-world experience? We talk about superfans, their importance, and caveats when promoting to them. What kinds of communities will develop as a backlash against AI music? And a look at how Soundcloud updated their AI policy.🎵 Superfans are deeply engaged fans who actively support artists beyond casual listening🎥 How to make affordable DIY music videos🎓 Music education is shifting from hands-on internships to degree programs, but practical experience remains essential🤝 The roles of managers and agents are increasingly overlapping, especially in the indie music scene🤖 SoundCloud clarified it does not train generative AI on artists’ music, focusing AI on discovery and support instead💼 The EU is investigating Universal’s $775 million acquisition of Downtown Music Group due to antitrust concerns🌐 How music culture is fragmenting across decentralized platforms, with superfans driving engagement and communityLinksEveryone’s A Manager Now by Maria Picard for The B-Side https://nouxme.substack.com/p/everyones-a-manager-nowSuperfans Must Be Made, Not Just Mined by Sammy Andrews, on Music Business Worldwide https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/superfans-must-be-made-not-just-mined/SoundCloud Updates AI Policy in Terms of Use After Backlash By Nina Corcoran at Pitchfork https://pitchfork.com/news/soundcloud-updates-ai-policy-in-terms-of-use-after-backlash/Send us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

What's it take to make a DIY music video? Also, some rare good news from the government in 2025: the HITS act is a new tax break for indie musicians! We discuss layoffs at Warner Music Group. And what's the latest news for TikTok, and what does it mean for musicians?LinksSoundCloud Still Matters for Emerging Artists - Here’s Why by Ben Jolley on Chartmetric.com https://hmc.chartmetric.com/soundcloud-trends-2025-josh-baker-electronic/HITS Act becomes law in a Big Win For Independent Artists by Randi Zimmerman via Symphonic Blog https://www.hypebot.com/hypebot/2025/07/hits-act-becomes-law-in-a-big-win-for-indie-artists.htmlWarner Music Group announces $170 million in layoffs as part of larger restructuring plan by Kaitlyn Huamani for LA Times https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2025-07-01/warner-music-announces-mass-layoffs-larger-restructuring-planSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services

What is “adding value” on social media? How can musicians use their platform to help others? Zines and other forms of physical media are making a comeback. The co-founder of Kickstarter introduces artist corporations. The death of the middle class musician. We also wade into the fake AI bands controversy, including Velvet Sundown. LinksSocial Media Replaced Zines. Now Zines Are Taking the Power Back by C. Brandon Ogbunu for Wired https://www.wired.com/story/zines-social-media-power/The Death of the Middle-Class Musician by Lucy Rinaldi for The Walrus https://thewalrus.ca/the-death-of-the-middle-class-musician/Why Artist Corporations? by Yancey Strickler https://ideaspace.ystrickler.com/p/why-artist-corporationsYancey Strickler Ted Talk https://youtu.be/iLhFAWKCE0M?feature=shared“The Grammys” for AI Music? Entries Open for Groundbreaking Song Contest from the Fanvue World AI Creator Awards - as Millions of Creators Make Music with AI https://www.morningstar.com/news/globe-newswire/9490722/the-grammys-for-ai-music-entries-open-for-groundbreaking-song-contest-from-the-fanvue-world-ai-creator-awards-as-millions-of-creators-make-music-with-aiSend us Fan MailSubscribe on YouTubeRecorded ourselves at Secret Spot DTLACameron Ljungkull Augustus Watkins Cocaine Opera - Music PR | Artist & Label Services