Episodes

  • In this episode of the Music Explored podcast, hosts Dee and Anthony engage in a captivating conversation with Nick Holmsten, a music and tech visionary who played a pivotal role in transforming the music industry. They discuss Nick's journey from being an aspiring artist to becoming the global head of music at Spotify, exploring the evolution of playlists, the impact of streaming on music consumption, and the challenges new artists face in today's competitive landscape. The conversation highlights the importance of music discovery, the shift towards mood-based playlists, and the transparency that platforms like Spotify have brought to the industry. In this conversation, Nick Holmsten discusses the evolving landscape of the music industry, emphasizing the importance of building a dedicated fanbase and the reality of achieving success in music today.

    He draws parallels between music and sports, highlighting the necessity of talent and hard work. Holmsten also shares insights on his work with TSX Entertainment, aiming to recreate the immersive experiences of past entertainment eras, particularly in iconic locations like Times Square. He reflects on the motivations behind his book, which aims to redefine the relationship between artists and fans in the modern age, stressing the need for authenticity and reward mechanisms in fan engagement.

    In this conversation, the speakers delve into the evolving landscape of the music industry, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, community, and the role of technology. They discuss how artists can effectively engage with their fans, the significance of live music experiences, and the potential of blockchain and AI as tools rather than replacements for genuine artistic expression. The conversation highlights innovative approaches to fan engagement and the necessity for artists to adapt to the changing dynamics of the industry while maintaining their authenticity.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Conversation

    10:56 The Evolution of Playlists and Music Consumption

    18:31 Navigating the Modern Music Landscape for New Artists

    24:31 The Evolution of Artist-Fan Interactions

    33:32 The Motivation Behind Writing a Book

    39:41 Building Community Through Music

    45:44 Navigating the Evolving Music Landscape

  • In this episode of the Music Explored podcast, host Anthony and Dee engage in a deep conversation with artist Dalia, exploring her journey through music, the impact of her upbringing, and the emotional depth of her songwriting. Dalia shares her early influences, the significance of her boarding school experience, and her reflections on love and life. The discussion delves into the role of artists in shaping emotional stability and the complexities of conveying messages through music. Dalia emphasizes the importance of second chances and personal growth, making for an inspiring and thought-provoking dialogue. In this conversation, Dahlia shares her emotional journey, reflecting on the importance of connections, the impact of music, and the messages conveyed through art. She emphasizes the need for compassion in relationships, the significance of building a legacy, and the role of generosity in business. Dahlia also discusses her upcoming projects, including a poetry book and a new music record, while encouraging listeners to create love and support one another.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Dalia's Journey

    06:28 The Impact of Boarding School on Creativity

    12:16 The Role of Artists in Emotional Stability

    20:15 Reflections on Life's Challenges and Growth

    27:17 Emotional Connections and Goodbyes

    33:01 Letting Go with Love

    38:53 Generosity and Business Ethics

    52:34 Upcoming Projects and Creative Endeavors

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  • In this engaging conversation, Dee, Anthony, and Travis explore various themes related to music, particularly focusing on the concept of 'resting bass face', the importance of minimalism merch for musicians, and the creative process behind Travis's Fiverr bass player project. They delve into the significance of feel and space in music, the role of social media in providing accountability and opportunities for musicians, and how teaching can enhance one's own skills. The discussion is filled with insights and personal anecdotes that highlight the evolving landscape of music and performance. In this conversation, Travis discusses the importance of social media in creating opportunities for musicians, particularly through platforms like Instagram. He emphasizes the significance of storytelling in music and how it can enhance engagement with audiences. Travis also shares insights on overcoming creative blocks and the value of creating content that resonates with viewers. He concludes by revealing his upcoming projects and plans for teaching.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Resting Bass Face

    02:59 Merch and Minimalism in Music

    06:01 Fiverr Bass Players and Repurposing Content

    08:59 The Importance of Feel in Bass Playing

    12:07 Understanding Space in Music

    14:56 Social Media and Accountability in Music

    18:09 Opportunities from Online Presence

    21:28 Leveraging Social Media for Opportunities

    23:13 The Power of Storytelling in Music

    29:42 Creating Engaging Content for Social Media

    33:11 Overcoming Creative Blocks

    40:04 Upcoming Projects and Future Plans

  • In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the multifaceted career of Reds, transitioning from an engineer to an artist manager. They delve into the intricacies of artist management and tour management, highlighting the differences and responsibilities associated with each role. The discussion emphasizes the importance of building a strong team, leveraging relationships, and understanding the business side of the music industry. Reds shares personal experiences and insights, providing valuable knowledge for aspiring professionals in the music field.

    They delve into the complexities of navigating record labels, understanding contracts, and the significance of negotiation. The conversation emphasizes the need for artists to build leverage and maintain a balance between their creative and business endeavors. Future plans for market expansion and the importance of nurturing existing fan bases are also highlighted. They discuss the responsibility that comes with creating music and the need for meaningful audience experiences, emphasizing the role of music as a source of upliftment and transformation in people's lives.

    00:00 Introduction and Social Experimentation

    02:00 The Evolution of Reds: From Engineer to Artist Manager

    09:00 Understanding the Roles: Artist Management vs. Tour Management

    19:58 The Hierarchy of Artist Management and Touring

    23:01 Building a Successful Team and Future Plans

    24:28 Evolving in the Music Industry

    25:52 Challenges of Independent Touring

    27:48 The Importance of Management

    30:02 Navigating Record Labels

    32:44 Understanding Contracts and Negotiation

    35:56 Building Leverage as an Artist

    39:06 Balancing Engineering and Management

    41:28 Future Plans and Market Expansion

    45:30 Navigating the Unknown in Artist Management

    48:10 Faith and Confidence in the Journey

    51:02 The Healing Power of Music

    54:02 The Responsibility of Music Creators

    59:58 Creating Meaningful Experiences for Audiences

  • This podcast delves into the complexities of the music industry and the importance of valuing artistic talent. The speakers, who share their personal experiences, emphasize the necessity of mutual respect between musicians and corporate entities, highlighting the challenges artists face in securing fair compensation for their work. They discuss how the perception of musicians as "starving artists" has evolved, and the role they play in shifting this narrative. The conversation also touches on the significance of building genuine relationships in the industry, illustrating how kindness and professionalism can lead to unexpected opportunities. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder that understanding and respecting the artistry behind performances is crucial for a thriving creative community.

    Delving into the intricacies of the artistic journey, this podcast episode illuminates the often-unseen struggles and triumphs faced by musicians within the corporate landscape. Speaker A and Speaker B share a rich dialogue about the importance of storytelling, urging listeners to recognize and embrace their own narratives. They highlight how every individual has a unique story that contributes to the larger human experience, encouraging a culture of sharing and connection among artists and audiences alike.

    The conversation takes a personal turn as Speaker B recounts their evolution from playing bass in church to navigating the complexities of the corporate music scene. They candidly discuss the harsh realities of being an artist—often undervalued and offered paltry compensation for their performances. Through personal anecdotes, Speaker B illustrates the frustrating phenomenon of being treated as a 'starving artist,' a narrative that has historically plagued the industry. This reflection serves as a powerful critique of how society views artists, emphasizing the need for respect and fair compensation for their craft. The speakers articulate a vision for a future where artists are recognized as valuable contributors to cultural experiences, challenging the stigma that often accompanies artistic professions.

    As the dialogue progresses, the speakers delve into the significance of intention behind artistic endeavors. They argue that when artists shift their focus away from purely monetary motivations, they unlock a deeper fulfillment in their work. Both Speaker A and Speaker B advocate for a mindset rooted in passion and genuine connection, suggesting that nurturing relationships and demonstrating kindness can lead to unexpected opportunities. This episode serves as both a reflection on the evolving music industry and a call to action for artists to embrace their unique journeys, fostering a community grounded in respect and shared experiences. Ultimately, listeners are left with a profound understanding of the importance of connection, intention, and the collective narrative that defines the artistic landscape.

    Takeaways:

    Everyone has personal stories to share; it's about finding the right way to express them. The music industry has evolved, but respect for artists' work is still a challenge. Intentionality in interactions can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth in relationships. Musicians should avoid double booking to maintain their reputation and respect in the industry. It's essential to value the hard work and dedication of artists, not just their talent. Creating mutual respect between musicians and corporate clients can elevate the entire industry.
  • In this engaging conversation, Anthony and Dee reflect on their podcasting journey, the importance of building connections, and the evolving landscape of the music industry. They discuss the significance of audience engagement, the challenges of navigating social media algorithms, and the personal growth that comes from sharing stories. The duo emphasizes the need for intentionality in their podcasting efforts and the value of hearing diverse stories from everyday people. In this engaging conversation, Anthony and Dee explore the significance of human stories, the transition from being a musician to an entrepreneur, and the respect that artists deserve in the music industry. They discuss the importance of intentions in interactions, the value of being punctual, and the balance between self-respect and caring for others. The duo emphasizes the power of conversations and the practical lessons that can be extracted from them, all while appreciating the role of podcasts in broadening perspectives.

    00:00 The Journey of Podcasting

    06:02 Navigating the Music Industry's Changes

    12:05 The Why Behind the Podcast

    18:51 The Power of Human Stories

    24:19 Intentions and Interactions

    30:53 Self-Respect and Balance

    36:49 Extracting Practical Lessons

  • In this episode of the Music Explored podcast, host Anthony interviews legendary musician Jay Douglas, who shares his remarkable journey from Jamaica to Toronto and his experiences in the evolving music scene over five decades. Jay discusses the challenges faced by local musicians, the influence of American music on reggae, and the importance of community and education in his life. He also highlights the significance of the Cougars band in opening doors for local talent and the impact of the 'Jamaica to Toronto' album in revitalizing the music scene. Throughout the conversation, Jay emphasizes the importance of accountability in performance, drawing from advice given to him by Sissy Houston, mother of Whitney Houston. In this engaging conversation, Jay Douglas shares his musical journey, reflecting on the vibrant music scene in Montreal and Toronto, the importance of staying true to oneself, and the evolving landscape of the music industry. He emphasizes the significance of respecting the foundations laid by past artists, the need to nurture the next generation, and the impact of his upcoming documentary. Throughout the discussion, he offers profound insights on life, ambition, and the pursuit of peace and love in music and beyond.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to a Music Legend

    03:01 Journey from Jamaica to Toronto

    06:03 The Evolution of the Toronto Music Scene

    09:01 The Cougars: A Launchpad for Local Talent

    11:58 Influences of American Music on Reggae

    14:53 Challenges in Gaining Radio Play

    18:01 The Impact of 'Jamaica to Toronto' Album

    21:02 Performing Across Canada: A New Frontier

    24:01 Advice from Sissy Houston: Accountability in Performance

    24:06 The Musical Journey Begins

    26:31 Learning and Growth in Music

    30:27 The Changing Landscape of Music

    31:45 Respecting the Foundations of Music

    36:50 Legacy and the Next Generation

    38:08 The Impact of the Documentary

    42:46 Life Lessons and Reflections

    46:41 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations

  • In this episode of the Music Explorer Podcast, hosts Dee and Anthony welcome Haitian artist Darline Desca. They discuss the rich musical culture of Haiti, Darline's journey as a singer and songwriter, the challenges she faces as an artist in Haiti, and the importance of self-belief and authenticity in the music industry. She shares her experiences of building a supportive team and her desire to represent Haitian culture through her music.

    In this engaging conversation, Darline Desca shares her aspirations for Haitian music to gain global recognition, highlighting the immense talent within the community. She discusses influential artists who paved the way for her and others, her creative writing process, and the evolution of Haitian music influenced by technology. Darline emphasizes the importance of live performances and offers valuable advice to the next generation of artists, while sharing her dreams of achieving Grammy success in the near future.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

    03:02 Exploring Haitian Music Culture

    05:56 Darline's Musical Journey

    08:55 Challenges of Being an Artist in Haiti

    11:53 The Importance of Self-Belief

    14:58 Building a Supportive Team

    17:55 Authenticity in Music and Cultural Representation

    20:16 Elevating Haitian Music on the Global Stage

    21:31 Influential Haitian Artists and Their Impact

    23:39 The Writing Process: Inspiration and Methodology

    26:26 The Evolution of Haitian Music and Technology's Role

    29:21 Live Performances: Bridging Studio and Stage

    31:21 Advice for the Next Generation of Artists

    33:45 Vision for the Future: Dreams and Aspirations

  • In this engaging conversation, Dee and Anthony welcome Zarah, a Brazilian singer-songwriter who shares her journey from Brazil to Canada. Zarah discusses her experiences with cultural and language challenges, the role of social media in her music career, and her songwriting process across different languages. The trio explores the differences in music culture between Brazil and Canada, Zarah's musical influences, and her aspirations for the future in the music industry. The discussion delves into the influence of gospel music and the legacy of Whitney Houston, highlighting the responsibility artists feel when performing powerful songs. Zarah also reflects on her cultural connections between Brazil and Canada, her desire to build a solid career in music, and her upcoming releases that blend various musical styles. The conversation culminates in a live performance by Zarah, showcasing her talent and passion for music.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

    02:55 Zarah's Journey from Brazil to Canada

    06:02 Cultural and Language Challenges

    08:52 The Role of Social Media in Music

    11:59 Songwriting Across Languages

    14:57 Differences in Music Culture

    17:59 Zarah's Musical Influences and Aspirations

    20:59 Future Goals and Industry Insights

    22:40 Zarah's Aspirations in Music

    24:26 The Influence of Gospel Music

    26:59 The Legacy of Whitney Houston

    28:10 Cultural Connections: Brazil and Canada

    33:09 Building a Career in Music

    35:03 Exploring Musical Styles and Inspirations

    39:54 Zarah's Live Performance

    40:30 Upcoming Music Releases and Future Plans

  • Musicians need to prioritize professionalism in their craft, and this episode dives into five critical behaviors they should stop immediately. The hosts discuss the importance of replying to emails promptly, finding replacements when canceling gigs, and avoiding the pitfalls of overconfidence that come from relying solely on talent without preparation. They also explore the repercussions of double booking and the impact it has on reputation and relationships within the industry. The conversation touches on the dynamics of band relationships and the importance of knowing one's role in a performance. With a mix of humor and personal anecdotes, the hosts provide insights that are both entertaining and educational for musicians at any stage of their careers.

    Takeaways:

    The DNA project offers live music solutions for weddings and events, ensuring a memorable experience. Musicians should reply to emails promptly to maintain professionalism and avoid losing opportunities. Double booking is a serious issue musicians need to avoid to maintain their reputation. Finding replacements for canceled gigs is crucial for preserving relationships in the music industry. Showing up unprepared solely relying on talent can damage a musician's credibility over time. All musicians should focus on serving the song rather than showcasing their individual skills.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Intro to the DNA Project00:13 - The Importance of Live Music at Weddings01:01 - Meet the Hosts: A Fun Evening Recording01:40 - Identifying with Larry David09:03 - Top 5 Things Musicians Need to Stop Doing09:38 - 1. Not Replying to Emails12:16 - 2. Not Having Solutions for Problems15:19 - 3. Showing Up Unprepared21:40 - 4. Double Booking Yourself29:19 - 5. Not Getting Back to People Quickly Enough46:04 - Wrap-Up and Future Topics46:53 - Outro and Promoting Captivate

    Companies mentioned in this episode:

    DNA Project Tim Hortons Captivate
  • In this engaging conversation, Sean Jones shares his remarkable journey from a shy young boy to a successful musician and songwriter. He reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including the formation of his boy band InEssence, the challenges he faced in the music industry, and the impact of mentorship on his life. Sean discusses his transition into songwriting, the ups and downs of navigating contracts, and the unexpected path that led him to explore food ventures. He also offers insights into the current state of the music industry and the need for a revolution to support artists' rights.

    They explore the degradation of musical standards due to technology, the importance of work ethic, and the current state of R&B in Canada. Sean shares his experiences and challenges in creating opportunities for himself and others in the industry, while also addressing the struggles artists face in sustaining their careers. The discussion highlights the importance of community support and the need for change in the music landscape.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Journey Begins: From Humble Beginnings to Music Stardom

    02:54 Discovering the Passion: The Birth of a Musician

    06:03 The Formation of InEssence: A Boy Band's Rise

    09:01 Navigating the Music Industry: Early Challenges and Breakthroughs

    11:59 Full Circle: The Impact of Mentorship and Teachers

    15:00 Songwriting: The Transition from Singer to Songwriter

    18:04 The Rollercoaster of the Music Business: Contracts and Opportunities

    21:01 The Unexpected Path: From Music to Food Ventures

    23:57 The Power of Timing: Seizing Opportunities in Music

    26:54 Reflections on Success: Gratitude and Life Lessons

    29:48 The State of the Music Industry: Challenges and Changes

    33:03 A Call for Revolution: The Future of Music and Artists' Rights

    35:12 The Power of Solidarity in Music and Sports

    39:56 The Degradation of Musical Standards

    45:46 Work Ethic and Standards in the Music Industry

    51:04 The State of R&B in Canada

    57:34 Creating Opportunities in Music

    01:01:50 Navigating the Modern Music Landscape

  • In this episode of the Music Explored podcast, Anthony and Karl Wesley Phillips delve into the themes of teamwork, potential, and self-discovery. They discuss the importance of having a supportive team, the impact of expectations on personal growth, and the journey of finding one's purpose. Karl shares his experiences with feeling pressured by potential and how he shifted his mindset to focus on action and faith. The conversation emphasizes the significance of daily habits, celebrating small wins, and creating a vision for life. Karl also introduces his book, 'Moving Past Potential,' which aims to help others break free from self-limitations and unleash their best lives.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Power of Teamwork and Role Players

    02:53 Understanding Potential and Its Impact

    06:03 The Journey of Self-Discovery

    09:01 Finding Purpose Beyond Expectations

    12:03 The Shift from Potential to Action

    14:58 Faith and Its Activation

    18:01 Living in the Present and Celebrating Small Wins

    21:01 The Importance of Daily Habits

    23:55 Creating a Vision for Your Life

    26:59 The Role of Community and Support

    30:04 Moving Past Potential: The Book and Its Message

  • Londa Larmond, an award-winning gospel singer, shares her journey in the music industry. She started singing in the church at a young age and eventually formed a group called the Gospel Soul Sisters. She later joined the Youth Outreach Mass Choir and recorded an album with them. Londa then signed with EMI Gospel and released her solo album, Love Letters. She has traveled the world, performed at prestigious events, and even ventured into acting. Londa is currently working on her next project, which will be released in the fall. In this conversation, Londa Larmond discusses her upcoming music project and the inspiration behind it. She talks about the importance of creating relatable and faith-centered music that incorporates different genres and styles. Londa also emphasizes the significance of prayer and the spiritual atmosphere in the creative process. She shares her plans for the release of her new music and expresses her gratitude for the support she has received throughout her career.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Guest

    02:22 Londa's Background and Early Singing Experiences

    03:56 Signing with a Record Label and Success

    06:23 Venturing into Acting and Other Accomplishments

    08:41 Experience with Record Labels and the Music Industry

    09:36 Gratitude for Past Opportunities and Future Projects

    11:13 Challenges in Establishing Toronto Gospel Music

    12:13 The Power of Collaboration and Songwriting Camps

    13:28 Creating In-Depth Lyrics and Embracing Wordy Songs

    14:26 Inspiration from Hymns and Their Lasting Impact

    14:58 Introduction and Discussion of Music Project

    15:25 Creating Relatable and Faith-Centered Music

    16:22 The Role of Prayer and Spiritual Atmosphere in the Creative Process

    18:33 Incorporating Different Genres and Styles

    19:25 Plans for the Release of New Music

    23:34 Gratitude for Support

  • Justine Tyrell shares her experience as a musician and performer in Calgary, Toronto, and New York. She discusses the differences in music scenes and cultures in each city, highlighting the rawness and vocal nature of New York, the established sound of R&B in Toronto, and the friendly and warm atmosphere in Calgary. The conversation also touches on the unique Toronto accent and how it has become a cultural phenomenon. Justine also shares a memorable tech issue she experienced while opening for the Calgary Stampeders, which was a mortifying moment. She emphasizes the importance of staying composed and not letting technical difficulties affect the overall performance.

    Justine also discusses her upcoming projects, including an EP that focuses on self-reflection and personal growth. She shares details about her Toronto performance at the Baby G and her collaborations with other artists. Justine encourages artists to push themselves and not be afraid to put themselves out there.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Banter

    02:01 Justine's Musical Journey from Childhood

    03:01 Performing in Calgary and Starting Her Career

    05:22 The Music Scene in Calgary

    07:33 Performing in Toronto and New York

    08:49 Differences in Music Scenes

    10:16 The Unique Toronto Accent

    13:10 Tech Issues During Live Shows

    16:16 Handling Technical Malfunctions

    23:24 Embracing Self-Reflection and Personal Growth

    25:23 Taking Risks and Putting Yourself Out There

    27:19 The Power of Collaboration

    29:59 Appreciating the In-the-Moment Experience

  • In this conversation, Anthony, Dee, Sean, and K.V. Banks discuss their personal experiences and how they came together. They also introduce a new course on Sean Wilson Piano focused on gospel organ playing "Let's get churchy". The course aims to help musicians gain confidence in playing in a church setting and covers both piano and organ techniques. K.V. Banks shares his own struggles as a musician and how he wants to help others overcome similar challenges. The conversation explores the qualities of a great teacher and the importance of understanding the 'why' behind musical concepts. The conversation covers topics such as the approach to teaching gospel music, the differences between playing organ and piano, the unique sound and approach of gospel music, the value of focusing on quality over quantity in music education, and the release of KV Banks' new single 'Step Away'.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Personal Experiences

    09:59 Introducing the Gospel Organ Course

    14:56 Building Confidence in Church Settings

    18:56 Overcoming Challenges and Struggles

    19:55 The Qualities of a Great Teacher

    27:22 Understanding the 'Why' Behind Musical Concepts

    35:04 The Importance of Context and Vocabulary

    38:23 Raising the Musical Base

    40:59 The Limitations of Licks and Shortcuts

    41:53 Teaching Gospel Music

    42:58 Playing Organ vs. Piano

    47:41 Quality over Quantity

    58:16 Step Away: KV Banks' New Single

    01:03:05 The Power of the Online Community at Sean Wilson Piano

  • Some words of Wisdom from D-Lo!

    Today's episode is a clip of us connecting with musical director and producer David "DLO" Outing. DLO has played behind and programmed full shows for some of the industry's top artists and award shows, such as Tye Tribbett, Fred Hammond, Marvin Sapp, Israel Houghton, Fantasiam Mary J Blige, Anthony Hamilton, and B.E.T awards. In this episode, DLO shares his approach to programming live shows and breaks down the process and some of the thinking when creating a live performance.

  • The Keys to Success in the Music Industry: Transferable Skills and a Winning Mindset:

    In this conversation, Redz, Anthony, and Dee discuss the balance between personal and professional life, the sacrifices and rewards of their careers, and the pursuit of financial independence. Redz shares his experiences working as an audio engineer for the Marley Brothers Legacy Tour and the importance of rehearsals in delivering a great show. They also touch on the significance of making memories with family and the freedom that comes with pursuing one's passion. The conversation revolves around the theme of sacrifice and the different perspectives on pursuing dreams in the music industry. The conversation also touches on the growth and success they have achieved in their careers and the impact they hope to have on future generations. In this final part of the conversation, Redz and Anthony discuss the importance of mentorship and inspiring the next generation. They highlight the success that comes from hard work, passion, and a strong work ethic. They emphasize the need to have a clear purpose and to constantly strive for greatness. Redz shares his experiences as a monitor engineer and the dedication required to deliver exceptional performances. They also discuss the transferable skills and mindset that are necessary for success in any field.

    00:00 Introduction and Mic Talk

    02:35 Starting the Day on the Right Note

    04:18 Introducing Jason Reynolds (Redz Engineer)

    06:20 Juggling Personal and Professional Life

    08:20 Finding Balance and Overloading on the Personal Side

    12:30 The Freedom of Pursuing Passion and Financial Independence

    15:02 The Sacrifices of a Regular Job and the Pursuit of Financial Independence

    18:54 The Ultimate Goal: Making Money While You Sleep

    21:18 The Sacrifices of Pursuing Dreams

    23:13 The Impact of Ignorance

    26:24 Exposing the Next Generation

    30:39 Inspiring the Next Generation

    34:26 The Journey to Success

    45:20 Inspiring the Next Generation and the Importance of Mentorship

    50:26 The Key to Success: Hard Work, Passion, and Work Ethic

    56:42 Striving for Greatness and Having a Clear Purpose

    01:02:45 Transferable Skills and a Winning Mindset

    01:05:29 The Role of a Monitor Engineer: Dedication and Exceptional Performances

  • We are excited to speak with singer-songwriter and author Tara Shannon in today's episode. Tara's journey defied expectations when she returned to the music scene as a woman in her forties and immediately established a following locally, nationally, and globally. She splits her time between Nashville and Ottawa with the goal to empower and inspire the other musicians on the label she founded, Willow Sound Records. In her music business education with The Syndicut, another entity she founded to help educate music creators and encourage them to see themselves as entrepreneurs. Her experiences in teaching workshops inspired her to write the book titled, "You and the Music Business, A Self-Care Guide to Finding Balance and Joy in Today’s Music Industry" to empower other independent artists who find themselves on a similar path. In this episode, we talk about the many hats Tara wears, her songwriting and discuss her new book!

  • Cigar Club is a band formed in 2016, consisting of Tyler Booth on drums, Dan Amato on guitar and vocals, Trevor on vocals, and Jeff on bass. The name 'Cigar Club' was suggested by their original drummer, Simon. They talk about their evolving approach to writing songs and incorporating different elements into their music. They also discuss the importance of crowd testing their songs and making adjustments based on audience reactions. The band shares their plans for the future, including upcoming releases and the Gussapalooza Festival.

    Chapters

    

    01:35 Origin of the Band Name

    05:13 Early Performances and Songwriting

    09:20 Tyler Booth Joins the Band

    12:42 Recording Music

    14:49 Collaborative Writing Process

    18:45 Crowd Testing and Adjusting Songs

    20:02 Future Plans and Releases

    26:12 The Dream: Making Music for a Living