One Business Resource...
Laufey has taken the music world by storm this past month with her new album A Matter of Time. Watching how artists like her release music, connect with fans, and navigate the industry can give you strategies to use on your own journey.
Try it out: Check out this video from And The Writer Is... and take notes on the key moves that helped her gain traction. Think about which ideas resonate with your goals and how you could apply them while staying true to your own style.
One Music Production Resource…
Last week we broke down what a compressor does and how to use it. This week we’re exploring EQ and harmonic frequencies. If it sounds boring, trust us, it’s not. Audio engineering is a science, and understanding the basic tools producers use on your favorite songs will help you create polished songs, exactly as you hear them in your head. Check out this quick video that explains everything you need to know!
One Marketing Tip...
You don’t need to appeal to everyone. As the great Taylor Swift once said, “A friend to all is a friend to none.” A clearly defined niche makes it easier to grow your fanbase, create content, and stand out in a crowded music scene. When Taylor was starting out, her niche was country-pop for young women, something revolutionary at the time. Focus on what makes your sound, style, or story unique and engage the audience that will value your art most.
Try it out: Create a marketing avatar (no, not the blue kind). Give them a name, age, interests and favorite artists. Where do they spend time online? Imagine what songs they’d want you to cover and what kind of content would grab their attention. Use that to guide your marketing decisions. Remember to always measure your results when trying new strategies!
One Songwriting Tip...
Great songs, like great novels, take listeners on a journey. Just as authors map out their worlds before writing, sketching your song's storyline ahead of time can help you build a deeper narrative, keeping your song focused, intentional, and compelling.
Try it out: Think of your song as a mini-story and plan roughly what happens in each part. Instead of exact lyrics, jot down the main events, emotions, and any standout words or phrases. Then match a chord progression to each section that supports the mood of your storyline before diving into the lyrics.
One Performance Idea...
Go beyond the standard “How are you doing tonight?” and find ways to make your audience feel seen. If you notice someone dancing, clapping, or just having a great time, call them out and thank them for their energy. You might ask their name, dedicate a song to them, or even get the crowd to cheer for them. These little moments create unforgettable connections.
Try it out: At your next show, plan one moment of audience recognition. It could be shouting out an enthusiastic fan, dedicating a song, or running a quick “fan of the night” giveaway where you gift someone a piece of merch. Not only does this spotlight your audience, but it also highlights your music and builds lasting loyalty.
See you next week!
