🎶 Music Industry Pulse – Week of June 6, 2025

From AI breakthroughs to major festival announcements, here's your concise roundup of the latest happenings in the music world, complete with actionable insights.

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1. Björn Ulvaeus Embraces AI in Musical Composition

ABBA's Björn Ulvaeus is leveraging artificial intelligence as a co-creative partner in developing a new musical. While he acknowledges AI's limitations in crafting complete songs, he finds it valuable for sparking ideas and overcoming creative blocks. Read more ↗︎

• Quick win: Explore AI tools to assist in your songwriting process, using them as a source of inspiration rather than a replacement.
• Pro tip: Combine AI-generated ideas with your unique creative touch to produce original compositions.

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2. 'Pop Girl Summer' Dominates Festival Lineups

Summer 2025 is being dubbed "Pop Girl Summer," with female pop artists like Charli XCX, Olivia Rodrigo, and Sabrina Carpenter headlining major UK festivals. This trend highlights a shift towards greater autonomy and creative control among female artists. Learn more ↗︎

• Quick win: Align your music releases with this trend by emphasizing themes of empowerment and authenticity.
• Pro tip: Collaborate with female artists or producers to tap into this movement and expand your audience reach.

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3. T-Pain Announces 'TP20 Tour' Celebrating 20 Years

T-Pain is set to embark on the 'TP20 Tour' from July through October 2025, marking two decades in the music industry. The tour includes performances across North America, with notable stops at Radio City Music Hall and the Back To Wiscansin Festival. Tour details ↗︎

• Quick win: Attend the tour to gain insights into successful career longevity and fan engagement strategies.
• Pro tip: Analyze T-Pain's setlists and performance styles to inspire your live shows and audience interactions.

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4. Lil Wayne Launches 'Tha Carter VI Tour'

Lil Wayne has announced the 'Tha Carter VI Tour' in support of his upcoming album, kicking off with a headline performance at Madison Square Garden on June 6, 2025. The tour spans 37 dates across the U.S., featuring artists like Tyga and NoCap. Get tickets ↗︎

• Quick win: Study Lil Wayne's promotional strategies for the tour to enhance your own marketing efforts.
• Pro tip: Observe collaborations and guest appearances to identify potential networking opportunities.

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5. Primavera Sound 2025 Livestream Available via Amazon Music

Primavera Sound Barcelona is being livestreamed from June 5 to June 7, 2025, through Amazon Music's Twitch and Prime Video channels. The lineup includes artists like Charli XCX, Haim, and Jamie xx. Livestream schedule ↗︎

• Quick win: Watch performances to stay updated on current music trends and stage production techniques.
• Pro tip: Take notes on audience engagement tactics used by performers to apply to your own shows.

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Stay tuned for next week's update to keep your finger on the pulse of the music industry.

Music Industry Pulse – Week of May 30, 2025

This week’s stories are all about redefining connection: new fan-reward models, AI-driven discovery tools, and creative control upgrades for artists. Here’s the industry pulse with your next moves built in.

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1. Spotify to Pay Artists Based on Fan Engagement

Spotify just announced a radical shift—up to 50% of its earnings pool could be distributed through fan engagement incentives starting late 2025. Instead of pure stream counts, artist payouts may now consider likes, shares, playlist additions, and direct fan interaction. Read the full breakdown ↗︎

• Quick win: Start building calls to action in your captions—ask for playlist adds, not just passive streams.
• Pro tip: Engage fans through polls, behind-the-scenes drops, and personal shout-outs to build shareable momentum.

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2. Apple Music Introduces AI-Powered “Discovery Reels”

Apple Music is quietly testing short-form video features called Discovery Reels. These reels use AI to match songs with visuals and dynamic suggestions, aiming to mirror TikTok’s music-driven browsing. Billboard feature here ↗︎

• Quick win: Create vertical teaser clips of your newest tracks—20–30 seconds max—to get ahead of the rollout.
• Pro tip: Focus on emotional moments or narrative hooks in the music to spark shares and saves.

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3. TikTok Music Expands to More Territories

TikTok Music, the platform's streaming service, has expanded into five more countries this week, tightening its ecosystem between viral content and music playback. Details from TechCrunch ↗︎

• Quick win: Make sure your distributor is feeding TikTok Music—some smaller aggregators still don’t by default.
• Pro tip: Link viral clips directly to the track’s stream page via smart links or in-profile pins.

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4. BeatStars Adds AI Collaboration Tools

BeatStars now lets users auto-generate beat concepts, recommend co-writers, and simulate lyric ideas with its new AI-integrated feature set. Full MusicRadar report ↗︎

• Quick win: Use AI-collab tools to speed up drafts or reimagine a hook that’s lost steam.
• Pro tip: Test your lyric concepts with different AI voices to hear how various vocal styles carry your message.

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That’s your Friday fix—take the tools, make the moves, and keep tuning in for your weekly edge.

Music Industry Pulse – Week of May 23, 2025

AI breakthroughs, payout shake-ups, and fresh creator tools lead this week’s headlines. Scan the stories and snag the takeaways.

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1. YouTube’s Music Assistant Generates Free Background Tracks

YouTube is rolling out an AI “Music Assistant” inside Creator Music that lets you type a vibe (e.g., “lo-fi sunset chill”) and download royalty-free instrumentals for your videos.  Read the Verge report ↗︎

• Quick win: Bang out 15-second hooks for Shorts or Reels with zero licensing drama.
• Pro tip: Export stems, tweak the mix, and keep your sonic brand consistent.

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2. Spotify’s 1 K-Stream Threshold Is Fully Live

Tracks now need 1,000 plays per year to earn recording royalties; anything below gets paid $0 and the money is re-pooled.  Full MBW coverage ↗︎

• Quick win: Push one flagship single at a time until it clears 1 K streams.
• Pro tip: Consider bundling under-performers into deluxe releases instead of leaving pennies on the table.

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3. TikTok Launches AI Alive Image-to-Video Tool

New “AI Alive” lets users animate static photos into short Story videos directly inside TikTok.  See TechCrunch’s write-up ↗︎

• Quick win: Turn single-cover art or backstage pics into motion loops—no full shoot required.
• Pro tip: Add on-screen captions plus embedded stream buttons to cut friction from swipe to listen.

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4. Moises Parent Company Raises $40 M, Hits 50 M Users

Music AI—the firm behind Moises stem-separation tools—closed a $40 million Series A and says the app now boasts 50 million users.  MBW details ↗︎

• Quick win: Use Moises to extract acapellas or drums for legal remixes and keep your release calendar buzzing.
• Pro tip: Watch for real-time stem features—perfect for live sets and tutorials.

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5. Anthropic Admits AI ‘Hallucination’ in Lyrics Lawsuit

Lawyers for Anthropic apologized in court after their AI chatbot Claude invented a bogus citation in its copyright defense against music publishers.  Story via MBW ↗︎

• Quick win: Double-check any AI-generated legal or licensing text before filing.
• Pro tip: Expect publishers and supervisors to demand stricter proof of clearances when AI touches your workflow.

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That’s the pulse for this week. Share the insights, make the moves, and come back next Friday for another roundup.

AI Beats, Viral Seats & Stream Realities: 5 Music Headlines You Shouldn’t Ignore (May 16 2025)

The industry’s doing backflips again—here’s the quick-scan intel your inner producer, marketer, and brand boss will thank you for. ⸻ 1. YouTube Now Lets You Type a Prompt, Get a Track Creators inside the new “Music Assistant” tab can write “laid-back soca with steel-pan shimmer,” hit enter, and download a royalty-free instrumental seconds later. The AI engine lives in Creator Music, costs nothing, and sidesteps copyright strikes.  Why it matters: Instant scratch demos, Shorts beds, or background loops—no producer fee, no sample-clearance headaches. ⸻ 2. 1,000 Streams or Bust on Spotify Since early 2024, a song must rack up 1 K plays in 12 months to earn a single cent in recording royalties. Anything below funnels its micro-pennies to tracks that clear the bar.  Power move: Concentrate promo spend on one hero release at a time; scatter-shot drops now cost you twice—time and money. ⸻ 3. Sync Gold Rush: SourceAudio’s “SongLab” The sync-licensing giant just unveiled an AI composer trained on 14 million fully-licensed tracks plus stems. Output lands inside SourceAudio’s marketplace ready for TV, film, and podcast supervisors—no extra paperwork.  To-do: Batch 30-second cues in your signature style, upload, tag, and let the algorithm hunt placements while you sleep. ⸻ 4. Streaming Math, Unmasked Average Spotify payouts hover between $0.003–$0.005 per stream—about $24 for 8 K plays or $400 for 80 K.  Reality check: Streaming is the icing, not the cake. Diversify with merch, live sets, subscriptions, or sync to keep ramen off the menu. ⸻ 5. Ciara’s Chair Challenge Proves Simple Sells One Coachella clip of Ciara balancing on a chair to her single “Ecstasy” ignited a TikTok trend that spanned kids, celebs, and grandma in Miami. Zero ad spend; maximum cultural imprint.  Steal the play: Design an easy-to-film move or lip-sync moment around your next release and invite fans to duet. Reward the best with a shout-out or private stream. ⸻ Bottom Line AI is handing out free beats, sync doors are swinging wider, and streaming payouts favor focused momentum. Pair a can’t-miss visual hook (chairs optional) with a sharp release plan, and you’ve got 2025’s recipe for indie leverage. Stay relentless, stay inventive—next headline could be yours. 💡🎶

How Clipping Campaigns are Revolutionizing Music Marketing

Section 1: The Game-Changing Wave of Social Media Promotion Hey music lovers and aspiring artists! Buckle up for a wild ride into the future of music marketing that's about to turn the industry upside down. Imagine a world where spreading your music becomes as easy as sharing a meme – welcome to the era of clipping campaigns! Let's break it down: This isn't just another marketing trick. It's a full-blown revolution in how artists connect with their audience. Picture this – you create short, snappy video clips that are so infectious, people can't help but share them. And here's the kicker: content creators actually get paid for spreading your musical magic across social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Section 2: How Clipping Campaigns Actually Work Think of clipping campaigns as your musical secret weapon. Artists set a clear goal – maybe it's boosting visibility or pushing a new track into the spotlight. The process is brilliantly simple: create or select your most eye-catching content clips, set a pay-per-view rate (like $1 for every 1,000 views), and watch the magic happen. What makes this strategy so powerful? It's cost-effective and brilliantly strategic. Imagine potentially reaching 4 million viewers for just $2,000. Major artists like Drake and Lil Baby are already leveraging this approach, proving it's not just a passing trend but a legitimate marketing music strategy that works. Section 3: Why This Matters for Independent Artists Here's the most exciting part – this isn't just for big-name musicians with massive budgets. Independent artists can now level the playing field and create viral moments without breaking the bank. The beauty of clipping campaigns lies in their accessibility and potential for explosive growth. Social media has democratized music marketing in ways we never imagined. Even accounts with minimal followers can suddenly go viral, thanks to the right content and strategic approach. It's like having a marketing team that works 24/7, spreading your music across digital landscapes without you lifting more than a finger. Final Thoughts: Your Musical Marketing Revolution Clipping campaigns aren't just a trend – they're the future of music promotion. By embracing this strategy, artists can create authentic connections, generate incredible social proof, and potentially launch their careers into the stratosphere.

Still wondering if SPLICE cant get you a hit?

@pastelmusique Everyone can make this tune ☕️ #sabrinacarpenter #espresso #musicproduction #CapCut ♬ original sound - Ｐａｓｔｅｌ

Books I've Read in 2025 (So Far)

Fiction

James – Percival Everett
A bold reimagining of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, told from Jim's perspective. Everett dives deep into themes of freedom, survival, and race in America.
https://a.co/d/7cUVu70

Creativity & Self-Development

Living the Artist's Way – Julia Cameron
A fresh guide to reconnecting with your creativity, intuition, and daily inspiration, from the author of The Artist’s Way.
https://amzn.to/4ixzJUY

It's Never Too Late to Begin Again – Julia Cameron
Written for midlife creators and retirees, this book offers a structured 12-week program for rediscovering meaning and creativity.
https://amzn.to/3YiS5lu

Reflections on the Artist's Way – Julia Cameron
A collection of essays and insights that complement The Artist's Way, helping artists stay grounded in their creative path.
https://amzn.to/4jSBKMK

Comics & Graphic Novels

Ultimates: Fix the World Vol. 1
A sharp, politically charged superhero story where global problems take center stage and the stakes are bigger than ever.
https://amzn.to/3YKRwkn

Batman/Superman: World's Finest Vol. 5
Classic, energetic storytelling featuring Batman and Superman at their best, combining wit, heroism, and brilliant action scenes.
https://amzn.to/3EJK9TD

The Terrifics Vol. 1: Meet the Terrifics
A diverse team of unlikely heroes embarks on cosmic adventures, blending science fiction and traditional comic book fun.
https://amzn.to/4cQru5l

Superman: The Last Son
A powerful story that explores Superman's vulnerability when faced with questions of family, loyalty, and legacy.
https://amzn.to/4lQf2GJ

The Problem with Being “The One They Can Count On”

People start treating your accountability like a service. They don’t check in—they just check what you’ve done. They don’t offer—they just expect. And the moment you ask for something back? They act like you’re ungrateful. Like strength means never needing support. Let me be clear: I’m not burnt out because I’m weak. I’m burnt out because I was taught to carry what should’ve been shared. ⸻ Creatives Feel This in a Different Way We’re not just solving problems—we’re making things out of nothing. We’re designing, performing, building, writing, dreaming and carrying personal pain, relationships, family pressure, and survival mode on top of it all. And yet somehow, we’re expected to: • Show up professionally. • Create consistently. • Serve emotionally. • And still look fine while doing it. ⸻ I’m Not a Superhero. I’m Just Accountable. I care. I try. I finish things even when no one’s watching. That’s not ego. That’s my foundation. But the cost of always being the one who gets it done is being the one who’s rarely checked on. So now I’m asking myself new questions: • What does consistency look like when you’re protecting your peace? • What does leadership feel like when you refuse to self-abandon? • What kind of legacy are you building if the work consumes you before it frees you? ⸻ The New Standard I still show up. But now, I protect my energy. I still lead. But now, I question where I’m leading myself. I still care deeply. But I will no longer carry what others casually hand me out of habit. I’m not your superhero. I’m my own structure now. And that’s more than enough.

Zuck!

But WhatsApp? The thing is if you've never left the country you don't understand its power. It DOMINATES!

On the Throne

Returning to the throne isn’t about ego—it’s about alignment. It’s what happens when you stop explaining your growth, defending your peace, or apologizing for your evolution. But once you’ve reclaimed your voice, your space, your power—what then? You stop performing and start embodying. You stop defending your clarity and start living from it. And when you’re met with resistance, silence, or misinterpretation? You don’t flinch. You don’t shrink. You remain still—because stillness is now your strategy. From Nelson Mandela’s decades of dignified silence, to Rosa Parks’ quiet defiance, and even Elphaba’s refusal to “stay grounded,” I’ve learned this: You don’t need to yell to shake the room. You just need to stop shrinking. ⸻ 5 Tools for Living On the Throne 1. Silence as a Strategy Stop announcing your boundaries. Start walking in them. Practice: Pull back without the speech. Reminder: “If I have to explain the boundary, I’m still negotiating it.” 2. Responding with Clarity Not every question deserves an answer. Not every feeling is yours to carry. Practice: Speak in statements, not performances. Reminder: “Clarity doesn’t mean cruelty—it means clean communication.” 3. Anchoring Without Apology You don’t need to explain your shift to people who benefited from your confusion. Practice: Write down three things you’ll no longer apologize for. Reminder: “I’m not being distant. I’m being sovereign.” 4. Create from Power, Not Pain Let the silence become fuel. Make art that reflects the new version of you—not the one that needed to be rescued. Practice: Share from conviction, not survival. Reminder: “They don’t need to understand. They need to feel it.” 5. Daily Throne Ritual Each morning, say to yourself: “I return to the throne. I do not perform. I do not chase. I do not shrink. I lead with presence. I respond with clarity. I reign in silence.” ⸻ You don’t need permission to live fully. You don’t need defense to speak truthfully. You are enough, even when quiet. Sit. Create. Reign.

Return to the Throne

Ever had that moment where you look up from your life and realize you've been shrinking? Like you’ve been folding and editing yourself just to keep peace, to be liked, or to keep a relationship from tipping over? Yeah. Same. This isn’t about being dramatic. This is about **finally calling yourself back to center.** For me, it hit in one-on-one relationships. The people closest to me. The ones I tried to love through their silence, their mood swings, their refusal to heal. And I realized something: I was stepping out of my own house to make space for people who didn’t even wipe their feet at the door. So now? I’m reclaiming my space. My voice. My **throne.** Not in an arrogant way—but in a way that says: “I trust myself now. Fully.” --- I've been reflecting on characters like Tony Soprano, Walter White, Jesse Pinkman, and Saul Goodman. They all started out with real intentions—to protect, to build, to survive. But somewhere along the way, they traded parts of themselves for control. For validation. For revenge. Then there's Jon Snow. Honorable. Loyal. But loyal to systems and people who would never return it. He kept showing up for everyone… and ended up alone. That woke something up in me. **That won’t be my story.** --- And then there’s Elphaba. You know, from *Wicked*? Her moment in *Defying Gravity* hits different when you’ve been misunderstood for being powerful. She wasn’t rebelling—she was returning. Refusing to apologize for her magic. She flew. And so will I. --- So here’s where I stand: I’m not too emotional. I’m not too deep. I’m not too loud. I’m not too much. I’m just not shrinking anymore. Not in love. Not in friendships. Not in family dynamics. And definitely not in rooms that only clap for versions of me they can control. --- I wrote an oath for myself—a reminder for every time I feel the pull to fold, fix, or chase. **OATH OF POWER WITH LOVE** I am the throne and the fire. I carry truth in one hand, love in the other. I do not dominate to protect. I do not shrink to be loved. I speak calmly—because I am certain. I walk away—because peace is expensive. I protect my heart—without turning it to stone. I refuse to become a god in a kingdom of ashes. I refuse to be a savior who bleeds out silently. I lead with love. I move with power. I rise in both. --- To any fellow creatives who’ve been holding it all in, trying to stay small enough to be loved, liked, or accepted: You’re not alone. You’re not wrong. You’re not crazy. You’re just waking up. And when you do, it’s time to come home to yourself. Say it with me: **“I return to the throne.”**

Hi

Sherwinn “Dupes” Brice is a one-man creative empire in motion — A Saint Lucian-born songwriter, sea moss slinger, and soulpreneur with a passport stamped in hustle. He’s part heart, part hurricane: writing custom R&B ballads one minute, flipping Airbnbs and jars of gel the next, then turning up on TikTok with the grit of a street poet and the grace of a brother who’s seen both heartbreak and healing. Dupes is that rare mix of artist and architect, crafting love songs and legacy moves with equal care. He’s not just in the game — he’s building the damn stadium, selling the snacks, and dropping the theme song in the halftime show. From Brockton to the Caribbean, he moves like a storm with a spreadsheet — introspective, intentional, and impossible to ignore. The brand? Afrocentric. The tone? Straight up, no chaser. The mission? Create. Connect. Crown up.

How to Create and Release Music That Lasts (Not Just Trends)

In a world chasing streams, speed, and going viral, it's easy to forget the long game. Most artists drop a track, cross their fingers, and move on.

But if you want a real music career—not just a moment—you need to think differently.

You don't need a hit song.  

You need a *body of work* that builds a fanbase over time.  

Music that gets *better with age*.  

Music that finds the right people—and stays with them.

Here's how to create and release music that *lasts*.

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1. Make Music That Will Still Matter in 5 Years

Before you obsess over mixing, visuals, or TikTok content, ask yourself this:

*Would I still be proud of this five years from now?*

Chasing trends might give you short-term reach. But timeless music hits deeper.  

Write about what's real. Make what feels true. Timelessness is a byproduct of honesty.

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2. Write for One True Fan, Not the Masses

Kevin Kelly's "1,000 True Fans" theory is more relevant than ever.

You don't need everyone to love your music. You need a small group of people to *deeply connect* with it.

Picture one person.  

The one playing your song during a late-night drive. Or after a breakup. Or when they need to remember who they are.

Write for *them*.

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3. Test in Private Before You Drop in Public

Before you release anything, build in the shadows.

Play demos for your close circle. Test different versions. Post raw snippets and see what people react to.  

Sometimes the song you thought was a B-side hits the hardest.

Early feedback doesn't kill creativity—it *shapes* it.

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4. Share the Journey, Not Just the Final Track

Most artists go silent until release day. That's a mistake.

Your music becomes more meaningful when people see the story behind it.  

Let fans in. Share the ugly voice notes. The lyric that took 2 months. The night you almost scrapped it all.

By the time the song drops, they're not just listening—they're *rooting for it*.

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5. Launch in Waves, Not Just One Blast

Don't just drop and disappear. Launch smart:

- Wave 1: Soft Release  

  Share with your email list, community, or top fans first. Build word of mouth.

- Wave 2: Public Push  

  Go wide—use short-form content, playlist pitches, reels, and collaborations.

- Wave 3: Post-Release Momentum  

  Drop a live version, acoustic take, or fan remix. Keep the story alive.

The key? Keep showing up for the song.

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6. Make It Easy to Share

Want your music to travel? Help people share it.

- Create visuals that match the vibe of the track  

- Use standout lyrics as captions or quotes  

- Encourage fans to tag you, use your sound, or post their own stories

People share what reflects how they *feel*. Give them something they want to be part of.

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7. Keep Telling the Story

Most artists stop promoting a week after release. But real fans don't all arrive on day one.

Music has a long shelf life—*if you let it*.

Resurface your song a month later with a new angle. Share a message you've received. Show how it's connecting.  

Build a catalog. Tell stories around each track. Let fans discover you over time.

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The Long Game Is the Only Game That Matters

Music isn't a product. It's a relationship—with your audience, your voice, and your story.

Don't rush to drop songs. Don't obsess over virality.  

Build a body of work. Create moments that mean something.  

Find your 1,000 true fans—and take care of them.

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Have a release coming soon?  

Drop the link or DM me—I'd love to hear it, support it, or help you make the rollout stronger.

When No One Believes in You — Build This Instead

There's a dangerous way I sometimes think.

When things aren't going my way… when people around me go silent, dismissive, or passive…  

It hits hard. I spiral. I start to question the path.  

Maybe you know that feeling too.

But here's the shift I'm learning to make:  

Lack of support isn't proof that you're wrong. It's proof that you're early.

Support doesn't always show up at the start.  

Sometimes, it only shows up after you've already won.  

So what do you do in the meantime?

You build your own system.  

You create internal gravity.  

You make yourself inevitable.

Here's what I'm using right now to turn emotional friction into clarity, momentum, and control—even when no one claps.

1. The 10-Minute Mental Dominance Ritual

Every morning, I run this system. It keeps me grounded and moving forward—no matter what's happening externally.

Recalibration (2 min):  

- What emotion am I feeling right now?  

- Is it useful? Or do I need to redirect it?

Micro-Wins Stack (2 min):  

- What 3 small wins did I have yesterday?  

- Momentum comes from recognizing progress.

Clarity Killshot (3 min):  

- What ONE move today would make this day a win?

Emotional Command Reset (3 min):  

Say it. Mean it. Program it.  

"I create my own fuel. Doubt sharpens me. I control my focus, not the outcome. I am inevitable."

2. The Emotional Recode Stack (Flipping Low States in 3 Minutes)

This is what I use when I feel off, stuck, overwhelmed, or alone:

Step 1: Name the emotion.  

- I feel ___. No judgment. Just observation.

Step 2: Track the thought that created it.  

- What story am I telling myself?

Step 3: Interrogate the thought.  

- Is it true?  

- Could the opposite be true?  

- What's the cost of believing this?

Step 4: Flip the frame.  

- "Feeling stuck = I'm leveling up."  

- "Lack of support = clarity filter. Proof I'm stepping out of the pack."

3. The No-Support Survival Strategy

Let's be real: sometimes it's just you and your ambition.  

So here's how I've made that work for me—not against me.

A. My Own Fanbase:  

I recorded a 30-second voice note hyping my future self like I've already won.  

I play it on loop when I need energy.

B. The 2-Person Tribe:  

One aligned person with vision and drive is worth more than 100 lukewarm "supporters."  

I seek depth, not volume.

C. Weekly Isolation Wins:  

Once a week, I block 1 hour.  

No noise. No validation. Just deep work and one undeniable win.  

Solitude has become my edge—not my weakness.

Final Thought:

Support is nice.  

Belief is better.  

But becoming unshakable without either—that's the superpower.

If you're building something big and feel like no one around you sees it yet…  

You're not broken.  

You're just early.  

And that's exactly where power begins.

Never Forget

 

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🔧 Step-by-Step Fixes When the Beat Feels Too Loud:

#### 1. **Check Your Master Fader & Levels**

- Sometimes your overall mix is just too hot. Pull **everything** down 5–10dB (including the beat) and bring up your vocals to match.

- Keep the **master around -6 dB** before mastering. Loudness can be added later.

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#### 2. **Balance with EQ**

- **Low end (kick/bass)** can overpower vocals. Cut unnecessary low frequencies from your **vocals (HPF at ~80–120Hz)**.

- **Carve space in the beat**: Find where the vocals sit best (usually 1kHz–4kHz) and do **small EQ dips** in the beat around those areas.

- **Boost your vocals subtly** where they shine, and **cut** in the beat at the same spot.

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#### 3. **Use Volume Automation**

- Automate the beat down **slightly during verses** (like -1 to -2 dB), then bring it back up during hooks. This gives the illusion of space without killing energy.

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#### 4. **Compression and Sidechain**

- Try **sidechaining** the beat (or instrumental bus) to duck slightly when the vocal hits. Not EDM-style pumping—just a soft 1–2 dB duck.

- Use a **vocal rider or gentle compression** to make sure your vocal stays forward.

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#### 5. **Reference Other Tracks**

- Pull in a professionally mixed track with a similar vibe. Solo your vocals, then compare to how theirs sit in the mix. Adjust accordingly.

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#### 6. **Use Saturation/Exciters on Vocals**

- Sometimes vocals *feel* buried because they lack presence. Add gentle **saturation** or **harmonic enhancement** to give your vocals that “in your face” pop.

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#### 7. **Check in Mono + Small Speakers**

- Play the mix in mono. If the beat overpowers vocals here, you’ve got frequency masking issues.

- Also check on **phone speakers**, earbuds, or car speakers. If vocals disappear, boost presence (2k–5k) and control lows.

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### 🧠 Real Talk:

If all else fails—**bounce the stems** and bring them into a fresh session. Sometimes, ear fatigue or too many plug-ins cloud your judgment. A reset helps.

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Want me to walk through a specific session setup or troubleshoot a current mix you're on? I got you.

The Power of Purpose: Why Songwriters with a Cause Create Songs That Resonate

There's a quiet truth that echoes through every great song:

"A man with a cause can always be trusted to do the very thing that helps his cause."

This isn't just philosophy—it's a songwriting principle.

Aspiring songwriters often ask how to write lyrics that connect, how to find their "voice," or how to make people feel something. The answer? Start with your why. Not just why you want to make music, but what you're fighting for—what you stand for, what you can't stay silent about.

When you write from a place of purpose, people feel it. Your words stop sounding like lyrics and start sounding like truth. That's the difference between a catchy hook and an anthem that lives in someone's heart.

Why Purpose-Driven Songs Hit Different

Think of the songs that shaped you. Odds are, they weren't just technically good—they meant something. They carried a message that spoke directly to a part of you the artist could never see. That's the magic of writing with a cause: it transcends.

When your cause is real—whether it's love, healing, justice, belonging, freedom—you don't have to fake vulnerability or chase trends. Every line naturally serves the message. Every melody supports the emotion. Every word becomes intentional.

Writing From Your Cause: 3 Questions to Ask

1. What am I really trying to say?

Strip away the metaphors and melodies—what's the core message you want someone to walk away with?

2. Who needs to hear this the most?

Write like you're singing directly to one person who needs your voice today. That intimacy creates connection.

3. Am I willing to stand behind this?

If you wouldn't say it offstage or outside the studio, don't write it. Authenticity isn't just a writing tool—it's the foundation.

Your Cause Doesn't Have to Be Loud

A cause doesn't always mean activism or revolution. Your cause could be making space for quiet emotions. It could be giving words to experiences others can't explain. It could be offering hope when the world feels dark. Whatever it is—when it's true, it's powerful.

Final Thought:

If you ever feel stuck, remember: a man with a cause can always be trusted to do the very thing that helps his cause.

Let your songwriting serve something bigger than the song. That's how you build not just a catalog—but a legacy.

Stay Up

How to Handle Restlessness When Your Energy is Low

We’ve all been there—you’re feeling restless, like you should be doing something, but your energy is drained. It’s a frustrating state to be in because you want progress, but you don’t have the fuel to power through.

Instead of forcing productivity or sinking into mindless scrolling, here’s how to channel that restless energy in a way that’s low-effort but mentally satisfying.

1. Brain Dump for Clarity Your brain might be overloaded with thoughts, tasks, or ideas. Get them out of your head and onto paper (or a notes app). No need to organize—just write everything down. Then, highlight one or two things that actually matter. This helps clear mental clutter without forcing deep focus.

2. Passive Learning – Engage Without Effort When active work feels too heavy, listen to a podcast, watch an interesting video, or skim through a book summary. This way, you’re still absorbing useful information without feeling the weight of intense focus.

3. Small Wins – Micro-Tasks That Feel Good Pick a tiny action that gives you a sense of progress—replying to an email, tidying your desk, organizing files. Something simple that lets your brain register progress without exhaustion.

4. Reset Your Body – Low-Energy, High-Impact A five-minute stretch, deep breathing, or even a hot shower can reset your physical state and help your mental energy catch up. Sometimes, small physical changes shift how you feel mentally.

5. Intentional Entertainment – Stimulating but Relaxing If you’re going to consume content, make it something that sparks ideas or adds value—a documentary, a thought-provoking show, or even engaging in a light conversation. This way, your restlessness is directed towards something engaging rather than draining.

Final Thought Restlessness with low energy doesn’t have to be a lost state. By picking small, intentional actions, you can satisfy the need for movement without overloading yourself. The goal isn’t to push through but to redirect that energy wisely, so you wake up tomorrow feeling clearer and more refreshed.

LinkedIn Post:

Feeling restless but low-energy? Here’s how to handle it productively (without burnout).

We all hit that state where we want to get things done but just don’t have the energy to push hard. Instead of forcing productivity or doom-scrolling, try these low-energy, high-satisfaction moves:

• Brain Dump – Write down what’s on your mind. No structure, just clear the mental fog.
• Passive Learning – Listen to a podcast or skim a book summary. Absorb without effort.
• Micro-Wins – Tiny tasks (replying to a message, quick decluttering) create momentum.
• Body Reset – A five-minute stretch, deep breathing, or even a warm shower can shift your state.
• Intentional Entertainment – Watch or read something that stimulates ideas rather than numbing you.

The key? Redirect that restlessness instead of fighting it. Small actions add up, and tomorrow, you’ll feel clearer and more in control.

What do you do when you feel stuck in this restless-but-tired state? Drop your go-to moves in the comments!

creating on your own terms

In the world of artistry, creativity doesn’t punch a clock. It doesn’t wait for your day to clear up, for your inbox to be empty, or for permission from the world. It arrives when it wants, often unexpectedly, and the challenge isn’t in finding it—it’s in honoring it when it comes.

Seth Godin’s words remind us that while the world thrives on structure, artists thrive on flow. The traditional workday, the to-do lists, and the expectations of others can often stifle creativity rather than nurture it. As an artist, your greatest tool isn’t just your talent—it’s your ability to recognize when inspiration strikes and have the courage to act on it.

This isn’t about abandoning responsibility. It’s about recognizing that creativity operates on a different timeline. If today is a day where ideas are bursting at the seams, let the emails wait. If your body is calling you to move, to surf, to step away from the screen, that physical shift might be the very thing that fuels your next song, painting, or poem. When you listen to your intuition and give space to the moments that move you, your art deepens.

For musicians, this might mean stepping away from the structured studio session and allowing spontaneity to take over. For writers, it’s understanding that the best ideas don’t always come when you’re staring at a blank page but when you’re out living life. For visual artists, it might be embracing the unexpected detours that shift your perspective and inspire new work.

The key takeaway? The calendar belongs to everyone else. Your schedule—your real schedule—is dictated by what helps you create at your highest level. This isn’t an excuse to neglect discipline, but a call to align your discipline with what fuels you most. Honor your inspiration when it arrives, structure your commitments around your creativity rather than against it, and don’t be afraid to build a life where your art takes priority.

Because in the end, no one remembers the errands you ran or the emails you answered on time. But they will remember the work you created when you let yourself fully embrace the moment.

The Four Pillars of Influence: The Ultimate Guide for Musicians & Songwriters

Introduction: Understanding the Game So You Can Win

Sex, money, religion, and politics aren’t just forces you have to navigate—they are tools you can leverage to build influence, grow your audience, and shape your career. The biggest artists in history mastered these pillars, whether intentionally or not.

This guide isn’t about playing defense. It’s about how you, as an artist, can take control and use these forces to your benefit—without being manipulated by them.

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1. Sex: Controlling Your Image & The Power of Attraction

How Artists Have Used It:

- Beyoncé & Rihanna: Built their brands by embracing sex appeal on their own terms—powerful, not objectified.

- Prince & David Bowie: Used androgyny and sexuality to break norms and become icons.

- Billie Eilish: Flipped expectations by wearing baggy clothes to control her image before revealing a different side later.

How YOU Can Leverage Sex in Music:

- Own Your Aesthetic: Your image matters—whether sexy, mysterious, rebellious, or unconventional. Be deliberate about your look and brand.

- Understand the Power of Suggestion: You don’t need to be explicit. Some of the most iconic songs use sensuality subtly (Marvin Gaye’s Let’s Get It On).

- Use Image as a Statement: Whether you embrace sex appeal or reject it, make it a conscious decision—not the industry’s choice.

- Engage Fans With Persona: Fans buy into personalities as much as music. If sex appeal is part of your brand, make it a strength, not a trap.

Power Move:

Flip expectations—If you’re expected to be sexy, go against the grain and make people want more. If you’re seen as conservative, surprise them. This is how artists keep the world watching.

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2. Money: Mastering the Business & Creating Wealth as an Artist

How Artists Have Used It:

- Jay-Z & Rihanna: Billionaires who built wealth beyond music—owning labels, fashion, and liquor brands.

- Nipsey Hussle: Preached ownership and reinvested in his community.

- Russ: Skipped labels, owned his masters, and now pulls in millions independently.

How YOU Can Leverage Money in Music:

- OWN SOMETHING: Your masters, publishing, merch, whatever—own a piece of your art so the industry can’t cut you out.

- Monetize Your Brand: Sell something beyond streams—merch, exclusive content, fan subscriptions.

- License Your Music: Get paid for placements in TV, film, games (sync licensing). Passive income = freedom.

- Build Direct-to-Fan Income: Platforms like Patreon, Bandcamp, and Shopify let you earn without middlemen.

Power Move:

Think like a mogul, not just an artist. If your music is generating attention, how else can you turn that into income? Build assets, not just songs.

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3. Religion: Tapping Into Spiritual & Cultural Power

How Artists Have Used It:

- Kanye West: Used gospel themes to expand his influence with Jesus Is King.

- Bob Marley: Spread Rastafarian beliefs globally through reggae.

- Kendrick Lamar: Weaves deep religious and spiritual themes into his music, adding emotional weight.

How YOU Can Leverage Religion & Spirituality in Music:

- Tap Into Bigger Themes: Even if you’re not religious, themes like faith, struggle, and redemption resonate across cultures.

- Understand Your Audience’s Beliefs: Whether gospel, hip-hop, or rock, faith-based communities are loyal fans if you connect authentically.

- Use Symbolism & Depth: Religious imagery and messages add layers to your music (like Tupac’s constant use of biblical references).

- Inspire & Build Movements: Fans want more than just songs—they want meaning. Artists who tap into spirituality often build cult-like followings.

Power Move:

Be intentional. Whether embracing, questioning, or challenging faith, make sure your message is clear and powerful—those who do this well gain deep, lasting fan loyalty.

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4. Politics: The Ultimate Tool for Influence & Impact

How Artists Have Used It:

- Public Enemy: Used hip-hop to fight racial injustice.

- Beyoncé: Formation became an anthem for Black empowerment.

- Bad Bunny: Uses reggaeton to call out Puerto Rican corruption.

How YOU Can Leverage Politics in Music:

- Speak on Issues That Matter to Your Fans: Find causes that align with your brand and audience—authenticity is key.

- Be Strategic About Controversy: Speaking out can elevate your influence—but know when and how to engage.

- Use Music to Shape Culture: Songs with messages don’t just inform—they move people emotionally.

- Align With Movements: Fans respect artists who take real action—whether it’s charity, protests, or using platforms to amplify voices.

Power Move:

Control the narrative. If your music touches on social or political issues, don’t let media twist your message—define it yourself through interviews, social media, and visuals.

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Conclusion: Mastering the Four Pillars & Owning Your Influence

The best artists don’t just react to sex, money, religion, and politics—they use them to their advantage while staying true to themselves.

- Sex Appeal? Control it on your terms.

- Money? Treat music like a business and build wealth.

- Religion? Tap into deeper themes that create loyal fans.

- Politics? Use your voice wisely and powerfully.

Final Power Move:

Think beyond music. The most influential artists are bigger than their songs—they build brands, movements, and legacies. Which pillar will you master first?

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Bonus Action Plan for Artists

1. Define Your Brand: What image or message do you want people to associate with you?

2. Find Your Unique Angle: How can you stand out using one (or more) of these pillars?

3. Plan for Longevity: What assets or income streams will sustain you long-term?

4. Build a Community: Your fans should connect with your vision, not just your music.

5. Own Your Narrative: Don’t let labels or media define you—control your own story.

This is your blueprint. Now go make your mark.

How to Market an Artist Like a Villain: The Trump Playbook for Fame and Power

Forget playing fair. If you want to dominate the music industry, you need to think like the most ruthless operators in history—mob bosses, political masterminds, and media manipulators. One of the greatest case studies? Donald Trump. Whether you love him or hate him, his ability to control narratives, manipulate emotions, and build an unshakable brand is undeniable. If you’re willing to embrace the dark side of marketing, here’s how you can use Trump’s playbook to make an artist truly untouchable.

1. Media Manipulation: Always Be the Headline

Trump doesn’t wait for the media to cover him—he forces them to. He understands that controversy is currency, and he weaponizes it. Outrage, exaggeration, and spectacle keep him permanently in the spotlight.

How to apply this:

• Say the Unthinkable: Drop statements that are impossible to ignore. Stir the pot and force people to react.
• Manufacture Drama: Stage conflicts with rivals, “leak” salacious details, and create shocking viral moments that get blogs scrambling to cover you.
• Control the Narrative: If someone attacks you, double down. Flip the script so you’re the one setting the terms of the conversation.

2. Brand Like a Dictator: Unforgettable & Unapologetic

Trump’s branding is relentless. His name alone carries weight, and his slogans are drilled into the public consciousness.

How to apply this:

• Make Your Name a Symbol: Your artist’s name should evoke a feeling, a lifestyle, a movement. Get it everywhere—merch, billboards, tattoos on superfans.
• Repeat, Repeat, Repeat: Your slogan, your sound, your aesthetic—burn it into people’s brains until they can’t escape it.
• Force a Reaction: Make sure your brand triggers an emotional response—love or hate, but never indifference.

3. Build a Cult: The Fanbase as an Army

Trump turned his supporters into loyal foot soldiers. They spread his message, fight his battles, and defend him no matter what. That’s the kind of loyalty an artist needs.

How to apply this:

• Give Fans a Mission: Create an “us vs. them” mentality. Make fans feel like part of an exclusive movement that outsiders don’t understand.
• Create a Direct Line: Like Trump bypassed the media with Twitter, you need a way to speak directly to your fans—email lists, private Discord groups, or exclusive social platforms.
• Reward Loyalty, Punish Dissent: Elevate superfans with VIP access and exclusive content. Ignore or ridicule detractors to maintain control over your narrative.

4. Seize Every Crisis: Turn Scandals into Success

Trump doesn’t just survive scandals—he thrives on them. Every attack makes him stronger because he embraces the chaos and flips the script.

How to apply this:

• If You Get Canceled, Profit from It: Getting “canceled” means people are talking about you. Lean into it, rally your core audience, and turn it into an even bigger moment.
• Own Your Flaws: Never apologize. Ever. Make your flaws part of your persona and turn weaknesses into strengths.
• Exploit Controversy: If people are outraged, they’re engaged. Use negative press to fuel streams, ticket sales, and merch drops.

5. Crush Your Enemies: No Mercy

Trump’s rise wasn’t just about building himself up—it was about tearing others down. He branded opponents with damaging nicknames and made them unelectable.

How to apply this:

• Destroy the Competition: If another artist is in your lane, make sure they don’t stay there. Undermine them, challenge them, make them look weak.
• Control the Perception: Spread narratives that put you on top. If someone else is gaining traction, frame them as fake, overrated, or a sellout.
• Never Show Weakness: In music, like politics, dominance matters. Never let fans see doubt, insecurity, or failure—always project power and control.

6. Rewrite the Rules: Play Dirty, Win Big

Trump thrives because he doesn’t follow the traditional rulebook. He bends or breaks every norm to suit his goals. The same applies in music marketing.

How to apply this:

• Fake It Till You Make It: Inflate numbers, buy views, stage viral moments—perception is reality.
• Control the Gatekeepers: Cozy up to influencers, journalists, and power players. Make sure they’re working for you, not against you.
• Create Demand Through Scarcity: Artificially limit access to tickets, drops, or exclusive content to make fans crave it even more.

The Takeaway: Be Feared, Be Worshipped, But Never Be Ignored

The music industry is a battlefield, and the artists who rise to the top are the ones who know how to command attention. Trump’s tactics work because he understands the dark psychology of influence. If you want to make an artist legendary, you don’t just play the game—you rig it.

Are you ready to market an artist like a kingpin? Start crafting your power moves now. Fame isn’t given—it’s taken.

How to Market an Artist Like a Politician: A Winning Strategy for Influence

In today’s music industry, artists need more than just great music to stand out—they need influence. Politicians master influence by building strong narratives, engaging with communities, and strategically mobilizing their supporters. So, what if we applied these same tactics to marketing an artist? Here’s how you can model a winning music marketing strategy based on political campaigns.

1. Build a Strong Narrative (Like a Campaign Message)

Politicians craft clear, memorable slogans that define their mission—think “Yes We Can” or “Make America Great Again.” Similarly, an artist needs a compelling personal narrative that fans can connect with.

How to apply this:

• Define the artist’s core message—what do they stand for?
• Craft a short, powerful tagline that encapsulates their vibe or mission.
• Ensure all branding, visuals, and messaging align with this core identity.

When an artist’s story resonates, fans don’t just listen—they buy in.

2. Community & Grassroots Engagement

Political campaigns thrive on grassroots support—rallies, door-to-door canvassing, and word-of-mouth promotion. Artists can take the same approach by fostering real connections with their audience.

How to apply this:

• Engage directly with fans via social media Q&As, DMs, and live streams.
• Encourage user-generated content—remixes, covers, challenges.
• Create “street teams”—passionate fans who promote music in their cities.
• Host fan meetups to strengthen loyalty and create memorable experiences.

3. Strategic Media & Publicity

Politicians control narratives through media appearances, interviews, and speeches. For artists, securing media coverage is just as crucial.

How to apply this:

• Schedule consistent press interviews, podcast appearances, and blog features.
• Have a strong social media presence with engaging, well-planned content.
• Leverage controversy or bold statements (without being reckless) to spark discussion and engagement.

4. Mobilizing for Releases (Like an Election Day Push)

Election Day is the biggest moment in a political campaign. Likewise, an artist’s release day should feel like a major event.

How to apply this:

• Treat every album/track release like an election event, building anticipation weeks in advance.
• Use pre-saves, digital street teams, and exclusive content to generate buzz.
• Encourage fans to share, stream, and create content around the release.
• Host a “release night” livestream or in-person event to build excitement.

5. Creating a Movement (Not Just Selling Music)

Great politicians don’t just sell policies—they sell movements. The most impactful artists do the same.

How to apply this:

• Identify a bigger mission beyond the music. Examples:
  • Billie Eilish = Anti-industry rebel, voice for youth.
  • Travis Scott = High-energy, rager culture.
  • Beyoncé = Empowerment, excellence, legacy.
• Make fans feel like they’re part of something bigger than just listening to songs.
• Align with cultural moments, social issues, or lifestyle movements that connect with the artist’s audience.

Final Thoughts

Politicians and artists both rely on influence, messaging, and mobilization to build their followings. By applying political strategies to music marketing, artists can create deeper connections, stronger engagement, and long-term success.

Ready to launch a campaign-level strategy for your next release? Start by crafting your message, engaging your audience, and mobilizing your fanbase like a winning candidate.

Ambition Without Structure: A Recipe for Failure?

Lately, I’ve been thinking about how ambition, on its own, isn’t always enough. I’ve seen it firsthand in my journey as a musician and artist—big dreams can easily fall apart without a solid plan to back them up.

This idea reminded me of something Nathan Kontny wrote in his 2018 Medium article, When Ambition Leads to Failure. He points out that ambition, while powerful, can sometimes lead to setbacks if it’s not paired with discipline and strategy. One line that stuck with me was: “Ambition is wonderful, but only when it motivates you to keep going.” That really resonates with my creative process.

March feels like the perfect time to reflect on this—goal-setting, fresh starts, and taking stock of where we’re headed. Whether I’m working toward my next big song or you’re chasing your own ambitions, one thing is clear: ambition needs structure to thrive. A plan doesn’t stifle creativity; it gives it the foundation to grow.

What do you think? Have you ever seen ambition lead to failure because there wasn’t a clear strategy in place? Let’s talk!

5 Brave Women

 Moses owed his life (among other people) to five brave women:

Shiphrah and Puah, the midwives, defied Pharaoh and saved the lives of hundreds of male babies.

Moses’ sister (Miriam) acted cleverly in fetching Moses’ own mother to nurse him when he was discovered by Pharaoh’s daughter in the reeds.

Moses’ mother passed on great faith to her three children (Moses, Aaron and Miriam).

And most surprisingly of all, Pharaoh’s daughter had compassion on Moses and she rescued him and took him in as her own. owed his life (among other people) to five brave women:

Shiphrah and Puah, the midwives, defied Pharaoh and saved the lives of hundreds of male babies.

Moses’ sister (Miriam) acted cleverly in fetching Moses’ own mother to nurse him when he was discovered by Pharaoh’s daughter in the reeds.

Moses’ mother passed on great faith to her three children (Moses, Aaron and Miriam).

And most surprisingly of all, Pharaoh’s daughter had compassion on Moses and she rescued him and took him in as her own.