The Music Business Buddy

This episode explores essential music marketing strategies for independent artists aiming to elevate their brand and connect with audiences effectively. I briefly discuss funding options before moving onto the importance of enlisting freelancers and highlight the importance of platforms like Tone Den, Unhurd Music and Audiomack to assist artists in their marketing efforts. • Understanding the impo...

In this episode, I interview Grammy-winning mix engineer James Auwarter, who shares his journey from aspiring musician to industry expert. Emphasising the importance of communication, collaboration, and technical skills, James offers practical advice for emerging artists and producers looking to elevate their work.  • James Auwarter's career path from trumpet to Grammy-winning engineer  • The...

What if artists could revolutionise their storytelling and create deeper connections with their fans in this era of digital noise? Allow me to unravel the massive shifts in the industry, focusing on the rise of live audio and artist audiobooks. With a spotlight on Spotify's strategic moves, including acquisitions like Sonantic and Findaway Voices, we uncover how these developments could offer...

Could fintech be the game-changer the music industry has been waiting for? Discover the intriguing insights of my previous guest, Keith Jopling, as we explore how financial technology is revolutionizing artist funding. This episode of The Music Business Buddy offers an eye-opening look at how fintech innovations are empowering artists to break free from traditional record label constraints as I ex...

Unlock the secrets to a thriving music career with the guidance of UK based music industry executive strategist Keith Jopling. The former global head of strategic intelligence at Spotify talks openly about his work as major label consultant, his time kickstarting the research brand MIDIA and his views on the future of the music industry.  Uncover invaluable insights into achieving longevity in a r...

Imagine being at the centre of a musical universe, where every note and beat needs to align perfectly with the artist's vision, yet allow for spontaneity and magic. That's the everyday reality for Martin "Magic" Johnson, an extraordinary musical director whose journey from drummer to esteemed director has equipped him with unparalleled insights into the world of live musical pe...

Have you ever wondered how to effectively register your songs and recordings to ensure you receive the royalties you're owed? Join me, Jonny Amos, as I demystify the often-overlooked distinction between songs and recordings, a crucial step for protecting your creative work. From the intricacies of joining Performing Rights Organisations (PROs) and Collective Management Organisations (CMOs) to...

Explore music recording contracts with me Jonny Amos in this empowering episode of Music Business Buddy. Prepare to revolutionise your approach to music agreements by understanding them not as daunting hurdles but as essential tools for artistic success. I draw from my own experiences to dismantle the fear surrounding contracts, offering insights into how the digital age has ushered in greater tra...

Unlock the mysteries of music publishing contracts with me, Jonny Amos, as I promise to transform the intimidating legalese into a tool of empowerment for music composers. Ever wondered how to navigate the complex web of Single Song Assignments, Exclusive Songwriter Agreements, and Administration Deals? This episode is your gateway to understanding these crucial contract types, equipping you with...

What does it take to transform a lockdown project into a thriving creative hub? Birmingham's own Tilly Wellard and Benji Charles, the masterminds behind Bonded, answer this question as they share their inspiring journey. As rising music executives, Tilly and Benji have created a vibrant platform that connects and spotlights talent across music, arts, and fashion. Their innovative approach not...

Unlock the secrets to transforming your songwriting passion into a thriving career as I explore the multifaceted world of how songwriters make money through royalties and income diversification. Ever wondered how songwriters make money beyond just selling their tunes? Tune in to discover the intricate dance between performance royalties, mechanical rights, and the power of copyright. Allow me to g...

Legendary record producer Gavin Monaghan joins me for a captivating conversation that promises to enrich your understanding of the music industry. Renowned for his work with icons like Robert Plant and Paolo Nutini, Gavin shares his journey from band member to esteemed producer, highlighting the transformative power of an informal apprenticeship. Discover how his venture, Magic Garden Recordings,...

Ever wondered what it takes to create the music behind your favorite TV shows and films? Join me as I sit down with media composer Jason Tarver to unlock the secrets of production music. From its origins to its indispensable role in modern media, Jason uncovers the creative process, editorial needs, and industry standards that shape this fascinating field. You'll gain a comprehensive understa...

Can you imagine a future where you can enjoy front-row concert experiences from the comfort of your own home? Join Jonny Amos, author of "The Music Business for Music Creators," as he navigates the exciting world of live-streamed music events. In this captivating episode of the Music Business Buddy, Jonny predict's how live streaming is set to become a game-changer in the music indu...

Ever wondered how a chance encounter in a guitar shop can change your entire career? In this episode of The Music Business Buddy, I sit down with Jamie Sellers, a multifaceted music professional who transitioned from aspiring pop star to a full-time producer. Jamie shares his unique journey, from his early days playing bass guitar and singing in bands, to his serendipitous break into music product...

Ever wondered how well-meaning support from friends and family could be sabotaging your music career? In this episode of The Music Business Buddy, I unpack the surprising pitfalls of the "wrong kind of streams" and how they can distort crucial data on platforms like Spotify. Join me, Jonny Amos, as I break down why these seemingly innocent acts of sharing might actually hurt your chances...

Ever wondered how fanbase building actually works and how you can feed it? Get ready to uncover the secrets behind Spotify's sophisticated recommendation algorithms and learn how to leverage them to skyrocket your listener count! From understanding the structural mechanics of how Spotify uses user data to craft personalized listening experiences to the often overlooked role of external platfo...

What if your music could finally reach the audience it deserves, landing a record deal that propels your career to new heights? This episode of "The Music Business Buddy" promises to arm you with the essential strategies for pitching your act to record companies. I guide you through the meticulous process of selecting the right label by evaluating their size, distribution channels, genre...

What if the key to unlocking unparalleled creativity lies in understanding and embracing neurodiversity? Join me, Jonny Amos, as I uncover the fascinating world of neurodiversity within the music industry. This episode of "The Music Business Buddy" promises to enlighten you on how conditions like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and Tourette syndrome contribute to the vibrant tapestry...

Ever wondered how owning your master recordings can change the trajectory of your music career? Join me, Jonny Amos, on the Music Business Buddy as I unravel the intricacies of master rights. Using Taylor Swift's early albums as a case study, we break down how ownership of master recordings can empower artists and shape their control over their work. You'll gain a clear understanding of...

What if the journey from small-time gigs to the realm of documentary scores was more attainable than you ever imagined? Tune in to this captivating episode of "The Music Business Buddy" where we sit down with the versatile and talented media composer, Chris Tye. Chris takes us through his inspiring transition from playing open mics in Birmingham to becoming a critically acclaimed artist,...

Ready to make your next single a hit? This episode promises to equip you with all the essential strategies for a successful music release. We break down the critical steps, from picking the right distributor to crafting a killer electronic press kit and creative asset bank. You’ll learn how to upload your music and metadata correctly and why these details are crucial for your song's success....

What if AI could compose music just as emotionally compelling as your favorite artist? Join us as we uncover the transformative power of AI in music creation with insights from Emily Jackson of Horus Music. This episode dives into how innovative tools like Suno, Boomi, SoundDraw, and Google's latest advancements are reshaping the music industry. Discover how AI is not only democratizing music...

Ever wondered how a talented songwriter navigates the modern music industry while balancing both writing and performing? Join me, Jonny Amos, on the Music Business Buddy as we uncover the journey of Lauren Bough, an emerging artist and songwriter from the Midlands (UK). Discover how Lauren's education at a contemporary music institute, coupled with strategic career moves, propelled her to bec...

Ever wondered how rising stars in the music industry hone their unique sound and build their careers from the ground up? In this episode of Music Business Buddy, we promise to equip you with the essential tools and insights that underpin artist development. Join us as we delve into defining an artist's identity and sound, crafting early work that resonates with audiences, and much more. We’re...