Michael and Stu getting into TikTok talk. Exploring the FYP, celebrating the algorithm, how you can go down a bumpy road (and get back). How the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strike is complicating the music side and affecting Syncs. Also, our opinions on the strike and how people are reacting to "rich" writers and actors. Fame and money, and what's really important.

Then Michael breaks down how a growing band F***ed up a big chance opening up for a hero artist of theirs, and how you can avoid these mistakes with a little bit of planning for a large show.

Sync of the Week:

Michael's is from Minx

Stu's is from the Bear

The guys tiptoe around the controversy of cancel culture and separating the art from the artist. We "touch on" Louis CK. This leads to a conversation about about owning your fan journey, building a fanbase, and giving away joy, joy, joy! Michael then breaks down his Release Checklist. Find a link to it below for free.

Sync of the Week:

Michael's is from the Women's World Cup - (make sure to click on the video for Lume's break below to see how it was done)

Stu's is from South Park

Release Checklist: https://www.2shotsmusicpod.com/blog/music-release-checklist-ep-19-2shotsmusicpod/

Breakdown of https://www.youtube.com/@its_LUME 's custom theme for ITV Women's World Cup song: https://youtu.be/936SRZK7q3c

The boys talk a little about gaming which leads to a walk down memory lane about consoles.

Quelle Surprise! Michael rants about how frustrating endlessly updating everything from games to computers to browsers has become.

Stu and Michael talk a little shop about the Q223 Spotify call and the big news about the $1 raise in Premium plan pricing and what it all means to you as a partner on the most important music platform.

Sync of the Week:

Michael's is from Pine Gap. Stu's is from The Bear

A little something different. We're calling them "Quick Shots" - a little mini pod about 1 thing in under 30 minutes-ish.

Kelsey is officially online, but won't tell anyone where. This episode is our love letter to DRUMMERS! If you're a drummer, or know a drummer, or have heard of drummers, you should listen to this episode. Drop a comment to let us know who we (inevitably) left out.

Sync of the Week: Michael's is from Jack Ryan. Stu's is from The Bear

A little something different. We're calling them "Quick Shots" - a little mini pod about 1 thing in under 30 minutes-ish.

This one is about Stu and Michael discussing Presaves and whether they are worth your time.

The boys explore a little climate change - weather and live music touring. Saying no to a show for safety. The disturbing proliferation of people throwing stuff and hitting artists in stage. Should we stop the undergarment throwing?

It's Christmas in July! What does that mean? Well, it's time for you to produce your holiday/Christmas songs now! We have a handy download for you below.

Sync of the Week: Michael's is from Based on a True Story - "Heat" by Wolfman. Stu's is from Hunters - "You Are The Woman" Firefall

Christmas in July Songlist: https://www.2shotsmusicpod.com/blog/christmas-in-july/

Covering a Christmas song? Distrokid makes it easy, $12 a year and they take care of the rest. link for a discount: https://distrokid.com/vip/stjames

A fairly controversial take on coffee - that you must hear to believe - from Michael. The boys discuss how being a Night Owl in the music industry changes over time, but is useful. And then the show turns into a "Scott Uhl" love-fest (check out his channel https://youtu.be/iuJ26XaaUn4) centered around his excellent video about scammers - especially in the music game, with a real-world example.

Sync of the Week:

Michael's is from Mrs. Maisel. Stu's is from FROM.

We have a little fun with drummers (and Dr. Rich Ross - can't wait for the solo record!), talk about having to be an artist AND do promo (even when you're signed). Stu got new boots. We delve into how pricing for live music entertainment can change wildly. Michael compares modern musicians to athletes. We also answer "Exactly how much does it cost do do a cover song legally?"

Sync of the Week:

Michael's is from the movie "Champions" Stu's is from The Bear.

Hey, no pet stuff! And also, no Kelsey (she's fine, just hungover). We chat about PBS and drunks. We break down Istanbul not Constantinople. We unpack the big study claiming that "Gen Z music fans are drinking less and it's killing music venues" and how you as an artist can use that to your advantage.

Sync of the Week: Michael's is from a Haggar ad. Stu's is from The Rookie