Cover Band Confidential's Podcast (Music Business, Gigging Tips & Making Money as a Musician)

This week Adam and Dan dive into everything from weekend gigs to spooky TV show binges. 

Adam recounts the excitement and challenges of performing at a Stranger Things-themed block party, including bringing Aiden Fisher, the guitarist from the show, on stage for an electrifying rendition of 'Master of Puppets.' 

In this episode, we talk about the pull of nostalgia, retro music culture, and why audiences keep responding to throwback sounds, visuals, and references. We dig into what makes that kind of cultural callback work, how it connects to live music and audience engagement, and what musicians can learn from it. If you’ve ever wondered why the past keeps showing up in the present with better branding, this one is worth a listen.

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IkMjv0QGNIOC7MCxVdQt

In this episode, Adam and Dan dig into a message from Dustin — a musician in an emo/pop punk cover band who’s hitting some walls trying to get traction in the Pacific Northwest. He’s also dealing with an unexpected rival band made up of local veterans, and it’s got him wondering: is there such a thing as band etiquette?

What follows is a real talk session about competition, professionalism, and how to stand out in a crowded scene. Adam and Dan break down how to analyze your local market, find your lane, and use every tool available (yes, even AI) to your advantage.

It’s a mix of straight talk and tough love for working musicians — all about leveling up your game, playing smarter, and staying cool when the scene gets messy.

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00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:49 Halloween Stories and Costumes
03:40 Band Rehearsals and Upcoming Gigs
08:22 Listener Inquiry: Band Competition and Etiquette
17:17 Embracing AI in the Music Industry
17:50 Competitive Edge: Using All Available Resources
19:50 Navigating Market Competition
21:32 Adapting and Innovating in the Tribute Band Scene
25:47 Marketing Your Music: A Necessary Skill
31:44 Final Thoughts and Advice for Musicians

Mark’s back! This week, Adam and Dan catch up with Mark Frederickson from Frozen Coyote for a long-overdue check-in.

If you’ve been around a while, you’ll remember Mark’s band journey — from forming on his local subreddit to playing that first garage gig.

Now, Frozen Coyote’s got some miles under their belt, and with that comes all the usual growing pains: leadership shifts, gig droughts, and keeping everyone pulling in the same direction.

It’s a real-deal conversation about what happens after the honeymoon phase of starting a band — the stuff no one tells you about. Honest laughs, solid advice, and a few “we’ve all been there” moments.

Hit play and see how far Frozen Coyote’s come — and what they’ve learned along the way.

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Backing Track Resources: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/backing-track-resources


Thank you so much for tuning in!  If you want to help be sure to like, subscribe and share with your friends!  

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In this milestone episode, we look back at seven years of Cover Band Confidential and break down the biggest lessons for working musicians heading into 2026. 

We talk about the gear trends shaping live performance, the rise of modeling amps, the kinds of episodes musicians keep coming back to, and what this show has taught us about building a smarter, more sustainable music career. 

If you care about gigging, gear, and the business side of being a musician, this one pulls it all together.

Expect stories you’ve never heard before, stats that will blow your mind (246 hours of audio?!), and a heartfelt reflection on what it really means to “rock more and suck less.”

🧠 In This Episode
* How it all began: From a WordPress blog to one of the most beloved musician podcasts on the internet.
* The first DM that started it all: Adam and Dan’s unlikely internet partnership.
* Evolution of the show: From awkward intros to “What’s up Waffle House enthusiasts?” and the birth of the “Rock More, Suck Less” tagline.
* Favorite moments & episodes: Including interviews with legends like Jennifer Batten and unforgettable self-care discussions.
* Community over perfection: Why the best episodes come from their biggest mistakes.
* Inside jokes & quotes: From “Two big humps of energy” to “Rock on, fart pedal”—the greatest hits of 400 episodes.
* Behind-the-scenes confessions: Missed weeks, inside running jokes, and who really says “look” the most.
* Reflections on growth: Sobriety, self-care, and the real impact of showing up every week for seven years.
* A look forward: The next chapter—Episode 500, a possible Cover Band Confidential book, and dreams of a Vegas hang for fans and friends.

🔥 Notable Quotes
“If you love something enough to just suck so hard at it—but be willing to eat it until you get better—the potential for success is beyond your comprehension.” – Adam Johnson
“We’re all dealing with the same stuff. From the biggest touring bands to the bar corner guys, we’re all thinking about the same things.” – Dan Ray
“The world now rocks a little more and sucks a little less.” – Mike Schulte

🏆 Favorite Past Episodes Mentioned
* Ep. 404: What Makes a Band Brand Work
* Ep. 118: If You’re Starting from Scratch
* Ep. 265: Good Hangs Over Chops, Every Time
* Distraction Cast Series (2020): A snapshot of musicians navigating the pandemic.

📚 Coming Soon
👀 A Cover Band Confidential Book?Adam and Dan tease that a publishing opportunity might finally turn their long-running Google Doc into an official printed guide to the cover band world.

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Consider supporting us on Patreon! www.patreon.com/coverbandconfidential

Or buy us a cup of coffee!
paypal.me/cbconfidential

And for more info check out 
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In this week's episode,  Adam and Dan dive into their latest adventures and insights from gearing up for a  trip to handling last-minute changes and working through listener questions. 

They break down the essentials of maintaining both electric and acoustic sets, juggling tight stages, managing low-volume gigs, and ensuring your gear doesn't let you down mid-show. 

The episode also features lively input from their loyal Patreon crowd, including the pros and cons of back-to-back sets versus breaks, balancing male and female lead vocals, and adapting your setlist to fit the venue's vibe. 

Tune in for practical tips, candid stories, and a good dose of crappy content!

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Thank you so much for tuning in!  If you want to help be sure to like, subscribe and share with your friends!  

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In this episode, Adam and Dan dive into the theme of taking big swings, sharing personal stories about embracing risk and unexpected opportunities. Adam reveals he’s been invited to play a gig with a major recording artist and is also auditioning to be the lead singer for a MASSIVELY popular metal band from the 80's, while Dan discusses launching a new app that grew from a side project into a real business.

The hosts revisit a listener’s question about practice efficiency, highlighting the importance of balancing improvisation, technique, and preparation. They reflect on how confidence and a sense of balance can positively impact both performance and personal growth.

Milestones are celebrated, including the podcast nearing 6,000 YouTube subscribers and the upcoming 400th episode. Listeners are encouraged to send in ideas and feedback, and the community’s support is recognized as a key part of the show’s ongoing success.

The episode’s core message is to not let fear of failure or rejection hold you back. Whether it’s pursuing a dream gig, launching a new venture, or simply trying something new, the hosts encourage everyone to take chances and see where those big swings might lead.

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🎸 Cover Band Confidential Podcast – Show Notes (Oct 3, 2025) 🎸

This week, Adam is joined by Matt from Guitar Dads (Dan’s off drinking around the world or something).

The guys dive into the wild world of cover bands, swap war stories from Boston to Atlanta, and debate the eternal question: is it worth dropping $1,300 on an import guitar? (Spoiler: they’re shockingly good.)

Find Matt's Podcast at  @GuitarDads on Youtube, Instagram and wherever you get your podcasts! 

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Timestamps & Highlights:

[00:00:00] Intro & Meet Matt
Adam introduces Matt, who shares his cover band journey, Boston roots, and why he’s not Dan.

[00:04:30] Cover Band Life in Boston
Matt talks about the seasonal gig scene, outdoor summer shows, and the difference between city and suburb gigs.

[00:09:00] Import Guitars: Are They Worth It?
The guys geek out over new Epiphone and Gretsch models, discuss neck shapes, and admit some imports are just as good as the “real thing.”

[00:22:00] NAMM House, Group Chats & Good Vibes
Shoutouts to the NAM house crew, the magic of meeting internet friends IRL, and why the vibe was immaculate.

[00:26:00] The Great Burger Debate
In-N-Out vs. Five Guys vs. Shake Shack vs. Culver’s. (Matt’s always up for a burger.)

[00:31:00] Practice Talk: Scales or Just Jam?
Listener question: Should you obsess over scales or just jam and hope for the best? (Hint: the crowd probably just wants to dance.)

[00:46:00] Dream Tribute Bands
Adam wants a punk-pop cover band; Matt dreams of U2, Tom Petty, Bon Jovi, and ‘80s hair metal tributes.

[00:53:00] Shoutouts & Wrap-Up
Philly cover band love, Guitar Dads memes, and why the world rocks a little more and sucks a little less when you’re listening to this show.

If you like gear talk, band drama, and a healthy dose of musical snobbery, you’re in the right place. Don’t forget to check out Matt’s Guitar Dads podcast and leave a five-star review if you’re feeling generous!

Adam and Dan are back with tales of festival chaos, gig mishaps, and musical revelations! Adam survives Phish and Shaky Knees fest with his teen, sampling parking lot grilled cheese and VIP perks, while Dan battles tech gremlins at his first post-op solo karaoke gig.

Highlights:
* Phish: wild lights, killer keys, and a crowd that wants you to love what they love.
* Shaky Knees: Deftones, My Chemical Romance, Lenny Kravitz (still a rock god), and Weird Al turning everyone into a 12-year-old.
* Dan’s gig: karaoke app fails, pedal drama, but the show goes on—old school.
* YouTube milestones, NAMM media cred, and the eternal quest for more subs.
Tune in for honest takes, festival dust, and the joy of just being an audience member. Hit play!

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Backing Track Resources: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/backing-track-resources


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Elgato Stream Deck XL: https://amzn.to/3gKjhqi

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This week Adam and Dan catch up on gigs, gear, and the weird life of being a musician. Check out the highlights below and jump to what interests you!

👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more cover band talk!
💬 Join our Patreon Slack to hang out with us and other musicians.
📲 Links to gear, reviews, and more below!

NES Hard Case (Tiktok Shop):  https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTHngafVNkBa3-vJp30/
Direct Link: https://www.eylar.com/intact-premium-series-22-inch-rolling-carry-on-travel-hard-case-with-retro-controller-graphic.html#color=4 

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Blank Contracts & Riders: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/performance-contracts

Backing Track Resources: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/backing-track-resources


Thank you so much for tuning in!  If you want to help be sure to like, subscribe and share with your friends!  

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If you have any questions please email at:
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Consider supporting us on Patreon! www.patreon.com/coverbandconfidential

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Elgato Prompter: https://amzn.to/3X3IAq8 

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Elgato Stream Deck XL: https://amzn.to/3gKjhqi

Magic Arm Camera Friction Mount: https://amzn.to/3SK5yNk


coverband #podcast #musicianlife #gear 




00:00 - Kicking things off & intros
01:20 - Dan’s upcoming gig & karaoke story
04:45 - Adam’s mic saga: Sennheiser support adventure
07:15 - New gear: NES controller case & TikTok finds
10:00 - VX5 review & why it’s (almost) awesome
13:00 - Ableton on Mac Mini: stress testing for gigs
16:30 - Musicians going to shows as fans (or not)
25:00 - Why musicians should see stuff outside their wheelhouse
28:00 - New music recs: CMAT, Alabama Shakes, Weird Al, and more
31:00 - Final thoughts & community shoutouts

This week, Adam and Dan dive deep into the wild world of live band karaoke. 

From gig recaps to stopping pullout knobs (get your mind out of the gutter!), these guys cover it all. 

Hear about the ups, the downs, and the hilarious mishaps that come with running a live band karaoke event. 

They discuss systems, share insider stories, and give shoutouts to listeners who've reached out. 

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to share a mic with a stranger belting out 'What's Up' by 4 Non Blondes, you won't want to miss this one!

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BOTH Lighting 360 Tubes (Use “DISCOUNT4CBC” to save 5%): https://bothlightingusa.com/collections/all-products/products/360-tubes-copy

Blank Contracts & Riders: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/performance-contracts

Backing Track Resources: https://www.coverbandconfidential.com/store/backing-track-resources

Thank you so much for tuning in!  If you want to help be sure to like, subscribe and share with your friends!  

Linktree: linktr.ee/adampatrickjohnson

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Follow us on Instagram!

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@danraymusician

If you have any questions please email at:

[email protected]

Consider supporting us on Patreon! www.patreon.com/coverbandconfidential

Or buy us a cup of coffee!

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And for more info check out 

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Gear Used in this Video (Affiliate):

Sony ZV-E10 Mirrorless Camera: https://amzn.to/3DBqtOy

Elgato Prompter: https://amzn.to/3X3IAq8 

Shure SM7B: https://amzn.to/4dDCJx0 

Elgato Stream Deck XL: https://amzn.to/3gKjhqi

Magic Arm Camera Friction Mount: https://amzn.to/3SK5yNk