Elevated Frequencies

Ready to take your DJ sets beyond mixing tracks? This episode is your blueprint for incorporating live elements and creating unforgettable experiences. Rhizome Music founders Calhoun McDougall and Louis DeMarco share their decades of experience managing hybrid electronic acts and producing major festivals to help you level up your performance game without breaking the bank.

If you've ever wondered how to start adding live elements to your shows, felt intimidated by the technical requirements, or worried about the costs involved, this conversation will give you a clear roadmap. Learn how to build memorable performances that get you booked again and again.

Key Takeaways:

• How to start incorporating live elements into your shows on any budget
• The most common mistakes artists make when adding production elements (and how to avoid them)
• Why intentional show design matters more than expensive equipment
• Practical tips for working with lighting directors and VJs
• How to write music with live performance in mind
• Strategic ways to build your brand identity through performance
• The business considerations of transitioning from DJ to live act

Want personalized guidance on implementing these strategies? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Stop letting limited budgets hold back your creative vision. Hit play now to learn how to build unforgettable performances that will set you apart from the crowd.

Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__
Follow Rhizome: https://www.instagram.com/rhizomemusic/

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

In this powerful episode, dance music icon Nadia Ali—the voice and songwriter behind explosive hits like "Rapture" and "Pressure"—breaks her silence on the industry's biggest blind spot—the lack of recognition for singers, songwriters, and collaborators who help create electronic music's biggest tracks. With 23 years of experience and countless chart-topping anthems, Nadia shares candid insights about collaboration, credit, and creating authentic art in an increasingly individualistic scene.

From her unexpected start as a Versace executive assistant to becoming one of dance music's most recognizable artists, Nadia reveals how the industry's "bro culture" affects artistry and why a more inclusive approach to recognition benefits everyone in the scene.

Key Takeaways:

• Why proper recognition of singers, songwriters and collaborators is crucial for dance music's future
• How cultural differences shape attitudes toward collaboration in the industry
• The real impact of social media on artist recognition and relationship-building
• Why treating artists as transactions hurts the creative process
• Practical ways producers can better celebrate their collaborators
• How to maintain artistic authenticity in an ego-driven industry
• The importance of building direct relationships with your audience

Ready to level up your music career with more industry insights? Join us at Chicago Music Nexus, where you'll connect with top professionals and learn cutting-edge strategies for success. Reserve your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Want personalized guidance on implementing these strategies? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Don't miss this rare, candid conversation with one of dance music's most influential voices. Hit play now to learn why recognition, authenticity, and collaboration are key to creating lasting impact in electronic music.

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Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Tired of posting randomly and hoping something sticks? In this game-changing episode, former BET and VH1 social media strategist Sabrina Diamond reveals her proven framework for creating months of engaging content—without the burnout.

Learn how the same strategies that powered major music brands can help independent artists build a loyal following and consistent engagement. Sabrina breaks down her proprietary approach that takes the guesswork out of what to post, when to post it, and how to make it resonate with your audience.

Key Takeaways:

• The exact content pillar framework used by major music brands (and how to adapt it for artists)
• How to create 3 months of content in a single planning session
• Why most artists burn out on social media (and the simple fix you're probably missing)
• The secret to maintaining authenticity while scaling your content
• How to benchmark your success without getting lost in vanity metrics
• Practical strategies to stay consistent even when inspiration runs dry

Ready to level up your music career with more industry insights? Join us at Chicago Music Nexus, where you'll connect with top professionals and learn cutting-edge strategies for success. Reserve your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Want personalized guidance on implementing these strategies? Join my artist development program on Patreon for exclusive content and direct access to industry expertise: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Don't miss this opportunity to transform your social media strategy from scattered posts into a powerful career-building tool. Hit play now to learn how to create content that converts followers into superfans.

Connect with Sabrina: https://www.sabrinadiamond.com/

Connect with Olivia: https://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Are you looking to stand out in the music industry and secure more bookings? This episode features Drew Dapps, who shares how creating a unique community around his concept, Camp Dappington, not only differentiated him from the crowd but directly led to numerous gig opportunities.

Drew discusses his journey as a boutique house artist and the strategic moves behind Camp Dappington, a themed activation that has captured attention at festivals. He emphasizes the power of building a community as a proof of concept that showcases your value to promoters and venues.

Key Takeaways:

• Community Creation: How forming a unique community can significantly enhance your visibility and appeal to festival organizers.
• Proof of Concept: Demonstrating your ability to draw and engage an audience, proving your potential for bigger bookings.
• Diversification: The importance of diversifying your offerings beyond music to include merchandise and unique fan experiences that reinforce your brand.
• Brand Investment: Investing in your brand isn’t just about spending money—it’s about creatively engaging your followers and turning them into a loyal community.
• Merchandising Strategy: How smart merchandising can not only increase profitability but also serve as a walking billboard for your brand.

Dive deeper into the world of music and community building at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Here, you’ll connect with influencers and industry professionals who are eager to share their knowledge and network. Secure your spot now with the code PODCAST for $30 off: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Continue your journey on my Patreon, where we explore more in-depth strategies for artist development and career growth. Join today for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Connect with me on Instagram: @oliviamancuso__

Video editor/audio engineer: James Fixx

Have you ever felt like you don't belong, even with some significant achievements under your belt? Today, I'm diving deep into a scenario that might hit close to home for many of you: battling imposter syndrome.

This isn't just about feeling out of place; it's about understanding why high-achievers like us often feel undeserving of our successes and how we can conquer this crippling mindset.

Don’t miss your chance to connect at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. The code PODCAST saves you $30. Secure your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

In this episode, we cover:

The Reality of Imposter Syndrome: It strikes when you least expect it, turning your achievements into question marks.

Embracing Your Achievements: How to anchor in your success and remind yourself of your worth and capabilities.

Practical Tools to Combat Doubts: From watching your triumphs to keeping a folder of positive feedback, discover strategies to fortify your confidence.

The Power of Self-Care and Letting Go: Learn why treating yourself well and shedding perfectionism is critical in battling imposter syndrome.

Building Resilience: I'll share how creating spaces for intentional networking, like Chicago Music Nexus, can transform your approach to industry challenges.

Whether you're a budding DJ or a seasoned producer, understanding and managing imposter syndrome is crucial for your growth and well-being. Remember, you're not alone in this journey—the best among us wrestle with these doubts, and together, we can overcome them.

Remember to secure your tickets for Chicago Music Nexus with the code 'podcast' for $30 off. Don't miss out on this opportunity to grow, network, and thrive. www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Connect: oliviamancuso__

Video editor/audio engineer: James Fixx

Are you ready to hit the road and make a name for yourself beyond your local scene? In this episode, Max Pohlmann, co-founder of Audisbliss and a veteran touring manager, unpacks the essentials of moving from local stages to nationwide tours. With extensive experience managing tours for artists like Subtronics and Mindchatter, and orchestrating over 150 events globally, Max brings unparalleled insights into making it big in touring.

Join us for an exclusive opportunity to connect with industry leaders like Max at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. The code PODCAST gets you $30 off. Secure your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Elevate your career with targeted business and branding insights on my Patreon. Exclusive content starts at just $5/month: patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we explore:

• The Local Launchpad: Learn what foundational steps you need to dominate at home before you can dazzle on the road.
• Strategic Moves: Discover whether you should aim for headlining smaller venues or seek direct support roles in bigger shows as your entry into touring.
• The Real Cost of Touring: Touring isn't all glamour and applause. Uncover the often-overlooked downsides, from financial strains to mental health challenges.
• Tour Construction: Crafting a successful tour involves more than just showing up. Dive into the nuts and bolts of effective tour planning, from branding and venue selection to overall management.
• Universal Traits of Success: Hear surprising qualities shared by all successful clients Max has worked with—traits that could set you apart from the crowd.

About Max Pohlmann: With a background ranging from tour management for high-profile clients to event production, Max is a beacon of knowledge in the touring and event management industry. His experience spans coordinating high-stakes festival operations and managing critical emergency situations, making him an invaluable resource for anyone looking to break into or excel in the world of music tours.

Why This Matters: Many dream of stepping up from local artist to touring powerhouse, but the path is fraught with challenges and requires meticulous planning and personal resilience. Max’s firsthand experiences offer a roadmap for aspiring artists to navigate this transition successfully.

Connect with me here: oliviamancuso__

Video editor/audio engineer: James Fixx

Do you think a manager is your all-in-one solution in the music industry? Let's set the record straight. In this enlightening episode, I chat with Corynne Burrows, the founder and CEO of Midas Touch MGMT, where we dive into what managers truly look for when scouting new talent. 

Corynne demystifies the role of a manager and underscores the essential skills artists must already have polished before teaming up with a management team.

In our discussion, we tackle personal branding, fan engagement, and the continuous efforts required from both artists and managers to ensure success. Corynne highlights:

• The importance of artists being proactive and knowledgeable in building their brand and network.
• How crucial it is to authentically engage your audience and maintain consistent content.
• The balance needed between artistic integrity and business acumen to thrive in this competitive industry.

Exclusive on Patreon: Dive deeper into our discussion on crisis management, where Corynne shares her strategies for handling public scrutiny and maintaining an artist's reputation when old tweets resurface or accusations fly.

Join us at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus, where you can connect with industry leaders like Corynne and gain firsthand insights into the business dynamics of music management. Use code PODCAST for $30 off your pass: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Elevate your career with targeted business and branding tips on Patreon, where exclusive content starts at just $5/month: www.patreon.com/oliviamancuso

Connect with Olivia

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Can perfect harmony in a DJ Duo amplify your success in the music industry? Dive into this special rerun with Walker & Royce as they unpack the secrets behind their dynamic partnership. Explore how they've turned their complementary skills into a tech-house powerhouse and learn how you can apply these principles to your own musical endeavors.

Join us for more transformative discussions at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. The code PODCAST gets you $30 off for a limited time. Secure your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Elevate your career with targeted business and branding insights on my Patreon: Exclusive content starts at just $5/month: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we explore:

• Synergistic Partnerships: How finding a music business partner that complements your strengths can revolutionize your approach and success in the music industry.
• Resilience in Rejection: Insights on building resilience against the inevitable rejections and how to bounce back stronger.
• Sustained Motivation: Strategies for maintaining dedication and motivation, even when career growth feels sluggish.
• Creative Energies: Knowing when to push forward and when to step back, ensuring each project resonates with the right creative energy.

Why This Matters: Walker & Royce share invaluable lessons on partnership, perseverance, and adapting to the ebbs and flows of the music industry. Whether you're a solo artist or part of a duo, understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone looking to make a mark in the competitive world of electronic music.

Don’t miss your chance to connect at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. Use the code PODCAST for $30 off. Secure your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Are headlining DJs truly untouchable, or do they face the same hurdles as rising stars? Dive into a unique episode of Elevated Frequencies, where we unravel the reality behind the excitement of festival fame. I joined forces with ARC Music Festival to bring you candid interviews with top-tier artists, revealing the persistent challenges and strategies that define their careers.

This isn't just another festival highlight reel; it's a profound look into the industry's core, highlighting that success doesn't shield you from the grind. Whether it's dealing with imposter syndrome, the relentless pace of performances, or the sting of online critiques, these artists share how they navigate the highs and lows with grace.

Join us for a transformative discussion at the upcoming Chicago Music Nexus. The code PODCAST gets you $30 off for a limited time! Secure your spot now: www.chicagomusicnexus.com

Elevate your career with targeted business and branding insights on my Patreon. Exclusive content starts at just $5/month: https://patreon.com/oliviamancuso

In this episode, we explore:

• The Persistent Struggle: Uncover the relentless challenges that even the most successful DJs face and the resilience required to overcome them.
• Business and Branding Insights: Learn from the firsthand experiences of industry giants on how they maintain their brand and manage the pressures of fame.
• The Role of Community: Discover the importance of support systems and community in navigating the complex landscape of music festivals.

Hear from Hot Since 82 about balancing life on the road with family responsibilities, and Mau P about handling the inevitable online backlash with a cool head. 

Hiroko Yamamura shares her unique approach to social media, turning potential distractions into engaging content that complements her music career.

Eats Everything dives into the nuances of crafting a distinctive sound that resonates across venues, proving that your "sound" is as much about consistency as it is about music.

Wrap up the episode with LP Giobbi, who discusses leveraging her platform for greater causes beyond music, showing that success offers a chance to give back and shape the industry positively.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone aspiring to make it big or understand the intricate dynamics at the pinnacle of the DJ world. It's a reminder that the journey is fraught with challenges at every level, but also rich with opportunities for those prepared to tackle them head-on.

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx

Producers: are you missing out on a major revenue stream?

In this episode of Elevated Frequencies, Celia Rose, co-founder of the boutique sync licensing agency What Up Pitches, demystifies the lucrative world of sync licensing. Celia breaks down how this underutilized strategy can transform tracks into a significant source of income by aligning them with TV, film, and ad placements.

In this episode, we cover:

• Sync Licensing 101: Celia explains the basics of sync licensing, from creating custom music for TV, films, and ads to curating an artist’s catalog for media placements.
• The Song Lottery: Learn why producing a high volume of tracks increases your odds of sync success, with each song acting as a "lottery ticket" for potential placements.
• Navigating Contracts: Gain insight into the crucial aspects of sync deals, including the pitfalls of exclusive contracts and the importance of understanding terms and conditions.
• Writing for Sync: Discover the unique approach to composing music that appeals specifically to sync opportunities, differentiating it from traditional track production.
• Maximizing Your Catalog: Celia discusses how artists can leverage their existing, unused tracks as assets in the sync world.
• Building Industry Relationships: Strategies for connecting with sync agencies and the value of attending industry events to expand your knowledge and network.

Why This Matters: Sync licensing isn’t just a side hustle—it’s a substantial opportunity to fund your passion projects and sustain your musical career.  With potential payouts of more than $100,000+ for a single ad placement, understanding sync could be your ticket to financial stability, enabling you to balance artistry with income.

Are you leveraging every opportunity in your music career? Join us at Chicago Music Nexus and connect with industry pioneers like Celia (literally - she's a panelist!) to learn how you can elevate your music business strategy. Secure your spot now! The code "PODCAST" gets you $30 off your ticket for a limited time.

Elevate your career with actionable insights from music industry experts. Explore more strategies on Patreon, where we dive deep into the business side of music. Start enhancing your understanding today.

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The next Listening Fiesta is on 9/26, and it's free! Find it here: https://www.whatuppitches.com/

Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx