Elevated Frequencies

Are your limiting beliefs holding you back? What current mental blocks do you have surrounding your career? How can a manifestation and mindset practice build your music business? How can you effectively tap into your spiritual energy to become a better creative? This episode teaches you how to find your worth as an artist and lay the foundation for a successful career.

In this episode, we cover:

• Manifesting your music business
• Overcoming career obstacles with mindset
• Unlocking your full creative energy 
• Common career mistakes that may be holding you back
• Checking your current beliefs and letting go of ones that limit you
• The benefit of having an artist coach 

Nik Cherwink is an artist coach and host of the podcast Headliner Mindset. After a long career working with top record labels, artists, event producers, and educational music programs, Nik pivoted to become a full-time life coach for creatives. He teaches manifestation and mindset practices that guide artists through the hurdles of pursuing their music business.

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How do you use personal or career hardships to build the skill of resilience? How do you surrender to circumstance yet remain hopeful during uncertain times in your career? How can you fortify your belief in your artistic work? The story of house music duo, Night Tales, is one of perseverance in the name of bringing their musical vision to life. Through personal and professional struggles, the pair learned the value of their own voice.

In this episode, we cover:

• Managing your doubt and fear during uncertain times
• Building confidence in your artistic voice, even in periods of slow growth
• How to create music that enhances your live performances
• How to plan your DJ sets for each type of show
• Highlighting Black artists in the house music scene

Night Tales is an Australian house music duo merging Black culture and electronic music. Known for their multifaceted sets that include electronic and live elements, Night Tales brings an emotional authenticity to their sound through songwriting, chord progressions, and striking lyricism. Check them out on tour all over Europe and the US this spring and summer.

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How do you build confidence in your artistic brand? How do you overcome the fear of putting yourself out there, either on stage or on social media? How do you put 100% into your dreams while still managing other responsibilities and self care? Listen to Sherm share his journey of owning his identity as a DJ through being present, open, and confident in his instincts. 

In this episode, we cover:

• How to build confidence as an artist knowing that not all audiences will resonate with your music.
• Stepping outside your comfort zone and finding new audiences that lead to growth and opportunities.
• Believing in your personal brand and stepping into your dream persona.
• Learning how to change adversity into motivation.
• How to balance music pursuits, your day job, and self-care.
• Collaborating with brands in a natural and authentic way to expand your opportunities.
• Leaning into an abundance mindset and setting ambitious goals.

Sherm is a Chicago based DJ, producer, A&R for Hood Politics Records, and host of the Sherm in the Booth podcast. Known for his successful interview podcast (200 episodes and counting), memorable DJ sets, and clever collaboration with liquor brand Malort, Sherm holds an unmatched ability to entertain.

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How can authentic branding help make music into your full-time career? How can you build a sharp brand image while leaving room for artistic growth and exploration? Discover how developing your brand to align with your genuine self can propel your creative passion into a full-time career. Cloverdale’s story of self-expression and branding strategy is a must-listen for artists looking to grow their music business.

In this episode, we discuss:

Unveiling the liberating power of staying true to your artistic identity, transcending genre constraints.

• Building social media credibility by embracing a less curated, more authentic online presence.
• Empowering fellow artists through community building and sharing valuable insights.
• Strategic financial management for pursuing a dream career, as exemplified by Cloverdale's frugal approach.

Cloverdale is a DJ and producer known for taking risks, blending music genres, and empowering others to embrace their authentic selves. Named one of Dancing Astronaut’s and Your EDM’s Artists to Watch, Cloverdale is known for his high-octane house style in both his own tracks and those released by his label, Vibrancy. Previously seen at EDC Las Vegas and Vibrancy Festival, you can next catch Cloverdale at the Montreal Lights Festival.

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In this special episode of Elevated Frequencies x House Calls, we’re talking to DJ and producer Ky William. It was a pleasure to have Ky back on the podcast right before he went on stage for House Calls’ newest warehouse initiative, Area Code. Ky shared his experience playing for a well-versed Chicago crowd, and how playing for different types of audiences helps you push your creative limits. As a musician, you can glean valuable tips on crafting sets that resonate with varied audiences and learn about Ky's commitment to musical experimentation. 

The episode explores Ky's unconventional approach to show preparation, emphasizing the advantages of creating playlists based on the energy of the venue. Having performed in cities like Phoenix, Boston, Vegas, and Montreal, Ky offered valuable insights into navigating different music scenes.

We spoke about Ky's label showcase in New York. For those of you interested in music management, you can gain inspiration from Ky's hands-on approach with artists, participating in collaborative sessions, and providing mentorship. Our discussion also underscores the importance of fostering a collaborative spirit in the music production process, challenging the prevailing trend of individualism.

Returning to the Chicago music scene, Ky applauds the knowledgeable audience and shares how musicians can benefit from performing in such environments. The podcast provides an insightful perspective for musicians looking to connect with educated crowds, experiment with diverse sets, and gauge audience engagement. When performing, Ky takes on the role of a guide, understanding the power of controlling the energy and flow of a room. 

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Grammy award-winning producer Nitti, aka Nitti Gritti, half of Side Piece and half of Say My Nitti, joins me today to talk about how he achieves high-level success without burnout. This episode of Elevated Frequencies is a must-listen for anyone looking for the push to invest in their entrepreneurial goals.

Nitti explains his philosophy of being a social media maven, active on multiple social platforms while still managing the creative side of his business. As an entrepreneur, he balances it all with the help of a skilled team. Knowing how to delegate and relinquish control when needed has allowed Nitti to focus on the music.

We talked about the financial investment needed to fuel growth. As a seasoned artist, Nitti has reinvested in his business multiple times. However, especially in the beginning, new artists must find comfort in financially backing their dreams. Not only is it essential to fuel projects, but it also adds a layer of accountability to the work.

Nitti's expert social media presence is one to note. He purposefully dedicates time to create content with clarity, resulting in relevant and entertaining posts that speak directly to his growing audience. In our conversation, he gives his actionable tips on how to strategize content that aligns with his personal brand.

Part of Nitti's branding ethos is reinvention and experimentation. He switches up his inspirations and style of content creation, which often helps him push through bouts of creative block. He emphasizes the importance of creating for yourself and avoiding comparison to other artists.

Nitti leans into setting intentions aloud as an act of visualization while staying alert and receptive to signs from the universe. His story demonstrates the power of mindset.

Tune into Elevated Frequencies for an inspiring journey of growth with Nitti, and find tips for artists looking to build their brand, regardless of your field or career stage.

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Are you ready to level up your personal brand as an artist? Listen up, because this episode of Elevated Frequencies is about to transform the way you approach your creative branding.

Many artists struggle to balance their artistry with the demands of building a personal brand. In this episode, I break down the overwhelming task of branding into actionable steps, offering a roadmap for those who want to shine without losing their artistic focus.

Wondering how a strong brand can elevate your career? I go through my personal and client examples of how a cohesive brand unlocks new opportunities. Learn how to organically build a loyal following, secure coveted gigs, like interviewing at EDC, and discover why quality trumps quantity when it comes to building a powerful brand.

It's never too late to align your professional endeavors with your true passions. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting, this discussion will inspire you to take bold steps towards creating a brand that resonates with your authentic self.

In this conversation, I explain the four-step framework for building a brand identity. From setting SMART goals to understanding your audience's desires and problems, this episode provides practical strategies to help you craft a brand that stands out in the crowded digital landscape.

Don't miss the crucial insights on positioning yourself as a guide in your audience's journey. Learn how to demonstrate empathy and authority, fostering a connection that goes beyond self-promotion. Plus, discover the platforms that matter most for your audience and how to create a content calendar that adds value for your followers.

Ready to take your brand to the next level? Tune in to Elevated Frequencies and embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Your authentic brand is the key to unlocking untapped opportunities and connecting with your audience on a deeper level.

Subscribe now and leave a comment to share your thoughts. We'll be back next week with another insightful interview to fuel your creative journey.

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00:00
Introduction: The Importance of Personal Branding

02:02
The Benefits of Building a Personal Brand

03:29
Overcoming Fear and Putting Yourself Out There

04:00
Creating a Brand Centered Around Your Preferences

05:15
A Four-Part Framework for Building Your Brand Identity

06:42
Step 1: Writing Down Your Goals

08:09
Step 2: Identifying Your Audience

09:03
Step 3: Understanding Your Audience's Wants and Problems

10:56
Positioning Yourself as the Guide, Not the Hero

13:17
Identifying Main, Internal, and Philosophical Problems

15:57
Demonstrating Empathy and Authority

18:03
Creating a Content Calendar and Choosing Platforms

20:51
Sample Content Calendar for Instagram and Twitter

When Barclay Crenshaw, previously known as the renowned house music DJ Claude VonStroke, chose to step back and realign his career, it marked a profound shift not just in his professional life but also in the music world. This episode of Elevated Frequencies is a must-listen for anyone feeling cornered in their current career trajectory and seeking inspiration for a more fulfilling path.

Barclay Crenshaw originally captivated audiences under the alias Claude VonStroke, carving out a career that spanned over two decades and included five albums. He was the creative powerhouse behind Dirtybird Records, an underground house label from San Francisco that evolved into an international festival, clothing, and music brand. In a bold move in 2024, Barclay stepped away from his label to dive back into his first loves: bass, dub, jungle, funk, and hip-hop. His journey serves as an inspiring beacon for those looking to make a significant career shift.

Many professionals, despite successful careers, find that their work no longer sparks their inner passion. Barclay's story stands as a powerful example for those aspiring to break away and pursue a path more in tune with their evolving interests and passions. This episode offers not just a glimpse into Barclay's unique transformation but also provides practical strategies for those contemplating their own career pivots.

We're excited to explore Barclay Crenshaw's narrative, detailing his courageous move away from Claude VonStroke and Dirtybird Records to embrace his authentic musical identity. This decision to return to his roots and his true self is filled with insights and inspiration for anyone wishing to reshape their professional life.

In this episode, we delve into the key moments and decisions of Barclay's career, underlining the significance of aligning one's work with true passions. We discuss the challenges and victories of such a substantial change, providing listeners with valuable lessons on embracing change, staying true to one's roots, and the delightful surprises that come with rediscovering one's passion.

Tune into Elevated Frequencies for an inspiring journey of transformation with Barclay Crenshaw, and discover the courage to navigate your own career pivot, regardless of your field or career stage. His story is a reminder that it's never too late to align your professional endeavors with what truly moves you.

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Luzi Tudor, an artist with a remarkable life story, shares her journey of resilience and courage. From fleeing communist Romania as a child to seeking asylum in various countries, Luzi's experiences have deeply influenced her music. She discusses the importance of finding peace and satisfaction, the role of recovery in her creativity, and the support of her parents. Luzi also emphasizes the power of meditation and the benefits of slowing down in a fast-paced world. She shares her upcoming projects and collaborations, highlighting her intention to make a positive impact through her music and brand. Want me to interview a specific artist? Let me know in the comments.

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This episode discusses the upcoming Dry January, as sober curiosity and the trend of cutting back on alcohol are becoming more popular. I provide tips for drinking less and drinking better. I then delve into alcohol's impact on the gut microbiome, like causing inflammation, and its effects on the brain. I emphasize the importance of mindfulness when engaging with the drinking experience. I also share strategies for approaching Dry January with flexibility and setting realistic goals. Planning ahead, exercising discipline, and keeping a journal can help in drinking less. Finally, I explore mocktails and non-alcoholic alternatives as options for those looking to reduce their alcohol intake.

Studies mentioned in episode:

https://arcr.niaaa.nih.gov/volume/38/2/alcohol-and-gut-derived-inflammation
https://www.bmj.com/content/357/bmj.j2353

Want me to interview a specific artist? Let me know in the comments.

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