By Jason Tonioli
4.6
99 ratings
The podcast currently has 58 episodes available.
For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
In this episode of Successful Musicians, we are joined by Will and Brooke Blair, a brother duo known for their work in the world of film and TV scoring. They share their journey, offer practical advice for musicians, and discuss how they’ve adapted to the fast-paced demands of the industry.
They are long-term collaborators with director Jeremy Saulnier, scoring his first feature, “Murder Party,” which won the Slamdance 2007 Audience Award.
Brooke and Will Blair’s music enhances the emotional and narrative depth of the projects they work on, making them a sought-after duo in the industry.
What You’ll Learn
The Blair brothers’ unique journey into the film and TV scoring world.
How scoring for different genres pushes them creatively and keeps their work fresh.
The importance of collaboration and building strong relationships in the industry.
Practical advice for musicians working under tight deadlines.
Things We Discussed
Will and Brooke emphasize the importance of mastering your tools when working in film and television scoring. Deadlines are tight, and musicians need to be fast, efficient, and decisive. Brooke advises musicians to get better at their tools, whether it’s recording, mixing, or any other technical aspect of music production.
In addition, the brothers share valuable advice on maintaining a healthy work-life balance. After years of experience, they've learned the importance of setting boundaries and making time for family, even in a demanding field like film composition. Will and Brooke emphasize that it's not about working long hours—it's about making the hours you work count. Whether it's taking a break to hike with family or simply stepping away from the project for a while, this balance can help keep creativity flowing. Often, solutions to creative problems come when you're not actively thinking about them.
Connect with Will and Brooke Blair
Personal Website
Will Blair:
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Brooke Blair:
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For the entire interview transcript, please click here.
In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Zach Sprowls, an American pianist and composer known for his evocative and heartfelt piano compositions. He often uses the piano as his primary storytelling tool, creating music that resonates deeply with listeners.
Some of his notable works include:
“All Beginnings Are Hard” - This piece features both a solo piano version and a version with a string quartet. The solo piano version was recorded live on an acoustic piano.
“I Thought I Knew” - Another popular piece, is available in a live, piano-only version.
What You’ll Learn
Music Marketing Strategies:
Ads are a long-term investment that may take years to see profitability.
Caution with playlist placements (e.g., SubmitHub, Playlist Push) as they can lead to low engagement and confuse streaming algorithms.
Create a personalized "This Is [Artist]" playlist and direct ads to it for better streaming and fan engagement results.
Recommended ad spend is $50/month to start, with $300/month being a good sweet spot for measurable growth.
Business Education for Musicians:
Musicians need business knowledge to succeed in a capitalist society.
Understanding money management and market strategies is essential for promoting music effectively.
Musicians must develop business skills to reach a wider audience.
Outsourcing and Delegation:
Balancing creativity and business can be taxing for musicians, especially those who aren't wired for administrative tasks.
Hiring someone for even a few hours a week can lead to more peace of mind and greater overall productivity.
Delegating tasks allows musicians to focus on their strengths while someone else handles responsibilities that drain their energy.
Benefits of Outsourcing:
Outsourcing administrative tasks is more efficient and saves time.
Freed-up time can be redirected toward creative work, enhancing productivity.
Building a support system through outsourcing provides peace of mind and reduces overwhelm.
Things We Discussed
Zach Sprowls shares valuable insights on balancing creativity with business as a musician. He emphasizes the importance of learning marketing strategies, such as using ads and personalized playlists, to build a fan base over time.
Zach also discusses the necessity of acquiring business skills in a capitalist society, as promoting music effectively requires understanding money and markets. Additionally, he encourages musicians to consider outsourcing administrative tasks to free up time for creative work, highlighting how even small investments in hiring can lead to greater productivity and peace of mind.
Connect with Zach Sprowls
Personal Website
Spotify
Apple Music
YouTube
Connect with Jason Tonioli
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YouTube
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Amazon Music
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For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
Ryan Waczek is an Emmy-winning soundtrack composer, producer, and songwriter. He is known for his diverse background and accomplishments, including scoring the award-winning documentary “Floating Horses: The Life of Casey Tibbs” (2017) and composing for the Emmy-Winning television show “Theater Corner” with Dulé Hill and Daniel J. Watts (2021). His hybrid orchestral style has drawn comparisons to renowned composers such as Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard. He is also the founder of the Indie Music Academy, an online resource that provides musicians with training on how to grow their audience and monetize their music. Through the academy, he offers a comprehensive suite of video tutorials, audio lessons, and written content aimed at helping independent artists succeed in the music industry.
What You’ll Learn
Ryan Waczek emphasizes the importance of authenticity and audience engagement for musicians, highlighting that building a fan base should happen concurrently with the music creation process. He suggests that rather than striving for polished perfection, artists should share their genuine, sometimes messy, creative journey. This approach not only makes content more relatable but also fosters a deeper emotional connection with fans. By embracing vulnerability and involving their audience in the unfolding story, musicians can create a loyal and invested fan base, ultimately benefiting their long-term success.
Things We Discussed
Ryan also elaborates on two additional strategies for driving traffic and building an audience: direct advertising and playlisting. Direct advertising involves paying for traffic on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, using engaging content to capture attention within the first few seconds. This method offers more reliability compared to organic reach, making it viable for those with marketing budgets. Additionally, playlisting falls under influencer marketing, where artists leverage existing audiences curated by playlist creators. By getting their music featured on popular playlists, artists can gain streams and exposure, effectively borrowing the playlist's audience to promote their songs. Both strategies aim to enhance visibility and engagement with potential fans.
Connect with Ryan Waczek
Indie Music Academy Website
YouTube
Connect with Jason Tonioli
Website
YouTube
Spotify
Pandora
Amazon Music
Apple Music
For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
Steve Larsen is a renowned entrepreneur and marketing strategist, best known for his expertise in creating high-converting sales funnels. He gained prominence as the Lead Funnel Builder at ClickFunnels, where he honed his skills by constructing over 500 sales funnels and working directly with Russell Brunson. After leaving ClickFunnels, Larsen quickly made his mark by building his own million-dollar company within just 13 months. He shares his knowledge through his podcast, Sales Funnel Radio, and educates others via courses like Secret MLM Hacks, OfferMind, and OfferLab. His success story is a testament to his innovative approach to online marketing and sales strategies.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, Steve shares common misconceptions and emphasizes the distinction between marketing and sales functions within a funnel. He argues that while sales funnels are powerful tools for conversion, they primarily serve a sales function rather than marketing.
He also shares his idea of success. Success is deeply personal and encompasses both internal contentment and external accomplishments.
Things We Discussed
Importance of Sales Story and Offer: Larsen underscores the significance of having a compelling sales story and offers that prompt further engagement. He argues that success hinges on these elements rather than intricate funnel mechanics.
Connect with Steve Larsen
Personal Website
Sales Funnel Radio Podcast
Youtube
Connect with Jason Tonioli
Website
YouTube
Spotify
Pandora
Amazon Music
Apple Music
For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
Shannon K, is an American-Indian singer and actress. She collaborated with Poo Bear on the song “A Long Time” in 2018, and her music video for this track has over 41 million views on YouTube. Shannon K also acted in the movie “The Big Feed” (2020) and is currently involved in the American drama series “Mystical Inheritance of Adina Hassan” and a short film called “Rolling,” which focuses on mental health awareness. Her versatility, passion, and dedication continue to make waves in the entertainment world.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, Shannon K shares about the enduring importance of authenticity, resilience, and commitment to positive influence. Her dedication to staying true to herself amidst the pressures of the industry serves as a powerful reminder that success is not just about fame or fortune, but about staying grounded in one's values and morals. Shannon's emphasis on maintaining a strong work ethic and embracing every opportunity, no matter how small, underscores the significance of perseverance and seizing moments for growth. Moreover, her belief in the responsibility of artists and creators to inspire change and influence others for the better highlights the transformative potential of art and the impact it can have on shaping society. Ultimately, Shannon K's story encourages us to strive for authenticity, uphold our values, and use our platforms to make a positive difference in the world.
Things We Discussed
Shannon K has released a recreation version of the iconic old disco classic song “Jimmy Jimmy.” Her voice adds an upbeat twist to this beloved track. So put on your headphones and groove to the beats!
Connect with Shannon K
Youtube
IMDB
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Website
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Amazon Music
Apple Music
For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
What You’ll Learn
From Eric Thayne's insights, we can glean several valuable lessons:
Entrepreneurial Thinking: Understanding the difference between creatives and entrepreneurs is crucial. Entrepreneurs start with identifying problems and then develop solutions, often involving assembling teams to execute them. Creatives can benefit from adopting this problem-solving approach.
Visibility and Personal Branding: In today's digital age, visibility is key. Thayne advocates for creatives to focus on building their personal brands, connecting with audiences on a deeper level beyond just their craft. Engaging with fans and showcasing personality can cultivate a loyal following.
Things We Discussed
Eric Thayne mentioned his upcoming book, 'Create, Don't Capture,' It is a game-changer for creatives, musicians, artists, and entrepreneurs alike. Packed with invaluable insights and practical advice, this book is a great tool for unlocking your full creative potential in today's digital landscape. You can preorder now at createdontcapture(dot)com.
Connect with Eric Thayne
Cinema Mastery
CELADORA
Vimeo
Connect with Jason Tonioli
Website
YouTube
Spotify
Pandora
Amazon Music
Apple Music
For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
Lead vocalist, bassist, and lyricist Carlos Baker hails from the United States and, together with his spouse, relocated to Northern Germany in 2009. Identifying himself as a seasoned artist, lyricist, and storyteller, Carlos authored the novel "SONGS For IVY" in 2020, now accessible on Amazon. With a repertoire spanning over 50 compositions, his musical range extends from country tunes to heartfelt ballads, and from rock anthems to bluesy melodies. Carlos crafts songs infused with the genuine sentiment, many delving into his personal encounters and battles with depression. Above all, Carlos expresses his utmost pride in the four children he and his wife have nurtured.
What You’ll Learn
Carlos's journey offers a profound exploration of resilience and transformation. From overcoming a rare bone cancer with candor and a unique perspective on mortality, he shares invaluable insights into the power of resilience and mental strength. His openness about mental health struggles, particularly with shame, underscores the importance of acknowledging and addressing emotional wounds. Rejecting conventional therapy, Carlos found solace and healing through music and writing, portraying them as his therapeutic outlets. His ability to seamlessly integrate music into his life, from carefree youth to responsible adulthood, emphasizes the enduring role of artistic expression in navigating life's challenges. Carlos teaches that embracing vulnerability, pursuing one's passions, and finding solace in creative outlets can be powerful tools for personal growth and healing.
Things We Discussed
Resilience and Transformation: Overcoming rare bone cancer with candor and a unique perspective on mortality.
Mental Health Awareness: Openness about mental health struggles, particularly with shame.
Creative Therapeutic Outlets: Choosing music and writing as therapeutic outlets for emotional healing.
Integration of Music in Life: Seamless integration of music from carefree youth to responsible adulthood.
Life's Transformative Moments: Family life, marriage, and parenthood as transformative milestones.
Connect with Carlos Baker
Website
Spotify
Apple Music
Amazon
Pandora
Deezer
Connect with Jason Tonioli
Website
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Spotify
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Amazon Music
Apple Music
For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
Chris SD is the go-to person for indie songwriters aiming to feature their music in top shows, movies, and ads. Initially an award-winning music producer, Chris recognized the potential for indie projects to gain greater visibility. He observed the impact of a single sync placement propelling artists onto charts and generating lucrative income. Beyond teaching indie songwriters the ropes, Chris actively connects them with key figures, opening doors to top music supervisors in TV and film.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, Chris shares why indie music is so successful now in TV and film. He also explains the importance of metadata and reaching out directly to the source—the music supervisors who place music in TV and film. Building strong relationships with these decision-makers is crucial, as they have a select group of trusted individuals. By becoming one of their go-to contacts, you secure consistent and more lucrative sync placements. The key is delivering what they need when they need it, establishing trust and reliability in the process.
Things We Discussed
In January, Chris is hosting a free online panel featuring top music supervisors in the industry. These are professionals who curate music for the most prominent shows, movies, and ads. You're invited to join virtually and gain valuable insights into who they are, what they seek, and the criteria for music selection in TV and film. This event offers a unique opportunity to understand their perspective, helping you align your music with their preferences. It's a fantastic chance to learn, and it's entirely free. We typically have thousands of musicians participating each year. Don't miss out!
Connect with Chris SD
Sync Songwriter Music Supervisor Panel Registration
Link to Metadata Checklist
Personal Website
Website (Sync Songwriter)
YouTube
Connect with Jason Tonioli
Website
YouTube
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Amazon Music
Apple Music
For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
Joining us in our podcast today is Michael Walker, founder of Modern Musician, a successful and highly renowned musician and entrepreneur. He is a husband, father and keyboardist for the band Paradise Fears, who made headlines years ago for a technique he started called “tour hacking.”
He spent around 10 years touring full time and during those years, their band released an album that hit number 2 on iTunes as an Alternative Rock Album. They got about 24 million streams on Spotify and toured around the world, playing music full-time, independently without a record label. He also coached thousands of independent musicians and paved the way for them to be successful musicians.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, Michael shares the importance of stepping out of day-to-day operations to enter visionary and strategic modes. He also shared some insights on how to recognize the value of being intentional about the people you surround yourself with and how carefully curating your network can contribute to your success and bring about positive changes in your mindset and approach.
Things We Discussed
The Horizon Experience is a concept that likely refers to a transformative and expansive moment in one's personal or professional life. It is about taking a deliberate and focused approach to gain perspective, set long-term goals, and foster growth—whether on an individual or collective level. It encourages looking beyond the immediate horizon to explore new possibilities and shape a more intentional and visionary future.
Connect with Michael Walker
Website
Connect with Jason Tonioli
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Amazon Music
Apple Music
For the entire transcript of the interview, please click here.
Our guest for today is a prolific songwriter and the creator of Holistic Songwriting Academy, Friedemann Findeisen. He’s the author of the bestseller “The Addiction Formula'' (available on Amazon and Audible). His YouTube channel “Holistic Songwriting” has gathered over 400,000 subscribers.
Friedemann teaches people how to change their lives by empowering them to write awesome songs. He helps songwriters, musicians, producers and artists to find their message and express it in a way that resonates with others.
What You’ll Learn
In this episode, Friedemann shares how songwriting kept him alive in school when he was bullied a lot. He also explains the difference between classical musicians and jazz/pop musicians.
Friedemann also narrates how he can write a song super quick and how he can make decisions easily.
Let us also discover what is Friedemann’s advice to his own self and how he manages stress when he has a lot of stuff on his plate and life becomes so challenging and overwhelming.
Things We Discussed
Holistic Songwriting Academy - is a 12-week online course that teaches you how to write songs that are unique, engaging, and authentic. You will learn how to craft your image as an artist and reveal it through your music, using the principles of groove, pitch, and story. You will also get feedback and guidance from professional songwriting and production coaches, as well as collaborate with other artists and producers from around the world.
The 24-hour Song- is a course by Holistic Songwriting Academy that teaches you how to write a complete song in one day. You will learn how to overcome writer’s block, find your unique voice, and craft songs that you are proud of. You will also get feedback and tips from professional coaches and peers, as well as access to exclusive songwriting tools and resources.
The 24-hour Song is not just a course, but a challenge. You will be given a deadline to finish your song, and you will have to submit it for review. This will help you overcome procrastination, perfectionism, and self-doubt, and push you to achieve your full potential as a songwriter. You will also get to hear other people’s songs and learn from their strengths and weaknesses.
Connect with Friedemann Findeisen
Personal Website
Holistic Songwriting Website
Youtube
Connect with Jason Tonioli
Website
YouTube
Spotify
Pandora
Amazon Music
Apple Music
The podcast currently has 58 episodes available.