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In this enlightening episode of the Powered by Rock podcast, host Isaac Kuhlman sits down with the members of Crimson Riot to explore why some rock bands thrive in the industry while equally talented ones don't. Dispelling myths of luck and serendipity, the conversation focuses on the practical strategies and proactive steps bands can implement to build successful music careers.
The discussion delves into the intricacies of band dynamics, the importance of running a band like a business, and their creative process behind the new album, "Third Time's a Charm," underscoring the band's approach that balances fun with professionalism.
Throughout the episode, Crimson Riot shares valuable insights into maintaining longevity and success as an indie rock band. They emphasize treating band activities with a business-minded approach, engaging with both fans and fellow musicians, and continuously developing their craft.
The episode also highlights some behind-the-scenes stories from their recent tours and talks about the challenges faced along the way. Keywords like "independent band," "pop punk," "Las Vegas music scene," and "music career success" weave through their anecdotes, offering a robust guide for aspiring musicians.
Resources:
Follow Crimson Riot on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/crimsonriotband/
Get their new album - https://crimsonriot.com/
Check out their music videos - https://www.youtube.com/@UCi5XLnLJDIc4AtmhVOTYp2Q
Timeline:
0:00 The Path to Success for Independent Bands
1:57 Family Dynamics and Longevity in a Band
3:50 Balancing Art and Business for Musical Success
6:56 Crimson Riot's Journey and Success in the Las Vegas Music Scene
9:11 Creating a Unique Sound for a New Album
11:52 Timing Strategies for Indie Band Album Releases
15:05 Challenges and Triumphs in Music Releases and Vinyl Production
20:12 Innovative Pre-Order Strategies for Engaging Music Fans
24:48 Secrets to Success for Indie Rock Bands
28:40 Balancing Live Shows to Build a Sustainable Fan Base
30:37 Building Lasting Connections Through Touring and Band Etiquette
34:34 The Importance of Reputation and Respect in the Music Industry
36:39 The Punk Code: Supporting Touring Bands and Building Community
39:48 Balancing Band Life and Work in Las Vegas
41:56 Building a Supportive Music Community Through Good Music and Kindness
43:54 The Importance of Respecting Sound Engineers at Live Shows
48:24 Building Success Through Professionalism and Networking in Music
51:40 Creating Engaging Live Shows Through Unique Audience Interaction
59:07 Performing With Passion Despite Sparse Crowds and Challenges
1:01:52 Persistence and Patience Are Keys to Musical Success
1:04:48 Challenges and Determination in the Music Industry
1:07:32 Challenges of Selling Pre-Sale Tickets for Independent Bands
1:08:53 The Challenges of Touring Bands and Ticketing Fees
1:11:19 The High Cost of Concerts and Music Industry Challenges
1:16:22 Crimson Riot Discusses New Album and Touring Challenges
In this compelling episode, Isaac Kuhlman talks with Las Vegas musician A.J. Fucillo who is an independent rock musician and a prominent figure in the Las Vegas music scene. Known for his work with the band Wyatt and the Ashes, A.J. is celebrated for his dedication to authentic music creation, and for consistently delivering passionate performances.
They delve into the dynamic and rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence and its potential to disrupt the music industry, specifically focusing on its impact on rock music. As Fucillo shares his insights, he highlights the crucial importance of passion and authenticity, the intrinsic value of human-driven art, and the existential threat AI poses by mass-producing music content.
Through a lively discussion filled with personal anecdotes and profound observations, Isaac and A.J. explore the challenges faced by independent musicians in a digital age dominated by AI.
Action Steps to Curtail AI:
1 - Go support independent musicians. Go to shows, buy merch, stream their songs.
2 - Send a message to Spotify (and any other service) to post audio tags and other notifications when music is created with AI -- contact Spotify here: https://support.spotify.com/us/contact-spotify-support/
3 - Go follow & listen to Wyatt & The Ashes at the links below.
Resources:
Follow Wyatt & The Ashes on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wyattandtheashes
Wyatt & The Ashes on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzn-zkX4GJD-azoytqRU5Wg
Previous Episode with A.J. - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Y6dzV8xMcs
In this insightful episode of the Powered By Rock podcast, host Isaac Kuhlman welcomes the legendary ska punk musician Chris DeMakes of Less Than Jake. The episode features an engaging conversation centered around Chris's upcoming guest museum tours at the Punk Rock Museum in Las Vegas, taking place from February 13th to 15th.
With a remarkable career spanning nearly four decades, Chris shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent figure in the punk rock scene, alongside being a successful podcaster interviewing fellow musicians on songwriting.
Throughout the episode, Chris reflects on the impact of ska punk music, exploring how bands like Less Than Jake and others helped expand the genre beyond hardcore fans, introducing suburban kids and a broader audience to punk.
The discussion touches on his experiences with the Punk Rock Museum, his approach to podcasting and the music industry's evolution. Chris also offers fascinating insights into his relationships with fellow musicians, what inspires him to keep creating music that resonates with fans, and how persistence and maintaining a positive attitude have played crucial roles in his enduring success.
Resources:
Join Chris for Guided Tours at the Punk Rock Museum (Feb 13-15, 2025) - https://www.thepunkrockmuseum.com/
Chris DeMakes a Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrDURREj4HiTCkAIC7AB71Q
Less Than Jake's UK Winter Circus Tour - https://myticket.co.uk/artists/less-than-jake
Chris Lynam, Matty Lupinacci, Danny DiGiuseppe, and Mike Drinkwalter are members of the Long Island-based band Gone Stereo.
They're known for their innovative approach to pop punk, incorporating elements from various rock genres to craft a mature, distinctive sound.
They've been active musicians for decades and consistently contribute to the punk scene with their dynamic musical style.
In this engaging episode, host Isaac Kuhlman brings together members of the Long Island punk band, Gone Stereo, to explore the ever-evolving world of punk music.
Dive into the discussion as Isaac and the band dissect the resurging popularity of hardcore punk and consider its potential to reach mainstream audiences.
With bands like Turnstile and Militarie Gun leading this rejuvenation, they reflect on how contemporary punk balances its underground roots with broader appeal.
Through a series of insightful exchanges, the episode covers the unique sound of Gone Stereo, which defies conventional pop punk norms by incorporating intricate instrumentation and mature lyrical content.
Listeners are treated to a deep dive into how punk music has evolved over the decades, what keeps it relevant, and where it might be headed in the future.
Themes such as authenticity, the effects of technology on music discovery, and the inherent challenges of carving a niche in the music industry are woven seamlessly throughout the conversation.
Intro Music: Birds Love Filters "Colorado" - https://youtu.be/dqD_jMhZGqU
Outro Music: Speedway Sleeper "Snail Mail" - https://youtu.be/21-vX3bBagc
Please consider purchasing some cool merch or some musical instrument accessories at our site - https://poweredbyrock.com
Indie Musicians - check out the FREE DIY Rock Career Playlist here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_2jRJsJubw&list=PL465-TazTQf5tZ9zGHitfmWQpYsbVlF99
You can also learn more at https://diyrockcareer.com/
Key Takeaways:
Resources:
Check out Gone Stereo's Music and Links - https://linktr.ee/gonestereo
Timeline:
00:00 Episode Intro
01:34 Gone Stereo's Approach to Punk Music is Not the Same Pop-Punk Formula
12:27 Does Gone Stereo Believe That Punk Will Be Revived by Hardcore?
29:23 Are There Other Ways Punk Music Can Achieve Mainstream Success Again?
50:14 Gone Stereo talks about their new single "Meet Me at Garvies" and upcoming show dates
58:25 Gone Stereo gives shout outs to local Long Island bands
Anthony Merchant: Anthony Merchant is the host of the Power Chord Hour podcast, a show dedicated to rock music, and he also hosts a program on Jamestown, New York's 107.9 WRFA called Power Chord Hour. With a deep knowledge and passion for various rock genres, Anthony explores the evolution and impact of rock music, sharing insights and engaging discussions with fellow rock enthusiasts.
Episode Summary:
In this captivating episode, Isaac Kuhlman and Anthony Merchant dive deep into the transformative era of 1990s rock music. They discuss the seismic shifts within the genre, from the rise and fall of grunge to the emergence of ska, emo, and new metal. This episode illuminates the ways in which these subgenres shaped not only the music industry but also the cultural landscape of the time.
The conversation starts with an exploration of the grunge movement, highlighting bands like Nirvana and their influence on the subsequent waves of rock.
The latter part of the episode focuses on the birth and evolution of new metal and rap rock, spotlighting bands such as Korn, Limp Bizkit, and Nine Inch Nails.
The duo reflects on Rage Against the Machine's groundbreaking influence and their politically charged lyricism that set the stage for many bands that followed. They also touch on the lasting impact of these genres and the changing landscape of rock music up to the present day.
Intro Music: Birds Love Filters "Colorado" - https://youtu.be/dqD_jMhZGqU
Outro Music: Speedway Sleeper "Snail Mail" - https://youtu.be/21-vX3bBagc
Please consider purchasing some cool merch or some musical instrument accessories at our site - https://poweredbyrock.com
Check out the FREE DIY Rock Career Playlist here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_2jRJsJubw&list=PL465-TazTQf5tZ9zGHitfmWQpYsbVlF99 You can also learn more at https://diyrockcareer.com/
Key Takeaways:
Resources:
Follow Anthony's Stuff:
Power Chord Hour on IG - https://www.instagram.com/powerchordhour/
Power Chord Hour on YT - https://www.youtube.com/@powerchordhour
Words and Sentences About Things and Stuff Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/0i7KUwQFTJOkMiSy9nIQEP?si=a8de0b9cef5d47f4
Links to Related Content:
Part 1 of This Series - https://youtu.be/105TH1Q2klw
Part 2 of This Series - https://youtu.be/j9m9eUBlBic
Part 3 of This Series - https://youtu.be/Qm61JpgNH_k
Episode About The Death of Rock Music - https://youtu.be/5MTrSWEenQc
Episode with Chris Ballew from The Presidents of the United States of America - https://youtu.be/IFc2Q-05H6c
Timeline:
1:23 The Evolution of Rock Genres in the 1990s
4:22 Rage Against the Machine's Impact on Political Awareness in Music
6:30 Rage Against the Machine's Influence on 90s Music and New Metal
15:27 The Nineties: A Transformative Decade for Rock Music
21:03 The Timeless Power of Rock Music in Uniting People
27:00 A Musician's Journey from Stardom to Contentment
28:38 The Evolution and Impact of Music from the 90s to 2000s
32:50 Kurt Cobain's Unreleased Collaborations and Industry Rebellion
36:48 The Fragile Balance Between Artistic Integrity and Fan Expectations
Anthony Merchant: Anthony Merchant is the host of the Power Chord Hour podcast, a show dedicated to rock music, and he also hosts a program on Jamestown, New York's 107.9 WRFA called Power Chord Hour. With a deep knowledge and passion for various rock genres, Anthony explores the evolution and impact of rock music, sharing insights and engaging discussions with fellow rock enthusiasts.
Episode Summary:
In this engaging episode, Isaac Kuhlman and Anthony Merchant take a nostalgic trip through the music landscape of the 90s, exploring the rise and transformation of various genres such as grunge, geek rock, pop punk, and ska.
The conversation begins with an analysis of iconic bands like Nirvana and Weezer, noting their lasting influence and evolution over time. They highlight how bands such as Green Day, The Offspring, and Blink-182 ignited the mainstream pop-punk movement in the mid-90s, leading to a significant shift in the music industry.
The discussion then transitions to the ska revival in the 90s, spearheaded by bands like the Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Reel Big Fish, and Less Than Jake.
They dissect the explosive popularity of ska and its infectious energy that resonated with fans on both coasts of the U.S. Additionally, Isaac and Anthony touch on the music business dynamics, debating the role of major labels in the rise and fall of certain bands and genres.
By the end of the episode, they reflect on how these music trends have ebbed and flowed, influencing contemporary music and leaving an indelible mark on their personal lives.
Intro Music: Birds Love Filters "Colorado" - https://youtu.be/dqD_jMhZGqU
Outro Music: Speedway Sleeper "Snail Mail" - https://youtu.be/21-vX3bBagc
Please consider purchasing some cool merch or some musical instrument accessories at our site - https://poweredbyrock.com
Check out the FREE DIY Rock Career Playlist here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_2jRJsJubw&list=PL465-TazTQf5tZ9zGHitfmWQpYsbVlF99 You can also learn more at https://diyrockcareer.com/
Key Takeaways:
Resources:
Follow Anthony's Stuff:
Power Chord Hour on IG - https://www.instagram.com/powerchordhour/
Power Chord Hour on YT - https://www.youtube.com/@powerchordhour
Words and Sentences About Things and Stuff Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/0i7KUwQFTJOkMiSy9nIQEP?si=a8de0b9cef5d47f4
Links to Related Content:
Part 1 of This Series - https://youtu.be/105TH1Q2klw
Part 2 of This Series - https://youtu.be/j9m9eUBlBic
Part 3 of This Series - https://youtu.be/Qm61JpgNH_k
The Return of Home Grown Episode - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skuVfveRgxs
Timeline:
1:23 The Evolution of Punk and Its Mainstream Resurgence
5:39 The Evolution of Punk Rock and Its Major Players
11:48 Green Day's Flair and Willingness to Play the Game
14:46 The Evolution and Impact of No Effects in Punk Music
18:02 The Ska Revival and Its Unexpected Popularity
24:47 The Evolution and Identity Crisis of Ska and Emo Bands
27:42 Real Big Fish's Trilogy and Its Predicted Career Trajectory
31:19 The Reality of Major Labels and Band Success in the Nineties
Anthony Merchant: Anthony Merchant is the host of the Power Chord Hour podcast, a show dedicated to rock music, and he also hosts a program on Jamestown, New York's 107.9 WRFA called Power Chord Hour. With a deep knowledge and passion for various rock genres, Anthony explores the evolution and impact of rock music, sharing insights and engaging discussions with fellow rock enthusiasts.
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Powered By Rock Podcast, host Isaac Kuhlman dives deep into the transformative decade of the 1990s in rock music with guest Anthony Merchant from the Power Chord Hour.
The conversation kicks off with an exploration of the dynamic musical landscape, highlighting how genres like grunge, alternative rock, punk, and pop punk not only coexisted but intertwined to shape the era's unique sound.
The discussion primarily focuses on the rise of grunge and its incredible impact on the rock music scene. Through the experiences and perspectives of both Kuhlman and Merchant, the episode paints a vivid picture of bands like Nirvana, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, and Alice in Chains, pinpointing their influence and the industry shift they catalyzed.
Merchant shares personal anecdotes and professional insights to illustrate how the nineties fostered an environment of rapid musical evolution and creative freedom.
Intro Music: Birds Love Filters "Colorado" - https://youtu.be/dqD_jMhZGqU
Outro Music: Speedway Sleeper "Snail Mail" - https://youtu.be/21-vX3bBagc
Please consider purchasing some cool merch or some musical instrument accessories at our site - https://poweredbyrock.com
Check out the FREE DIY Rock Career Playlist here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_2jRJsJubw&list=PL465-TazTQf5tZ9zGHitfmWQpYsbVlF99
Key Takeaways:
Resources:
Follow Anthony's Stuff:
Power Chord Hour on IG - https://www.instagram.com/powerchordhour/
Power Chord Hour on YT - https://www.youtube.com/@powerchordhour
Words and Sentences About Things and Stuff Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/0i7KUwQFTJOkMiSy9nIQEP?si=a8de0b9cef5d47f4
Links to Related Content:
Part 1 of This Series - https://youtu.be/105TH1Q2klw
Part 2 of This Series - https://youtu.be/j9m9eUBlBic
Part 3 of This Series - https://youtu.be/Qm61JpgNH_k
Episode About Weezer's Influence & Production of Maladroit Album - https://youtu.be/vdjzzQHVeyw
Timeline:
0:00 Episode Intro
01:22 The Transformative Impact of 1990s Rock Music
4:19 Nineties Music's Lasting Impact on Younger Generations
10:40 Grunge's Relatability Versus Hair Metal's Excess
15:36 The Accessibility and Influence of 90s Music
21:46 Nirvana's Unexpected Rise and Its Impact on 90s Rock
25:47 Weezer and Nirvana's Influence on Rock Music Evolution
31:41 Weezer's Evolution and Nirvana's Untarnished Legacy
35:56 The Longevity and Cultural Impact of The Simpsons and Family Guy
37:29 Weezer's Inconsistent Albums and Rivers Cuomo's Creative Struggles
Jimmy Barbetti and Jesse Randolph are members of the Connecticut-based pop punk band Scooped Up!.
Jimmy, formerly a graffiti artist and graphic designer, shifted to playing guitar around age 20.
Jesse, a drummer with a background in metal music, joined the band shortly after Jimmy started wanted to start a band.
They pride themselves on their DIY approach to the music industry, handling most aspects of their band from promotions to visuals.
Episode Summary:
In this episode of "Powered By Rock," host Isaac Kuhlman dives into the world of DIY music with members of the punk band Scooped Up – Jimmy Barbetti and Jesse Randolph. Isaac explores the band's unique journey from humble beginnings to amassing a dedicated following, with a special focus on their recently released album, "The Runs."
Jimmy and Jesse share their insights on the evolving landscape of the music industry, the power of social media, and how consistency and creativity have fueled their success.
Scooped Up’s story highlights the importance of a DIY ethic in today's music scene, with Jimmy discussing his transition from graffiti artist to musician and the band's evolution over the past eight years.
They delve into the art of promoting music in the digital age, using clever marketing strategies like parody websites and humorous social media content to engage their audience.
The conversation also touches on the band’s approach to creating music videos, where their creative process shines through in every frame, often reflecting a nostalgic blend of skate culture and punk rock ethos.
Outro Music: Speedway Sleeper "Snail Mail" - https://youtu.be/21-vX3bBagc
Please consider purchasing some cool merch or some musical instrument accessories at our site - https://poweredbyrock.com
Indie Musicians - check out the FREE DIY Rock Career Playlist here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_2jRJsJubw&list=PL465-TazTQf5tZ9zGHitfmWQpYsbVlF99
You can also learn more at https://diyrockcareer.com/
Resources:
Timeline:
00:00 - Episode Intro
01:56 - How Has Scooped Up! Been Able to Gain Their Large Online Following?
24:33 - Scooped Up! Takes DIY to a Whole New Level
33:29 - Influences & Inspirations Behind Scooped Up!'s Music Videos
38:23 - Scooped Up! Talks About Their Newest Album The Runs
53:28 - What's Coming Up for Scooped Up!?
Tamar Berk is a talented indie rock musician based in San Diego, known for her dynamic and genre-spanning sound. With roots in the Chicago music scene, Tamar has been influenced by a wide array of artists, from Suzanne Vega and Liz Phair to the Beatles and ELO. Over the last four years, she has released four distinct albums, the latest being Good Times for a Change. Tamar is also a devoted music producer, mastering her craft in her home studio to create meaningful and authentic music.
Episode Summary:
In this enlightening episode, host Isaac Kuhlman delves into the evolving landscape of rock music, specifically highlighting the surge of female musicians dominating the genre in recent years.
From established names like St. Vincent and Phoebe Bridgers to emerging bands like Wet Leg and Eliza and the Delusionals, Isaac explores the shift from a male-dominated genre to one now enriched by diverse female voices.
This context sets the stage for a deep conversation with indie rock artist Tamar Berk about her musical journey, the challenges women face in the industry, and her latest album, Good Times for a Change, releasing on September 6, 2024. Throughout the episode, Tamar shares her journey into rock music, starting from her early days of self-teaching guitar in Chicago.
Influenced by pioneering female artists from the '80s and '90s, Tamar discusses how she evolved her sound while staying true to her confessional and storytelling roots. The conversation touches on various themes, including the impact of the pandemic on female artists, the role of social media in propelling female musicians forward, and the shifting dynamics of the music industry.
Tamar also offers a behind-the-scenes look at her new album, discussing its themes of grief, change, and the emotional landscape that inspired her latest work.
Intro Music: Birds Love Filters "Colorado" - https://youtu.be/dqD_jMhZGqU
Outro Music: Speedway Sleeper "Snail Mail" - https://youtu.be/21-vX3bBagc
Please consider purchasing some cool merch or some musical instrument accessories at our site - https://poweredbyrock.com
Indie Musicians - check out the FREE DIY Rock Career Playlist here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_2jRJsJubw&list=PL465-TazTQf5tZ9zGHitfmWQpYsbVlF99
You can also learn more at https://diyrockcareer.com/
Key Takeaways:
Evolution of Female Rock Musicians: Tamar discusses how female artists have gradually taken the forefront in rock, citing influences like Liz Phair and Alanis Morissette.
Challenges and Triumphs in Music Production: Insights into Tamar’s experiences navigating the often male-dominated music industry and how she overcame challenges to produce her own music.
Impact of the Pandemic and Social Media: How the pandemic has contributed to the rise of female artists and the role social media plays in building and maintaining a fan base.
Themes of the New Album: Exploration of Tamar's latest album, Good Times for a Change, revealing her personal struggles with grief and change, and her journey towards living in the present.
Future of Rock Music: Tamar’s perspective on where rock music is headed, particularly for female artists, and her hopes for more authentic artist development.
Resources:
Timeline:
00:00 - Episode Summary
01:31 - Tamar Berk's Perspective on the Diversification of Rock Music
27:30 - Female Rock Stars Can Cross Genres & Boundaries
38:49 - Good Times For A Change - The New Album from Tamar Berk
46:20 - "Good Impression" music video from Tamar Berk
49:16 - What Does Tamar Having Coming Up?
51:57 - What Tamar Hopes Will Happen for Female Rock Musicians
Get ready to dive into the world of New Aesthetic, the exciting pop punk band hailing from San Diego. Hosted by Isaac Kuhlman, this episode explores the band's journey, their music, and their vision for the future.
From the publisher's feed
The Powered By Rock podcast hosted by Isaac Kuhlman was created to help showcase the best independent and DIY rock musicians in the world, and to pass on to future generations the rock music that…