Taking Care of Your Music Business
Welcome to "Taking Care of Your Music Business," brought to you by the Mechanical Licensing Collective, or The MLC. In this podcast, we dive deep into the heart of the music industry, exploring how to get paid as a creative, making sure you are receiving all the royalties you deserve. We'll also dive into building a sustainable career, sharing strategies and best practices that creators can use to achieve long-term success. Join us as we bring you interviews with top songwriters and music executives who share their personal journeys and professional wisdom on thriving in the business while making a li...
S1 E6 · Wed, January 15, 2025
Writing Hits, Managing Cash: Songwriter Anthony Smith’s Guide to Songwriting Success
Join songwriter Anthony Smith as he takes us through his journey in the music industry, revealing how he balances songwriting with managing the business side. In this episode, Anthony discusses the realities of the songwriting business, offering tips on how songwriters can effectively manage their money, protect their intellectual property, and maximize earnings. He also explains the important role that organizations like The MLC play in ensuring that creators get paid for every use of their work. Tune in for a mix of personal stories, industry insights, and practical tips that will inspire music creators at all stages of their careers. Topics Covered and Timestamps [00:00:43] Introduction to Anthony Smith Anthony’s background as a songwriter and notable hits like “Tomorrow” and “What About Now.” His inspiring career path and early challenges. [00:01:11] Early Career and Financial Realities Anthony discusses his first publishing deal and initial financial struggles. Importance of understanding finances in the music business. [00:02:56] Musical Influences Anthony reflects on his upbringing in Birmingham, Alabama, and his love for music. Transition from trumpet player to songwriter. [00:05:34] Breakthrough at Muscle Shoals The bold move that earned Anthony his first break by posing as an arranger. Moving to Nashville and breaking into the industry. [00:09:13] Writing Country Music Hits Transitioning from pop and R&B to country music. How co-writing helped shape his career and create commercially successful songs. [00:16:35] Crafting "What About Now" Behind-the-scenes insights into writing and producing the chart-topping hit for Lone Star. [00:22:30] Financial Advice for Songwriters Practical tips on managing finances, seeking professional advice, and planning for the future. Why understanding royalties and contracts is essential for long-term success. [00:27:16] Building a Sustainable Career Anthony shares tips on networking, continuous learning, and adapting to industry trends. [00:51:04] The Role of The MLC How The MLC ensures songwriters receive accurate royalties. Why organizations like The MLC are essential for transparency and support in the industry. Resources Mentioned: The MLC Website: themlc.com Anthony Smith’s Music: Follow Anthony on social media for updates on his latest projects. Key Highlights Anthony’s transformation from a trumpet player in Alabama to a chart-topping songwriter. Valuable financial advice for songwriters, includi
S1 E5 · Thu, December 19, 2024
Beyond the Writer’s Room: Jenn Schott's Lessons on Songwriting and Business Survival
In this episode, songwriter Jenn Schott joins us for an in-depth conversation about surviving and thriving in the music industry, both as a creative and as a business professional. Jenn shares her personal journey of writing hit songs, navigating the business complexities of the industry, and managing her career as a songwriter in an ever-changing industry. She offers practical advice for aspiring songwriters, emphasizing the value of co-writing and flexibility, and the importance of developing strong relationships in the industry. Plus, Jenn discusses how organizations like The MLC are helping songwriters collect the royalties they deserve. Topics Covered and Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction to Jenn Schott Host introduces Jenn Schott, her background growing up in Pittsburgh, Kansas, and her impressive songwriting career. [00:03:15] Musical Upbringing Insights into Jenn's musically enriched family, including her father's role as a woodwinds teacher, her mother’s skills as a flutist, and her grandfather’s contribution as a violinist with the CBS Orchestra in New York. Starting her songwriting on piano in seventh grade and early contest experiences. [00:06:45] First Steps into Nashville Jenn's move to Nashville in 1997 with a journalism degree, her first job as a receptionist at a music publishing company, and her early industry experiences. [00:11:20] Breaking Into Songwriting Signing her first publishing deal three years after the move and landing her first song cut two years later. The significance of persistence and staying prepared with ideas. [00:16:10] Writing for Major Artists Stories behind writing hits like "7,500 OBO" , "Better Than You Left Me" , and "Fill it in the Morning" for renowned artists like Tim McGraw and Rascal Flatts. The role of collaboration and relationships in creating successful songs. [00:22:30] Advice for Aspiring Songwriters Why co-writing is vital to the Nashville scene and Jenn’s tips for capturing creative ideas. Encouragement to stay determined and flexible in pursuing a songwriting career. Resources Mentioned Explore Jenn Schott’s Songs: Listen to her hits including "7,500 OBO" by Tim McGraw. The MLC Website: Discover how The Mechanical Licensing Collective supports songwriters at themlc.com . Key Highlights Jenn’s transition from Pittsburgh, Kansas, to the heart of the music industry in Nashville. Her stories of working her way up from receptionist to becoming a successful full-time songwriter. Practical advice for aspiring songwriters, from developing ideas to managing the business side of their careers. T
S1 E4 · Thu, December 19, 2024
Every Cent Counts: Building a Sustainable Career with Songwriter Phillip White
In this episode, songwriter Phillip White shares his journey from small-town Rogersville, Alabama, to becoming an award-winning songwriter in Nashville. He discusses the challenges and strategies for building a sustainable career in the music industry and shares insights on songwriting, royalty collection, and navigating the intricacies of music publishing. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the business side of music and discusses how The MLC plays a crucial role in helping songwriters get paid their royalties accurately and on time. Topics Covered and Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction to Phillip White Phillip’s roots in Rogersville, Alabama. The impact of small-town life on his career. [00:02:06] Musical Beginnings and Influences Discover how Muscle Shoals’ iconic music scene shaped Phillip’s career. Meeting his mentor and distant cousin, a turning point in his musical path. [00:05:34] Transition to Nashville (1993) The challenges of moving to Nashville and his early days writing songs. Memorable first encounters with future stars like Blake Shelton and Joe Nichols. [00:07:18] First Publishing Deal and Early Career Stories Signing his first deal in 1994 and pitching songs as a song plugger. The story behind his first cut and the unpredictable nature of the industry. [00:10:00] Financial Lessons for Songwriters Why understanding taxes and income management is crucial for songwriters. Candid advice on navigating financial hurdles in the music business. [00:14:00] Writing "I'm Moving On" The emotional story behind his ACM Song of the Year-winning hit. How the song found its way to Rascal Flatts and its lasting impact on listeners. [00:19:28] Music as a Timeless Legacy Phillip’s reflections on songwriting as a way to leave behind something eternal. Stories of how his songs have touched the lives of fans worldwide. [00:27:14] Adaptation and Resilience Insights into overcoming difficult periods in his career. Learning the importance of perseverance in Nashville’s competitive music scene. [00:29:16] The Role of The MLC How The MLC ensures songwriters collect royalties from streaming services. Phillip shares his appreciation for the organization’s work in an evolving industry. Resources Mentioned Phillip White’s Music: Explore his albums, including the "Moving On Sessions." The MLC Website: themlc.com Key Highlights Phillip’s inspiring story of determination, from Rogersville to Nashville. Meeting mentors like Spooner Oldham and the Muscle Shoals c
S1 E3 · Thu, December 19, 2024
Empowering Creators: Jamie Dominguez on Mentorship, Music Rights, and The MLC’s Mission
Jamie Dominguez, National Director of Industry Relations at The MLC , shares her passion for empowering creators and improving the music rights landscape. From her early days starting out to becoming a driving force in the industry, Jamie shares her career evolution, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, resilience, and understanding the business side of music. In this episode, Jamie discusses how The MLC helps songwriters, publishers, and music creators through education, transparency, and accessibility. She dives into The MLC’s mission of ensuring that every creator is paid for their work accurately and on time. Jamie also highlights how The MLC’s resources help songwriters navigate the complexities of music rights and royalties management, ensuring they receive all the royalties they are entitled to. Topics Covered and Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction to Jamie Dominguez Jamie’s background in the music industry and her initial steps into the business. [00:05:00] Career Evolution Jamie shares her career milestones, from starting out in smaller roles to becoming a key player in the industry. The importance of adaptability and resilience in a competitive field. [00:10:30] Navigating the Business Side Insights into the lesser-known elements of the music industry. Tips on understanding contracts, royalties, and streaming revenue. [00:15:45] Supporting Creators Jamie talks about her efforts to mentor upcoming creators and provide them with tools to thrive. [00:20:00] Advice for Aspiring Artists Practical advice on breaking into the music industry. The value of networking, building a team, and staying focused on personal goals. [00:27:30] The Importance of Technology and Innovation Jamie discusses how technology is reshaping the music landscape. How musicians can leverage digital tools for distribution and marketing. [00:33:15] Overcoming Challenges Reflections on the obstacles Jamie faced and how she turned them into stepping stones for success. Encouragement for those facing similar hurdles to stay persistent and motivated. [00:39:00] Resources and Industry Insights Discussion on collaborations with organizations like The Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC) to ensure artists are fairly compensated. Advice on using available industry resources to grow and sustain a music career. Resources Mentioned The MLC Website: themlc.com Key Highlights Jamie’s inspiring career trajectory and her impact on the music industry. Actionable advice on navigating the business and financial aspects of a music career. Insig
S1 E2 · Thu, December 19, 2024
The Real Deal: Tony Alexander on Labels, Royalties, and Revenue
In this episode, Tony Alexander , industry expert and co-founder of Made in Memphis Entertainment (MIME) , brings his years of experience in music publishing and record labels to the table in this in-depth conversation on labels, royalties, and revenue streams. Tony breaks down the different ways music creators can earn money, from record deals to royalties, and how understanding the fine print of contracts can make all the difference. Tony also dives into the importance of artist education through Adaptive Music , a platform dedicated to teaching music creators the business skills they need to thrive. From workshops and tools to practical advice on building teams and mastering industry knowledge, listeners can learn how to build sustainable careers while staying true to their creative vision. Topics Covered and Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction to the Podcast Host welcomes listeners and introduces the podcast’s focus on supporting music creators. [00:00:19] Introduction to Tony Alexander Tony’s background and partnership with Hall of Fame songwriter David Porter to co-found MIME. His vision for empowering artists and transforming the music industry. [00:00:42] Founding Made in Memphis Entertainment MIME's origins and its mission to retain and support talent in Memphis. [00:01:58] Supporting Local Talent How MIME helps artists build careers by offering infrastructure and expanding to cities like Atlanta. [00:05:09] MIME's Services and Facilities Description of MIME’s state-of-the-art spaces and its artist support services. [00:07:53] Unique Business Model MIME’s revenue-sharing structure allowing artists to retain ownership of masters and publishing rights. [00:10:12] Alternatives to Traditional Deals How MIME provides alternatives to traditional 360 deals. [00:15:38] Launching Adaptive Music Adaptive Music’s role in educating artists on managing careers and industry basics. [00:22:30] Educating Artists Tools and workshops offered by Adaptive Music to fill knowledge gaps. [00:27:16] Advice for Aspiring Artists Tony’s guidance on building teams, mastering industry knowledge, and staying true to creative vision. Resources Mentioned Made in Memphis Entertainment Website: madeinmemphisentertainment.com The MLC: https://www.themlc.com/ Key Highlights Tony’s inspiring career shift from patent attorney to music industry leader. MIME’s artist-friendly model focusing on talent empowerment and fair revenue-sharing. Adaptive Music’s educati
S1 E1 · Thu, December 19, 2024
Kent Blazy on Songwriting Success and Staying True to the Craft
Join songwriter Kent Blazy as he shares the keys to building a long and successful career in music. In this episode, Kent shares how he navigates the business side of songwriting, including the importance of royalties and music publishing, and shares his journey from learning guitar at 16 to writing iconic songs and collaborating with stars like Garth Brooks, Faith Hill, and Trisha Yearwood. He also offers practical advice for songwriters on staying inspired, honing their craft, and managing the business side of their careers, and highlights how organizations like The MLC play a role in helping songwriters collect all that they are owed. Topics Covered and Timestamps [00:01:00] Meet Kent Blasey Overview of Kent's career, including Nashville Songwriter Hall of Fame induction and writing hits like "If Tomorrow Never Comes" and "Gettin You Home (The Black Dress Song)." [00:03:12] The Early Days How learning to play guitar at 16 and leading a band by 18 shaped Kent's career. Lessons learned from managing both the creative and business aspects of music. [00:06:15] Moving to Nashville Kent’s transition to Nashville in 1980 and his breakout success with "Headed for a Heartache" by Gary Morris within a year and a half. [00:09:30] Demo Singers Before Stardom Stories of working with demo singers like Faith Hill, Martina McBride, Joe Diffie, and Randy Travis before they became household names. [00:13:45] Creating a Classic with Garth Brooks How Garth approached Kent to be a demo singer, sparking their collaboration on "If Tomorrow Never Comes," Garth's first number one hit. Kent’s instrumental role in introducing Garth Brooks to Trisha Yearwood. [00:23:10] Songwriting as a Lifelong Craft Kent’s focus on always being prepared for inspiration, using notebooks and voice memos to capture ideas. Advice for aspiring songwriters on staying true to their craft and always looking for new creativity. [00:29:00] The Business Side of Songwriting Kent’s thoughts on balancing the creative and financial aspects of a music career. How The MLC plays a vital role in ensuring songwriters get paid for their work. Resources Mentioned Visit The MLC Website: themlc.com Explore Kent Blazyy’s music and accomplishments for more inspiration. Key Highlights Kent’s storied career, from moving to Nashville to creating timeless hits. Behind-the-scenes stories of writing hits like "If Tomorrow Never Comes" and "Getting You Home." Practical advice on nurturing creativity and managing the business side of music. The importance of organizations like The MLC in supporting the songwriting
S1 E7 · Thu, December 19, 2024
From Royalties to Rights: How The MLC Empowers Creators with Serona Elton
Join The MLC’s Head of Educational Partnerships, Serona Elton , as she breaks down all the ways creators get paid in the digital world. Serona shares the journey of how The MLC was created to simplify the complexities of music royalties for rightsholders, ensuring that every creator is paid for their work. Learn how mechanical royalties are generated, and explore why accurate metadata is vital to getting paid. Whether you’re a songwriter, publisher, or music industry professional, this episode is packed with must-know information to help you navigate the ever-evolving music rights landscape. Topics Covered and Timestamps [00:00:29] Introduction to the Guest Serona Elton introduces her role at The MLC, career, and background. [00:01:06] Serona's Professional Journey How her interest in the music industry began. Her education at the University of Miami. Career milestones at leading record labels and her transition to The MLC in 2020. [00:04:01] What is The MLC? The purpose and mission of The Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC). Its role in administering mechanical licenses and ensuring accurate, timely royalty payments. [00:06:00] Leading Educational Initiatives Serona's efforts to create educational resources for professors and students, including webinars and public speaking engagements. [00:07:24] Why Was The MLC Created? A look into the Music Modernization Act and the shift to blanket licensing for streaming services. The MLC's critical role in transitioning to this improved licensing model. [00:13:02] The MLC vs. PROs Understanding the difference between The MLC and Performance Rights Organizations (PROs). How royalty collection and distribution differ between these entities. [00:15:38] Why Songwriters Need to Join The MLC Who should join The MLC? A step-by-step guide for self-administered songwriters looking to benefit. [00:22:30] When Will You Receive Royalties? An explanation of the 75-day period for royalty payments and how it works. [00:27:16] Educational Resources Available Tools available on the The MLC website and YouTube channel. Details on the educator toolkit and student ambassador program . [00:31:07] How to Start With The MLC Steps to join The MLC and ensure all royalties are collected, including registering songs and setting up banking details. Using The MLC's advanced matching tool to maximize earnings. Resources Mentioned: The MLC Website: themlc.com The MLC YouTube Channel: <a href='https://www.youtube.com/@M
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