The article emphasizes the importance of automation in indie music mixing, arguing that many mixes sound flat due to a lack of dynamic movement rather than poor equipment choices. Automation allows artists to adjust elements like volume, panning, and effects in real-time, enhancing the emotional impact and clarity of the mix while avoiding overprocessing.
Indie artists need an owned community forum to foster genuine relationships with fans amid changing social media dynamics. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok may help reach audiences, but artists risk losing control over fan interactions. A personal forum encourages engagement, deepens connections, and integrates revenue channels for sustained support.
The content emphasizes the transformative potential of live shows for indie artists, advocating that these performances should be viewed as the foundation of an artist’s business. By integrating systems for fan engagement, data collection, and emotional connection, artists can maximize the value of their shows, transitioning casual attendees into loyal fans and building lasting relationships.
As of May 1, 2026, Making a Scene celebrates eleven years of continuous support for independent music. By producing over 9,500 posts, including 2,200 interviews and 4,200 reviews, it has built a vital archive and community. With a redesign and expanded mission, it aims to empower artists through ownership, tools, and direct fan relationships.
The American Music Fairness Act aims to reform sound recording performance royalties for terrestrial radio, potentially requiring payment to artists. While this addresses a long-standing issue, concerns remain about how it might burden smaller stations that support indie artists. The outcome is pivotal for balancing artist compensation and preserving community radio’s vital role in music discovery.
In May 2024, the DOJ sued Live Nation and Ticketmaster, claiming they maintained an illegal monopoly damaging artists, fans, and independent promoters. A 2026 jury validated this claim, revealing systemic issues beyond ticket fees, affecting competition and opportunities in live music. The outcome aims to restore fairness and open access for indie artists.
The article discusses the concept of a touring syndicate for indie artists, emphasizing the shift from competition to cooperation. By pooling fan data and forming a structured alliance, artists can strategically plan tours, increase revenue, and reduce reliance on traditional music industry systems. This new model fosters collaboration, shared intelligence, and artist ownership.
Amani Burnham, a talented young musician adopted from Ethiopia, showcases his blues-rock prowess with his debut album “Roots & Wings,” set for release on May 29, 2026. His viral Instagram performance highlights his exceptional guitar skills, influenced by blues legends. The album features introspective lyrics and a blend of groovy rhythms and soulful vocals.
Ben Musser’s solo debut, “Sentimental Fever,” marks a significant milestone after two decades in music. As a one-man band, Musser wrote all eleven tracks and played multiple instruments, showcasing his artistic evolution. The album blends personal themes with Americana influences, reflecting confidence and authenticity, making it a compelling and heartfelt work.
The podcast discusses how streaming revenue is structured to favor major rights holders over independent artists, leading to unfair payouts. It highlights the issues within the pro-rata payment model, which dilutes artist earnings, and argues for a shift toward user-centric systems that align payments with actual listener support. Streaming should be a tool for discovery, not a primary revenue source.
The music industry is experiencing a conflict over ownership, with platforms emphasizing accessibility for listeners while artists struggle for control. As revenue rises, artists often remain dependent on platforms, sacrificing direct relationships with fans. By leveraging data, reshaping their websites, and utilizing Web3, indie artists can foster genuine ownership and commitment rather than merely chasing visibility.
The discussion emphasizes that achieving a professional sound in home recording doesn’t require expensive equipment but rather informed choices in arrangement and layering tracks. The approach encourages indie artists to leverage available tools and techniques in platforms like Fender Studio Pro to build emotionally rich, polished recordings effectively and efficiently, enhancing their music’s value.
Independent musicians need a solid, practical business plan to turn music into a sustainable career. It should outline current resources, goals, and actionable strategies while incorporating modern tools like AI and decentralized platforms. Focusing on control, ownership, and realistic objectives helps artists protect their work and build durable careers in an ever-changing music landscape.
In episode #322 of “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey,” Coastland Fair joins an array of artists including Orianthi, The Black Crowes, and Fleetwood Mac. The show features a diverse mix of tracks reflecting various rock genres, highlighting both new talents and legendary musicians.
The “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” show #320 features an array of guests and musical tracks. Highlights include Gwyn Ashton, The Rolling Stones, Robert Plant, and Billy Boy Miskimmin, among others, showcasing a diverse lineup of rock and blues songs, reflecting a vibrant music scene and rich variety of genres.
Jimi “Primetime” Smith is an accomplished blues guitarist and vocalist, known for collaborating with legends like Etta James and Albert King. Growing up in Chicago, he was influenced by family and mentors, performing since childhood. Now based in Arizona, he remains dedicated to authentic music and self-management, focusing on sharing joy through his performances.
The “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” show #320 features an array of guests and musical tracks. Highlights include Gwyn Ashton, The Rolling Stones, Robert Plant, and Billy Boy Miskimmin, among others, showcasing a diverse lineup of rock and blues songs, reflecting a vibrant music scene and rich variety of genres.
Gerry Casey’s “Turn it Up” show #318 features a diverse lineup of rock artists, including Star Collector and Gypsy Pistoleros. The episode highlights a variety of tracks, ranging from classic rock anthems to contemporary hits, creating an engaging listening experience for fans of the genre.
Sari Schorr, a Blues-Rock artist recognized for her powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics, emerged with her debut album “A Force of Nature.” Her music reflects personal struggles and global issues, emphasizing unity and compassion. Beyond music, she engages in humanitarian work and advocates for various social causes, embodying resilience and activism.
Gerry Casey’s “Turn it Up” show #318 features a diverse lineup of rock artists, including Star Collector and Gypsy Pistoleros. The episode highlights a variety of tracks, ranging from classic rock anthems to contemporary hits, creating an engaging listening experience for fans of the genre.
The Turn it Up with Gerry Casey show #316 features an array of guests and performances. Highlights include Jessey Jackson, Scott McDonald, and Nikki Sparks, alongside tracks like “Gimme All Your Lovin'” and “Bohemian.” The lineup also features renowned artists like The Who, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix, delivering a diverse musical experience.
The Turn it Up with Gerry Casey show #316 features an array of guests and performances. Highlights include Jessey Jackson, Scott McDonald, and Nikki Sparks, alongside tracks like “Gimme All Your Lovin'” and “Bohemian.” The lineup also features renowned artists like The Who, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix, delivering a diverse musical experience.
The show “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” features a variety of musical guests and artists, including Michael Allman, Robert Jon & The Wreck, and Paul Brady. A diverse setlist includes songs ranging from rock to blues, showcasing talents like Three Days Grace and Jerry Lee Lewis, creating an engaging musical experience.
The “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” show #310 features various musical guests including Alan Maris of The Wanted, Santiago Periotti & The Soul Movers, and performances from artists like Metallica, Black Sabbath, and Joan Jett. The playlist spans rock genres with songs like “Hammer Of The Gods” and “Addicted To Love.”
Blind Lemon Pledge, the musical persona of James Byfield, has gained acclaim with his 2021 album “A Satchel Full of Blues,” topping blues charts. A lifelong musician influenced by various genres, Byfield’s work spans Blues, Folk, and Jazz. His unique compositions have earned numerous awards and international recognition.
The podcast “Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show” showcases Indie Blues artists celebrating the genre’s evolution and diversity. These musicians honor the past while innovating for the future, creating original music that resonates emotionally with listeners, reflecting their individual realities and deep connections to Blues roots.
Annika Chambers and Paul DesLauriers collaborate on their album “Our Time To Ride,” blending blues, soul, and rock. Chambers, influenced by gospel and the blues, has a diverse background, while DesLauriers is an acclaimed guitarist. The album features original songs and covers, showcasing their musical chemistry and soulful storytelling.
The “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” show #310 features various musical guests including Alan Maris of The Wanted, Santiago Periotti & The Soul Movers, and performances from artists like Metallica, Black Sabbath, and Joan Jett. The playlist spans rock genres with songs like “Hammer Of The Gods” and “Addicted To Love.”
The podcast “Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show” showcases Indie Blues artists celebrating the genre’s evolution and diversity. These musicians honor the past while innovating for the future, creating original music that resonates emotionally with listeners, reflecting their individual realities and deep connections to Blues roots.
The “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” show #310 features various musical guests including Alan Maris of The Wanted, Santiago Periotti & The Soul Movers, and performances from artists like Metallica, Black Sabbath, and Joan Jett. The playlist spans rock genres with songs like “Hammer Of The Gods” and “Addicted To Love.”
In episode #309 of “Turn it Up” hosted by Gerry Casey, a diverse lineup of musical guests, including Rusty Ends, Alice Cooper, and W.A.S.P., is featured. The show showcases various rock tracks, highlighting artists with unique styles and notable songs, such as “Feed My Frankenstein” by Alice Cooper and “Burn It To The Ground” by Nickelback.
The podcast “Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show” showcases Indie Blues artists celebrating the genre’s evolution and diversity. These musicians honor the past while innovating for the future, creating original music that resonates emotionally with listeners, reflecting their individual realities and deep connections to Blues roots.
Making a Scene Presents the podcast Live from the Midnight Circus, featuring Katy Tessman and highlighting indie blues artists who celebrate the genre’s evolution and creativity. The podcast honors blues roots while empowering contemporary musicians to express their realities through original music, fostering a deep emotional connection with listeners.
Gerry Casey’s “Turn it Up” show #306 features a diverse array of musical guests and tracks, including Emma Wilson, Bad Company, and Bob Marley. The playlist showcases genres ranging from blues to rock, highlighting songs like “Good Lovin’ Gone Bad” and “Thunder Road,” along with engaging performances by various artists.
The podcast “Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show” showcases Indie Blues artists celebrating the genre’s evolution and diversity. These musicians honor the past while innovating for the future, creating original music that resonates emotionally with listeners, reflecting their individual realities and deep connections to Blues roots.
Gerry Casey’s “Turn it Up” show #306 features a diverse array of musical guests and tracks, including Emma Wilson, Bad Company, and Bob Marley. The playlist showcases genres ranging from blues to rock, highlighting songs like “Good Lovin’ Gone Bad” and “Thunder Road,” along with engaging performances by various artists.
Making a Scene Presents the podcast Live from the Midnight Circus, featuring Katy Tessman and highlighting indie blues artists who celebrate the genre’s evolution and creativity. The podcast honors blues roots while empowering contemporary musicians to express their realities through original music, fostering a deep emotional connection with listeners.
The podcast “Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show” showcases Indie Blues artists celebrating the genre’s evolution and diversity. These musicians honor the past while innovating for the future, creating original music that resonates emotionally with listeners, reflecting their individual realities and deep connections to Blues roots.
“Standard Deviation” is the second album by drummer Mike Clark and saxophonist Mike Zilber, featuring a New York ensemble. The quartet reimagines jazz standards and classics with innovative arrangements, challenging yet inviting. Highlights include “Blues for Chambers” and a funky “Hallelujah.” The album captures a blend of tradition and fresh interpretations.
Making a Scene Presents the podcast Live from the Midnight Circus, featuring Katy Tessman and highlighting indie blues artists who celebrate the genre’s evolution and creativity. The podcast honors blues roots while empowering contemporary musicians to express their realities through original music, fostering a deep emotional connection with listeners.
Katy Tessman is a singer-songwriter whose music, steeped in personal experiences of survival and resilience, blends Americana and folk-rock. With her rich voice, she resonates deeply with audiences through uplifting themes. Her momentum in the Minnesota music scene continues, highlighted by her 2023 album Fly and the publication of her acclaimed children’s book.
Gerry Casey’s “Turn it Up” show #306 features a diverse array of musical guests and tracks, including Emma Wilson, Bad Company, and Bob Marley. The playlist showcases genres ranging from blues to rock, highlighting songs like “Good Lovin’ Gone Bad” and “Thunder Road,” along with engaging performances by various artists.
Emma Wilson, a talented soul and blues singer from North East England, captivates audiences with her expressive voice and heartfelt performances. Her debut album, “Wish Her Well,” earned her the Emerging Blues Artist of the Year award. Collaborating with renowned musicians, her follow-up, “Memphis Calling,” showcases her musical versatility and depth, solidifying her place in the industry.
Victoria Cardona, a multi-talented singer and songwriter, showcases her Cuban heritage in her debut album “Que Pasó.” Blending vibrant rhythms and heartfelt lyrics, she explores themes of resilience and escape from communist Cuba. With a mix of instruments and rich harmonies, Cardona’s music is infectious and dance-worthy, promising broader recognition.
From the Dirt is an Americana band from central Maryland, merging diverse influences like bluegrass and Celtic folk. Fronted by Dan Kenny, their music emphasizes storytelling with rich imagery and emotional depth. Their next album, Colored Edge of Memory, releases on May 2, 2025, featuring collaborations with notable musicians, showcasing their evolving sound.
Ron Rieder’s album “Dia Precioso!” showcases eight original compositions infused with Latin jazz, featuring arrangements by Ricardo Monzón and performed by top Boston musicians. The album blends Afro-Cuban rhythms, sambas, and tangos, creating a vibrant listening experience. Notable tracks include “Beautiful Day,” “I Fell into a Meme,” and “Dizzy Hechizo.”
Nick Biello’s album “New America” showcases his original compositions that blend jazz with classical and Latin influences. Notable tracks include “Bel Canto,” “Queen of Jordan,” and “Before the Flood,” highlighting the talents of Biello and his ensemble. The music evokes a range of emotions, celebrating inclusion and joy through expertly crafted melodies.
Camila Meza’s album “Portal” showcases her bilingual, jazz-infused sound, enriched with Latin American and electronic influences. Featuring original compositions inspired by her personal journey through motherhood, her soothing vocals and guitar work blend beautifully. With contributions from notable musicians, the album invites meditation and spans genres, highlighting Meza’s unique artistry.
The podcast “Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show” showcases the evolution of Indie Blues, highlighting diverse artists who innovate while honoring their roots. It emphasizes the genre as a living art form, promoting musicians who create original music with emotional depth, connecting with listeners through truth and integrity.
Grupo Pagan, led by Edgar Pagan, fuses Latin and rock music with jazz influences. With over twenty years of performance, their album “Power,” produced by GRAMMY winner Jimmy Haslip, showcases original compositions featuring hypnotic vocals and diverse rhythms. The group delivers captivating, energetic music that resonates with contemporary society.