Future of the Music Business

Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business1/ Understanding Decentralized Music Industry

The Indie Artist Flywheel: How to Build a Music Career That Feeds Itself

Richard L'Hommedieu ai tools for musicians, artist owned ecosystem, artist owned fanbase, artist website strategy, artist-owned music business, direct music revenue, direct to fan music marketing, DIY musician strategy, email marketing for musicians, fan data ownership, fan owned music community, fan passport for musicians, future of independent music, independent music economy, independent musician business strategy, indie artist flywheel, indie artist revenue streams, indie music marketing strategy, merch strategy for musicians, music business flywheel, music business for independent artists, music business systems, music cooperative for artists, music fan engagement, music industry middle class, music marketing funnel, music membership model, music sponsorship strategy, touring strategy for indie artists, web3 music strategy 0 Comments May 6, 2026

The Indie Artist Flywheel offers a strategic system for independent musicians to build sustainable music careers. By creating interconnected actions that enhance fan relationships, artists can transition from endless cycles of promotion to a coherent business. Key elements include live shows, fan engagement tools, and leveraging technology, ensuring consistent revenue and growth without reliance on outside platforms.

Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business1

The Hidden Economics of Being an Indie Artist in 2026

Richard L'Hommedieu artist owned ecosystem, artist owned website, artist website strategy, build music fanbase, direct to fan music marketing, fan ownership music, fan passport music, future of music business, indie artist branding, indie artist business, indie musician revenue streams, music community building, music fan engagement, music marketing 2026, musician email list growth, musician membership site, stop sending fans to platforms, token gated music community, WooCommerce music store, WordPress for musicians 0 Comments April 30, 2026

The guide “The Hidden Economics of Being an Indie Artist in 2026” emphasizes the integration of creativity and business for independent musicians. It encourages artists to understand their roles as business owners, improve fan engagement through personalized websites, utilize AI for efficiency, and develop multiple revenue streams for sustainable success.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Biz News/ Music Business/ Music Business1/ Radio Charts

The American Music Fairness Act Could Finally Make Radio Pay

Richard L'Hommedieu American Music Fairness Act, AMFA, BMI, college radio, community radio, independent music, indie artists., local radio, making a Scene, master ownership, music business, music discovery, music industry policy, public performance right, radio airplay, recording royalties, soundexchange, terrestrial radio royalties 0 Comments April 24, 2026

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.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business/ Music Business1

Ticketmaster LiveNation Court Decision

Richard L'Hommedieu antitrust in music, artist independence, concert promotion monopoly, concert ticket monopoly, DOJ Live Nation lawsuit, fan ticket fees, independent music venues, indie artists touring, live music industry, Live Nation court case, Live Nation monopoly, making a Scene, music industry power structure, ticketing reform, Ticketmaster court decision, Ticketmaster fees, Ticketmaster Live Nation lawsuit, Ticketmaster monopoly, touring economics indie artists, venue control music industry 0 Comments April 23, 2026

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.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Biz News/ Music Business1

Canada Just Put Money Behind the People Who Build the Stage

Richard L'Hommedieu artist development, arts funding, Austin Live Music Fund, Canada Music Fund, Canada music industry, Canadian music, cultural sovereignty, FACTOR, independent music, independent venues, indie music infrastructure, live music economy, live music ecosystem, live music funding, local music scenes, music advocacy, music business, music festivals, music policy, NEA grants, promoters, public private music funding, Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, support independent music, U.S. music industry 0 Comments April 22, 2026

FACTOR’s $2 million investment in Canada’s live music sector emphasizes the importance of funding the entire music ecosystem, not just artists. By supporting promoters and festivals, Canada aims to maintain cultural sovereignty and enhance local engagement. This strategic approach contrasts with the U.S., which lacks a cohesive national support system for independent music infrastructure.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business/ Music Business1/ Touring

Touring Used to Sell Records. Now Records Exist to Sell Touring. What Happens Next?

Richard L'Hommedieu ai tools for musicians, artist owned ecosystem, artist-owned music business, building a career beyond streaming, direct to fan music marketing, fan data for musicians, fan passport music strategy, future of touring for indie artists, independent artist income streams, indie artist touring strategy, live music profit margins, merch memberships and direct sales, music industry middle class, music revenue diversification, rising touring costs music industry, streaming vs touring economics, sustainable touring for musicians, touring economics for indie artists, touring used to sell records now records sell touring, Web3 for indie artists 0 Comments April 17, 2026

The music industry’s earnings have surged, yet many artists struggle financially as touring becomes increasingly expensive and less profitable. The traditional model of records promoting tours has flipped, leading to a need for artists to diversify income through memberships, direct sales, and data ownership, rather than relying solely on live performances.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business/ Music Business1

Making Recorded Music a Product Again

Richard L'Hommedieu ai tools for musicians, alternative music revenue streams, artist owned ecosystem, artist-owned music business, Bandcamp music sales, collectible music releases, digital deluxe music editions, direct to fan music business, direct-to-fan music sales, DIY music monetization, exclusive music editions, fan data for musicians, fan reward music strategy, how to sell music directly, independent artist income ideas, indie artist direct revenue, indie artist revenue, indie music entrepreneurship, indie music marketing strategy, live mixes for fans, making recorded music a product again, music as a product, music business middle class, music fan engagement strategy, music licensing strategy, music product ideas, recorded music income streams, stem packs for sale, sync licensing for indie artists, Web3 for indie artists 0 Comments April 16, 2026

The content discusses the evolution of recorded music from being a valued product to merely serving as promotional material. It emphasizes the need for artists to innovate their offerings, transforming recordings into multiple revenue-generating forms. By leveraging direct-to-fan sales, unique editions, and access models, artists can rebuild meaningful connections and financial sustainability.

Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business1

Build the Website Like a Platform: How Indie Artists Keep Fans Inside Their Own Ecosystem

Richard L'Hommedieu artist fan community, artist membership platform, artist membership site, artist owned ecosystem, artist owned platform, artist powered commerce, decentralized music business, direct to fan revenue, direct-to-fan marketing, exclusive content strategy, exclusive video hosting for musicians, fan data ownership, fan engagement website, fan loyalty system, fan retention strategy, independent artist branding, indie artist ecommerce, indie artist website, Indie music business, music business infrastructure, music industry middle class, music marketing funnel, music website monetization, musician website strategy, on site music player, owned audience strategy, token gated content, Web3 for musicians, WooCommerce for artists, WordPress for musicians 0 Comments April 15, 2026

Indie artists need to transform their websites into integrated platforms rather than mere promotional tools. By utilizing WordPress and WooCommerce, they can maintain fan engagement, gather valuable data, and control their own ecosystem, enhancing their relationship with fans. This shift fosters direct revenue, community building, and sustained artist independence.

AI & Automation for Indie Artists/ Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business1

AI-Driven Fan Journeys: Mapping Every Step From First Listen to Lifetime Fan

Richard L'Hommedieu AI fan journeys, AI for musicians, AI triggered content delivery, artist brand strategy, artist fan engagement, artist membership model, artist owned ecosystem, convert listeners to fans, direct revenue for musicians, direct-to-fan marketing, email marketing for musicians, fan data ownership, fan journey mapping, fan loyalty strategy, fan passport, HubSpot artist marketing, independent artist revenue, indie artist marketing, Indie music business, Klaviyo music marketing, lifetime fan strategy, Manychat for musicians, music audience development, music business ai, music marketing automation, music marketing funnel, owned audience, Shopify for musicians, sms marketing for artists, web3 fan engagement 0 Comments April 9, 2026

The content discusses the challenges independent artists face in the music industry, focusing on the disconnect between gaining attention and building lasting relationships with fans. It emphasizes utilizing AI to create personalized fan journeys that foster deeper connections and ownership, transforming transient listeners into dedicated supporters while ensuring artists maintain control over their fan interactions and data.

DIY PR/ Future of the Music Business/ Music Business1/ Understanding Decentralized Music Industry

The Artist-Owned Ecosystem: Replacing the Label, Distributor, and Platform

Richard L'Hommedieu ai music marketing, artist owned ecosystem, artist owned infrastructure, artist owned platform, artist revenue streams, audius, decentralized distribution, decentralized music industry, direct to fan music marketing, direct to fan sales, fan data ownership, fan ownership, fan passport system, independent artist income, independent label alternative, independent music branding, Indie music business, IPFS music distribution, merch and ticket revenue, music business ownership, music industry middle class, music membership model, NFT music revenue, sustainable music career, Web3 for musicians 0 Comments April 8, 2026

The content discusses the transition from traditional music industry structures to an artist-owned ecosystem. It emphasizes the importance of artists regaining control over their distribution, marketing, and fan relationships. By leveraging decentralized tools and AI, artists can create sustainable income through direct fan engagement, ultimately transforming listeners into loyal customers and supporters.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business1

The Suno-Warner Deal: When Big Music Stops Fighting AI and Starts Designing It

Richard L'Hommedieu AI and artist independence, AI mockup tools for songwriters, AI music licensing, AI songwriting tools, artist ownership, artist rights in AI music, backing tracks with AI, corporate control of AI, creator ownership, decentralized music future, direct to fan music business, future of independent music, generative music tools, indie artists and AI, indie music community, licensed AI music models, music business ai, music industry gatekeepers, music industry middle class, music platform control, music tech power shift, suno ai music, Suno for indie musicians, Suno Warner deal, Warner Music Group AI 0 Comments April 7, 2026

The Suno-Warner deal signifies a major shift in the music industry as Warner Music Group collaborates with Suno to develop licensed AI music models. While this partnership promises opportunities for artists, indie musicians must remain cautious of increasing corporate control and dependency on proprietary platforms, prompting a need for financial and creative independence.

Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business1

The Real Reason Streaming Pays So Little, And Why It Was Designed That Way

Richard L'Hommedieu artist centric streaming model, artist ownership economy, blockchain music platforms, Deezer artist centric model, direct to fan music business, fan data ownership, independent artist revenue, indie artist income, indie musician business strategy, major label catalog dominance, making a Scene, music industry middle class, music industry op ed, music platform incentives, music streaming economics, pro rata streaming model, royalty distribution model, SoundCloud fan powered royalties, Spotify royalty system, streaming payouts, streaming vs ownership, UK music streaming inquiry, user centric streaming payouts, Web3 music streaming, why streaming pays so little 0 Comments March 26, 2026

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.

Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Biz Resources/ Music Business1

Why Networking Still Runs the Music Business

Richard L'Hommedieu artist development through relationships, direct artist opportunities, how musicians build connections, indie artist networking, jam sessions music industry, local music scene networking, music business for independent artists, music business relationships, music conference networking, music industry networking, musician career growth, networking for gigs, networking for musicians, networking without feeling fake, open mics for musicians, Recording Academy chapter events, relationships are currency in music, sideman opportunities, songwriter rounds networking, support tour opportunities 0 Comments March 18, 2026

The podcast “Making a Scene” discusses the importance of networking in the music industry, emphasizing that relationships, not metrics or trends, drive success for artists. It suggests that real connections build trust and create opportunities, urging musicians to engage in local scenes, participate in events, and focus on genuine interactions rather than superficial networking.

AI & Automation for Indie Artists/ AI Marketing/ Decentralized Music & Web3/ Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business1/ Understanding Decentralized Music Industry

Stop Chasing Virality and Start Building a Sustainable Micro-Label Ecosystem Today

Richard L'Hommedieu artist brand infrastructure, artist controlled ecosystem, artist mailing list strategy, creative independence for musicians, digital collectibles for musicians, direct fan revenue, direct to fan music business, fan ownership economy, independent label strategy, indie artist ownership, indie label blueprint, micro label ecosystem, music business middle class, music marketing beyond algorithms, music membership model, niche audience growth, recurring revenue for musicians, stop chasing virality, sustainable music career, web3 music strategy 0 Comments March 13, 2026

The content discusses the need for independent artists to shift from seeking viral moments to establishing sustainable micro-label ecosystems. It emphasizes building an artist-controlled infrastructure, leveraging email lists, and fostering direct fan relationships. By creating a closed-loop system, artists can achieve ownership and a stable revenue flow, ultimately leading to creative freedom.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business1

Crowdfunding is Begging Not a Business Plan

Richard L'Hommedieu ai marketing for musicians, anti algorithm music marketing, artist subscription model, Bandcamp direct sales strategy, Buffer social scheduling for artists, Canva release graphics, ChatGPT for artist campaigns, community ownership music, crowdfunding for musicians, crowdfunding is begging, direct to fan revenue, email list ownership for artists, fan data ownership, fan membership for bands, fan participation model, independent artist empowerment, indie artist business plan, limited edition vinyl strategy, merch drops and release flywheel, Metricool campaign planning, music DAO governance, music industry middle class, onchain membership passes, patreon alternatives for musicians, repeat funding music strategy, scalable artist monetization, SendGrid email marketing for musicians, supporter perks and access, sustainable music career, token gated fan community, touring and membership revenue, transparent funding for artists, trust based fan funding, Web3 for musicians, WooCommerce music store, WordPress for musicians 0 Comments March 5, 2026

The content discusses the limitations of crowdfunding for artists, likening it to begging rather than a sustainable business strategy. It advocates for a shift towards community ownership, where artists build ongoing relationships with fans based on value and trust. A strong foundation and consistent engagement can foster repeat funding and stability.

Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business1/ Touring

The Decline of the Playlist Era in Music

Richard L'Hommedieu AI for musicians marketing, artist owned ecosystem, build your music business, building fan communities, community driven music discovery, direct to fan music marketing, email list for musicians, fan passport system, independent music revenue, indie artist marketing strategy, indie touring strategy, Mas-Fan-Funnel plugin, music fan engagement strategy, music industry middle class, music marketing funnel, music monetization beyond streaming, own your fan data, playlist era decline, Spotify alternative strategy, stop using linktree, token gated music communities, web3 music marketing, WordPress for musicians 0 Comments March 4, 2026

The article discusses the decline of the playlist-centric era in the music industry, highlighting that while playlists can generate streams, they fail to forge direct connections between artists and fans. The future lies in building genuine communities and systems that capture fan data, ensuring artists own their relationships and income, ultimately fostering sustainability in their careers.

Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business

The Weekend Build: How to Set Up an Owned-Fan Machine in 48 Hours

Richard L'Hommedieu digital collectibles for live shows, direct to fan web3 strategy, fan passport system for musicians, fan recognition economy, indie artist membership model, poap for concerts, proof of attendance music, token gated access for artists, unlock protocol membership, web3 fan engagement, web3 music middle class 0 Comments February 19, 2026

The post discusses setting up a personal fan machine over a weekend to convert Spotify listeners into loyal supporters. It emphasizes the importance of building an owned infrastructure—like a personal website and email list—to foster deeper artist-fan relationships. The goal is to transform casual listeners into engaged fans by providing meaningful experiences, establishing trust, and facilitating direct support, ultimately creating a sustainable career in music independent of streaming platforms.

Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business1

Spotify is the Billboard, Not the Building

Richard L'Hommedieu artist leverage, build an email list musicians, direct to fan infrastructure, fan relationship systems, independent musician business, indie artist marketing funnel, move fans off streaming, music industry middle class, owned fan data, spotify for artists strategy, streaming discovery funnel, web3 fan ownership 0 Comments February 18, 2026

Making a Scene Presents – Spotify is the Billboard, Not the Building Listen to the Podcast Discussion on Using Spotify as a billboard Not the Building If you’re an indie artist in 2026, you don’t have a “marketing problem.” You have an ownership problem. Most indie release plans still follow the same tired loop: post […]

Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Biz News/ Music Business1

Streaming Growth is Slowing And That’s Good News for Indie Artists.

Richard L'Hommedieu AI for fan data analysis, ai for music marketing, artist business systems, Bandcamp strategy, community building for artists, composition vs master, consent based fan data, creator economy music, direct sales music, direct to fan revenue, email list for musicians, fan ownership, fan relationship ownership, first party data, front door living room checkout, independent musician strategy, indie artist income, indie touring economics, licensing income, local touring loop, masters ownership, membership for musicians, merch drop strategy, merch strategy, music bundling trend, music industry middle class, music marketing funnel, Patreon for artists, predictable revenue for musicians, pricing power in streaming, publishing basics, repeat support model, royalty mindset, Shopify for musicians, sms marketing for artists, streaming economics, subscription bundles, superfan monetization, sustainable music career, token-gated access, touring strategy, value per fan, Web3 fan passport 0 Comments February 11, 2026

The podcast discusses the slowing growth of streaming and its implications for indie artists. As platforms shift focus from acquiring users to monetizing existing ones, artists are encouraged to prioritize building genuine fan relationships over chasing streams. Strategies include owning contact lists, enabling direct sales, and creating community spaces to foster stable income.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business1/ Understanding Decentralized Music Industry

Why Streams Don’t Build Careers (And What Actually Does)

Richard L'Hommedieu ai tools for independent musicians, artist control and ownership, artist income beyond streaming, artist ownership model, building a career in music, decentralized music economy, direct to fan music business, fan data for musicians, fan owned music careers, independent music careers, indie artist business education, long term artist income, music data ownership, music industry infrastructure, music industry middle class, streaming economy explained, streaming myths for musicians, sustainable music careers, web3 music ownership, why streaming doesnt pay artists 0 Comments February 4, 2026

The podcast discusses the misconception that streaming builds music careers, emphasizing that it primarily facilitates exposure, not livelihoods. Artists often focus on numbers, neglecting ownership and direct relationships. True career sustainability relies on owning music, publishing rights, and fan data, moving the focus from streaming metrics to building meaningful connections and infrastructure.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business1

Record Labels Aren’t Evil—They’re Just Optional Now

Richard L'Hommedieu AI in music marketing, artist empowerment, artist fan relationships, artist owned careers, creator economy music, decentralized music industry, DIY music career, ethical music industry, fan data ownership, fan engagement strategies, fan passport system, future of record labels, independent artists, independent music marketing, indie artist business, indie artist tools, label services model, long term artist growth, modern music business, music career ownership, music industry economics, music industry middle class, music industry reform, music ownership, NFT music strategy, record labels optional, smart contracts music, sustainable music careers, Web3 music industry 0 Comments January 22, 2026

The podcast discusses the evolving role of record labels in the music industry, highlighting that they have transitioned from necessary gatekeepers to optional service providers. Independent artists can now maintain control, ownership, and build direct relationships with fans, thanks to advancements in technology and AI. This shift empowers musicians to navigate careers on their own terms.

AI & Automation for Indie Artists/ Future of the Music Business/ Music Biz News/ Music Biz Resources/ Music Business1/ Music Education Reviews

A Statement of Commitment to Independent Music Community for 2026

Richard L'Hommedieu ai for music marketing, AI in music business, ai in the recording studio, artist control and ownership, artist ownership, decentralized music industry, direct-to-fan music, ethical ai in music, fan engagement strategies, Future of the Music Industry, independent artist tools, independent music industry, indie artist business plan, indie artist empowerment, indie music marketing systems, modern music business, music career sustainability, music industry middle class, music industry reform, Web3 music 0 Comments December 26, 2025

Making a Scene is enhancing its commitment to the independent music community for 2026 by focusing on practical journalism that empowers artists in navigating a changing industry. It advocates for decentralization, AI as a supportive tool, and a strong business literacy approach, aiming to build a sustainable music industry middle class.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business1

Why the Music Industry Middle Class Matters More Than Superstars

Posted by Editor ai tools for musicians, artist empowerment, artist ownership, breaking music industry myths, direct-to-fan music, Future of the Music Industry, independent musicians, indie artist economy, Indie music business, making a living in music, music industry economics, music industry middle class, music industry reform, sustainable music careers 0 Comments December 20, 2025

This discussion emphasizes the importance of the music industry’s middle class, which sustains artists through steady income and meaningful connections rather than chasing stardom. It critiques traditional paths, highlighting the benefits of ownership and direct engagement with fans. The future relies on artist autonomy and sustainable models over fleeting, viral fame.

Future of the Music Business/ Understanding Decentralized Music Industry

Record Labels Should Be Terrified: Artists Are Building Their Own Economies

Richard L'Hommedieu ai marketing for musicians, artist monetization strategies, artist owned data, artist ownership, artist tokens, breaking record label control, decentralized streaming, direct-to-fan music, ecentralized music industry, fan economy music, fan passports music, future of music industry, independent artists, independent music business, indie artist empowerment, music business web3, music industry disruption, music industry middle class, music royalties blockchain, music without labels, record labels obsolete, sustainable music careers, virtual concerts, Web3 for musicians, Web3 music 0 Comments December 18, 2025

The music industry is undergoing a significant transformation as artists increasingly establish their own economies independent of major labels. With advancements in technology like Web3, decentralized royalties, and AI marketing tools, artists can now retain ownership, engage directly with fans, and generate sustainable income without relying on traditional structures. This shift fosters a new middle class of artists thriving outside mainstream expectations.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business1

The American Music Fairness Act: What It Really Means for Indie Artists in a World Where Radio Isn’t King Anymore

Richard L'Hommedieu American Music Fairness Act, AMFA, artist revenue streams, Audius Web3, blockchain music platforms, blues and Americana radio, college radio music, community radio impact, decentralized music industry, digital music economy, grassroots music culture, independent music careers, indie artist education, indie artist rights, Making A Scene editorial, music copyright law, music discovery trends, music industry fairness, music law reform, musician advocacy, musician direct fan support, radio industry decline, radio royalties, radio vs streaming, Sound.xyz, SoundExchange royalties, US radio royalty debate, web3 music tools 0 Comments December 11, 2025

The American Music Fairness Act (AMFA) seeks to ensure that artists receive payment for their songs played on radio, a longstanding injustice in the U.S. Supporters view it as a necessary progression, while critics warn it may threaten community stations and indie artist visibility. Ultimately, AMFA reflects the evolving music discovery landscape, emphasizing the importance of decentralized platforms.

DIY Booking/ Future of the Music Business/ Music Business1/ Touring/ Understanding Decentralized Music Industry

Touring 2035: Why Your Next Fanbase Will Come From a Wallet, Not a ZIP Code

Richard L'Hommedieu all of which help position the piece inside future-of-music searches. Tags like wallet based touring, and AI live music forecasting, and AI touring tools, and decentralized touring attract readers looking for disruption and innovation. Fan owned venues, and NFT fan passports signal how deep this story goes into Web3. Terms such as smart ticketing music, blockchain touring, indie artist touring future, touring 2035, wallet clusters music industry, web3 touring 0 Comments December 5, 2025

The podcast discusses the transformation in touring by 2035, shifting focus from traditional geographic markets to blockchain wallets, which reveal true fan engagement. Artists will rely on data from wallet clusters and community loyalty rather than ZIP codes, enabling smarter touring strategies, stronger connections with fans, and improved profitability.

DIY Booking/ Future of the Music Business/ Music Business1/ Touring/ Understanding Decentralized Music Industry

Why Web3 Touring Collectives Will Replace Booking Agents

Richard L'Hommedieu aragon dao music, backyard concerts, blockchain ticketing indie artists, blues societies touring model, community powered touring, dao touring, daohaus music collective, decentralized booking, decentralized touring model, fan owned venues, fan powered touring, house concerts, indie artist touring, indie touring revolution, International Blues Challenge, masonic lodge music shows, music business future, unlock protocol ticketing, vfw hall concerts, Web3 music industry, web3 touring collectives 0 Comments December 4, 2025

The article discusses how Web3 touring collectives are set to revolutionize the music industry by enabling indie artists to tour without traditional booking agents. Utilizing decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), artists and fans collaborate, removing gatekeepers and creating community-driven touring experiences. This model restructures profit-sharing and decision-making for enhanced artist-fan partnerships.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Biz Resources/ Music Business/ Music Business1

Making A Scene Is Moving Toward a 100% Ad-Free, User-Supported Future

Richard L'Hommedieu ad free music website, americana music blog, artist empowerment site, blues and roots magazine, donate to music websites, fan supported journalism, grassroots music platform, help keep making a scene online, independent music coverage, independent music news, indie artist resources, indie music industry education, indie music journalism, making a scene donation campaign, Making A Scene magazine, music business guides, music industry education, nonprofit style music media, support creative community, support independent media, support indie artists, user supported platform 0 Comments November 28, 2025

Making A Scene aims to transition to a completely ad-free, reader-supported platform for the indie music community. After over ten years of daily content, they seek $1,500 annually to maintain operations. By contributing, supporters help sustain independent journalism and create a more focused, engaging environment for artists and fans alike.

AI Music/ Future of the Music Business/ Music Business1

Warner Music Signs Deal with Suno.com and Ends it’s Lawsuit

Richard L'Hommedieu ai and record labels, ai music copyright, ai music ethics, ai music legal battle, ai music licensing future, ai music regulation, ai music rights, ai training data lawsuits, ai voice likeness rights, ai vs major labels, decentralized music future, future of ai music, future of music creation ai, generative ai music industry, impact of ai on music business, indie artist ai tools, music copyright reform ai, music industry lawsuits ai, music law ai, suno ai music lawsuit, suno business model shift, suno licensed ai model, suno songkick acquisition, suno subscription changes, suno warner lawsuit, suno warner settlement, warner music ai licensing, warner music strategy ai, warner suno agreement 0 Comments November 27, 2025

Warner Music Group has settled its lawsuit against Suno.com, allowing the AI music generator to operate under a licensed model. This agreement ensures artists retain control over their work and receive compensation for its use. Suno’s transition to licensed AI marks a significant shift in the music industry, enabling potential collaboration between artists and AI platforms.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business

The Importance of Building a Music Industry Middle Class

Richard L'Hommedieu 1000 true fans model, AI for musicians, alternative income for musicians, artist as small business, artist business planning, building a fanbase, building fanbase strategy, creative entrepreneurship, creators owning their career, decentralised music distribution, decentralised music economy, decentralized music economy, direct-to-fan music, fan-direct revenue, independent artist income streams, independent musician income streams, indie artist sustainability, Indie music business, indie music careers, live performance income, music business education, music business strategy, music industry middle class, music monetisation 2025, music monetization strategies, music teaching revenue, small business mindset for artists, sync licensing for artists, sync licensing income, teaching for musicians, web3 music tools 0 Comments November 14, 2025

The music industry needs a robust middle class of independent artists who can support themselves financially through diverse income streams. By engaging with 1,000 true fans, utilizing tools like AI and Web3, and treating their careers as businesses, artists can achieve stability, create communities, and foster innovation within the industry.

Reclaiming Music, Rewriting the Future copy

Future of the Music Business

Why the Traditional Music Industry Is Crumbling (And What Indie Artists Can Do About It)

Richard L'Hommedieu AI music tools, artist empowerment, artist-led movement, blockchain music, DAOs in music, decentralization, DIY music marketing, fan ownership, independent artists, indie music tips, music business disruption, music gatekeepers, music industry collapse, Music NFTs, music revolution, music tech, own your music, streaming alternatives, tokenized music, Web3 music 0 Comments July 17, 2025

The traditional music industry is declining due to its outdated structure favoring major labels. Independent artists are leveraging Web3 and AI technologies to gain control over their careers and build sustainable incomes. By utilizing direct fan engagement and innovative tools, they can foster a fairer music landscape where they thrive without industry gatekeepers.

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AI Music/ Future of the Music Business/ Understanding Decentralized Music Industry

The Future Is Collaborative: How AI and Decentralization Are Rewriting the Music Industry

Richard L'Hommedieu AI content creation, ai music marketing, AI music production, AI songwriting, blockchain music tools, creative collaboration AI, DAO music platform, decentralized music industry, digital music distribution, independent artist promotion, indie musician tools, music and Web3 integration, music industry future, Music NFTs, music tech empowerment, NFT fan engagement, smart contracts music, smart music marketing, token gated fan access, Web3 for musicians 0 Comments June 5, 2025

The music industry is evolving through collaboration between artists and technology, particularly AI and decentralization. Artists are increasingly viewing AI as a partner rather than a threat, which, alongside blockchain innovations, empowers them to take control of their creativity and marketing. This shift fosters a more democratic musical landscape. Transparency, education, and intentionality are crucial for artists to navigate this changing environment effectively.

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Future of the Music Business/ Music Biz Resources/ Music Business

A Complete Guide to Unclaimed Royalties (And How Indie Artists Can Collect What’s Theirs)

Richard L'Hommedieu artist self-publishing, ASCAP, blockchain music, BMI, DAO music, decentralized music, digital performance royalties, how to get paid as a musician, independent artist income, indie musician royalties, mechanical royalties, metadata for musicians, Music NFTs, music rights management, music royalties guide, neighboring rights, performance royalties, publishing admin, royalty automation, royalty black box, royalty collection for artists, royalty dashboard, smart contracts, Songtrust, soundexchange, The MLC, TikTok monetization, unclaimed royalties, Web3 music industry, YouTube royalties 0 Comments May 21, 2025

Independent musicians often miss out on unclaimed royalties due to issues like incorrect metadata, lack of registration, and outdated accounts. Millions remain owed, waiting for artists to claim them. This guide provides actionable steps to retrieve these funds, emphasizing the importance of accurate registrations, metadata management, and utilizing various platforms for royalty collection.

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Future of the Music Business/ Music Business/ Understanding Decentralized Music Industry

10 Ways the Music Industry Is Rigged Against Independent Artists (And How to Fight Back)

Richard L'Hommedieu AI in music, artist empowerment, audius, bandcamp, blockchain music platforms, DAOs for musicians, decentralized music, escape the music industry, fair music payouts, fan engagement, fight the music system, independent musicians, indie music tips, major labels, music industry corruption, music industry scams, music marketing, Music NFTs, music ownership, NFT music, smart contracts, Spotify Discovery Mode, streaming royalties, token gating, Web3 music 0 Comments May 15, 2025

The article discusses the challenges independent artists face in the music industry, highlighting issues like streaming royalties, major label dominance, and algorithm bias. It offers solutions involving decentralized platforms, direct fan engagement, and innovative tools that empower artists to take control of their careers and connect with their audience without relying on traditional structures.

Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Biz Resources/ Music Business

Top 10 Scams Targeting Indie Musicians (and How to Avoid Them)

Richard L'Hommedieu artist scam awareness, fake A&R scam, fake booking agents, fake music awards, fake playlists, how to avoid music scams, independent artist advice, indie artist protection, indie music career tips, indie musician guide, music business tips, music contract scams, music fraud prevention, music industry red flags, music industry scams, music PR fraud, ndie musician scams, NFT music scam, pay-to-play scams, scam music managers, scam warning for musicians, social media verification scam, streaming bot fraud, streaming platform fraud, sync licensing scam 0 Comments May 8, 2025

The article outlines ten prevalent scams that indie musicians encounter, including pay-to-play showcases, fake sync licensing offers, and fraudulent booking agents. It emphasizes the importance of vigilance, thorough research, and seeking trustworthy connections to avoid falling victim. Musicians are urged to recognize red flags and prioritize transparency to safeguard their careers.

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Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business

Spotify’s Discovery Mode: The New Payola Hurting Indie Artists

Richard L'Hommedieu Artist Direct Payment, Audius Music Platform, blockchain music industry, Blockchain Music Streaming, decentralized music platforms, Decentralized Music Revolution, Discovery Mode Criticism, Indie Artist Advocacy, Indie Artist Streaming Income, Indie Music Industry, music industry transparency, Music Platform Accountability, Music Streaming Alternatives, Music Streaming Royalty Rates, Spotify Algorithm Manipulation, Spotify Artist Income, Spotify Discovery Mode, Spotify Music Industry Criticism, Spotify Payola, Streaming Platform Exploitation, Web3 Music Platforms 0 Comments May 7, 2025

Spotify’s Discovery Mode has emerged as a modern equivalent to payola, allowing artists to receive algorithmic boosts at the cost of reduced royalties. This model disadvantages indie artists by prioritizing wealthier labels and sacrificing income for visibility. Decentralized platforms may offer a fairer alternative, ensuring artists maintain control and direct compensation.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business

How Universal Music Group and Spotify Rewrote the Rules—At the Expense of Indie Artists

Richard L'Hommedieu 1000 stream minimum, artist compensation, artist exploitation, artist-centric model, Black Sheep lawsuit, blockchain music industry, decentralized music platforms, digital music economy, fair pay for musicians, indie artist pay, indie artist struggle, major label profits, music industry lawsuits, music industry reform, music streaming ethics, royalty transparency, Spotify, Spotify equity deal, Spotify royalty changes, Spotify UMG criticism, streaming inequality, streaming platform bias, streaming threshold, UMG, UMG Spotify partnership, Universal Music Group 0 Comments May 2, 2025

In late 2023, Spotify’s new royalty policy requires tracks to hit 1,000 annual streams to earn royalties, favoring major labels like Universal Music Group (UMG) over independent artists. This shift compromises fair compensation, promoting profit over equity and sidelining emerging musicians, while decentralized platforms offer potential for fairer artist rewards.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business

A Decade of Dedication: Celebrating 10 Years of Making A Scene

Richard L'Hommedieu 10 years MakingAScene.org, artist-owned music platforms, blockchain music, celebrating indie music, decentralized music industry, digital music revolution, DIY Musicians, empowering indie musicians, future of music industry, independent artist resources, independent music publication, Indie music business, indie music platform, Making A Scene 10 Year Anniversary, music artist empowerment, music DAOs, music education platform, music industry news, music industry transparency, music journalism, music scene evolution, music tech innovation, NFT music, smart contracts in music, Web3 for musicians 0 Comments May 1, 2025

MakingAScene.org celebrates its 10th anniversary as a pivotal platform for independent musicians. It has evolved from a niche blog to a comprehensive media source, empowering artists with tools, insights, and a community. The publication champions decentralized music and advocates for grassroots artistry, emphasizing artist perspectives and educational resources while anticipating future innovations.

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AI Music/ Future of the Music Business

How Spotify uses Ghost Writers and AI Content to Increase their Profits

Richard L'Hommedieu AI in ambient music, AI music controversy, AI-generated music, algorithmic music creation, ambient music streaming, artificial intelligence in music, Chill Hits Spotify, Deep Focus playlist, fake artists on Spotify, ghostwritten playlists, indie artist streaming issues, music automation, music industry ethics, music streaming secrets, Peaceful Piano Spotify, Spotify AI music, Spotify ghost artists, Spotify mood playlists, Spotify profit strategy, Spotify royalty avoidance, streaming platform manipulation 0 Comments April 24, 2025

Spotify’s use of ghost artists and AI-generated music aims to cut costs and boost profits by producing tracks for mood-based playlists without paying royalties. This strategy raises ethical concerns about transparency and the marginalization of genuine artists, as it impacts listeners’ experiences and the integrity of the music industry.

Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business

The Dark Side of Music Streaming Services

Richard L'Hommedieu blockchain, blockchain music, decentralized music business, decentralized music industry, making a Scene, music business, music industry, shadow ban 0 Comments April 9, 2025

Marc Mysterio’s lawsuit against Amazon Music raises critical issues about trust and ethics in streaming services. He alleges unpaid royalties due to underreported streams and shadow banning, highlighting systemic issues affecting independent musicians. The opaque nature of these platforms hampers artists’ ability to verify earnings, prompting a desire for decentralized solutions that ensure transparency and control.

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Future of the Music Business/ Music Biz News/ Music Business/ Understanding Decentralized Music Industry

The Future of Music: How Independent Artists Can Take Control

Richard L'Hommedieu decentralized music, decentralized music industry, future of music, Music biz, music business, music industry 0 Comments February 9, 2025

The music industry is evolving with new technologies like Web3 and AI, empowering independent artists to take control of their careers. Streaming services offer low payouts and limited control, but innovations such as MNFTs and decentralized platforms can enhance revenue. Artists also benefit from community engagement through DAOs, promoting sustainable growth.

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Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Biz Resources/ Music Business

ReverbNation Launches Levels To Empower Independent Artists With Career Resources and Financial Support

Richard L'Hommedieu future of music, making a Scene, music business, music industry 0 Comments February 2, 2025

ReverbNation has unveiled Levels, an exclusive program aimed at supporting independent artists with essential resources, financial backing, and personalized services. This initiative addresses industry challenges, offering advances for recording and marketing, comprehensive distribution, and dedicated concierge services. Selected artists will benefit from tailored assistance to foster their creative journeys and career growth.

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AI Music/ Future of the Music Business/ Music Business

2024 Year in Review For the Music Industry and How it Affected the Indie Artist

Richard L'Hommedieu BrokenRecord, decentralized music industry, future of music, making a Scene, music business, wam 0 Comments December 30, 2024

In 2024, independent artists face challenges from Spotify’s new payment model, favoring popular tracks and limiting income from streaming. However, decentralized platforms utilizing blockchain technology offer direct revenue streams and better payment systems. Initiatives advocate for fair compensation, prompting artists to adopt diversified income strategies and leverage technology for fan engagement and trend analysis.

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Future of the Music Business/ Music Business

Are Record Companies Buying Artist Catalogs to use in Future AI Projects?

Richard L'Hommedieu AI creation, AI Music, future of music business, music business 0 Comments December 2, 2024

Record companies are adapting to a decentralized music industry by acquiring legacy artist catalogs to leverage AI music creation. This strategy allows them to control royalty streams and use catalogs for training AI, enhancing music production, and securing rights for derivative works. Legal and ethical issues also emerge, prompting careful negotiation for artists.

DIY PR/ Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business

Why Musicians Should Move from Twitter to a Decentralized Social Media Network “Bluesky”

Richard L'Hommedieu AT protocol, decentralization, decentralized music business, music business, music marketing, social media 0 Comments November 18, 2024

Musicians are encouraged to transition from Twitter to the decentralized platform Bluesky for better content discovery, user control over data, and meaningful engagement. Bluesky offers a safer environment for creative expression, a growing community for artists, and fewer distractions, making it an ideal space to connect authentically with fans and promote music.

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business

The Importance of Failure in the Music Industry

Richard L'Hommedieu Failure, music business, music industry 0 Comments July 8, 2024

Failure in the music industry is crucial for growth, creativity, and long-term success. It offers learning opportunities, builds resilience, and promotes innovation and authenticity. Facing setbacks strengthens both artists and their teams, driving personal and professional development. Embracing failure allows artists to evolve and achieve significant breakthroughs on their path to success.

AI Music/ DIY PR/ Future of the Music Business/ Music Business

Striking the Right Chord: Navigating the Intersection of Music and Technology as an Independent Artist

Richard L'Hommedieu future of music, music business, music technology 0 Comments April 22, 2024

Striking the Right Chord: Navigating the Intersection of Music and Technology as an Independent Artist Introduction From the invention of the electric guitar through multi track recording, MIDI and now with the digital revolution the way we make and consume music has constantly evolved. Today, the consumer has embraced streaming as a way to consume […]

Future of the Music Business/ Music Business

The Truth about Spotify

Richard L'Hommedieu future of music, indie artists., indie music, music, music busiess. spotify, music streaming, streaming 0 Comments February 12, 2024

Making a Scene looks at the Truth about Spotify Introduction There is no argument that consumer has embraced streaming as a way to consume music! For the consumer this is a no brainer, you don’t have to store you music on a shelf, you don’t have to fill up your phone’s memory with mp3’s and […]

Future of the Music Business/ Marketing/ Music Business

CD Baby Teams Up with SymphonyOS AI Marketing

Richard L'Hommedieu ai, ai marketing, Artificial Intelligence, business, cd baby, making a Scene, music business, music marketing, symphonyos 0 Comments January 30, 2024

SymphonyOS brings AI marketing power to CD Baby’s 2M artists Introduction Social Media Marketing and Content Creation has become an ever increasing part of an indie artists daily life. Today there is not a scenario where an indie artist does not have to dedicate a major amount of time and effort to create and distribute […]

Future of the Music Business/ Interview the Pros/ Music Business

Interview with a Pro – Clay Hawkins on OME (Open Music Exchange)

Richard L'Hommedieu blockchain, blockchain streaming, future of music, indie artists., music business, nft, roots, streaming 0 Comments January 15, 2024

HOME PAGE Making a Scene Presents an Interview with a Pro – Clay Hawkins of The Open Music Exchange Introduction It is no secret that the current revenue from streaming services like spotify/youtube/pandora, etc. is not sustainable as a business model for the music industry. The Digital Revolution has however proven to be very fluid […]

Future of the Music Business

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