The podcast “The Myth of ‘Exposure’ in the Modern Music Industry” critiques the pervasive notion that exposure is a viable currency for musicians. It argues that while visibility is important, it does not equate to revenue or ownership. Musicians must leverage exposure into meaningful fan relationships and measurable income through direct engagement, ownership, and strategic platforms.
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.
The post discusses how indie artists are often underpaid, functioning as unpaid data workers within the current music economy. They create music, generate engagement, and manage essential metadata yet receive minimal compensation. The article advocates for artists to build direct relationships with their audiences, shifting away from reliance on platforms, and emphasizes the importance of developing owned ecosystems for sustainable income.