#260 - Will Cuming: The Key to Sustainable Careers for Independent Artists

Ryan Star is the founder of Stationhead, a platform transforming how artists connect with their fans. As a former recording artist, he saw the need for deeper, more authentic engagement in the music industry. StationHead empowers musicians to build real communities and turn passive listeners into active supporters.In this episode, Ryan shares how Stationhead is reshaping music consumption, why community-driven platforms matter, and how independent artists can create lasting fan relationships.Key Takeaways:Building True Fan Connections – How Stationhead enables artists to engage with their audience in ways that traditional radio and streaming platforms cannot.Community-Driven Music Consumption – Why the platform is shifting music from a passive experience to an interactive one.The Future of Fan Engagement – How artists can leverage digital communities to create lasting relationships with their listeners.-----Learn more about Ryan Starr and Stationhead at: https://www.stationhead.com/Book an Artist Breakthrough Session with the Modern Musician team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast

Trey Xavier is a musician, songwriter, and YouTuber (242K+ subscribers) on a mission to help artists write better songs and build successful music careers. With 28+ years of experience and a decade of teaching on YouTube, he shares hard-earned insights on songwriting, creativity, and authenticity. A Berklee College of Music alumnus with a degree in composition, he’s played in bands like In Virtue and released solo music. His journey proves that success comes from action, iteration, and embracing failure as part of the creative process.Michael Walker and Trey Xavier dive into the realities of creativity—why trial and error is essential, how to stand out in a crowded industry, and why failure is a necessary step toward success.Key TakeawaysAuthenticity wins: Audiences resonate with creators who stay true to their voice and vision.Creativity is an iterative process: Success comes from constant refinement, not overnight perfection.Failure is part of the journey: Every great artist has stumbled—learning from missteps is how you grow.------Learn more about Trey Xavier and his work here: https://bit.ly/RIFFTOSONGMMBook an Artist Breakthrough Session with the Modern Musician team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast

Terry Cole is the founder of Colemine Records, a label and record shop dedicated to soulful, authentic music. Growing up in a music-loving household, Terry’s passion for vinyl and artistry laid the foundation for his career. Today, he’s a champion for independent artists, offering them opportunities to grow and thrive in the music industry. In this episode, Terry dives into the challenges and rewards of building a career in music, sharing invaluable insights for artists and entrepreneurs alike.Key Takeaways:Discover how artists can transition from hobbyists to full-time musicians while maintaining authenticity.Learn why physical retail is still a critical player in music distribution and artist visibility.Gain practical advice on building relationships, taking measured risks, and standing out in a crowded music industry.-----Learn more about Terry Cole and Cole Mine Records by visiting: https://www.coleminerecords.com/Book an Artist Breakthrough Session with the Modern Musician team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast

Giovanni Bottan is a seasoned music professional who began producing bands in his studio and touring with his own band. After launching a successful music marketing agency and collaborating with hundreds of artists, he is now channeling his expertise into building Smart Noise, a groundbreaking tech startup for the music industry.In this episode, Michael Walker and Giovanni dive deep into the hurdles indie artists face and uncover strategies for building lasting careers.What You'll Learn:Why focusing on your existing fanbase beats chasing viral fame.How technology and email marketing can streamline your efforts.The secret to sustainable income through creative campaigns and alternative revenue streams.-----Discover how Smart Noise is redefining music marketing: https://smart-noise.com/Book an Artist Breakthrough Session with the Modern Musician team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast

Alex Branson, SVP of Music Services at Beatport, oversees tools like ampsuite, LabelRadar, and Hype, empowering artists, labels, and suppliers. With over 20 years in the music industry, Alex’s career spans pivotal roles at EMPIRE, Warner Music Group, and advisory work with companies like Rotor Videos, iMusician, and Facebook. He co-founded one of the UK’s first digital distributors and launched innovative platforms like levelmusic.com. Alex continues to shape the future of music discovery and artist success.Alex Branson reveals how independent artists can thrive in a tech-driven music industry, build label connections, and harness AI to stay ahead.Key Takeaways:How access and technology have democratized music careers while intensifying competition.Why LabelRadar is a game-changer for artist-label connections and demo submissions.The impact of generative AI on music creation and what it means for the future of artistry.-----Learn more Alex and his work by visiting: https://www.abcmusic.co/podcastBook an Artist Breakthrough Session with the Modern Musician team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast

Will Cuming is a Platinum-certified artist and Product Development Manager for Community Music, where he’s building a revolutionary tech platform to empower independent artists. Known for his work as LANKS, he’s toured with Rüfüs Du Sol and Glass Animals, and brings a rare mix of artistry, tech expertise, and industry insight. Will’s passion for redefining artist independence fuels his mission to merge creativity, data, and community in the evolving music landscape.In this episode, Michael Walker and Will Cuming dive into the music industry's transformation, exploring how technology, fan engagement, and strategic innovation empower indie artists to thrive in a crowded marketplace.Key Takeaways:How indie artists can balance creativity with an active media presence.The role of technology and data in shaping sustainable artist careers.Why building direct relationships with fans is crucial for monetizing music.-----Learn more Community Music by visiting: https://www.communitymusic.net/Book an Artist Breakthrough Session with the Modern Musician team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast

Meet Eric Copeland, founder of Creative Soul Records and a lifelong music innovator. With decades of experience as a producer and composer, Eric has championed independent artists, harnessing technology and licensing to guide them through the ever-evolving music industry. In this episode, Eric shares his journey, revealing how sync licensing and technology are transforming opportunities for musicians while emphasizing the timeless emotional power of music.Key Takeaways:The challenges and opportunities for independent artists in today’s music landscape.How technology, including AI, is reshaping music licensing and creation.Strategies for building sustainable income through music licensing and diversification.-----Learn more Eric and Make Music Income by visiting: https://makemusicincome.com/free/Book an Artist Breakthrough Session with the Modern Musician team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast

Mike Butera, the visionary founder of Artiphon, has redefined how we create and experience music. A musician and technologist, Mike combines his expertise in sound design and human-computer interaction to craft adaptive musical instruments that empower creativity for everyone. With a passion for blending art and technology, he is at the forefront of the music-tech revolution, inspiring artists and innovators alike.What happens when music, technology, and AI collide? Mike Butera and Michael Walker explore the future of creativity and the challenges facing musicians in a rapidly evolving world.Key Takeaways:Discover how adaptive musical instruments are democratizing music creation.Explore the evolving role of AI in transforming music, from immersive experiences to human collaboration.Uncover the future of creativity, where scarcity, consciousness, and interactivity redefine artistic expression.-----Learn more about Artiphon: https://artiphon.com/Book an Artist Breakthrough Session with the Modern Musician team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast

Toni Malyn is the Head of Marketing at EmuBands, a trusted music distribution partner for artists, labels, and managers worldwide. With years of expertise in helping independent musicians thrive, Toni leads the charge in empowering creators to retain full control of their music rights and royalties. EmuBands' platform delivers cost-effective solutions for music distribution, bolstered by personalized support and cutting-edge release tools.In today’s crowded digital music market, standing out as an independent artist is more challenging than ever. Michael Walker sits down with Toni Malyn to discuss actionable strategies for artists to retain control, engage their audience, and diversify their revenue streams.Key Takeaways:• Discover how EmuBands helps artists keep 100% of their rights and royalties.• Learn why deeper fan connections can drive long-term success over viral hits.• Get tips on income diversification, from email marketing to fan subscription models.-----To learn more about Toni Malyn and EmuBands' services, visit: https://www.emubands.com/Book an Artist Breakthrough Session with the Modern Musician team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast

Aaron Axelsen is a music industry veteran with over 25 years of experience, from DJing to discovering and supporting groundbreaking artists. As the co-founder of Pop Scene and a longtime radio programmer, Aaron has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of countless emerging musicians. His expertise lies in combining grassroots marketing with a deep understanding of what resonates with audiences, making him a trusted figure in the ever-evolving music industry.Join us as Aaron shares his journey and invaluable insights for artists and industry enthusiasts alike:Why timing and authenticity are key ingredients for breaking into the music scene.How grassroots marketing and platforms like Pop Scene foster artist growth.Practical advice for building relationships, navigating labels, and creating music that lasts.-----To learn more about Aaron visit: https://www.djaaronaxelsen.com/Book an Artist Breakthrough Session with the Modern Musician team: https://apply.modernmusician.me/podcast