Sold 4 a Song

Terrance Sawchuk
  • 5.0 (7)
  • MUSIC INTERVIEWS

My mission for the Sold 4 a Song Brand™ is to pull back the curtain of the music and technology industries and reveal the structures that have historically kept creators at a disadvantage. I aim not only to demystify the business and tech side of music so that music creators can reclaim control over their careers but to guide artists by the hand with actual solutions. Sold 4 a Song™ isn’t just a podcast — it’s a revolution for undervalued creatives. Hosted by Terrance Sawchuk, Billboard #1 writer & multi-platinum producer, each episode helps you rewrite your story from Undervalued to Unstoppable. At the core, I guide creators how to: • Own their art and intellectual property rather than give it away. • Leverage their music and data to create opportunities and income streams. • Streamline their creative and business processes so they can focus on making art while staying profitable. • Sustain their careers by building long-term models of independence, resilience, and growth. This mission is about evening the playing field—shifting the power back into the hands of the creators. It’s not just guidance, but empowerment: giving artists the tools, frameworks, and mindset to thrive in an industry that often undervalues them. What’s the true worth of a songwriter or artist? For too long, artists have been selling themselves short —  and today, the challenge has only grown with AI. $old 4 a $ong podcast reverse-engineers the ways creatives have been undervalued — and reveals how to build a sustainable career in the chaos. Hosted by Billboard #1 multi-platinum songwriter and producer Terrance Sawchuk, this show is about reclaiming ownership and streamlining a sustainable creative life. Each episode brings real conversations with legendary hitmakers, executives, and disruptors who confirm, It’s time to start playing the game above the game. Welcome to the Escape Hatch, Now Let's Begin... www.sold4asong.com

  1. APR 13

    #25: Break Your Neighborhood First Then The World

    Terrance Sawchuk urges artists to build their careers from the ground up by testing songs and performance in their own neighborhood, learning from real audience feedback rather than chasing online vanity metrics or moving to a bigger city. He explains why local shows, selling directly to fans, and maintaining ownership of your work create sustainable momentum, help you develop as an entertainer, and protect you from being undervalued by the industry. Practical takeaways include focusing on live performance, measuring real results like ticket sales and repeat attendees, and committing to the work and time required to grow a lasting career.   Resources & Next Steps Pick up your copy of my new book, $old 4 a $ong (How Music Creators Lost Their Worth, and How to Take It Back) sold4asong.com Subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help this message reach more creators Share this episode with a songwriter who still believes “someone else is watching out for them” About the Host Terrance “Terry” Sawchuk is a Billboard #1, multi-platinum songwriter, producer, engineer and now author with over three decades in the trenches. Sold for a Song exists to challenge the systems that undervalue creators—and to offer real pathways back to ownership, leverage, and sustainability. Sold 4 a Song™ Podcast Hosted by Terrance Sawchuk, Billboard #1 multi-platinum songwriter, producer, artist, mixer, and entrepreneur. The Book (How Music Creators Lost Their Worth, and How to Take It Back) is a living exploration of creative worth, ownership, and the true value of music—inside the systems that monetize it. If this episode resonates, you can follow the work at sold4asong.com

    12 min

  2. MAR 10

    #24: Reclaiming Creators’ Worth

    Big announcement: my first book is finished!!! In this episode I share why I wrote it, to expose how the music industry has historically overleveraged and undervalued creators, and to offer practical ways artists can reclaim their worth and attract abundance. I also discuss the early book release, the official launch before SXSW 2026, upcoming projects like a docu‑series called The True Value of Music, workshops, and how I plan to help creators streamline their careers so they can focus on making art. Join me as I break down the problem, the path to self‑worth, and actionable steps for creators to thrive in a changing industry.   Resources & Next Steps Pick up your copy of my new book, $old 4 a $ong (How Music Creators Lost Their Worth, and How to Take It Back) sold4asong.com Subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help this message reach more creators Share this episode with a songwriter who still believes “someone else is watching out for them” About the Host Terrance “Terry” Sawchuk is a Billboard #1, multi-platinum songwriter, producer, engineer and now author with over three decades in the trenches. Sold for a Song exists to challenge the systems that undervalue creators—and to offer real pathways back to ownership, leverage, and sustainability. Sold 4 a Song™ Podcast Hosted by Terrance Sawchuk, Billboard #1 multi-platinum songwriter, producer, artist, mixer, and entrepreneur. The Book (How Music Creators Lost Their Worth, and How to Take It Back) is a living exploration of creative worth, ownership, and the true value of music—inside the systems that monetize it. If this episode resonates, you can follow the work at sold4asong.com.

    11 min

  3. MAR 3

    #23: Stop Using Spotify — Build Your Private Portal

    In this episode Terrance Sawchuk argues that musicians and creators must stop giving their value away to big platforms and instead build their own “private portals” to own relationships with fans. Using AI and simple tech, artists can use TikTok and Spotify as billboards to drive traffic to their own hubs, sell directly, and reclaim income and control. The episode outlines practical steps and a mindset shift: stop relying on third-party platforms that monetize your data, create unique fan experiences on your own site, and use tech to streamline and sustain a real music business.     Resources & Next Steps Pick up your copy of my new book, $old 4 a $ong (How Music Creators Lost Their Worth, and How to Take It Back) sold4asong.com Subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help this message reach more creators Share this episode with a songwriter who still believes “someone else is watching out for them” About the Host Terrance “Terry” Sawchuk is a Billboard #1, multi-platinum songwriter, producer, engineer and now author with over three decades in the trenches. Sold for a Song exists to challenge the systems that undervalue creators—and to offer real pathways back to ownership, leverage, and sustainability. Sold 4 a Song™ Podcast Hosted by Terrance Sawchuk, Billboard #1 multi-platinum songwriter, producer, artist, mixer, and entrepreneur. The Book (How Music Creators Lost Their Worth, and How to Take It Back) is a living exploration of creative worth, ownership, and the true value of music—inside the systems that monetize it. If this episode resonates, you can follow the work at sold4asong.com.

    13 min

  4. JAN 19

    #22: When Music Stopped Being The Product

    In this episode of Sold 4 a Song, Terry Sawchuk breaks down a quiet but fundamental shift in the modern music business: how platforms moved from distributing music to extracting data—and why most artists never see the upside of the value they generate. Every stream, skip, save, replay, and share feeds an ecosystem designed to learn, predict, and monetize human behavior at scale. While creators focus on promotion and visibility, tech platforms quietly leverage analytics, audience data, and pattern recognition to build massive profit engines—often without artists realizing what they’re giving away. This episode is a wake-up call for artists, producers, and songwriters who feel stuck in a loop of being controlled instead of being in control. 🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why fan behavior has become more valuable than the song itself How artists unknowingly give up masters, publishing, and audience data The real difference between reach and leverage—and why confusing the two keeps creators powerless Why visibility without control leads to noise, not sustainability What it truly means to own your audience in a data-driven industry Why platforms thrive on your data—and why artists must build their own infrastructure How small, leveraged audiences often outperform massive but disconnected followings 💡 Key Takeaway If you don’t own your rights, your data, or your direct relationship with your audience, you’re not participating in the upside—you’re powering it. Understanding the difference between being visible and being leveraged is the first step toward reclaiming creative freedom, financial stability, and long-term value.   Resources & Next Steps Join the Sold for a Song community: sold4asong.com Subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help this message reach more creators Share this episode with a songwriter who still believes “someone else is watching out for them” About the Host Terrance “Terry” Sawchuk is a Billboard #1, multi-platinum songwriter, producer, and now author with over three decades in the trenches. Sold for a Song exists to challenge the systems that undervalue creators—and to offer real pathways back to ownership, leverage, and sustainability. Sold 4 a Song™ Podcast Hosted by Terrance Sawchuk, Billboard #1 multi-platinum songwriter, producer, artist, mixer, and entrepreneur. The Book (How Music Creators Lost Their Worth, and How to Take It Back) is a living exploration of creative worth, ownership, and the true value of music—inside the systems that monetize it. If this episode resonates, you can follow the work at sold4asong.com.

    8 min

  5. JAN 13

    #21: Why It Is Illegal For Songwriters To Form A Union

    In this episode of Sold 4 a Song, Terrance Sawchuk answers the question why do musicians, singers, actors, directors, producers, screenwriters, even stagehands,have unions… but songwriters don’t? In this episode of Sold for a Song, Terry Sawchuk breaks down a truth that shocks many creators: songwriters are legally prohibited from forming a union in the United States. Not discouraged. Not frowned upon. Illegal. Drawing on 30+ years in the music industry, including real-world examples from his own Billboard #1 career, Terry explains: How U.S. labor and antitrust law classify songwriters Why owning a song and controlling it are two very different things How compulsory licenses strip songwriters of the right to say no Why publishers, PROs, and Congress—not creators—set the rules Where live performance royalties break down (and often disappear) And why the future of creator power depends on direct ownership, private portals, and cutting out intermediaries This episode is about clarity, leverage, and practical survival in a system that was never designed to favor the inventor. Key Topics Covered Why songwriter unions are illegal under U.S. antitrust law The difference between copyright ownership and price control What a song actually is (before publishers enter the picture) Advances vs. income, and why publishing deals behave like credit cards How administrative fees quietly eat up royalties worldwide The real story behind compulsory licenses A firsthand case study: pulling unauthorized uses of a #1 hit Why live concert royalties are one of the least transparent systems in music How Congress, the Copyright Royalty Board, and PROs shape songwriter income Elon Musk, platform leverage, and the future battle over music pricing Why artist-owned “home bases” are the most powerful path forward How education changes your leverage with labels and publishers Key Takeaways Songwriters are independent rights holders, not employees, which blocks collective bargaining Once a song is released, key rights are permanently restricted Publishers and PROs do not equal songwriter representation Transparency failures aren’t accidental, they’re structural Ownership without control is not freedom The future belongs to creators who own, leverage, streamline, and sustain from their own platforms Memorable Quotes “Owning your song and controlling your song are two very different things.” “The inventor is the only one in the system who isn’t allowed to set the price.” “If you don’t like the cost of music, don’t use music. Don’t over-leverage it.” “Spotify and TikTok should be billboards, not the destination.” Action Steps for Songwriters & Artists Understand your rights before releasing music Stop confusing advances with income Audit where your royalties are actually coming from Build a private, artist-owned home base Use platforms as traffic, not dependency Educate yourself before signing your next deal Resources & Next Steps Join the Sold for a Song community: TerranceSawchuk.com Subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help this message reach more creators Share this episode with a songwriter who still believes “someone else is watching out for them” About the Host Terrance “Terry” Sawchuk is a Billboard #1, multi-platinum songwriter, producer, and industry veteran with over three decades in the trenches. Sold for a Song exists to challenge the systems that undervalue creators—and to offer real pathways back to ownership, leverage, and sustainability. Sold 4 a Song™ Podcast Hosted by Terrance Sawchuk, Billboard #1 multi-platinum songwriter, producer, artist, mixer, and entrepreneur. Sold 4 a Song™ is a living exploration of creative worth, ownership, and the true value of music—inside the systems that monetize it. If this episode resonates, you can follow the work at sold4asong.com.

    26 min

  6. JAN 7

    #20: The Rhythm of My Heart with Marc Jordan

    In this episode of Sold 4 a Song, Terrance Sawchuk sits down with legendary songwriter Mark Jordan, the creator of “Rhythm of My Heart” and a writer whose songs have been recorded by Diana Ross, Rod Stewart, Joe Cocker, Manhattan Transfer, Bonnie Raitt, Cher, and more. Mark shares the untold story behind writing “Rhythm of My Heart,” his lifelong relationship with dyslexia before it was understood, and how neurodiversity became a creative advantage rather than a limitation. From CBC transcription sessions and LA studio legends to publishing blind spots and royalty realities, this conversation explores how value is created—and often lost—inside the music industry. This episode goes beyond hit songs. It’s a deep, human conversation about creative identity, confidence, ownership, and the quiet cost creators pay when their work outpaces their self-worth. It also examines music’s healing power through Mark’s work in music therapy with first responders, reminding us why music matters far beyond charts and market share. Takeaways Dyslexia and neurodiversity can be powerful creative strengths Writing a hit does not guarantee understanding or ownership of value Publishing systems often separate creators from awareness and control Creative confidence is shaped early—and can be reclaimed later Music’s value extends far beyond commercial success Direct creative integrity leads to longevity Industry myths often hide structural inequities Ownership and self-worth are deeply connected Music has measurable healing and therapeutic impact True success comes from alignment, not just accolades Titles Writing “Rhythm of My Heart” & the Hidden Cost of a Hit Dyslexia, Creativity, and Reclaiming Artistic Worth Sound Bites “Dyslexia isn’t a flaw—it’s my superpower.” “You can write a worldwide hit and still be disconnected from your value.” “Music heals people long before it pays them.” Chapters 00:00 Writing “Rhythm of My Heart” 05:48 Dyslexia, Confidence, and Creative Identity 12:30 Early Career, CBC, and Learning by Ear 20:10 LA Studios, Publishing, and Industry Blind Spots 31:40 Rod Stewart, Hits, and the Cost of Success 41:55 Music Therapy and Healing Through Song 53:20 Reclaiming Worth, Ownership, and Longevity Keywords music industry, songwriting, Rhythm of My Heart, Mark Jordan, dyslexia, neurodiversity, creative worth, publishing, ownership, royalties, music therapy, artist sustainability, creative confidence, Sold 4 a Song Sold 4 a Song™ Podcast Hosted by Terrance Sawchuk, Billboard #1 multi-platinum songwriter, producer, artist, mixer, and entrepreneur. Sold 4 a Song™ is a living exploration of creative worth, ownership, and the true value of music—inside the systems that monetize it. If this episode resonates, you can follow the work at sold4asong.com.

    58 min

  7. 12/29/2025

    #19: 2025 Year In Review

    In this episode of 'Sold for a Song', Terry Sawchuk discusses the evolving landscape of the music industry, emphasizing the importance of artists owning their copyright and data. He reflects on the past year, highlights key guests, and addresses the impact of AI on music creation and artist-fan relationships. Looking ahead to 2026, he shares his upcoming projects aimed at empowering creatives and raising awareness about the true value of music. Takeaways Artists must own their copyright and data to thrive. Monetizing directly and leveraging art is crucial. Empowering artists is essential for creative success. AI will significantly impact the music industry. Direct relationships with fans are vital for artists. Ownership and sustainability are key for future artists. The true value of music is often undervalued. Feedback indicates a broader appeal for my upcoming book. New projects aim to highlight music's societal value. Building a community of support for artists is important. Titles Empowering Artists in the Digital Age Reflections on 2025: A Year in Review Sound bites "AI will transform the music industry." "Thank you for joining me today!" "Let's build this movement together." Chapters 00:00 Empowering Artists in the Digital Age 02:48 Reflections on 2025: A Year in Review 06:09 The Future of Music: AI and Artist Relationships 08:50 Ownership and Sustainability for Creatives 11:45 Looking Ahead: New Projects and Goals for 2026   Keywords music industry, artists, copyright, AI, sustainability, ownership, creativity, fan relationships, digital age, music therapy Sold 4 a Song™ Podcast hosted by Terrance Sawchuk, Billboard #1 multi-platinum songwriter, producer, artist, mixer, & entrepreneur. Sold 4 a Song™ is a living exploration of creative worth, ownership, and the true value of music — inside the systems that monetize it. If this episode resonates, you can follow the work at sold4asong.com.

    14 min

  8. 12/16/2025

    #18: Dr. Connie Tomaino, Music Therapy and Neurologic Function

    In this episode, Terry sits down with Dr. Concetta “Connie” Tomaino — co-founder and Executive Director of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF) — for a mind-opening conversation on the true value of music far beyond streaming numbers. They break down how music actually engages the brain, why rhythm can restore movement in Parkinson’s, how songs can “wake up” memory in dementia, and how music therapy helps veterans and trauma survivors access what words can’t. Then Terry connects it back to the core mission of Sold 4 a Song: the painful irony that the people who create the world’s most powerful healing tool are often the ones least valued inside the ecosystem built around it — and why access to music therapy should be reimbursed and available to everyone. To go deeper, join Terry at TerranceSawchuk.com 👉 Watch for announcements for my Free Webinar coming in January 2026. Keywords music therapy, neuroscience, mental health, creativity, neurodiversity, music industry, healing, brain function, emotional connection, artist empowerment Summary In this episode of 'Sold for a Song', host Taren Saczek engages with Dr. Concetta Tomeino, a pioneer in music therapy, discussing the profound impact of music on mental health and neurological function. They explore the evolution of music therapy, its applications in treating various conditions, and the importance of recognizing the value of music creators in society. The conversation delves into the neuroscience behind music, the therapeutic techniques used in music therapy, and the challenges faced by artists in the industry. Dr. Tomeino emphasizes the need for greater accessibility to music therapy and the economic value of music in enhancing well-being. Takeaways Music therapy needs to be accessible to everyone. The field of music therapy originated in the 1950s. Music engages almost every part of the brain. Music can help individuals with PTSD and cognitive impairments. Therapeutic music experiences can enhance recovery and function. Neurodiversity plays a significant role in creativity. Music can evoke strong emotional responses and memories. The economic value of music creators is often undervalued. Music therapy can improve mental health and well-being. Artists have a unique role in nurturing creativity in society. Titles Unlocking the Healing Power of Music Therapy The Neuroscience Behind Music and Healing Sound bites "We need to get the word out." "Music therapy is a profession." "Music has power in healing." Chapters 00:00 The Value of Music Therapy 06:07 Introduction to Dr. Concetta Tomeino 11:46 The Evolution of Music Therapy 20:04 Understanding Music's Impact on the Brain 30:11 Music Therapy Techniques and Applications 40:07 Neurodiversity and Creativity 50:03 The Economic Value of Music and Artists

    56 min
See All (25)

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

My mission for the Sold 4 a Song Brand™ is to pull back the curtain of the music and technology industries and reveal the structures that have historically kept creators at a disadvantage. I aim not only to demystify the business and tech side of music so that music creators can reclaim control over their careers but to guide artists by the hand with actual solutions. Sold 4 a Song™ isn’t just a podcast — it’s a revolution for undervalued creatives. Hosted by Terrance Sawchuk, Billboard #1 writer & multi-platinum producer, each episode helps you rewrite your story from Undervalued to Unstoppable. At the core, I guide creators how to: • Own their art and intellectual property rather than give it away. • Leverage their music and data to create opportunities and income streams. • Streamline their creative and business processes so they can focus on making art while staying profitable. • Sustain their careers by building long-term models of independence, resilience, and growth. This mission is about evening the playing field—shifting the power back into the hands of the creators. It’s not just guidance, but empowerment: giving artists the tools, frameworks, and mindset to thrive in an industry that often undervalues them. What’s the true worth of a songwriter or artist? For too long, artists have been selling themselves short —  and today, the challenge has only grown with AI. $old 4 a $ong podcast reverse-engineers the ways creatives have been undervalued — and reveals how to build a sustainable career in the chaos. Hosted by Billboard #1 multi-platinum songwriter and producer Terrance Sawchuk, this show is about reclaiming ownership and streamlining a sustainable creative life. Each episode brings real conversations with legendary hitmakers, executives, and disruptors who confirm, It’s time to start playing the game above the game. Welcome to the Escape Hatch, Now Let's Begin... www.sold4asong.com

Information

  • Creator
    Terrance Sawchuk
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Sold 4 a Song