Backstage Banter

Mike Gowen
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MUSIC
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

I've spent 15 years in the music industry and nearly 6 years running my own PR agency, and during that time, I've seen how challenging it can be to navigate the industry, especially with all the misinformation out there. That’s why I started my podcast — to provide aspiring artists, bands, and music professionals with real, actionable insights. In each episode, I interview industry experts who share practical tips, strategies, and behind-the-scenes stories, both the successes and the challenges. The goal is to help listeners understand the true business side of the industry, so they can make smarter decisions and accelerate their careers. I’d love to have you on as a guest to share your expertise and offer our audience valuable takeaways they can apply right away.

  1. 09/09/2025

    Professor of Music Business Shares What Every Artist Must Know

    Dwayne O’Brien, founding member of Little Texas and current Professor of Music Business at Belmont University, brings a rare dual perspective: the reality of touring the world with a multi-platinum country group and the responsibility of preparing the next generation of music professionals. In this episode of Backstage Banter, Dwayne shares a true mini masterclass in music business; from writing hit songs like “What Might Have Been” to teaching the principles behind the scenes at one of the nation’s top music schools. Whether you’re an artist, songwriter, or aspiring industry leader, his lessons will help you understand what it really takes to build a lasting career in music.

    1h 8m

  2. 07/15/2025

    Logan Crosby on Touring w/ Cole Swindell, Jason Aldean’s Advice & Country Music Breakthroughs

    How does a small-town Georgia kid with big dreams end up on tour with Megan Moroney, Cole Swindell, and Jonas Brothers...and writing songs with Nashville’s top songwriters? Logan Crosby breaks it all down in this episode. We dive into Logan’s inspiring rise in the country music scene — from signing a publishing deal with 50 Egg Music, and mentorship from his cousin, country icon Jason Aldean. Logan shares the real story behind his latest single “What Have I Done?” and the hustle it takes to build a music career today. If you're an aspiring artist, this one’s packed with advice on networking, work ethic, and the realities of the music industry grind. Topics Covered: ✅ Logan’s Journey from Milledgeville, GA to Nashville ✅ The Power of "Go" in the Music Business ✅ Mentorship Lessons from Jason Aldean ✅ Signing with 50 Egg Music & Artist Development ✅ Behind Logan’s New Single “What Have I Done?” ✅ Touring with Cole Swindell & Megan Moroney ✅ The Country Music Work Ethic You Need 👇 Drop your favorite takeaway in the comments and don’t forget to subscribe for more behind-the-scenes conversations with industry insiders.

    35 min

  3. 07/08/2025

    Entertainment Attorney on Ai, Label Deals, & Copyrights (w/ Tisha Morris, Esq.)

    When should a band or artist bring in a lawyer on their music industry journey...and what happens if they don’t? In this episode, I sit down with Tisha Morris, Esq., founder of Legacy Arts Law, to break down the legal essentials every independent artist needs to know from an entertainment attorney's point of view. We cover band partnership agreements, producer deals, co-writing splits, and the legal pitfalls hiding in distribution platforms like DistroKid, TuneCore, and CD Baby. We also dive into how AI is reshaping music rights and what artists should be watching closely in today’s evolving landscape. If you’re serious about protecting your music and your future, this episode is a must-listen.

    22 min

  4. 07/01/2025

    Simon Lythgoe (American Idol) on How Real Talent Breaks Through the Noise

    What is talent — and how do artists today truly stand out in a saturated world? In this episode of Backstage Banter, I sit down with Simon Lythgoe, co-creator of American Idol and one of the driving forces behind the careers of Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, and Ryan Seacrest. Simon knows a thing or two about talent as his resume includes American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance, America's Got Talent and much more. We talk about the power of authenticity, what separates stars from contestants, and why embracing modern tools like social media and AI is essential for today's artists. Simon also shares behind-the-scenes stories from building cultural explosions in the U.S. entertainment landscape...and how those lessons apply to emerging talent today. Whether you're an artist, manager, or just love music and pop culture, this episode is packed with rare insight and timeless advice.

    28 min

  5. 06/24/2025

    Raising a Rockstar: Cristi Williams on Paramore's Early Days, Importance of Artist Wellness

    What’s it really like to grow up in the spotlight — and what does it take to protect the mental health of artists navigating that journey? In this episode, I sit down with Cristi Williams, founder of Shading the Limelight and mother of GRAMMY-winning Paramore frontwoman Hayley Williams. Cristi shares personal stories from the early days of Paramore, including life on the road, the pressure young artists face, and the emotional toll the industry can take. We talk about the signs of burnout, the fear of judgment, and why building a trusted support system around an artist is essential — not optional. With decades of experience working with major labels and studios like Disney, Sony, and Universal, Cristi offers powerful tools for artists, parents, and teams alike. 🎤 This conversation is for any artist (or parent of one) who wants to thrive without losing themselves. Connect with Cristi Williams at Shading The Limelight. #artistwellness #mentalhealth #paramore #hayleywilliams #musicindustry

    1h 4m

  6. 06/17/2025

    How GRAMMY Engineers Prepare for Recording Sessions (ft. DAVE HAGEN of Dark Horse Recording)

    In this episode of Backstage Banter, I sit down with GRAMMY-winning engineer, mixer, and producer DAVE HAGEN, Chief Engineer at the iconic Dark Horse Recording. We dive deep into how artists can prepare for a session, the critical role of microphone placement, and how to build a home studio without breaking the bank. Dave shares lessons from working with Keb’ Mo’, Carrie Underwood, Relient K, and Reba McEntire, plus how he balances Nashville precision with modern creativity. Whether you're a DIY artist or working your way up to pro sessions, Dave’s insights are pure gold. 🔧 Learn how to optimize your time in the studio 🎛️ Understand how a great mix can elevate your sound 🏠 Build a smart home studio setup from scratch Tap in and take notes—this one’s packed with practical advice and real industry experience.

    35 min

  7. 06/10/2025

    The Content Strategy Every Artist Needs to Grow Online

    Your music deserves an audience — but without strategy, it won’t reach the right people. In this episode, digital marketing and audience engagement expert Nick Ruffalo (SVP of Audience Engagement at BIG LOUD ROCK) shares how artists can define their brand, develop smarter content, and connect with fans that actually stick. We talk about breaking through the noise online, using data to guide creativity, and the mindset shifts artists need to succeed on socials. Whether you're just starting or scaling, this is the blueprint for building a real fanbase in 2025. If your content isn’t connecting, this episode will show you why — and how to fix it.

    18 min

  8. 05/20/2025

    What Every Indie Artist Needs to Know About Copyright & Royalties | EP. 19

    Independent artists have more power than ever — if they understand how to use it. In this episode of Backstage Banter, artist manager Ryan Vaughn breaks down the critical importance of owning your copyrights and collecting all your royalties. We explore how today’s musicians must juggle creativity with content strategy, and why control is everything in the modern industry. Whether you're navigating your first release or trying to scale your career, this episode offers the tools and mindset to move smarter. Don't sign away your future — learn how to protect what you create.

    42 min
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About

I've spent 15 years in the music industry and nearly 6 years running my own PR agency, and during that time, I've seen how challenging it can be to navigate the industry, especially with all the misinformation out there. That’s why I started my podcast — to provide aspiring artists, bands, and music professionals with real, actionable insights. In each episode, I interview industry experts who share practical tips, strategies, and behind-the-scenes stories, both the successes and the challenges. The goal is to help listeners understand the true business side of the industry, so they can make smarter decisions and accelerate their careers. I’d love to have you on as a guest to share your expertise and offer our audience valuable takeaways they can apply right away.

Information

  • Creator
    Mike Gowen
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    26