364 episodes

Making music has never been easier, but building a music career today is altogether different. Finding the right audience for your music takes an entrepreneurial mindset, a lot of hard work, and a willingness to experiment. The DIY Musician Podcast features interviews with artists of all styles and backgrounds who’ve found a unique but authentic pathway to success, as well as in-depth discussions with music publicists, promoters, lawyers, publishers, talent buyers, and more. This podcast is geared towards independent musicians who want to build a sustainable music career without giving up (too much) financial or creative control. Hosts Kevin and Chris work with hundreds of thousands of artists at CD Baby, and are actively releasing and promoting their own music too; they're part of the same community they’re helping to educate and encourage with each new episode.

DIY Musician Podcast CD Baby

    • Music
    • 4.7 • 353 Ratings

Making music has never been easier, but building a music career today is altogether different. Finding the right audience for your music takes an entrepreneurial mindset, a lot of hard work, and a willingness to experiment. The DIY Musician Podcast features interviews with artists of all styles and backgrounds who’ve found a unique but authentic pathway to success, as well as in-depth discussions with music publicists, promoters, lawyers, publishers, talent buyers, and more. This podcast is geared towards independent musicians who want to build a sustainable music career without giving up (too much) financial or creative control. Hosts Kevin and Chris work with hundreds of thousands of artists at CD Baby, and are actively releasing and promoting their own music too; they're part of the same community they’re helping to educate and encourage with each new episode.

    #359: Put Your Fanbase Growth on Autopilot with Megh Vakharia - Symphony OS

    #359: Put Your Fanbase Growth on Autopilot with Megh Vakharia - Symphony OS

    In this episode of the DIY Musician Podcast, Cristina engages in a conversation with Megh Vakharia, CEO and co-founder of Symphony OS, exploring the necessity for artists to streamline their marketing efforts. Megh sheds light on Symphony's innovative solutions tailored to ease artist marketing burdens, freeing up valuable time for creative pursuits. With Symphony's tools, artists reclaim control over their careers, empowered to shape their destinies without relinquishing ownership. Symphony's mission is clear: to empower the next wave of a million artists to thrive independently, building their businesses on their own terms.
    Learn more about Symphony OS and claim your CD Baby discount here: https://www.symphonyos.co/partners/cdbaby

    • 36 min
    #358: Hitmakers Live - Songwriting Secrets with Industry Pros Judy Stakee + Mike Meiers

    #358: Hitmakers Live - Songwriting Secrets with Industry Pros Judy Stakee + Mike Meiers

    In this episode of the DIY Musician Podcast, Cristina sits down with two titans of the music industry: the renowned songwriting coach and music publisher, Judy Stakee, and the Emmy award-winning songwriter, producer, and coach, Mike Meiers. Together, they delve into the intricacies of songwriting approach, offering invaluable insights gleaned from their extensive experience. The spotlight, however, shines on their forthcoming virtual Songwriting workshop, "Hitmakers Live," on April 21st. Through this eagerly anticipated event, participants are primed to embark on a transformative journey, drawing from the wealth of wisdom accumulated by these industry leaders and major guest artists and educators. Expect not only to refine your craft but also to forge meaningful connections within a community of dedicated songwriters, akin to yourself. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring songwriter, this workshop is an unmissable opportunity to refine your skills, expand your network, and ultimately, make your mark in the world of music.

    • 41 min
    #357: The Truth(s) About Being "Female" Musicians

    #357: The Truth(s) About Being "Female" Musicians

    In this episode of the DIY Musician Podcast, Cristina and Rachel welcome Via to the show. Together, they delve into the intricacies of being categorized as a "female" musician within the industry, exploring their personal perspectives on this label. While some express frustration at the persistent emphasis on gender in their work, others view it as a meaningful community to belong to. They navigate the concept of multiple truths coexisting within identity and its impact on their journeys in the music industry.

    • 40 min
    #356: Exploring Short Form Video Trends in 2024

    #356: Exploring Short Form Video Trends in 2024

    In this episode of the DIY Musician Podcast, hosts Cristina and Rachel dive deep into the dynamic world of short form video trends dominating the internet landscape in 2024. From viral challenges to captivating storytelling techniques, they unravel how independent artists can leverage these trends to amplify their presence and engage with audiences on a whole new level. Additionally, they shed light on the CD Baby Video Creator Tool, unveiling its ability to seemlessly craft compelling Spotify Canvas videos.

    • 54 min
    #335 How to Break Into Sync Licensing - Insider Tips to Get Your Music Featured Now with Chris SD

    #335 How to Break Into Sync Licensing - Insider Tips to Get Your Music Featured Now with Chris SD

    In this episode of the DIY Musician Podcast, Jack engages in a compelling conversation with Sync Songwriter Chris SD, delving into the intricacies of succeeding in the realm of Sync Licensing. Tune in as Chris shares valuable insights into crafting sync-friendly tunes, understanding licensing deals, and building relationships with music supervisors. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting, this episode provides actionable tips to navigate the sync licensing landscape effectively and elevate your DIY music career. Don't miss this eye-opening discussion that could be the key to unlocking new opportunities for your music.

    • 52 min
    #354: Mental and Physical Health Hacks for Touring Musicians

    #354: Mental and Physical Health Hacks for Touring Musicians

    Heading out on tour our can introduce a range of stressors, spanning from confined living spaces to an inflexible (or non-existent) schedule, limited food choices, feelings of isolation and detachment from your people back home, free booze at every turn, and less-than-ideal sleeping conditions. These factors can contribute to physical and mental strain for indie artists who are just out there trying to put their best on stage. In the latest episode of the DIY Musician Podcast, Cristina Cano and Rachel Beringer offer practical health hacks to help musicians maintain their physical and mental well-being while on the road.

    • 55 min

Customer Reviews

4.7 out of 5
353 Ratings

353 Ratings

Tm5151 ,

Good Well-Rounded Info for Indie Musicians

The new host Cristina does a nice job, keeping the podcast going, providing helpful info and insights and somehow being very comforting in the process. Much appreciated!

bluemeanieface ,

Eat trail mix. Ok

Episode on surviving the road gave such lame, everyday advice I had to make sure I was listening to a podcast called DIY Musician and not the people babbling at a dry party podcast. Seriously, drink water???? Get sleep??? Don’t be drunk all the time??? Go to Quik-Trip? Oh, if only I could get such great advice from anyone in the world. Oh yeah, I can. Cmon guys this is a show that is supposed to be specialized to the music industry. Show what you know that is special and avoid rambling on about freaking quick-trip and dumb, dumb advice that everybody gives every day. Drink water. Get some sleep. Ok chief, I’ll do that every day just for you. Now I am road musician!

Baskervilles ,

Tough Shoes To Fill

Kevin and Chris left tough shoes to fill. The current format is leaving me wanting for something broader. Artist interviews tend to be too narrow in focus. Host opinions are fine in small doses, but what I REALLY need are tips on how to promote on social media, optimize my presence on streaming platforms, advertise, build a fan base, mailing lists… mostly digital advice, which is something all artists need, whether they perform live or not.

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