House Music Connection

Tony Fuel
House Music Connection

Welcome to the House Music Connection podcast - hosted by Tony Fuel. Each week you'll feel more connected to the house music community as you hear Tony Fuel and other house music producers and DJs discuss their stories and offer their perspectives. Topics include: -- How producers and DJs got their start -- The state of the music industry today -- Traxsource and Beatport charts -- Mindset and staying motivated -- Scene politics -- And moreThe styles of podcast guests include deep house, soulful house, funky house, jackin' house, garage house, and tech house.

  1. 08/27/2024

    Jason Merle - Holding Down House Music in Fresno California, Ep. 28

    --Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmapJason Merle and 4E&A Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/jasonmerle_/https://www.instagram.com/4eanda/https://www.traxsource.com/label/57152/4e-and-aSummaryIn this episode of the House Music Connection podcast, Tony Fuel connects with Jason Merle: a house music artist, DJ, producer, and owner of 4E&A Records based in Fresno, CA. They discuss Jason's background in house music, the music scene in Fresno, and the challenges of running a record label. They also touch on the changing landscape of the music industry, the importance of artist experience, and the role of charts in promoting music. In this conversation, Tony Fuel and Jason Merle discuss the challenges of promoting and charting music in the digital age. They explore the role of charts in the industry and the motivations behind charting tracks. They also discuss the decline of music sales and the shift towards streaming, as well as the importance of supporting artists and the labor of love involved in the music industry.TakeawaysJason Merle started in house music in 1996 and has been involved in the Fresno music scene for many years.The music scene in Fresno is vibrant and diverse, with different crews focusing on various genres within the house scene.Starting his own label, 4E&A Records, allowed Jason to have creative control and learn about the process of releasing music.Promotion in the digital age has evolved, with social media and video snippets playing a larger role.The challenges of running a record label include managing artist expectations and finding the right balance between different ways of doing things.Traxsource charts can help get more exposure for music, but they are not the sole determinant of a track's success. Promoting and charting music in the digital age can be challenging due to the vast amount of music available.Charts can be helpful in gaining exposure and recognition, but their impact on sales is uncertain.The decline of music sales has shifted the focus towards other revenue streams, such as merchandise and live events.Authenticity and genuine support from other artists can be more valuable than chart positions.Throwing parties and organizing events can be a labor of love, and the focus should be on celebrating the music and the community.Receiving and listening to demos is an important part of the music industry, and it's crucial to provide timely and respectful feedback to aspiring artists.Chapters0:00:00 Introduction and Background0:03:03 The Fresno Music Scene0:07:51 Starting 4E&A Records0:13:19 The Changing Landscape of Music Promotion0:15:43 Managing Artist Expectations0:20:04 Keeping track of all the tasks0:23:26 The Role of TraxSource Charts0:30:20 Are Traxsource Charts Helpful?0:33:31 The Challenge of Music Promotion in the Digital Age0:41:41 The Decline of Music Sales and the Shift to Streaming0:51:34 The Labor of Love in the Music Industry0:59:27 The Importance of Listening to and Supporting Demos1:02:38 Release Roadmap Template

    1h 3m
  2. 08/13/2024

    DJ MJ: Launching Back2House Radio, Ep. 27

    Interview with DJ MJ, Founder of Back2houseradio.com || Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmapDJ MJ Linkshttps://back2houseradio.com/https://www.youtube.com/@djmjofficial6141https://www.instagram.com/theofficialdjmj/https://www.traxsource.com/artist/281829/dj-mj?ipp=100SummaryDJ MJ, a versatile underground DJ, producer, promoter, and radio station owner, shares her journey and experiences in the house music scene. She recently started her own radio station, Back to House Radio, after broadcasting on MixLR. DJ MJ emphasizes the importance of supporting others in the industry and being a team player. She discusses the challenges she has faced, including threats and negativity, and the need to develop a strong mindset. Networking and social media play a crucial role in getting bookings and promoting oneself in the music industry. In this conversation, DJ MJ discusses the importance of putting yourself out there and sharing your story on social media. She emphasizes the power of being authentic and opening up about your experiences. DJ MJ also talks about the need for collaboration and unity in the music industry, particularly in terms of gender representation. She shares her journey into music production and the joy she finds in creating tracks. DJ MJ encourages listeners to keep it real, do it for the love of music, and not be afraid to promote themselves.TakeawaysSupporting others and being a team player is crucial in the music industry.Developing a strong mindset is essential to overcome challenges and negativity.Networking and social media are important for getting bookings and promoting oneself.Being proud of your achievements and promoting yourself is necessary in a competitive industry. Put yourself out there and share your story on social mediaAuthenticity and opening up about your experiences can lead to more engagementCollaboration and unity are important in the music industryGender representation should be balanced in lineups and eventsMusic production can be a fulfilling and enjoyable creative outletKeep it real, do it for the love of music, and promote yourself without fearChapters00:00:00 Introduction and DJ MJ's Background00:02:39 Starting Back to House Radio00:07:02 The Decision to Start a Radio Station00:10:22 Expanding the Lineup and Looking for DJs00:11:23 DJ MJ's Journey in the House Music Scene00:16:10 Influences and Musical Eclecticism00:21:22 Networking and Getting Bookings00:24:23 Promoting Yourself and Being Proud of Your Achievements00:27:02 Putting Yourself Out There on Social Media00:29:32 The Importance of Being Authentic00:36:42 The Journey into Music Production00:43:47 Keeping It Real and Doing It for the Love of Music00:51:59 Release Roadmap Toolkit

    53 min
  3. 07/30/2024

    House Music Industry Insights from Andy Reid of Phoenix Music, Ep. 26

    Tons of industry insights from Andy Reid of Phoenix Music! Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmapANDY REID LINKSInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/djandyreid/Traxsource: https://www.traxsource.com/artist/141209/andy-reid?ipp=100PHOENIX MUSIC LINKSInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/phoenixmusicinc/Phoenix Music Traxsource: https://www.traxsource.com/label/15520/phoenix-music?ipp=30Phoenix Soul Traxsource: https://www.traxsource.com/label/45522/phoenix-soul?ipp=30Phoenix Black Traxsource: https://www.traxsource.com/search?term=PHXBLKEpisode SummaryIn this conversation, Andy Reid, a DJ and label owner, discusses the challenges and strategies of running an independent music label in the digital age. He shares insights on the evolution of the music industry, the impact of streaming, the importance of quality in music production, and the complexities of monetizing music. Andy also addresses the role of teamwork, the changing dynamics of music consumption, and the challenges faced by independent artists and labels. The conversation covers the importance of the idea and emotional quality of music, the role of vocals in tracks, the balance between commercial viability and artistic integrity, and the significance of consistency and authenticity in DJ charts and playlists. In this conversation, Andy Reid and Tony Fuel discuss the impact of curated and DJ charts on driving sales, the importance of personalization in demo submissions, and the significance of gauging one's level in the music industry. They also touch on upcoming projects and events, including the annual ADE mixer and the 100th release celebration EPs on Phoenix Black and Phoenix Soul.TakeawaysThe challenges and strategies of running an independent music label in the digital age.The impact of streaming on the music industry and the complexities of monetizing music.The importance of quality in music production and the role of teamwork in creating great music.The changing dynamics of music consumption and the challenges faced by independent artists and labels. The emotional quality of the music and the idea behind it are crucial for connecting with the audience.Vocals play a significant role in making a track more relatable and memorable for listeners.Balancing commercial viability with artistic integrity is a personal decision, and the focus should be on creating music that resonates with the artist.Consistency and authenticity are essential in DJ charts and playlists, and artists should prioritize playing and supporting tracks that align with their style and preferences. Curated charts and DJ charts have a significant impact on driving sales, especially for discovery and visibility.Personalization and context in demo submissions can make a difference in getting noticed by labels.Gauging one's level in the music industry and aiming for realistic opportunities is crucial for success.Upcoming projects and events, including the annual ADE mixer and the 100th release celebration EPs on Phoenix Black and Phoenix Soul, offer exciting prospects for the future of Phoenix Music.

    1h 28m
  4. 07/16/2024

    Candice McKenzie: House Music, A&R, Faith, and Kidney Disease. Ep. 25

    Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmapCandice McKenzie LinksWeb: https://www.candicemckenzie.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candicemckenzie/ACKEE (Kidney Disease):https://www.ackee.org.uk/SUMMARYCandice McKenzie, a DJ and radio presenter, shares her journey in the music industry, from her early days as a DJ to her battle with kidney failure. She discusses her love for UK Garage, her transition to playing gospel and inspirational house music, and her experiences as a judge for the Eurovision Song Contest. Despite health challenges, music remains a source of strength and inspiration for her. Candice McKenzie shares her insights on DJing, A&R, and her journey in the music industry. She emphasizes the importance of following one's heart and dreams, and highlights the challenges and misconceptions faced in the industry. Additionally, she discusses her work in kidney disease awareness and the impact of faith on her life and career.TAKEAWAYSCandice McKenzie's journey in the music industry spans over 25 years, from her early days as a DJ to her current role as a radio presenter and producer.Her transition to playing gospel and inspirational house music was a significant shift in her career, driven by a desire to spread positive vibes and messages through her music.Despite battling kidney failure, music continues to be a source of strength and inspiration for Candice, and she has released her own song, 'His Promise,' as a reminder of hope and faith.As a judge for the Eurovision Song Contest in 2014, Candice had a unique experience that added to her diverse career in the music industry.Challenges such as gender bias and stereotypes in the male-dominated music industry have been obstacles for Candice, but she remains resilient and focused on her passion for music. The power of a DJ is in their skill, not their sex.Follow your heart, reach for your goals, and live for your dreams.Adhere to label instructions when submitting demos.Respect the time and process of A&R professionals.Organizing is a valuable skill that can lead to career opportunities.House music can be a form of ministry and inspiration.Kidney disease awareness and the importance of kidney health.Deceased kidney donation is a critical aspect of kidney disease awareness.CHAPTERS0:00:00 Intro0:10:49 Transitioning to Gospel House Music0:29:30 Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry0:31:37 The DJ's Skill and Gender Equality0:34:12 A&R Tips and Label Submission Etiquette0:40:54 Working at Defected and Event Organization0:49:13 The Intersection of Faith and Music0:57:16 Raising Awareness for Kidney Disease

    1h 3m
  5. 07/02/2024

    A Mindset for Mix Engineering - with Carlos Ruiz / Ruez (NYC), Ep. 24

    Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmapCarlos Ruiz / Ruez Linkshttp://www.carlosruiznyc.com/https://www.instagram.com/ruez_nyc/https://www.traxsource.com/artist/151183/ruez?ipp=100https://www.facebook.com/carlos.ruiz.31945SummaryCarlos Ruiz, an audio engineer and DJ based in New York City, shares his journey in the music industry and his love for house music. He discusses how his day job in the energy industry has influenced his approach to running his mix engineering business. Carlos also talks about the evolution of music production technology, including the use of AI, and the importance of maintaining the human essence in music creation. Carlos Ruiz started taking mixing seriously from an engineering business standpoint about six or seven years ago. He had been doing mixing for a long time before that, but it took him a while to feel comfortable charging for his services. He learned through trial and error and listened back to his early work to improve. Carlos believes that creative mixing is about understanding the artist's vision and creatively extracting it from the song. He uses visual references, such as films and artwork, to inspire his mixes. He also emphasizes the importance of balance and using techniques like reverbs and delays to create dimension in the mix. In this conversation, Carlos Ruiz shares his insights on the importance of taking breaks, physical activity, and mental health in the music industry. He also discusses some of the highlight reels of his career, including working with Ted Patterson and achieving vinyl releases with Rissa. Carlos emphasizes the importance of recognizing that as an engineer, you are there to assist and support the artist's vision, rather than taking ownership of the project. He also provides tips for aspiring mix engineers, such as focusing on learning how to listen, investing in good speakers and a well-treated room, and utilizing resources like Mix with the Masters and Pensado's Place.TakeawaysCarlos Ruiz has been involved in the music industry for over 20 years as an audio engineer, DJ, and label owner.His day job in the energy industry has influenced his approach to running his mix engineering business, as he applies operations skills and creativity to both.Carlos discusses the evolution of music production technology, from vinyl records to digital formats, and the use of AI in music creation.He emphasizes the importance of maintaining the human essence in music, even with advancements in technology. Carlos Ruiz started taking mixing seriously about six or seven years ago, but had been doing it for a long time before that.Creative mixing is about understanding the artist's vision and creatively extracting it from the song.Visual references, such as films and artwork, can inspire the mix.Balance is crucial in mixing, and techniques like reverbs and delays can create dimension.It's important to constantly learn and improve in mixing, and collaboration and communication are key skills to develop.Finding a balance between work, music, and personal life is a challenge, but taking breaks and engaging in physical activity can help. Take breaks and engage in physical activity to break up the monotony and prevent feeling overwhelmed.Recognize that as an engineer, your role is to assist and support the artist's vision, not take ownership of the project.Invest in good speakers and create a well-treated room to ensure accurate monitoring and improve the quality of your mixes.Train your ears by listening in a flat and accurate environment, and learn how different tools and techniques affect the mix.Utilize resources like Mix with the Masters and Pensado's Place to enhance your knowledge and skills in mix engineering.

    1h 20m
  6. 05/27/2024

    Hanging with Heidi B - House Music Artist, Educator, and Podcaster.

    Interview with house music artist, educator, and podcaster, Heidi B.Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmapHeidi B’s Linkshttps://www.traxsource.com/artist/467868/heidi-bhttps://www.youtube.com/@heidibofficialhttps://www.instagram.com/heidibmusic/SummaryHeidi B, a music producer, DJ, and podcast host, joins Tony Fuel on the House Music Connection podcast. Heidi shares her background in education and psychology, her love for music, and her journey in the house music scene. Heidi's professional training includes studying Vocals in Helsinki Pop & Jazz Conservatory and Musicology at Helsinki University.She discusses her experience living in different countries and how it has influenced her music. Heidi also talks about her passion for soulful house music and her exploration of different sub-genres. She shares the story behind starting her podcast, Heidi's House, and the importance of connecting with fellow artists and sharing their stories. Heidi encourages aspiring musicians to follow their passion and make their music heard. Heidi B discusses her journey as a vocalist, producer, and label owner in the house music scene. She talks about her love for soulful and deep house, as well as her exploration of different genres of music. Heidi shares her experience in producing her own tracks and the importance of education in music production. She also discusses the challenges faced by women in the male-dominated industry and the need for more female representation. Heidi shares her vision for the future, including growing her brand, performing internationally, and expanding her label. She also talks about her podcast and the format of featuring artists and showcasing their music.TakeawaysHeidi B has a background in education and psychology but has always had a passion for music. She has lived in different countries, which has influenced her music and allowed her to connect with artists from around the world.Heidi's main focus is on soulful house music, but she also explores other sub-genres like disco house and Afro house.She started her podcast, Heidi's House, to connect with fellow artists and share their stories.Heidi encourages aspiring musicians to follow their passion and make their music heard. Exploring different genres of music can help artists orientate into different kinds of projects and collaborations.Education and learning from others are essential in music production.There is a need for more female representation in the male-dominated music industry.Heidi B's vision for the future includes growing her brand, performing internationally, and expanding her label.Her podcast features artists and includes a DJ set showcasing their music.

    47 min
  7. 05/20/2024

    Uniting Souls through House Music for 27 Years - with Ramiro Gutierrez, Ep. 22

    Overwhelmed with music production tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help you keep track of  everything: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmap Ramiro / Uniting Souls LinksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramiro_uniting_souls/Traxsource: https://www.traxsource.com/label/14733/uniting-souls-musicBeatport: https://www.beatport.com/label/uniting-souls-music/519YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UnitingSoulsMusicFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/unitingsoulsmusicEpisode SummaryRamiro Gutierrez, founder and president of Uniting Souls Music, discusses the origin and longevity of Uniting Souls, a community-based event production company and record label. The conversation covers topics such as the evolution of the sound, the importance of community, and the challenges of promoting events in the digital age. Ramiro also shares insights on how they select artists for their lineups and the role of branding in creating a unique identity for their events. Uniting Souls is celebrating its 27-year anniversary with a 12-hour party at Monkey Loft in Seattle. The event will feature three stages, including a rooftop deck stage, and will showcase the authentic vibe and inclusivity that has been the ethos of house music since its inception. Uniting Souls has a strong team behind it, including business partner Tate, resident DJs Emily Griffin, Amy Snapdragon, and Alex Lagaspi, and designer Tashia Ortiz. The organization also supports local charities, such as Northwest Youth Services and GenPride, and is committed to giving back to the community.TakeawaysUniting Souls is a community-based event production company and record label that has been active for 27 years.The key to their longevity is consistency and a strong sense of community.They have evolved their sound over the years while still preserving the soulfulness of the classic house music sound.Word of mouth and personal connections play a significant role in promoting their events.They select artists for their lineups based on their sound and their involvement in the community.Branding is important in setting themselves apart from other events and creating a unique identity. Uniting Souls is celebrating its 27-year anniversary with a 12-hour party at Monkey Loft in SeattleThe event will showcase the authentic vibe and inclusivity that has been the ethos of house music since its inceptionUniting Souls has a strong team behind it, including business partner Tate and resident DJs Emily Griffin, Amy Snapdragon, and Alex LagaspiThe organization supports local charities, such as Northwest Youth Services and GenPride, and is committed to giving back to the community

    1h 6m
  8. 05/13/2024

    Becka Ward: Thriving as a House Music Vocalist, Tips for Singers, Ep. 21

    Interview with house music singer, Becka Ward.Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmapBecka’s Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/beckaward1/https://www.traxsource.com/artist/75790/becka?ipp=100https://www.facebook.com/becka.ward.756SummaryBecka Ward, a house music vocalist, shares her journey and experiences in the music industry. She talks about her early exposure to house music and her desire to become a singer from a young age. Becka discusses her process of writing lyrics and working with producers, emphasizing the importance of trust and collaboration. She also mentions her interest in exploring other genres, such as R&B and hip hop. Becka shares her thoughts on performing live and the balance between her music career and family life. She concludes with advice for working with producers, including establishing clear expectations and communication. Becka discusses the importance of contracts in the music industry and shares her positive experiences with labels that provide contracts and artwork promptly. She advises aspiring singers to get to know house music and its producers, explore different genres, and trust their own instincts when choosing tracks to work on. Becka emphasizes the importance of vocal technique and understanding equipment in the studio. She also talks about her influences in the music industry and the need for more women producers. Becka highlights the spiritual and liberating nature of house music and the joy of performing live. She shares upcoming projects and invites listeners to connect with her on social media.TakeawaysBecka Ward has been singing house music for many years and was introduced to it by her brother.She prefers to write her own lyrics and work with producers who trust her creative vision.Becka is interested in exploring other genres, such as R&B and hip hop.She enjoys performing live and collaborating with DJs.Balancing her music career with family life can be challenging but rewarding.Establishing clear expectations and communication is important when working with producers. Contracts provide peace of mind and protect artists in the music industry.Getting to know house music and its producers is essential for aspiring singers.Exploring different genres and pushing oneself creatively is important for vocalists.Vocal technique and understanding studio equipment are vital for recording artists.There is a need for more women producers in the music industry.House music is a spiritual and liberating genre that connects people and allows them to let go.Becka has upcoming releases and is open to collaborations and vocal lessons.Listeners can connect with Becka on social media to learn more about her work.Chapters00:00:00 - Episode Intro00:00:19 - Becka Ward Introduction00:07:04 - Desire for Live Performances00:15:01 - Exploring Other Genres00:29:00 - The Need for More Women Producers00:36:27 - Upcoming Projects and Collaborations00:45:13 - Connect with Becka and Learn More

    49 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to the House Music Connection podcast - hosted by Tony Fuel. Each week you'll feel more connected to the house music community as you hear Tony Fuel and other house music producers and DJs discuss their stories and offer their perspectives. Topics include: -- How producers and DJs got their start -- The state of the music industry today -- Traxsource and Beatport charts -- Mindset and staying motivated -- Scene politics -- And moreThe styles of podcast guests include deep house, soulful house, funky house, jackin' house, garage house, and tech house.

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