The Band Life Podcast

petebandlifepodcast

The Band Life podcast is a music business podcast that gives bands and artists the tools they need to navigate the music industry. If you want to make the most of your music career, get out of the 9-5 rat race, and be a professional band or artist, this is the podcast for you! Your hosts, Pete Stannard and Adam West; explore topics such as mindset, how to pick a team, management, record deals, marketing, merchandising, touring, publishing, and much, much more. They will also practice what they preach by implementing techniques and advice to their metal bands ‘My God Machina’ and ‘The Shallow Souls’. This is a great way of learning what and what not to do in a constantly shifting industry.

  1. 12/23/2025

    Has Modern Metal Lost Its Audience? Heritage Bands vs New Metal | Episode 23

    Has modern metal lost its sense of community — or is something bigger happening beneath the surface? In Episode 23 of The Band Life Podcast, Pete and Adam break down the growing gap between heritage metal artists like Metallica, Linkin Park, Black Sabbath, and System of a Down, and modern metal bands such as Bring Me The Horizon, Spiritbox, Architects, Ghost, and Gojira. Using streaming data highlighted in a recent Rick Beato video, we explore why legacy metal bands continue to dominate monthly listeners and billion-stream songs — while contemporary metal struggles to reach the same cultural impact. We discuss: Why heritage metal bands still outperform modern metal on Spotify Whether oversaturation and too many sub-genres are hurting metal The decline of music education and its impact on new artists Why kids often connect more with their parents’ music Whether modern metal has lost emotion, melody, and storytelling What this means for metal musicians trying to grow an audience today This episode isn’t about nostalgia — it’s about understanding why certain music connects deeply and lasts, and what modern metal artists can learn from it. 🎸 If you’re in a metal band or building a career in heavy music, this conversation matters. Links: Please support our little podcast and buy us a coffee, we will love you forever and you will get a mention on the podcast! https://buymeacoffee.com/thebandlifepodcast Web: Podbean: https://petebandlifepodcast.podbean.com/  Green Wave Productions - Pete: https://greenwaveproductions.co.uk/ My God Machina YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLcqzhEftbUI-aP2zchgsAQ TikTok: tiktok.com/@my.god.machina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mygodmachina?igsh=NTZuejhxaHl1MTU2 The Shallow Souls - Adam: https://linktr.ee/theshallowsouls Socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebandlifepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLr-aMTZjsYB7ZUly1e21vA?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_band_life_podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.band.life.cast   #ModernMetal #MetalMusic #MetalBands #MusicIndustry #MetalCommunity  #MetalMusicians #HeavyMusic #MetalPodcast #BandLife #RickBeato  #Metallica #BringMeTheHorizon #LinkinPark #Spiritbox #MetalDiscussion

    39 min
  2. 11/11/2025

    Ep 22: Breaking the Rules: My God Machina — A Music Industry Experiment.

    Welcome to Episode 22 of The Band Life Podcast with Pete Stannard and Adam West. In this wide-open, conversational and informed session, Pete pulls back the curtain on his bold new endeavour — My God Machina, a music-project-meets-industry-experiment. For over twenty years, Pete has been producing, performing and helping clients build careers in the music business. Now, he asks: Can a middle-aged artist starting from scratch build a real fanbase and succeed in today’s industry? The answer? He’s going to test it — live, public, documented. 🔍 In this episode, you’ll hear: Why Pete launched My God Machina — and what he discovered about artist behaviour, strategy and commitment. His first moves: story-based concept posts, TikTok/Instagram/YouTube Shorts, algorithm-testing from zero followers. The results: 13.2K views on TikTok, 210 views on Instagram, 787 on YouTube in the first 48 hours. The unconventional roadmap for the band: write → produce → release → market → then build the live band. No traditional order. What it means to remain independent, how to hold leverage, and how age and industry assumptions impact musicians. And of course … Pete’s metaphorical “slap” of the episode: a sharp call-out of Daniel Ek for stepping back as CEO of Spotify while still exerting influence — is this industry behaviour artist-friendly or just smoke and mirrors? If you’re an artist or band who’s ready to experiment, build a real fanbase, and navigate the modern music business on your own terms — this episode is for you. Tune in and let’s sow the seeds of a movement. ➡️ Follow My God Machina at TikTok, Instagram & YouTube (links in the description). ➡️Subscribe to The Band Life Podcast for more honest, actionable advice on music industry survival, growth and change with Pete and Adam. Links: Please support our little podcast and buy us a coffee, we will love you forever and you will get a mention on the podcast! https://buymeacoffee.com/thebandlifepodcast Web: Podbean: https://petebandlifepodcast.podbean.com/ Green Wave Productions - Pete: https://greenwaveproductions.co.uk/ My God Machina YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLcqzhEftbUI-aP2zchgsAQ TikTok: tiktok.com/@my.god.machina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mygodmachina?igsh=NTZuejhxaHl1MTU2 The Shallow Souls - Adam: https://linktr.ee/theshallowsouls Socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebandlifepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLr-aMTZjsYB7ZUly1e21vA?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_band_life_podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.band.life.cast   #musicindustry #podcast #thebandlifepodcast #musician #musicindustryadvice #musicartist #musicbusinesspodcast #musicbusiness #MyGodMachina #artistexperiment #midcareerartist #independentmusic #musictips #bandlife #musicmarketing #TikTokMusic

    58 min
  3. 09/09/2025

    Episode 21: AI-Generated Music - The Greatest Threat to Artists' Income and How to Fight Back

    Join The Band Life Podcast as we expose the biggest threat facing music artists in 2025: AI-generated music. Discover why AI bands like Velvet Sundown are earning $50,000+ annually on Spotify while real musicians struggle, and learn proven strategies to protect your income. We reveal shocking statistics about AI music's explosive growth, compare streaming platform pay-outs (Tidal vs Spotify), and share actionable tactics to help artists compete in an AI-dominated landscape. Whether you're an independent musician, songwriter, or producer, this episode provides essential insights on navigating the music industry's most challenging disruption. Plus, get Pete's no-nonsense take on why great music without smart marketing won't cut it anymore. Essential listening for every serious music artist. Links: Please support our little podcast and buy us a coffee, we will love you forever and you will get a mention on the podcast! https://buymeacoffee.com/thebandlifepodcast Web: Podbean: https://petebandlifepodcast.podbean.com/  Green Wave Productions - Pete: https://greenwaveproductions.co.uk/ The Shallow Souls - Adam: https://linktr.ee/theshallowsouls Socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebandlifepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLr-aMTZjsYB7ZUly1e21vA?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_band_life_podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.band.life.cast   #AIMusicThreat #MusicIndustry #SpotifyRoyalties #IndependentArtists #MusicStreaming #TidalVsSpotify #AIGeneratedMusic #VelvetSundown #MusicMarketing #BandLifePodcast #MusicBusiness #StreamingRoyalties #AIMusic #MusicTech #ArtistIncome #MusicProducers #SongwriterTips #MusicCareer #StreamingStrategy #MusicAI

    58 min
  4. 07/08/2025

    "Is the Digital Era Destroying the Music Industry? The Truth About Streaming, AI, and Artist Rights.

    In this compelling episode of The Band Life Podcast, we dive deep into the controversial question: Is the digital era destroying the music industry? Pete and Adam explore four critical areas transformed by digitalisation - production, distribution, marketing, and consumption - examining both the revolutionary benefits and devastating consequences for artists. From the democratisation of music production to the exploitative practices of streaming platforms, we uncover how digital transformation has fundamentally altered the music landscape.  This episode reveals why 120,000 songs are released daily on streaming platforms, creating unprecedented saturation while major tech companies extract billions from the industry without reinvesting in artists. We expose the harsh reality of streaming economics, where artists earn fractions of pennies per stream, forcing musicians to become digital marketers rather than focus on their craft.  Plus, discover the shocking truth about AI music licensing and why industry leaders like Nick Clegg believe requiring permission would "kill" the AI industry. Key topics covered: How digital production democratized music creation while decreasing quality standards The collapse of traditional distribution networks and its impact on industry economics Why streaming platforms are extracting money from the music industry rather than supporting it The transformation of music consumption from album-focused to single-track listening Big Tech's exploitation of musicians and the urgent need for regulation The controversial firing of copyright official Shira Perlmutter over AI licensing reports Whether you're an independent artist, music industry professional, or passionate music fan, this episode provides essential insights into the digital disruption reshaping our industry. Join us as we separate the hype from reality and explore potential solutions for a more sustainable musical future. Perfect for: Independent musicians, music industry professionals, streaming platform users, and anyone interested in the economics of digital music.     #MusicIndustry, #DigitalTransformation, #StreamingEconomics, #IndependentArtists, #MusicProduction, #AIMusic, #CopyrightProtection, #MusicTech, #ArtistRights, #BigTech, #MusicBusiness, #Podcast, #MusicEconomics, #CreativeIndustry, #MusicStreaming, #DigitalMarketing, #MusicDiscussion, #IndustryInsights, #MusicNews, #EntertainmentBusiness

    1h 4m
  5. 05/13/2025

    Ep. 19 How to Release Your Music in 2025: Mindset, Physical vs Streaming, and Real-World Strategies.

    Ready to make your music heard in 2025? In Episode 19 of The Band Life Podcast, hosts Pete Stannard and Adam West deliver a no-nonsense guide to releasing your music in today’s ever-changing industry. Whether you’re an indie artist or a seasoned band, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you reach more fans, sell your music, and build a sustainable career. In this episode, we cover: 🎯 Music Release Mindset: Why your goals should shape your entire release strategy. 🌍 Finding Your Fanbase: How to identify where your audience really hangs out (and why genre matters!). 📈 Setting Goals: Fanbase growth, revenue, or industry attention-choose your path. 💿 Physical Releases: DIY tips for affordable CDs, vinyl, and merch bundles that connect with real fans. 💡 Creative Content: How to turn the CD-making process into unique, shareable content. 📬 Fan Communication: The power of your email list and the best touchpoints for selling physical music. 🎵 Streaming Strategies: Why singles are king, how to maximize playlist exposure, and the ISRC code trick every artist should know. 🤝 Parallel Promotion: Sync your streaming releases with live shows and merch drops for maximum impact. 😂 Adam’s Slap!: A fun segment calling out venues and promoters who ghost artists (you know who you are!) Key Takeaways: Release music where your fans actually are-don’t waste energy on the wrong platforms. Use physical releases to deepen fan relationships and create new revenue streams. Treat streaming as a discovery tool, not a pay check. Build your fanbase with consistent, strategic releases, one song at a time. Always align your release plan with your current goals. Don’t miss Pete’s step-by-step guide to low-cost CD releases and Adam’s hard-hitting advice for dealing with flaky promoters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, this episode will help you navigate the realities of music distribution in 2025. 👉 Subscribe for more insider tips, and stay tuned for Episode 20: “Is the Digital Era Destroying the Music Industry?” Links: Please support our little podcast and buy us a coffee. We will love you forever, and you will get a mention on the podcast! https://buymeacoffee.com/thebandlifepodcast Web: Podbean: https://petebandlifepodcast.podbean.com/ Green Wave Productions - Pete: https://greenwaveproductions.co.uk/ The Shallow Souls - Adam: https://linktr.ee/theshallowsouls Socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebandlifepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLr-aMTZjsYB7ZUly1e21vA?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_band_life_podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.band.life.cast     #MusicRelease2025 #BandLifePodcast #MusicIndustryTips #IndieArtist #StreamingStrategy #PhysicalMusic #MusicMarketing #ReleaseYourMusic #BandAdvice #MusicPromotion

    1h 4m
  6. 04/15/2025

    Ep #18: From British Country Charts to Centre Stage | How Georgia Nevada Built Her Music Empire.

    Discover the untold journey behind award-nominated country artist Georgia Nevada's remarkable rise to success in this captivating episode of The Band Life Podcast. Join hosts Pete and Adam as they uncover the powerful strategies that earned Georgia four chart-topping singles and a prestigious 'Female Vocalist of the Year nomination at the 2021 British Country Music Awards. This revealing conversation takes you behind the curtain of a thriving music career, delivering exclusive insights that both aspiring artists and industry veterans will find invaluable: Breakthrough Production Secrets: Get an insider's look at Georgia's brand-new single "My Town Too" and the revolutionary production approach that's setting her apart from the competition Profitable Live Performance Strategy: Learn how Georgia built her packed touring schedule, her tactical approach to venue selection, and how she maximizes revenue from every performance Marketing Psychology Mastery: Uncover the specific branding techniques and platform-optimized content strategies Georgia uses to cultivate her fiercely loyal fanbase Financial Blueprints That Work: Gain access to rarely shared financial breakdowns covering everything from merchandise pricing formulas to streaming revenue optimization and vinyl release strategies Georgia doesn't hold back as she shares candid insights about her artistic evolution, business challenges, and ambitious vision for the future. Whether you're navigating your music journey or simply fascinated by the business behind the melodies, this episode delivers actionable wisdom you won't find anywhere else. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your understanding of what it takes to thrive in today's music industry. Subscribe now to unlock the strategies that could revolutionise your approach to music as both an art and a business.   Please support our little podcast and buy us a coffee, we will love you forever and you will get a mention on the podcast! https://buymeacoffee.com/thebandlifepodcast Episode Links: https://www.raretonemastering.com/ https://personalised.clothing/ https://volcanomerch.ink/ Georgia Nevada Links: Web: https://www.georgianevada.com/ Socials: https://www.instagram.com/georgianevada/ https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaNevada/ https://www.tiktok.com/@georgianevadauk Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EAdDTLvpClmBR5hSHF2PU Links: Web: Podbean: https://petebandlifepodcast.podbean.com/ Green Wave Productions - Pete: https://greenwaveproductions.co.uk/ The Shallow Souls - Adam: https://linktr.ee/theshallowsouls Socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebandlifepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLr-aMTZjsYB7ZUly1e21vA?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_band_life_podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.band.life.cast   #CountryMusic #MusicBusiness #ArtistInterview #GeorgiaNevada #TheBandLifePodcast #FemaleArtist #MusicMarketing #LiveMusic #IndependentArtist #MusicProduction #VinylRevival #MusicFinance #BritishCountry #AwardNominated #MusicPodcast #ArtistGrowth #SongwritingTips #MusicIndustry #StreamingSuccess #MusicMerch

    1h 12m
  7. 03/25/2025

    The Band Life Podcast Ep. 17 | Unlock Your Music's Potential: Finding the Perfect Recording Studio on Any Budget!

    Discover the secrets to elevating your sound without breaking the bank in this must-listen episode of The Band Life Podcast.  Hosts Pete and Adam reveal insider tips on finding the ideal recording studio that aligns with your vision and budget. Uncover game-changing strategies to: Navigate the online maze of studio options like a pro Identify hidden gems that won't drain your wallet Ask the right questions to ensure studio compatibility Maximize your studio time and investment Plus, get the scoop on: The latest music industry drama Cutting-edge developments in AI-generated music Expert advice on pre-production and communicating your artistic vision Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, this episode is your ultimate guide to making informed decisions about your recording journey.  Don't let budget constraints hold you back – tune in now and take the first step towards creating your best sound yet! Links: Please support our little podcast and buy us a coffee, we will love you forever and you will get a mention on the podcast! https://buymeacoffee.com/thebandlifepodcast Web: Podbean: https://petebandlifepodcast.podbean.com/  Green Wave Productions - Pete: https://greenwaveproductions.co.uk/ The Shallow Souls - Adam: https://linktr.ee/theshallowsouls Socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebandlifepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLr-aMTZjsYB7ZUly1e21vA?sub_confirmation=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_band_life_podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.band.life.cast

    55 min

About

The Band Life podcast is a music business podcast that gives bands and artists the tools they need to navigate the music industry. If you want to make the most of your music career, get out of the 9-5 rat race, and be a professional band or artist, this is the podcast for you! Your hosts, Pete Stannard and Adam West; explore topics such as mindset, how to pick a team, management, record deals, marketing, merchandising, touring, publishing, and much, much more. They will also practice what they preach by implementing techniques and advice to their metal bands ‘My God Machina’ and ‘The Shallow Souls’. This is a great way of learning what and what not to do in a constantly shifting industry.