The Unstarving Musician

Robonzo (Roberto R Hernandez)
  • 4.9 (13)
  • MUSIC
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
The Unstarving Musician

The Unstarving Musician features interviews with independent musicians, songwriters, producers, and music industry professionals who share their experience and expertise on recording, touring, marketing, the business of music, and more. This is all intended to help you, the independent music artists create a sustainable and profitable music career.

  1. 10H AGO

    328 Christian DeWild – Multi-Art Creativity: Balancing Music, Books, and Painting While Building an Authentic Artistic Career

    Multi-art creativity takes center stage in this conversation with Christian DeWild, a Folsom, California-based artist who seamlessly juggles music, literature, and visual art while working for an electrical contractor. Christian has just released his first single of 2025, "By Your Side," recorded on his analog Tascam system and he's the author of two published books including "Dead Flowers: Let's Get Married On Halloween" and "Some Days Are Ashes: Poems, Limericks, and Illustrations." In this episode, we explore Christian's unique approach to balancing multiple creative disciplines, his experience with self-publishing books, and the challenges that come with it. We discuss his obsessive relationship with art projects, his philosophical contemplations about creativity within the finite nature of life, and his active role in Folsom's blues scene. Christian shares insights about the importance of face-to-face networking for securing gigs, his transition to releasing only singles rather than full albums, and the varying timelines he experiences when finishing songs. Whether you're a multi-disciplinary artist or looking to expand your creative practice beyond music, this conversation offers perspectives on maintaining authenticity while pursuing diverse artistic passions. Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers. Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes. Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives. Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime. Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process. More Resources for musicians Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure)  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support! Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    59 min

  2. MAY 30

    327 Timothy Reid – Game Composition: From AAA Studios to Indie Freedom

    Game composition opportunities have transformed dramatically in recent years, creating new pathways for musicians to enter the video game industry. In this episode, I reconnect with Timothy Reid, a guitarist-turned-video game composer based in Osaka, Japan, for his second appearance on the show since our 2021 conversation. Timothy shares his journey from session guitarist to working at a major AAA game studio, and how recent industry layoffs led to what he calls "the best thing that could have happened" – discovering the world of indie game development. We explore the creative differences between large studio structures and freelance composition work, the learning curve of adaptive music and sound design, and how traditional musicianship skills translate to the gaming industry. Whether you're a musician curious about video game composition or interested in navigating career transitions in creative fields, Timothy's insights offer valuable perspective on finding new opportunities within industry upheaval. Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers. Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes. Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives. Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime. Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process. More Resources for musicians Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure)  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support! Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    1h 15m

  3. MAY 16

    326 Anmara - Music Funding Success: From $150,000 in Grants to Record Deal

    Music funding has been transformative for Anmara, with the Virginia-based singer-songwriter securing over $150,000 through grants, crowdfunding, and her recent Chrome City Records deal. In this episode, Anmara shares her approach to financing her music career, from winning a prestigious $75,000 House Artist Grant in 2014 to successfully building albums via Patreon pre-orders. We explore her evolution from dreamy ambient folk toward pop as Chrome City Records invests in exploring her pop star potential, plus her DIY strategies for creating professional music videos and photo shoots on minimal budgets. Anmara compares crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter versus Patreon, discusses receiving multiple grants from Prescott College, and shares the healthy habits that fuel her continuous creative output. From charting on iTunes’ top 100 singer-songwriter albums to touring Europe and the West Coast, Anmara opens up about imposter syndrome, today’s changing music consumption landscape, and her mission to touch lives through her music and newsletter. She also discusses essential self-care practices for show days. This conversation offers insights and inspiration for independent musicians seeking diverse revenue streams – whether through grants, crowdfunding, or label partnerships – while building sustainable careers on their own terms. Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers. Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes. Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives. Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime. Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process. More Resources for musicians Disclosure:  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support! Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    59 min

  4. MAY 9

    325 Music Collaboration: Tracee Perrin on Creative Partnerships, Life in Nashville, and Staying Healthy on Tour

    This music collaboration episode features the return of Tracee Perrin discussing her creative partnerships in Nashville and the release of her 2024 EP "The Clearing." Tracee shares insights about her upcoming single "Seasons Change" with Lauren Anderson and how their collaborative mini-tour succeeded through effective merchandise strategies. We explore the parallels between marriage and musical partnerships, techniques for maintaining vocal health while touring, and the creative process behind their joint content creation. Tracee reflects on embracing artistic challenges and her fear of not fulfilling her creative potential. Whether you're an independent musician looking to expand your collaborative projects or seeking practical touring advice, this conversation offers valuable lessons from an artist thriving in Nashville's competitive music scene. Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers. Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes. Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives. Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime. Resources Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process. Kit – Email Marketing for Musicians – Email marketing and audience building software that helps musicians like you turn your passion into a full-time career by connecting you to your fans faster. ​Start a free trial​. The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income More Resources for musicians Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support! Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    55 min

  5. APR 25

    324 Abe Partridge - Touring Strategy, Recording, Collaboration, and Documenting Undocumented Folk

    Touring strategy, recording, and collaboration are at the heart of this conversation with independent music artist Abe Partridge. Fresh from recording with Steve Shelley of Sonic Youth, Abe shares his journey on the road since 2017, including performing with Matthew Sweet and recently signing with a booking agent. We explore his Alabama Astronaut podcast documenting the undocumented folk music of serpent-handling churches in Appalachia, and discuss practical approaches for planning shows, building industry relationships, and creating sustainable revenue through live performances rather than streaming. Gain valuable insights on navigating the music business as an independent artist who's found his unique path to success. Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers. Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes. Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives. Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime. Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process. More Resources for musicians Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure)  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support! Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    58 min

  6. APR 11

    Canadian Immigration: Essential Legal Guide for Touring Musicians with Maggie Stewart

    In this episode, we explore Canadian immigration essentials for touring musicians with expert Maggie Stewart, a Los Angeles-based immigration lawyer with 15 years of experience specializing in Canadian immigration law. Discover crucial information about navigating criminal conviction waivers, work permit requirements, and visa processes for performing in Canada. Maggie shares valuable insights on border crossing best practices and insurance considerations that every touring artist should know. We also touch on the Canadian arts and festival scene. Whether you’re a musician, manager, crew member, or agent planning performances in Canada, this conversation provides actionable legal guidance to ensure your international tours proceed without immigration complications. Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers. Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes. Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives. Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime. Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process. More Resources for musicians Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure)  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support! Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    58 min

  7. MAR 28

    322 Creative Storytelling: Novelist Sofía Segovia on the Art of Narrative

    Creative storytelling bridges worlds in this special episode where I speak with acclaimed Mexican novelist Sofía Segovia, author of the internationally celebrated book "The Murmur of Bees." Our conversation explores the fascinating parallels between writing novels and creating music - from creative discipline and narrative techniques to building an international audience and adapting to changing industries. This interview had personal significance as Segovia's novel is set in Linares, Mexico. Linares was the birthplace of my father in 1922, creating a powerful connection that became even more meaningful after my recent journey to Mexican citizenship. Segovia shares insights from her evolution as a ghostwriter to an acclaimed international author, how she balances creative output with teaching writing workshops, and her experience bringing Mexican stories to global audiences. Whether you are a musician, writer, or creative entrepreneur, you'll find valuable wisdom in Segovia's journey about the universal elements that help creative work resonate across cultural boundaries. Don't miss our thought-provoking conversation about creative processes, audience building, and the bridges between literary and musical storytelling. Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers. Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes. Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives. Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime. Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process. More Resources for musicians Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure)  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support! Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    1h 4m
  8. 321 Maximizing Video Promotion Impact: Andy Gesner's Strategies for Independent Musicians

    MAR 14

    321 Maximizing Video Promotion Impact: Andy Gesner's Strategies for Independent Musicians

    Effective video promotion strategies can transform an independent artist’s career, as demonstrated by Hip Video Promo founder Andy Gesner in this informative conversation. With 25 years of experience connecting musicians to audiences through visual content, Andy shares the tactics behind breakthrough successes like Johnny Cash’s “Hurt” and The Lumineers’ “Ho Hey” videos that propelled these artists to new heights of recognition. From his studio in South River, New Jersey, Andy reveals what truly matters in today’s digital landscape: authentic engagement over vanity metrics, consistent content creation schedules, and leveraging the right platforms for your genre and audience. You’ll learn practical approaches to video promotion that work for independent artists at every career stage. This episode unpacks: How visual storytelling can create deeper connections with potential fans The evolution of music video distribution from MTV to streaming platforms Methods for measuring true engagement versus superficial view counts Practical ways to showcase your authentic personality through visual media Whether you’re planning your first music video or looking to enhance your visual marketing strategy, Andy’s insights provide a roadmap for making your visual identity work harder for your music career. Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers. Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes. Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives. Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime. Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process. More Resources for musicians Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure)  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support! Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    1h 1m
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About

The Unstarving Musician features interviews with independent musicians, songwriters, producers, and music industry professionals who share their experience and expertise on recording, touring, marketing, the business of music, and more. This is all intended to help you, the independent music artists create a sustainable and profitable music career.

Information

  • Creator
    Robonzo (Roberto R Hernandez)
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    327
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2018-2024 • Unstarving Musician
  • Show Website
    The Unstarving Musician

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