The Unstarving Musician

Robonzo (Roberto R Hernandez)
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. FEB 7

    318 Music Business Essentials – A Musician's Guide to Copyrights, Contracts & Cash Flow

    Music business fundamentals can make or break an artist's career sustainability. In this episode, we break down essential legal and financial practices that help independent musicians protect their work and build sustainable careers. From copyright registration and performance contracts to accounting basics and tax planning, we provide actionable steps for managing the business side of music while staying focused on creativity. Learn how to establish proper documentation, maximize royalty collection, and implement smart financial tracking that will serve your music career for years to come. Episode links & resources 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. This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career. Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that? To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing. 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. 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! Visit UnstarvingMusician.com to sign up for Liner Notes to learn what I'm learning from the best indie musicians and music industry professionals. Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on Twitter  and  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    21 min
  2. JAN 31

    317 Tour Planning – Essential Strategies for Independent Musicians' Success

    Tour planning requires careful strategy and execution for independent musicians to succeed on the road. In this episode, I share key insights from Liner Notes Insider on venue selection, tour management, fan engagement, and revenue optimization. Learn practical approaches to building sustainable tours and get a glimpse of the exclusive content available to Liner Notes Insider subscribers. Whether planning your first tour or looking to improve your touring game, this episode delivers actionable tips for the independent touring musician. Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. 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. This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career. Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that? To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing. 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. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime. Mentions and Related Episodes Find links to related episodes and various things mentioned in this episode at UnstarvingMusician.com. Resources and Special Deals 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! Visit UnstarvingMusician.com to sign up for Liner Notes to learn what I'm learning from the best indie musicians and music industry professionals. Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on Twitter  and  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    14 min
  3. JAN 17

    316 Home Recording: A Drummer's Guide to Getting Started

    Home recording doesn't require a professional studio - it requires understanding fundamentals, making smart choices about gear, and focusing on performance quality. In this episode, I share my journey from basic podcast recording to producing music, including practical tips on choosing your first DAW, selecting an audio interface, and setting up your recording space. You'll learn about essential gear, common connectivity issues, and how to manage the learning curve without getting overwhelmed. Whether you're a drummer looking to record your kit or a musician wanting to capture your ideas, this guide will help you start your home recording journey with confidence. I also share real-world examples from recording my own singles and hundreds of podcast episodes, along with budget-friendly solutions for beginners. 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. This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career. Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that? To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing. 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. 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! Visit UnstarvingMusician.com to sign up for Liner Notes to learn what I'm learning from the best indie musicians and music industry professionals. Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on Twitter  and  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    51 min
  4. JAN 10

    315 Tony Harrah – Book Marketing, Sales Strategy, and Industry Independence

    Book marketing takes center stage in part two of my conversation with independent musician and author Tony Harrah. He breaks down his mathematical approach to sales strategy, sharing insights on reaching target audiences without traditional industry gatekeepers. From his decision to self-narrate audio books to his perspective on working with publicists and labels, Tony offers practical wisdom for creative entrepreneurs. This continuation of last week's discussion explores the current state of music, his marketing plans for his latest releases, and the launch of TheGreasyHedonist.com as his creative hub. Catch his album "Unicorns" on Soundcloud and discover how he's applying independent music principles to his expanding artistic portfolio. Please enjoy this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever podcasts are found. 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. 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. 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 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! Visit UnstarvingMusician.com to sign up for Liner Notes to learn what I'm learning from the best indie musicians and music industry professionals. Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on Twitter  and  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    49 min
  5. JAN 3

    314 Lyrical Poetry – Tony Harrah on the Parallels of Book and Music Marketing

    Independent musician and author Tony Harrah shares his lyrical poetry journey across the music and literary worlds. In this first of two parts, Tony discusses his realization that marketing books mirrors marketing music, detailing his experiences building writer groups (much like starting his blues jams) and developing grassroots promotional strategies. We explore his evolution from musician to author with works like "Boxing With God" and "Asking For a Playground Push, But Got a Schoolyard Shove," while discussing the arts' recovery in a post-pandemic landscape. Since our last conversation in 2019, following the unexpected loss of his wife, Tony has navigated remarkable transitions - both personal and professional. Now remarried, he brings unique insights into building creative communities and finding new pathways to connect with audiences. Stay tuned for part two next week, where we'll explore Tony's observations on the current state of music, his marketing strategies for his latest book, thoughts on working with industry professionals, and his decision to narrate his audiobooks. Plus, we'll get a preview of his upcoming platform, TheGreasyHedonist.com. 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. This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career. Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that? To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing. 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. 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! Visit UnstarvingMusician.com to sign up for Liner Notes to learn what I'm learning from the best indie musicians and music industry professionals. Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on Twitter  and  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    34 min
  6. 313 The Power of Imperfect Music Marketing: Getting Real with Your Audience

    12/16/2024

    313 The Power of Imperfect Music Marketing: Getting Real with Your Audience

    Music marketing doesn't have to be perfect to be effective. Join host Robonzo as he challenges traditional promotion methods and reveals why your unpolished, real moments might be your greatest marketing asset. Learn practical strategies for Instagram Stories, Reels, and Posts, plus discover the untapped potential of LinkedIn for booking gigs. With personal anecdotes and actionable insights, this episode shows how embracing authenticity can lead to deeper audience connections and better engagement. From the 70-20-10 content rule to building genuine relationships in your local music community, you'll gain practical tools to market your music more effectively while staying true to yourself. 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. This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career. Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that? To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing. 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. 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! Visit UnstarvingMusician.com to sign up for Liner Notes to learn what I'm learning from the best indie musicians and music industry professionals. Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on Twitter  and  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    41 min
  7. 11/22/2024

    312 Chris Taylor – Creative Resilience Through Music and Storytelling

    In this powerful return appearance, singer-songwriter Chris Taylor (episodes 65, 97) joins us for a deeply personal conversation as part of a storytellers series. A creative force in constant motion, Chris opens up about his journey while preparing to release an exciting new collection of music. Our discussion weaves through themes of artistic comparison, trust in creative instincts, and a transformative experience opening for Six Pence None The Richer. Chris shares intimate stories from his youth in San Antonio's bible belt, including his complex relationship with his father and the circumstances that led to this challenging chapter of his life. We also explore Chris's latest projects, including a mini autobiographical documentary and previews of his upcoming musical release. His natural gift for storytelling and boundless creativity shine throughout this candid and inspiring conversation about survival, self-discovery, and the healing power of artistic expression. 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. This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career. Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that? To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing. 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. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime. Mentions and Related Episodes Secrets of Creativity–Chris Taylor (Ep97)  Creating Music to Discover Who He Is – Chris Taylor  Sixpence None the Richer 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 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! Visit UnstarvingMusician.com to sign up for Liner Notes to learn what I'm learning from the best indie musicians and music industry professionals. Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on Twitter  and  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    43 min
  8. 11/08/2024

    311 - Musician Finance: Building Your Safety Net (It's Simpler Than You Think)

    Let's face it - most musicians didn't pick up their instruments because they love spreadsheets or numbers. In this practical musician finance episode, we break down the often-intimidating topic of financial management into actionable, musician-friendly steps. Learn how to build a financial safety net that will give you more freedom to make music, including proven strategies for multiple revenue streams, simple budgeting techniques, and essential musician-finance practices that won't make your head spin. Whether you're a full-time musician or working toward it, these straightforward financial tips will help you build a more sustainable music career. Plus, discover why having a backup plan is just as important as having a backup amp (or bass drum pedal). Time to get financially savvy without sacrificing your creative spirit! Key Topics: Musician finance, revenue streams, budgeting basics, accounting for creatives 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. This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career. Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that? To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing. 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. 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! Visit UnstarvingMusician.com to sign up for Liner Notes to learn what I'm learning from the best indie musicians and music industry professionals. Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on Twitter  and  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    10 min
4.9
out of 5
13 Ratings

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.

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