The Unstarving Musician

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

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. 3D AGO

    338 Jesse Flores – Distribution Partnerships And Strategic Planning For Independent Artists

    Distribution partnerships can make or break an independent music career, but most artists don't understand what separates a good deal from a bad one. Jesse Flores, VP of Artist and Label Partnerships at Intercept Music and former Senior Director at Virgin Music Group, shares insider knowledge from over 20 years negotiating deals with major artists and independent labels. In this conversation, Jesse reveals the specific factors distributors evaluate when considering partnerships, the most common contract mistakes artists make (including the advance trap that costs artists future revenue), and what actually moves the needle for independent artists in 2025. He explains why having a team and release plan matters more than just great music, how to optimize your streaming profiles to attract partnerships, and why listening to your distribution partner's advice is the most overlooked strategy for success. Whether you're self-distributing and considering a partnership or already working with a distributor, Jesse's insights on deal structures, streaming economics, and strategic planning will help you make smarter business decisions. Topics covered: What distributors actually evaluate beyond your music The advance mistake that costs artists future revenue Distribution deal vs. label deal: Critical differences Which contract terms you can negotiate (and which you can't) Why releasing too quickly without a plan hurts your career How to optimize streaming profiles to attract partnerships Marketing tactics that actually work in 2025 (hint: not just playlists) International distribution strategy: Regional rollout vs. global release What artists consistently underinvest in that impacts partnership success The power shift between artists and labels in the streaming era 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 sponsored by Liner Notes Insider. Get exclusive weekly insights drawn from in-depth research and conversations with hundreds of thriving musicians and industry pros. I dig deep to uncover proven strategies for building a sustainable music career, from marketing and touring to sync licensing and beyond. As an Insider, you'll receive: Deep-dive analysis and actionable strategies from extensive industry research Expert interview breakdowns with step-by-step implementation guides Access to my curated resource library and tools Monthly Q&A sessions for personalized guidance Priority access to special events and workshops First look at new resources and research findings Try Liner Notes Free Start with our free edition featuring selected insights and latest episodes. Upgrade anytime to Liner Notes Insider unlock full access. This episode was brought to you by Podcast Startup. Ready to launch your podcast or take it to the next level? Podcast Startup gives you the frameworks, systems, and insider knowledge to build a show that actually grows your audience and serves your goals. Whether you're just getting started or looking to improve your existing podcast, you'll get actionable strategies on equipment selection, content planning, audience building, and sustainable production workflows—without the overwhelm. Learn more at UnstarvingMusician.com/PodcastStartup. Join podcasters who are building shows that last. Mentioned in this Episode Visit the show notes for this episode at UnstarvingMusician.com for links to things mentioned in this episode. Resources The Unstarving Musician's Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo 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! Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    46 min

  2. OCT 24

    337 Ezra Vancil – Business Systems: From Marketing Day Job to Sustainable Music Career

    After 10 years with the same band and launching his own label, Ezra Vancil has learned that sustainable music careers require business systems—not just passion. In this conversation, he reveals the productivity frameworks he's borrowed from his marketing day job and how they've transformed both his creative output and family dynamics. → Liner Notes Insider subscribers get Ezra's complete "Music Career as Business System" framework + his pre-release strategy that sold an album for a full year before streaming. Key Topics Discussed The "fear as compass" approach that guides his creative decisions Why he sold his last album direct for a year before streaming (and the revenue impact) How business systems thinking improved his relationships with band members and family His 5am-8am creative routine that produced a 14-month double album while working full-time The house concert preparation framework that turns parties into professional events Previous Episodes with Ezra Keeping Your Side of the Street Clean–Ezra Vancil (Ep 182)  A Hidden Album Collection Discovery–Ezra Vancil (Ep 42)  The Mystery of The Flounder – Cozi Anda Flounder (Ep 231)  On Top Of The World – Ezra Vancil Interviews Robonzo About Debut Single (Ep 187)  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 was brought to you by Podcast Startup. Ready to launch your podcast or take it to the next level? Podcast Startup gives you the frameworks, systems, and insider knowledge to build a show that actually grows your audience and serves your goals. Whether you're just getting started or looking to improve your existing podcast, you'll get actionable strategies on equipment selection, content planning, audience building, and sustainable production workflows—without the overwhelm. Learn more at UnstarvingMusician.com/PodcastStartup. Join podcasters who are building shows that last. Also Mentioned in this Episode Backline Mental Health & Wellness Resources for Music Industry Professionals Celebrate Recovery  332 Eli Lev – Spiritual Growth: From 250 Shows to Finding Sacred Space in Music  Kid Andersen on Greaseland Studios, Playing The Blues, Musicianship and Music Ed (Ep 003)  Kid Andersen On TrueFire TV and His Forthcoming Album (Ep 110) House Concert Tours & Community – Shannon Curtis  No Booker, No Bouncer, No Bartender: How I Made $25K On A 2-Month House Concert Tour, by Shannon Curtis  Resources The Unstarving Musician's Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo 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! Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    1h 26m

  3. OCT 10

    336 Community Collaboration: Turning Your Fanbase Into Creative Partners Without Losing Artistic Control

    Can your community become a creative collaborator without turning your art into committee-designed mediocrity? In this solo episode, I explore proven frameworks for involving your audience in the creative process while maintaining complete artistic control. You'll discover how Amanda Palmer uses early-stage feedback on Patreon to gather emotional responses (not technical critiques), how British singer-songwriter Lynz Crichton turned her entire EP creation into a 90-day collaborative project with her email and social media communities, and how Imogen Heap invited fans to contribute raw materials—sound samples and personal stories—that she transformed into finished songs. I break down practical approaches you can test: the Preview-and-Pivot Framework (used by Luke Combs for "Forever After All"), constraint-based collaboration methods, and systems for turning fan-generated content into strategic assets rather than distractions. This episode also covers the critical boundaries every artist needs: establishing what's open for feedback versus what's locked, retaining veto power over all input, and knowing when to ignore community resistance entirely as you evolve artistically. Whether you're considering a model like Patreon, building an email list, or just wondering how to get useful feedback without compromising your vision, this episode provides actionable frameworks for sustainable creative collaboration. 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. Mentioned in this Episode  Songwriting with a Deadline–Lynz Crichton (Episode 49)  What a Tease: Why Song Previews Became Crucial In Modern Music  How Imogen Heap invited fans to contribute raw materials for her album Sparks  333 How to Build, Name, and Nurture Your Creative Community  Palmer Patreon Subscriber Guide  Signup for Liner Notes  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

    29 min

  4. SEP 26

    335 Music Revenue Through Community - Moving Beyond Streaming

    Music revenue diversification is essential for independent artists, but how do you actually monetize your community of superfans? This follow-up to episode 333's community-building strategies explores the practical side of turning deep fan relationships into sustainable income that goes beyond streaming pennies.   Emerging direct-to-fan platforms like MySeat (highlighted by Dave Cool, formerly of Bandzoogle) allow artists to create branded mobile apps with multiple revenue streams - subscriptions, merchandise, live events, auctions, and exclusive content. Real case studies break down the revenue psychology of membership-based fan relationships and run realistic math on converting followers into paying subscribers.   But this isn't just another "build it and they will come" episode. Kevin Kelly's sobering follow-up research to his famous "1000 True Fans" theory reveals uncomfortable truths, including ambient musician Robert Rich's brutally honest financial breakdown of three decades pursuing direct fan support. The reality check considers platform risks, time costs, creative constraints, and why most successful direct-to-fan artists still need traditional exposure first to build music revenue.   Balancing optimism with realism, this episode explores genuine opportunities while setting appropriate expectations for what "success" in direct fan monetization actually looks like. Whether you're considering app platforms, subscription models, or other community revenue strategies, you'll discover how to approach these opportunities as part of a diversified career strategy rather than a complete solution.   Recommended for independent artists looking to reduce streaming dependence while exploring new music revenue opportunities and understanding the real challenges of direct fan monetization.   Key Topics:   Direct-to-fan mobile app platforms and business models Revenue psychology: consumption vs. membership Real financial case studies and conversion math Platform ownership vs. algorithm dependence Kevin Kelly's "1000 True Fans" follow-up research Robert Rich's 30-year direct fan experience Implementation strategies and cautionary considerations Diversified income approaches for sustainable careers 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 Mentioned in this Episode  MySeat Media  1,000 True Fans  The Case Against 1,000 True Fans  The Reality of Depending on True Fans  How to Build, Name, and Nurture Your Creative Community (Unstarving Musician episode 333)  Eli Lev – Spiritual Growth: From 250 Shows to Finding Sacred Space in Music (Unstarving Musician episode 332)  JR Richards – Dishwalla, His Tenth Album Forthcoming, Email Marketing, List Building, E-Commerce, Touring (Unstarving Musician episode 284)  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

    25 min

  5. SEP 12

    334 Musician Podcaster Bree Noble – From Kitchen Recordings to Industry Authority

    As a musician podcaster who has built multiple successful shows over the past decade, Bree Noble represents what's possible when artists embrace podcasting as both a creative outlet and business tool. In this conversation, she shares her evolution from recording in her kitchen to becoming a recognized industry authority featured in Forbes. Bree reveals the technical and logistical challenges she faced transitioning from Women of Substance streaming radio to becoming the speaking host of a podcast. She discusses why she wishes she'd front-loaded more episodes before launching and shares practical strategies such as having set interview questions ready and using scheduling tools like Acuity. Our discussion covers her journey through multiple iterations of her shows, from Women of Substance to Female Entrepreneur Musician to the current Profitable Musician Show rebrand in 2020. Bree explains how AI tools have transformed her workflow and why episode swaps and collaboration episodes are particularly effective strategies for musician podcasts. For musicians considering podcasting, Bree offers frameworks for determining whether podcasting suits your situation while warning against underestimating the consistency required to build an audience. She shares how podcasting deepened her relationships with listeners and created networking opportunities that traditional music marketing approaches never provided. Whether you're exploring podcasting as a new creative outlet or looking to establish authority in your field, this episode provides actionable insights from someone who has successfully navigated every stage of podcast development while maintaining her identity as a musician and entrepreneur. No one finds starting a podcast easy without a comprehensive roadmap. As fate would have it, I've created a complete roadmap in a course called Podcast Startup. The course covers everything from equipment selection to testing video with gear you already have. Find details at UnstarvingMusician.com/PodcastStartup. 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. Mentioned in this Episode Female Entrepreneur Musician  Podcast Startup Bree Noble on Women of Substance Radio, Going Pro and Making Money A Profitable Musician Summit–Bree Noble  Profitable Musician Summit 2019–Bree Noble (Ep 98) 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 3m

  6. AUG 22

    333 How to Build, Name, and Nurture Your Creative Community

    Most independent artists focus on building an audience, but the real power lies in developing a creative community. In this episode, I delve into the psychology behind transforming casual followers into passionate community members who view themselves as part of something larger. Drawing insights from my recent interview with singer-songwriter Eli Lev and his "Levitators" community, I break down the key differences between audience building and creative community development. You'll discover why community names matter more than you think, how to move beyond social media performance theater, and practical strategies for creating authentic engagement that serves both you and your supporters. I examine successful creative community examples from Trekkies to Swifties, revealing what makes certain community names stick while others fall flat. The episode also covers three core engagement strategies: collaborative content creation, meaningful interaction over metrics, and service orientation that benefits everyone involved. This episode provides a four-step action plan for building a creative community. Because in today's music industry, success isn't measured by how many people know your name, but by how many people are better off because they found your work. Recommended for independent musicians, content creators, and artists looking to create meaningful connections around their creative work.  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! Mentioned in this Episode Robonzo.com  "1,000 True Fans" by Kevin Kelly  332 Eli Lev – Spiritual Growth: From 250 Shows to Finding Sacred Space in Music  Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube

    31 min

  7. AUG 8

    332 Eli Lev – Spiritual Growth: From 250 Shows to Finding Sacred Space in Music

    Spiritual growth takes many forms for independent musicians. Folk artist Eli Lev has woven together influences from Jewish upbringing, Buddhism, and Navajo teachings into a unique artistic journey that took him through 250 shows last year alone.   In this third appearance on the podcast, Eli opens up about the realities of intensive touring, the "entry and exit friction" that comes with constant travel, and how he maintains spiritual and personal well-being while building his Levatators community. We discuss this and his upcoming "Past Lives" EP, as well as his live video for "Where We Come From," shot in a restored 1765 log home on Maryland's Trial Run Farm.   Rather than saving the tough questions for the end, we flip the script and start with what's really slowing him down and the pain he's willing to embrace for his art. Eli shares insights on working with multiple producers, the evolution from his completed Four Directions project to this new spiritual exploration, and how his exposure to diverse faiths influences both his songwriting and his approach to building authentic community with fans.   Whether you're interested in tour sustainability, expressing personal themes in your music, or looking to build deeper connections with your audience, Eli's journey from teaching on the Navajo Nation to becoming a full-time touring artist offers practical wisdom and philosophical depth.   Key Topics: Managing the physical and emotional toll of 250+ shows annually Weaving diverse spiritual influences into cohesive songwriting Building the Levatators fan community through authentic connection Working with multiple producers across different projects The "entry and exit friction" of intensive touring Creating meaningful music videos in historic locations 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.  check out one of our affiliates below. 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 Libsyn Podcast Hosting Kit – Email Marketing for Musicians 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

    56 min

  8. JUL 25

    331 Musical Listening: The Art of Playing While Truly Hearing Your Band

    Musical listening is the secret that separates professional-sounding bands from technically correct but disconnected performances. This episode explores blues guitarist Kid Andersen's "50% rule" and why listening should consume at least half of your mental bandwidth while playing.   You'll discover the technical mastery paradox that traps countless musicians, practical strategies for developing dual awareness between your performance and your bandmates, and advanced applications, including how rhythm sections use listening skills to lead without taking over. We'll also delve into genre-specific listening approaches for jazz, rock, and acoustic settings, as well as how to read the room and respond to audience energy in real-time.   The episode concludes by addressing a challenge many independent musicians face: staying current with industry trends without burning out or sacrificing actual practice time. Learn curation strategies and practical boundaries that protect your creative focus while keeping you informed and current.   Whether you're struggling to lock in with your rhythm section, missing dynamic cues during performances, or feeling overwhelmed by information overload, this episode provides actionable insights for developing the listening skills that transform good musicians into truly musical collaborators.   Key topics covered:   Kid Andersen's 50% mental bandwidth rule for musical listening The technical mastery paradox and cognitive load management Practical exercises for developing dual awareness while playing Advanced rhythm section leadership through listening Genre-specific listening strategies for different musical styles Reading room energy and supporting struggling bandmates Managing information overload without sacrificing musical growth   Enjoy this episode wherever fine 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 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

    27 min
See All (337)

Trailer

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Robonzo (Roberto R Hernandez)
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    337
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2018-2024 • Unstarving Musician
  • Show Website
    The Unstarving Musician

You Might Also Like