Not Just Music Podcast

08/16/2026

Independent music promotion often focuses heavily on digital streaming platforms, but physical distribution remains a powerful tool. In this article, you will discover why burning CDs at home and selling music directly in person can outperform streaming algorithms, generate immediate cash flow, and build a deeply loyal fanbase for underground and emerging creators…

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08/15/2026

Every independent artist wants to know how to make money from their music—but maybe we're asking the wrong question.

Instead of worrying about how to make your first $1,000, what can you do to make your first dollar?

In this episode of Not Just Music Podcast, we break down what it really means to approach your music like a business. From selling directly to fans and getting back to hand-to-hand promotion to live performances, sync licensing, websites, merchandise, and other opportunities outside of streaming platforms, there are more ways to make money with your music than many artists realize.

We also talk about why simply uploading music isn't enough. Artists have to be willing to get outside, meet people, promote themselves, invest in their brand, take risks, and put their music in front of actual consumers.

Most importantly, we discuss the mindset behind it all. Before somebody else believes in your music, you have to believe in it enough to sell it....

Every independent artist wants to know how to make money from their music—but maybe we're asking the wrong question. Instead of worrying about how to make your f…

08/11/2026

Submitting music to radio stations, curators, and industry professionals requires far more than dropping a link in an inbox. This guide breaks down the exact formatting rules, metadata details, and organizational strategies independent artists must use to ensure their tracks get credited, reviewed, and spun without getting lost in the digital noise…..

Learn how to format a professional music submission email for radio stations. Discover metadata tips, organization hacks, and why email beats DMs.

08/03/2026

New Episode! "Emails Over DMs"

Communication Could Be Costing You Opportunities
Are you trying to build a music career through Instagram DMs and Facebook Messenger? It may be time to rethink your approach.

In this episode of the Not Just Music Podcast, we discuss why professional communication is one of the most overlooked skills in the music industry. The team explains why emails, phone calls, Zoom meetings, and proper business etiquette still open more doors than social media messages ever will.

We also break down how artists should submit music professionally, why details matter when contacting radio stations, promoters, and industry professionals, and how something as simple as having a dedicated business email can prevent you from missing life-changing opportunities.

Whether you're an independent artist, producer, entrepreneur, or creative professional, this episode will challenge you to communicate with intention and present yourself like the business you claim to be.

What You'll Learn

Why email is still the most professional form of business communication.

The problems with relying on social media DMs for serious opportunities.

How to organize your business with a dedicated email address.

What information should always be included when submitting music.

Why consistency and professionalism separate serious artists from hobbyists.

Simple communication habits that can help grow your career.

If you're serious about building a lasting career in music, don't overlook the small details. Sometimes the next opportunity isn't waiting in your DMs—it's waiting in your inbox.

Communication Could Be Costing You Opportunities Are you trying to build a music career through Instagram DMs and Facebook Messenger? It may be time to rethink your…

07/25/2026

Flubbing lyrics or messing up a note during a live music performance happens to every artist, but it is how you handle the mistake that defines your stage presence. This guide breaks down proven recovery tactics, how to use backing tracks as a safety net, and methods to keep your audience engaged even when things go wrong on stage.

Learn how to recover from flubbing lyrics or missing notes during a live performance without losing your crowd. Essential stage tips for independent artists.

07/23/2026

New word unlocked... "Flubbing"

via Webster

Flubbing is an informal term meaning to botch, bungle, or make a clumsy mistake. Whether you are messing up a speech, dropping a catch, or ruining a recipe, flubbing refers to a failure to perform an action correctly.

07/23/2026

New Episode! "Showmanship: Why Your Live Performance Can Make or Break Your Career"

Making great music is only half the battle. The real question is: Can you perform it?
In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked skills in the music industry—showmanship. We discuss why performing live requires preparation, confidence, and consistency, and why every performance, whether it's for two people or two thousand, deserves your absolute best.

Quincy Murdock shares lessons from years of performing everywhere from street corners to large stages, while we break down how preparation, crowd engagement, stage presence, and professionalism separate artists from entertainers.

If you're serious about building a career in music, this conversation will challenge you to think beyond the studio and start treating every performance as an opportunity to grow your fanbase.

What You'll Learn
Why showmanship is a skill every artist must develop

The difference between recording music and performing it live

How to engage an audience regardless of crowd size

Why practicing your performance matters just as much as practicing your songs

Recovering from mistakes without losing the audience

How backing tracks can help newer performers

Why sound engineers and equipment matter more than artists realize

Turning small performances into larger opportunities

Bringing the same energy whether you're performing for 2 people or 2,000

Why every live show could be the one that changes your career

Key Takeaways
✅ Every performance is an audition for your next opportunity.

✅ Practice your stage performance—not just your music.

✅ Small crowds deserve the same energy as sold-out venues.

✅ Mistakes happen. Great performers know how to recover.

✅ Your stage presence sells your music just as much as the song itself.

Memorable Quotes
"You have to make the song come to life."

"Practice your act. Don't just record your song and never perform it."

"Treat every show like it's your last opportunity."

"The live performance is the product of the studio."

Connect With Us
🌐 Website: https://notjustmusicpodcast.com
🎧 New episodes released weekly.

"Where we keep it real and honest."
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https://www.notjustmusicpodcast.com/showmanship-why-your-live-performance-can-make-or-break-your-career/

Making great music is only half the battle. The real question is: Can you perform it? In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked skills in the music i…

07/16/2026

New blog to follow up yesterday’s pod.

Learn why chasing viral hits often hurts independent artists and discover how to build a sustainable, long-term music career through community and business systems.

07/15/2026

New Episode! "Independent Artist Harsh Reality"

Being independent has never been more accessible—but it's also never been more misunderstood.

In this episode of the Not Just Music Podcast, we pull back the curtain on the hard truths that every independent artist needs to hear. From the misconception that paying for distribution makes you a record label, to the dangerous belief that great music alone will find an audience, we break down why talent is only one piece of the equation.

We also discuss why chasing viral moments without a real business foundation is a losing strategy, and why trying to wear every hat in your career can ultimately slow your growth instead of accelerating it.

In this episode, we cover:
Why music distribution is only the beginning—not the business.

The shift from a "Music First" industry to a "Context First" marketplace.

Why marketing, storytelling, and community-building matter more than ever.

The difference between building a sustainable career and chasing viral fame.

Why independent artists should think like entrepreneurs, not lottery players.

How building the right team can help protect both your creativity and your ownership.

If you're serious about building a lasting music career, this conversation is for you. Whether you're just releasing your first single or trying to grow an established brand, these insights can help you avoid common pitfalls and build a stronger foundation for long-term success.

For more episodes, articles, and exclusive content, visit Not Just Music Podcast.

Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with an artist who needs to hear the truth. The independent journey isn't easy—but with the right mindset and strategy, it's absolutely possible.

More Labs’ Morning Recovery is the #1 alcohol recovery supplement that helps you wake up clear-headed and refreshed. Clinically proven and trusted by thousands, with 20M+ bottles sold and a 4.9-star rating, it works. Try it risk-free! Enjoy an exclusive discount with our promo code! "NJMP" Head over to More Labs now.

Being independent has never been more accessible—but it's also never been more misunderstood. In this episode of the Not Just Music Podcast, we pull back the cur…

07/14/2026

New Blog Out!

The Content Multiplier: Turning One Song into a Month of Social Media

Many independent artists believe that success requires a massive marketing budget. They’re told that without thousands for influencers and ads, they can't com…