Keep your music industry skills sharp by listening smart
Written by Aly Laube
If you’re working independently in the music industry, these four podcasts were made just for you. Listen through, keep a notebook and pen nearby, and jot down ideas and notes as you go. You might be surprised by how many takeaways you discover.
Other Record Labels
This insightful podcast is hosted by Scott Orr of the Toronto indie label Other Songs, which represents artists like Illitry and Timid, The Brave. Every week, Orr doles out useful tips about music marketing and features interviews with trend-setting indie labels like Sub Pop and Topshelf Records. Chances are high they have an episode on your favourite label.
Recommended episode: Mello Music Group (Seba Kaapstad, Oddisee, Mike Eagle) - Mike Tolle
The Future of What
Although she's no longer producing new episodes, Portia Sabin of Kill Rock Stars amassed a library of knowledge on The Future of What that’s recent enough to still be highly relevant. She spoke with members of all corners of the music industry on topics ranging from pandemic-era music consumption to mental health in the music industry. Expect some news pieces and how-tos in there in addition to the guest interviews, available wherever you listen via the website.
Recommended Episode: Episode #106 : Spotlight On Father/Daughter Records
New Music Business
Made by the author of a best-selling book on the modern music business, this podcast gives listeners the tools to run a successful career of their own. Ari Herstand aims to offer accessible content that reflects the almost exclusively digital media landscape artists have to work with right now, so his suggestions are relevant and helpful. It’s easy to understand and packed full of great advice targeted at those early in their careers.
Recommended Episode: How To Create an Artist Brand from Scooter Braun’s Creative Director
Song Exploder
It’s not business-focused, but this is a must-listen for any songwriter. Hosted by Hrishikesh Hirway of the Grammy Museum, Song Exploder dives into how artists came up with the hits that made them famous. Learn from the people who broke into the mainstream while they spill their songwriting secrets. Guests include Solange, Billie Eilish, Bon Iver, and so many more it’ll make your head spin.
Recommended Episode: Bleachers - I Miss Those Days
Listening to podcasts is an easy, fun way to keep up with music industry trends. Start with these four podcasts and keep exploring from there. We've also recommended some newsletters you can sign up to.
