In my 24 years in the music business, I’ve never experienced a moment quite like this. We are collectively at a crossroads, which I’m sure you can feel too. Traditional marketing tactics are falling flat, largely due to collective exhaustion and the fact that social media has shifted from being social to purely transactional. Artists, en masse, are finally questioning whether this career is worth it — waking up not only to the reality that the math doesn’t add up, but also to how damaging it has been to not control their own fan data. Meanwhile, AI is permeating every corner of the business, creating as much fear and uncertainty as it is new opportunities. At the same time, senior-level music industry talent are being fired en masse, with no new seat to jump to.

Whatever consistent complaint you have about the state of this business, it persists because you tolerate it. Just like toxic relationships, dysfunction continues when we allow it. We’ve had the experience, but we’ve missed the meaning.

This is the moment where we all have a unique opportunity to reshape and reimagine the music industry we want to live and thrive in. It’s sobering, but necessary, to take responsibility for the conditions we now find ourselves in — both individually and collectively. As an industry, we may feel a bottoming out, but there’s power and clarity in hitting a low point. I remember when I made the terrifying decision to quit my job shortly after my wife lost hers, with a new baby on the way and no safety net. From the outside, the timing was terrible. But I knew I had to leap, to fight for a healthier and fulfilling future. It was scary being on the edge, but I never felt more alive. That desperate creative energy — born from urgency and fear — is something I would love to tap into again, without reliving the anxiety of those circumstances.

If you find yourself feeling something similar in this moment, channel the energy generated by your current anxiety and future fears into creating. The right actions will follow. It’s hard, I know. Everything you’re feeling right now is valid and viscerally real. Sit with that for a moment, and then turn your attention to where you have control and begin designing from there with maximum responsibility. The uncertainty we’re facing as an industry can be framed as daunting or exhilarating, that’s a choice we each share.

Whether you’re an artist or in the business of music, we are all part of one ecosystem — beautiful, chaotic, and interconnected. We’ve been playing someone else’s game for too long, but now we have the chance to design our own environment rather than tolerate whatever corporate greed decides to hand us next. You better believe a wolf in sheep’s clothing is in development.

I’ve long felt a chasm between artists and the industry, an unnecessary power dynamic and gatekeeping void. It’s closing quickly, and it’s time to fully bridge this gap — by flipping the power dynamic. The people creating the music we all enjoy and depend on should be at the top of the food chain, while those in support must willingly know and accept their place in the ecosystem, standing next in line. Artists have long lost their way, drawn into a memetic competition for metrics that increasingly mean less. Until artists shift their priorities and what they value, little with change for them. Similarly, the industry has lost touch with its sense of awe, admiration, and patience for the humans who wear their hearts on their sleeves and invest everything they have for the sake of their art. But this is changing. I spend a lot of time online listening and observing, and I can hear the shift in tone — in fact, it’s deafening.

There are extremely talented, properly aligned people building a future where artists truly stand at the top of the food chain, whether it’s protecting IP, data rights management, new distribution models, financial literacy for musicians, there’s a lot of good on the immediate horizon. I see the subtle and overt acts of support and camaraderie from my industry colleagues. I can notice artists starting to be less territorial and more welcoming to each other. By nurturing the relationships between people, resources, and opportunities, we can create a balanced, appropriately competitive, enriching, and collaborative habitat where we all thrive.

I’ve spent 2024 hosting music mixers in Los Angeles and, most recently, New York. I love connecting people and seeing what they create together, fully believing in the butterfly effect that happens when talented, well-intentioned individuals meet for the first time. At these mixers, I spend most of my time watching and listening, observing the clear need for authentic human connection and interaction — something that feels non-competitive, an ‘I see you, and you see me’ exchange. We are all moving forward, sometimes at different speeds and with unique perspectives, but it’s so much healthier to move arm in arm, pulling each other upwards, and striving for a better experience of this musical life. Our connections don’t need to be purely transactional — that’s how we reconcile the world and our place in it.

Why should we tolerate anything or anyone out of alignment with this aim? The bad actors who take advantage, manipulate, bully, or harass artists continue because they are tolerated and given free rein in our habitat. If you tolerate them, their behavior is enabled, and it falls to the next artist in their path to hold the line. If you continue to tolerate the nepotism, the grifting, the gaslighting — well, we already know what that music industry looks like. We’ve long been complicit.

What happens next is our responsibility, and I, for one, think it’s going to be amazing. We must not only remain vigilant at this key moment, but strike swiftly at the opportunity that has presented itself to reset our world. We get the music industry we tolerate. So, what — and who — are you going to no longer tolerate?

Soundtrack courtesy of “Tourist” by Luna Shadows.

I wrote this blog after reading hundreds of posts from colleagues on LinkedIn and artists on Threads, followed by a restless night’s sleep.

I wanna go back when
The worst that could have been was:
Your bike got stolen
And given back by a boy who felt bad and hopeless

Luna’s music is like a nostalgia hand grenade and always brings me back to a simpler and more romantic time, when our worries and desires felt a little less existential and easier to navigate.

If this resonated with you, please share it with other artists or industry folks who were recently laid off who might find it comforting or motivating.

Get in touch with me and my crew here.

Compass Method Consulting (Brooklyn, NY) has earned a reputation for being insightful, direct, and genuinely invested in artist and business development. We’re all about the idea that “good is the new cool,” and our mission is to help artists and businesses find their path with a mix of confidence, clarity, and purpose. We’re here to challenge the usual way of thinking, pushing you to embrace big, bold ambitions while staying grounded in strong values. At the end of the day, it’s not just about strategy; it’s about sparking growth and resilience while guiding you to bring your vision to life with focus and heart.

A simple prescription for artists to tune out the noise.

Your life as an artist is significantly complex. Your expectations are often wildly misaligned and the number of roles you must fill are comical. The pressures are the volcanic kind. The self-doubt and imposter syndrome are obnoxiously loud and carry the persistence of a toddler’s tantrum.

At a time when the music industry is in a controlled burn / reboot, I’ve been dwelling lately on meta principles that an artist like you can, and should, anchor to while the dust settles. I am quite loathe to give generic artist advice as it can dismissively brush aside the undeniable significance of each artist’s unique circumstances and variables, which are critical pieces of information. In my practice, I almost never give the same counsel to multiple artists with the same flavor and nuance. Despite the need for bespoke direction, I believe, after much thinking, I have landed on something broadly useful and accurate.

Here goes…

There are two areas of critical and foundational focus that I believe you should properly fix your sights on.

1. Mastery Of Your Craft

Fairly obvious, is it not? If you haven’t noticed, there is not much attention paid to B or C level music in the listening ecosystem. While releasing steady “content” is arguably the right move for algorithmic goals and audience building, music (the art, remember?) needs to live on a different plane and timeline.

There is absolutely NO substitute for time on task, writing and creating absolutely unlistenable mediocrity in order to find your best material. Your A+ songs are undeniable, you feel it, and others can acknowledge it whether they “like it” or not. And you know you are tricking yourself when you anoint a song an A+ simply because of recency bias.

Aim higher, with a stricter standard for yourself. Your goal should be nothing less than creating music that leaves an indelible mark. Mastery means dedicating yourself to the arduous and often frustrating process of refining your craft until it reaches that unmistakable level of excellence. Are you going to mostly fall short on this? Yes.

Consider this: an entire career can be built on the back of ONE A+ song. Just one. What does it take to create it? Nothing short of everything. It requires relentless dedication, countless hours of practice, and the willingness to push through creative blocks. It demands that you continually challenge yourself, embrace feedback, and never settle for mediocrity.

To achieve mastery, immerse yourself in the process. Analyze the work of artists you admire, deconstruct their techniques, and apply those lessons to your own creations. Write, record, and perform tirelessly, always striving to improve. Accept that failure and frustration are part of the journey, and use them as fuel to propel yourself forward. All this effort doesn’t mean these creations need to see the light of day either. (I have 75 blog posts I have not released because, well, they objectively suck. Consider yourself lucky not to have wasted your time reading them.)

Ultimately, mastering your craft is about more than just technical skill. It’s about developing a unique voice and vision, and conveying that through your music. It’s about creating something that resonates deeply with listeners, something that stands the test of time. And it all starts with an unwavering commitment to excellence.

If you are struggling with prioritizing your craft lately, let’s apply a practical Eliminate-reduce-raise-create grid to get you headed in the right direction.

If mastery becomes a foundational, day-to-day focus, your musical life will experience incremental progress and improvement (what happiness feels like), or with a little luck, non-linear growth.

You know what else happens when you make this an intentional focus?

You will gain respect and credibility and more people will want to help you, which takes us to number 2.

2. Width & Depth of Your Community

Gathering a group of good humans who are genuinely supportive of who you are and what you are building has sweeping ramifications.

In life you only need a few people who you can unequivocally count on in the most difficult of moments. In your music career, you need an army to move mountains, open doors, or pull levers with or without your request to do so.

It is not feasible to undertake this alone, as there is an excessive amount of friction and subtlety to navigate. Your voyage benefits and accelerates from a stiff gale of good will and support.

Width — The type of people in your community should include those from many specialties and walks of life. Managers, A&R, publishers, distributors, lawyers, journalists, producers & engineers, photographers, stylists, video directors, consultants, mentors, publicists, digital marketers, music supervisors & sync agents, graphic artists, studio owners, venue owners & bookers, and educators. And thats just music-related, you should diversify with the music-adjacent, like film makers, ad agency creative directors, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, designers, and investors. This allows for cross pollination and connection points you could never imagine and can only see in hindsight.

Depth — Depth of your community requires a genuine interest in others and the understanding that a significant portion of your community will not generate value outside of camaraderie and cheerleading in the short term. That’s not nothing. You don’t build depth by expecting a result or angling for one. If you are inauthentic in community building, it’s both obvious and a waste of everyone’s time. Depth is initially built on giving rather than receiving. Doing things for others creates value and trust.

The conversations you have along the way will enrich your life and widen your aperture, spawning new ideas and making it strikingly evident that you have been playing too small. Trust me. I just returned from a trip to Los Angeles and had my eyes opened to all the things and people I didn’t know. It was humbling, exciting, and motivating.

The people in it should consist of quality human beings with a reputation for kindness, integrity, and professionalism. Don’t settle and never work with assholes, especially those who dangle “opportunities” that tickle your spidey senses.

The way you know that someone belongs in your network and has the right intentions and spirit is when doors are opened and gestures extended with no expected reciprocation. Let that be a crystal clear marker of authentic support. To borrow a line from Robert DeNiro “When there is any doubt, there is no doubt.”

“But Patrick, I’m an introvert and dread networking!”

I called it a community and not a network for that reason. For some of you, the word ‘networking’ can produce a gag-like reflex, similar to when someone says ‘moist’ or ‘cottage cheese.’ I get it; I still have a shy 12-year-old living rent-free in my mind, too. The dread you feel when you think of networking is a remnant of past pain and is largely habitual. It has nothing to do with who you are and certainly not who you are becoming.

The remedy? As the saying goes, the way to appear interesting is to be interested. If you can build the habit of being genuinely interested and curious about others, you will not only come off as interesting and someone others want to be around, you will also gain confidence and you might just learn something! Assume people know something valuable that you don’t.

Networking isn’t about talking to others as much as it is about listening, and listening is far less scary an endeavor than talking, is it not? Play the long game, because it is one. Be patient, thoughtful, genuine, and honest. Much like mastering your craft, this requires time on task.

Practical Challenge: Feeling stuck in a bubble? Start conversations with 3 new connections each week for a month. Watch what happens.

I understand that searching for a hack, shortcut, or seemingly magical strategy for rapid progress can be incredibly enticing, but do not succumb to this illusion. It often leads to getting burned or burning out.

The mastering of your craft and building of your community are the result of focus and consistent effort, both of which are under your direct control. I understand that it’s harder this way, but its where the payoff lives.

I know you have been at this for a while, or perhaps even a long, long time.

It ain’t over. Keep building.

Soundtrack courtesy of “It Aint Over” by Foy Vance.

This is an impeccable piece of songwriting that nods to Jean Paul Sartre’s character Mathieu Delarue from his series of novels entitled ‘The Roads to Freedom,’ deeply rooted in themes of individual freedom and the responsibility of determining one’s development through acts of will.

If this resonated with you, please share it with other artists who might find it valuable. Get in touch with me here: www.thecompass-method.com

Seemingly every week I talk to an artist who is crumbling under the weight of an awful and toxic relationship or partnership. Some of them stepped through the door knowing full well that something was “off”, but were intoxicated by the potential. Others were blindsided. And I’m not just talking about naive newbies, but veteran artists with enough clout and leverage to avoid such pitfalls.

Sigh…

We find ourselves at a crucial juncture in music history, witnessing the dying breaths and dwindling presence of those in the music industry who exploit and degrade artists during the creative processes or as part of a well-worn power dynamic. It’s a last gasp effort to crush the spirits of rising talents, akin to drowning individuals trying to drag others down with them. It’s a peculiar human characteristic, to say the least: stifling those on the way up due to resentment for their unrealized potential or poor life choices. It has to stop and will take the resolute effort of artists like you to send this behavior to its miserable end.

How is this for a new year’s resolution?

I will stand guard at the gates of my artist career. While I may bend to the pressures, I will not break. Only those whose default demeanor, and way of operating and communicating, is rooted in respect, kindness, and transparency get to play with me. No perceived opportunity or relationship is worth the loss of my self respect and dignity. I will not settle.

If you were to ONLY focus on this, professionally and systematically dissolving any current relationship or partnership that doesn’t match this basic set of virtues, you will find that not only do the right relationships emerge, but so do the right opportunities. For so many of you, that would mean very real and meaningful progress and, just as importantly, it would bring peace of mind!

You know that having relationships you can count on are vital to both your success and your mental health, you have always known that to be true. It’s SO simple as to be easily discounted.

There is a stoic saying, “All learning is remembering.”

If you have learned the hard way over the last few years, remembering foundational truths can provide a way out and forward. Let’s transition from what to avoid to what to embrace:

The act of surrounding yourself with people who are supportive and reliable is self-evidently good.

I would consider that foundational and a first principle. First principles thinking is the act of boiling a process down to the fundamental parts that you know are true and building up from there.

Artist First Principles. I like the ring of that.

Here are a few others first principles that I know to be true:

Commitment to your craft is paramount.

(That’s worthy of saying twice. You simply do not become good enough to warrant the growing or sustained interest of listeners if you do not commit to your craft. It’s a blunt force realization, but it is bedrock.)

Quality matters.

(The quality of your writing and its performance directly affects the recording quality. This, in turn, influences the mixing and mastering stages. Each step is crucial, as it shapes the music’s perception and perceived value. A well-executed process enhances the music’s marketability, reach, and traction. Ultimately, these factors combine to maximize the music’s emotional, spiritual, and economic impact.)

“Success occurs when opportunity meets preparation”

(If an “opportunity” is blocked by a power dynamic driven solely by power and control, it ceases to be an opportunity. The advice to “never be afraid to walk away from a deal” holds true.)

Inherent or developed talent mixed with timing, luck, and maximal effort and responsibility are the key ingredients to an artists success.

(Only part of your journey is in your control.)

Professional artists were once amateurs.

(You are on your way, keep going.)

Learning and mastering the rules of the music business is necessary before you attempt to break them. Honoring, and then breaking them when necessary is optimal.

(So that people want to help you along the way.)

You are responsible for your choices, and even more strictly, responsible for the knowledge required to make the best choices.

(No excuses.)

Each of you hold personal first principles that are cornerstones of the larger meta principles of the music community. The health and stability of your career and the industry at large depend on your wielding of these principles in your willingness to take on the challenges ahead voluntarily.

You would find it time well spent to sit quietly and challenge yourself to articulate your own first principles. In the process you will find sobering and noise cancelling clarity, a stiffening of your backbone, and a welling up of strength that will ultimately set your career free and make all your professional relationships healthy.

But of course, you know this already. Here’s to learning to remember.

Cheers, everyone.

If this resonated with you, please share it with other artists who might find it valuable. Learn more about my learning environment and find out how to work with me here: www.thecompass-method.com

If you haven’t heard of ChatGPT, where have you been? I know — keeping up with the rapid pace of technological advancements can be exhausting. AI systems like ChatGPT are being integrated into various applications at lightning speed, transforming the way we search for information. So, take a deep breath, set aside any Skynet takeover concerns, and delve into the world of AI to explore how it can enhance your understanding of the music landscape and potentially ignite a creative spark. Ultimately, embracing this technology will empower you to become a smarter and more efficient artist.

What is ChatGPT?

Developed by OpenAI, this powerful language model has quickly become a household name, surpassing Google+ to become the fastest app to reach 100 million users in just five months. ChatGPT and search engines both provide information, but they differ in their approach. ChatGPT simulates a conversational, human-like interaction and can understand complex language, maintain context, and adapt to users’ needs, providing personalized responses. Search engines, on the other hand, focus on matching keywords to generate a list of relevant web pages, treating each query as an isolated event without considering context or personal preferences. These tools can complement each other for a well-rounded information-seeking experience.

For artists looking for clarity amidst the matrix, to get unstuck, or a creative spark, ChatGPT and AI platforms like it, are an invaluable tool. When you are in a creative cycle, you should give yourself a wide halo of ease to work on your art, however, when you are in between creative cycles, just doing the busy work of being an artist, speed and efficiency are absolutely critical.

Keep in mind, what I list below is the bare minimum of what is possible to uncover using a tool like this. The rabbit hole is a deep one.

1 — Strategy & Research:

ChatGPT can assist independent musicians in acquiring a deeper understanding of comparable artists, encompassing aspects such as release tactics, professional trajectory, pivotal figures, initial advocates, storytelling contours, and the resonance of their projects. Let me show you…

Let’s say you are a indie singer-songwriter in the relative sonic space of Phoebe Bridgers. You can load up ChatGPT and issue prompts like this:

YOU: What is the release history of the artist Phoebe Bridgers? Analyze the timing between releases, how they were paced, and what that analysis might tell a similar independent artist in terms of release strategy.

ChatGPT: Phoebe Bridgers is an American indie singer-songwriter who gained critical acclaim with her debut album “Stranger in the Alps” in 2017. Since then, she has released several projects, including a collaborative album and two solo albums. Here’s a breakdown of her release history:

“Killer” (2015) — Bridgers’ first official release was a single titled “Killer” in 2015, which was followed by a music video in 2016.

“Stranger in the Alps” (2017) — Bridgers’ debut album “Stranger in the Alps” was released in September 2017. It was preceded by several singles, including “Smoke Signals,” “Motion Sickness,” and “Funeral.”

“Boygenius” (2018) — Bridgers formed a supergroup with fellow indie artists Julien Baker and Lucy Dacus, and they released an EP titled “Boygenius” in October 2018.

“Better Oblivion Community Center” (2019) — Bridgers teamed up with Conor Oberst of Bright Eyes to form the band Better Oblivion Community Center. They released their self-titled debut album in January 2019.

“Punisher” (2020) — Bridgers’ second solo album “Punisher” was released in June 2020. It was preceded by several singles, including “Garden Song,” “Kyoto,” and “I Know the End.”

Looking at the timing between releases, it’s clear that Bridgers takes her time between projects. After releasing her debut album in 2017, she didn’t release another solo project until 2020. However, in between those two releases, she collaborated with other artists to release two projects in 2018 and 2019.

This release strategy is not uncommon for independent artists who want to maintain creative control over their work and ensure that each project is carefully crafted. By taking time between releases, Bridgers is able to tour extensively, build a dedicated fanbase, and carefully plan her next move.

For a similar independent artist, this release strategy can be beneficial in several ways. By focusing on quality over quantity, an artist can build a loyal fanbase and create a buzz around each new release. Additionally, taking time between projects allows an artist to experiment with their sound and explore new creative directions.

YOU: Please give me the last 5 music media outlets to feature her, including the headline, who wrote the article, and then summarize the narrative themes.

ChatGPT: Sure, here are the last 5 music media outlets to feature Phoebe Bridgers, along with the headline, author, and a summary of the narrative themes.

The New York Times — “Phoebe Bridgers: Inside Her Cathartic New Album” by Joe Coscarelli — In this interview, Bridgers discusses the making of her latest album “Punisher” and reflects on her personal growth as an artist.

Rolling Stone — “Phoebe Bridgers Plots 2022 World Tour” by Angie Martoccio — This article highlights Bridgers’ upcoming world tour, her first since the release of “Punisher.”

NME — “Phoebe Bridgers: ‘I feel less scared to say what I think now’” by Rhian Daly — In this interview, Bridgers discusses her evolving songwriting process, her collaboration with Conor Oberst, and her experiences as a woman in the music industry.

Billboard — “Phoebe Bridgers Debuts ‘Punisher’ Songs on ‘CBS This Morning’” by Lars Brandle — This article covers Bridgers’ performance on CBS This Morning, where she debuted several songs from “Punisher.”

Pitchfork — “Phoebe Bridgers Performs ‘Kyoto’ on ‘Corden’” by Matthew Strauss — This article covers Bridgers’ performance of “Kyoto” on The Late Late Show with James Corden.

Overall, the narrative themes that emerge from these articles include Bridgers’ growth as an artist, her upcoming tour, her experiences as a woman in the music industry, her exploration of dark themes and emotions, and her collaborations with other artists.

YOU: Give me a list of Phoebe’s creative and business personnel, including producers, engineers, photographers, record label, manager, booking agent, and publicist.

ChatGPT: Here is a list of some of Phoebe Bridgers’ creative and business personnel:

Producers:

Tony Berg
Ethan Gruska
Marshall Vore
Rob Moose

Engineers:

Noah Georgeson
Ethan Gruska
Mike Mogis
Joseph Lorge

Photographers:

Olof Grind
Lasse Fløde
Frank Ockenfels

Record label: Dead Oceans / Saddest Factory

Manager: Darin Harmon (Blue Raincoat Music)

Booking agent: David Galea (United Talent Agency)

Publicist: Chloe Walsh (The Oriel Co.)

**If your music falls into the same genre as Phoebe Bridgers, the people listed above are part of your corner of the music industry. It’s important to note that this is not a list of people to spam. Rather, it provides insight into the individuals who appreciate and comprehend your genre. Knowing these people, understanding that they are interconnected, and working towards getting on their radar should be part of your long tail strategy.

YOU: Who is Phoebe’s primary listener demographic, and analyze and summarize what their listening habits, clothing preferences, and preferred colors might be.

ChatGPT: Based on anecdotal evidence and social media engagement, it appears that her audience tends to skew toward younger listeners who are drawn to her confessional, introspective lyrics and stripped-down indie rock sound.

In terms of listening habits, Phoebe Bridgers’ fans are likely to be avid music listeners who seek out new and alternative artists on a regular basis. They may prefer streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music, as well as vinyl records and CDs for the tactile experience and audio quality of physical media.

When it comes to clothing preferences, Phoebe’s fans may be drawn to indie and alternative fashion brands that prioritize a DIY, vintage or thrifted style. Fans of her music may also prefer clothing that reflects the introspective and melancholic tone of much of her music, such as muted, earthy tones like olive green, beige, or burnt orange, or deep blues or greys.

YOU: Which clothing companies generally fit that characterization?

ChatGPT: There are many clothing companies that could fit the characterization of the indie and alternative fashion brands that Phoebe Bridgers’ fans may be drawn to. Here are a few examples:

• Urban Outfitters: A retail chain that specializes in clothing and home decor with a vintage, bohemian, and DIY aesthetic.
• Free People: A women’s clothing brand that offers a range of bohemian and vintage-inspired styles, with an emphasis on flowy dresses and earthy tones.
• American Apparel: A clothing company that offers simple, classic, and versatile basics that can be styled in a variety of ways.
• Patagonia: A sustainable outdoor clothing company that emphasizes environmental responsibility and ethical manufacturing practices.
• Reformation: A women’s clothing brand that offers sustainable and ethically made clothing with a vintage-inspired aesthetic.

2 — Creative Idea Generation:

Stuck on your new project name? By providing prompts and suggestions, ChatGPT can help artists break through creative blocks and come up with new and innovative ideas, instantly.

YOU: Come up with 10 artist monikers based on the following keywords and descriptors: Feminine, Youthful, Indie-Pop, Los Angeles, Rebel, Raw, Intense, Unshakeable, Powerful, First Name Jade, The Color Red, Dynamic, Genre-Bending, Fluid.

ChatGPT: Here are ten artist monikers based on the given keywords and descriptors:

Jade Riot
Crimson Currents
Fluid Femme
L.A. Maverick
Red Rain
Dynamic Damsel
Rebel Rose
Jade Jukebox
Fiery Fluidity
Red Rhapsody

YOU: Using that list as a reference, come up with one-word artist monikers only.

ChatGPT: Sure! Here are ten one-word artist monikers based on the previous list:

RebelJade
Redshift
Indigirl
Luminelle
Scarletina
Nerveon
Jadeite
Vermillionaire
Phoenixa
Crimsonix

YOU: Write a brief artist bio based on the moniker “Vermillionaire” and the keywords Feminine, Youthful, Indie-Pop, Los Angeles, Rebel, Raw, Intense, Unshakeable, Powerful, First Name Jade, The Color Red, Dynamic, Genre-Bending, Fluid.

ChatGPT: Jade, better known as Vermillionaire, is a powerful and unshakeable force in the indie-pop scene in Los Angeles. Her music is raw and intense, with a dynamic and genre-bending sound that defies easy categorization. Her moniker reflects her love for the color red, which she sees as a symbol of passion and strength.

As a rebel at heart, Vermillionaire’s music is infused with a rebellious spirit that speaks to the youth of today. Her sound is fluid and ever-changing, reflecting her willingness to experiment with new styles and sounds. At the same time, her music is feminine and youthful, with lyrics that speak to the experiences of young women navigating the complexities of the modern world.

With her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, Vermillionaire is a force to be reckoned with in the world of indie-pop. Her music is both intense and uplifting, reflecting her unwavering commitment to staying true to herself and her art. Whether she’s performing on stage or recording in the studio, Vermillionaire is a force to be reckoned with, and a rising star in the world of indie-pop.

3 — Protection:

ChatGPT offers a powerful tool for independent musicians seeking to safeguard their interests and avoid any unpleasant surprises in their business dealings. Whether you need guidance on contractual agreements or assistance with generating licensing agreements, ChatGPT is equipped to help you navigate the complexities of the music industry with confidence and autonomy, ensuring that you remain firmly in control of your artistic vision and professional destiny.

YOU: What are common terms in an artist management contract? Specifically what is standard and what would constitute a red flag?

ChatGPT: Artist management contracts can vary widely in their terms and conditions, depending on the specific needs and goals of the artist and manager. However, here are some common terms and clauses that are often included in artist management contracts:

Scope of Services: This clause outlines the specific services that the manager will provide to the artist, such as booking gigs, handling finances, or overseeing creative projects.

Term and Termination: This section defines the length of the contract and the conditions under which it can be terminated by either party.

Compensation: This clause outlines how the manager will be compensated for their services, typically as a percentage of the artist’s income.

Exclusivity: Some artist management contracts require the artist to work exclusively with the manager, while others allow the artist to work with other managers or industry professionals.

Creative Control: This section outlines the extent to which the manager can control the artist’s creative output, such as choosing songs or directing the artist’s image.

Promotion and Marketing: This clause details how the manager will promote and market the artist’s work, such as through social media, advertising, or press.

Ownership and Intellectual Property: This section outlines the ownership rights of the artist and manager regarding any intellectual property created during the term of the contract.

Red flags to watch out for in an artist management contract could include:

Lengthy terms or no termination clause: Be wary of a contract that ties you up for an excessively long period or that lacks a clear termination clause, as this could make it difficult to end the agreement if it’s not working out.

Excessive compensation or hidden fees: If the manager is asking for an unusually high percentage of your earnings or if there are hidden fees buried in the contract, this could be a red flag that the manager is not acting in your best interests.

Vague or overly broad scope of services: A contract that is too vague or broad in its scope of services could lead to disagreements down the line about what the manager is responsible for and what they’re not.

Lack of transparency or communication: If the manager is not willing to communicate openly and honestly with you, or if they are evasive about certain terms or conditions, this could be a sign that they’re not trustworthy or reliable.

It’s important to carefully review and negotiate the terms of any artist management contract to ensure that it aligns with your goals and protects your interests. Consulting with a legal professional can also be helpful in understanding the terms of the contract and identifying any potential red flags.

YOU: What are typical percentages a music manager might ask for in a contract?

ChatGPT: Music managers typically ask for a percentage of an artist’s gross income as compensation for their services. The exact percentage can vary depending on the manager, the artist, and the specific terms negotiated in the contract. However, a common range for management commissions in the music industry is between 15% and 20% of the artist’s gross income. It is important for both the artist and the manager to negotiate and agree upon a fair percentage that reflects the value of the manager’s services and aligns with the artist’s career goals.

YOU: How might a sunset clause work in an artist management contract?

ChatGPT: A sunset clause in an artist management contract is a provision that specifies a defined period of time during which the manager is entitled to receive compensation after the termination of the contract.

For example, let’s say that an artist management contract contains a sunset clause that provides that the manager is entitled to receive 10% of the artist’s gross income for a period of two years after the contract is terminated. If the artist terminates the contract with the manager, the manager will continue to receive 10% of the artist’s gross income for the next two years. However, after the two-year period has elapsed, the manager will no longer be entitled to any compensation from the artist.

The purpose of a sunset clause is to provide some measure of compensation to the manager for the work that was done during the term of the contract, while also allowing the artist to move on and potentially work with a new manager without being burdened by the ongoing obligation to pay the former manager a percentage of their income. It is important to note that the specifics of a sunset clause can vary depending on the terms negotiated between the artist and the manager.

4— Industry Insights:

ChatGPT can offer insights and analysis on trends and developments in the music industry. By keeping independent musicians up-to-date on the latest news and changes in the industry, ChatGPT can help musicians stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions about their career paths.

YOU: What are the current sonic trends in sync licensing?

ChatGPT: The current sonic trends in sync licensing are constantly evolving and can vary depending on the type of media being licensed (e.g. film, TV, commercials, video games, etc.), as well as the specific genre, tone, and mood of the content. However, there are a few broad sonic trends that are currently prevalent in the sync licensing industry:

Hybrid Genres: There is a growing trend towards hybrid genres that combine elements from multiple genres, such as pop and hip-hop, or electronic and indie rock. This trend is particularly evident in advertisements and commercials, where there is a desire to create music that appeals to a wide audience.

Emotive and Anthemic: Many sync licensing projects are looking for music that is emotive, anthemic, and has a sense of grandeur. This trend is particularly evident in film and television trailers, where music is often used to create a sense of drama and tension.

Retro Sounds: There is a resurgence in the use of retro sounds and styles, particularly from the 80s and 90s. This trend can be seen in a variety of media, including commercials, films, and TV shows, where music from these eras is used to evoke nostalgia and create a sense of familiarity.

Instrumental Music: There is a growing demand for instrumental music, particularly in the advertising and commercial space. This is due in part to the rise of social media and short-form content, where music is often used to add emotion and energy to videos without distracting from the visuals or dialogue.

Diversity and Inclusivity: There is a growing focus on diversity and inclusivity in sync licensing, with many projects seeking out music from underrepresented genres and cultures. This trend is particularly evident in the film and television industry, where there is a desire to create more diverse and representative soundtracks.

YOU: Currently, who are the most influential music supervisors?

ChatGPT: The music supervision industry is constantly evolving, and there are many talented and influential music supervisors working in the field. Here are a few names of current music supervisors who have made significant contributions to the industry:

Alexandra Patsavas — Patsavas has worked on a wide variety of film and TV projects, including The Twilight Saga, Grey’s Anatomy, and Gossip Girl. She is known for her ability to discover and showcase emerging artists, and has been recognized with numerous awards for her work.

Thomas Golubić — Golubić is the music supervisor for the hit TV show Better Call Saul, as well as a number of other acclaimed series, including Breaking Bad and The Walking Dead. He is known for his ability to create memorable music moments and to use music to enhance the emotional impact of a scene.

Manish Raval and Tom Wolfe — This duo has worked together on a wide variety of projects, including the films The Fault in Our Stars and Crazy Rich Asians, as well as the TV series Euphoria and Master of None. They are known for their eclectic and diverse music selections, and for their ability to create music moments that resonate with audiences.

Liza Richardson — Richardson has worked on a wide variety of projects, including the films Y Tu Mamá También and The Kids Are All Right, as well as the TV series Friday Night Lights and The Leftovers. She is known for her ability to find unique and unexpected music selections that enhance the emotional impact of a scene.

Susan Jacobs — Jacobs has worked on a wide variety of projects, including the films Silver Linings Playbook and American Hustle, as well as the TV series Big Little Lies and Sharp Objects. She is known for her ability to find the perfect song to capture the mood and tone of a scene, and for her collaborations with acclaimed directors like David O. Russell and Jean-Marc Vallée.

YOU: What are the best ways for a new artist to get on the radar of an influential music supervisor?

ChatGPT: Getting on the radar of an influential music supervisor can be a challenge, but there are a few strategies that new artists can use to increase their chances of getting noticed. Here are some of the best ways for a new artist to get on the radar of an influential music supervisor:

Build a strong online presence: Having a strong online presence is essential for any new artist looking to get noticed by music supervisors. This means having a professional website, active social media accounts, and a strong presence on music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Make sure to regularly update your profiles with new music, tour dates, and other relevant information.

Submit your music to industry showcases and festivals: As mentioned earlier, industry showcases and festivals can be a great way for new artists to get noticed by music supervisors. Submit your music to these events and try to get booked to perform if possible. This can be a great way to showcase your music in front of industry professionals.

Build relationships with industry professionals: Networking is key in the music industry, so try to build relationships with industry professionals whenever possible. Attend industry events, reach out to music supervisors directly, and collaborate with other artists and producers in your community.

Work with a music publisher or sync agency: Working with a music publisher or sync agency can be a great way to get your music in front of music supervisors. These companies have established relationships with industry professionals and can help to get your music placed in film, TV, and other media.

Focus on creating high-quality, memorable music: Ultimately, the most important factor in getting noticed by music supervisors is creating high-quality, memorable music. Focus on honing your craft and creating music that stands out from the crowd. If your music is truly great, it will be much easier to get noticed by influential music supervisors.

YOU: Compose an email draft to Alexandra Patsavas, pitching her a new single from the artist Vermillionaire, briefly paying respect to Alexandra’s achievements and relating to her position as an influential woman in the music business. Keep it concise, professional, and enrolling.

ChatGPT: Subject: New Single from Vermillionaire — A Collaboration Opportunity

Dear Alexandra,

I hope this email finds you well. Firstly, I wanted to express my admiration for your contributions to the music industry. As an influential woman in the field of music supervision, your work has been inspiring and influential to many, including myself.

I am reaching out to you today as I believe I have an opportunity that would interest you. We are excited to announce a new single from the artist Vermillionaire, who has been making waves in the indie music scene for several years. Her unique blend of indie and folk sounds, paired with emotionally raw lyrics, has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

We believe that Vermillionaire’s music would be a great fit for your upcoming projects. Our new single is a deeply personal and intimate track that captures the essence of Phoebe’s signature sound, and we believe it would be an excellent addition to your music supervision repertoire.

I would be honored if you would consider collaborating with us to include this track in your upcoming projects. I believe this collaboration would be a fantastic opportunity to showcase Vermillionaire’s music to a wider audience, and we would love to work with you to make that happen.

Thank you for taking the time to consider our proposal. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

SUMMARY:

All the responses to the above prompts were generated instantaneously by ChatGPT, so the speed at which you can analyze info and generate ideas is off the charts. To that point, this was the fastest blog post I’ve ever written and ChatGPT handled the revisions.

To fully leverage ChatGPT, it’s crucial to craft precise and thoughtful prompts. By dedicating time to refine your questions, you can elicit higher quality responses. Leveraging AI tools such as this is poised to unleash a wave of creativity, expedite problem-solving, and facilitate astute decision-making. Such a concerted effort can stimulate an upsurge in momentum and considerable strides toward your goals. Any form of advancement, no matter how incremental, can be a potent driving force to keep you motivated and feeling positive.

With the power of information at your fingertips, there is no excuse for confusion, inaction or feeling overwhelmed. AI is going to get integrated into everything, so get ready. Take ownership of this resource and wield it to drive you forward on your journey.

Onward friends.

If this resonated with you, please share it with other artists who might find it valuable. Check out the rest of my blog posts and find out how to work with me here: www.thecompass-method.com

Patrick Ermlich is a life-long artist guide, educator at Berklee Online, and General Manager of Gramophone Media in NYC.

I grew up in a shallow and tranquil valley in upstate New York, five miles west of the village of Cooperstown in a sleepy hamlet called Fly Creek. My childhood property home takes up the southern half of a short side road named Fork Shop Road. The banks of Oaks Creek cut this little road in half. The southern border of my property sits up against a horse farm, that as a kid, was a dairy farm. My childhood memories are remembered almost like a painting, stationary cows set against a backdrop of the valley’s rolling flanks ablaze in the oranges and reds of the fall.

I have early flashes of memory, almost like polaroids, of a great majestic bird swooping upstream in the mornings and downstream in the evenings. The Great Blue Heron is one of the largest birds in North America. They can grow to 4.5 ft tall and have a wingspan of nearly 7 feet. You can imagine the first time a young child lays eyes on one of these creatures swooping overhead, my imagination ran wild and I was pretty sure this was in-fact, a Pterodactyl. There was a fascination with this bird from an early age for both myself and my brother. We would often see it in the corner of the southern yard where our lower field meets the creek, standing patiently in the shallows waiting for fish to pass by its feet and legs, which resemble non-threatening sticks. The herons of oaks creek were easily startled, even from movement close to 100 yards away, which added to their mystery. As soon as you saw them, they were gone.

It was the summer of 1985, and the origins of why my father chose to take my brother and I on this journey remain shrouded in a bit of mystery to this day. We were on the search for the Great Blue Heron. My father had met someone who suggested he contact a family that lived roughly 15 miles or so from our home, downstream in another valley. They apparently lived close to a Heron rookery that lay deep in a secluded area of the forest. Herons live in colonies and their homes are called rookeries, located at the very tops of trees in hugely constructed nests.

We arrived at a humble yet sweeping property, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. I recall a quiet conversation between my father and a teenage boy, who would be our guide. There was a lot of pointing and hushed talking between the two of them, and our guide signaled us to follow him across a field and to the edge of the woods. We stopped before crossing the threshold to snap a few pictures.

The memory of this adventure with my father were seared into my memory. Ever since, i’ve been on a journey of self exploration. Always searching, always seeking something elusive, maybe just around the next bend. Looking back, I think the lessons of the adventure were to be curious, be open to mystery and wonder, and to be patient to get the reward. In this case, the reward was a fleeting glimpse of a mysterious creature who we knew could hear us coming.

My father passed away in 1999, and in his final days he confided in an old friend that he had been having visions, visions of flying with the Great Blue Heron. A heron followed us home from the hospital after my father’s passing, tracing our route through the valley back to our home, his soul in flight and at peace.

This moment in my life, although I didn’t know it until recently, was the genesis for the book I’m slowly writing, The Compass Method. I enlisted the skills of Ryan Coppola of Dayfielder Designs to construct a logo that would bring the spirit of this book to life for me. I had been eyeing a drawing he had done featuring a compass and a hawk, so I knew he would get the concept. I passed along the picture below as a starting point for the heron as this is a view I would often have of the bird as it passed overhead.

We decided it would translate better to have the overhead view of the heron and Ryan got to work on a hand-drawn heron with the compass points in their place. The heron is often seen in pictures when it's standing, but for the logo, I really wanted to highlight the wingspan which exudes confidence, strength, and intention to me.

We took a look at some options that place the heron and compass points in circles and a literal compass option. I liked the look of the compass option, but ultimately it was a little busy and too literal to feel right. At this point of the design, I had wanted to shift the heron so that it pointed east in its flight. One of the central concepts of The Compass Method book is that when you are lost as an artist, you find your way through self-exploration. In the book, the “E” stands for Exploration. Therefore, I wanted the focus of the heron’s flight to always be pointing towards exploration. As you can see the last option above is starting to come together but we needed to widen the image to make it circular and compass like.

Here is what we settled on.

I leave you with a favorite quote…

“We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time.

Through the unknown, unremembered gate
When the last of earth left to discover
Is that which was the beginning;
At the source of the longest river
The voice of the hidden waterfall
And the children in the apple-tree

Not known, because not looked for
But heard, half-heard, in the stillness
Between two waves of the sea.
Quick now, here, now, always — 
A condition of complete simplicity
(Costing not less than everything)
And all shall be well and
All manner of thing shall be well
When the tongues of flames are in-folded
Into the crowned knot of fire
And the fire and the rose are one.” — T.S. Eliot