the AMP Issue 34

"This is the best tool that's ever existed to help define your unique sound and enhance your creativity."
— Kallan Dahn, speaking about New Music Lives™ AI for Singer Songwriters

In This Issue... [15  pages, less than 23 minutes to read] You'll Get...

• RECOMMENDS— MIDiA Research Panel Creator Survey | 2023

• COMING ATTRACTIONS— Introducing New Music Lives™ AI-Powered Music Creation

• BACKSTAGE PASS— 10 Tips To Get Those 1,000 TrueFans by Paul Saunders

• the 100 GREATEST SINGER SONGWRITERS of All Time— Patti Smith

• MONDEGREEN— In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida (In the Garden of Eden) by Iron Butterfly

• PS from PS— Will AI Kill the Music We Know and Love and You Make? 

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Here’s the playlist

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• RECOMMENDS—  MIDiA Research Panel Creator Survey | 2023

Last year, MIDiA Research conducted its inaugural creator panel survey, and they're thrilled to finally unveil the report slide deck with us. 

This report presents MIDiA’s 2023 Panel creator survey. Data includes age, gender, income, types of creator, types of content, success, objectives, and time and money spent on creating.

Some of the findings include:

• 81% of females said they see being a creator as a long-term career, compared to 64% of males.

• Self-expression was the main objective for creators, except female creators, who cited earning money.

• Most creators want to keep creativity in their own hands, but are willing to outsource marketing, social media content, and post-production.

• Almost half of creators cited funding as the main obstacle in their creative career and that their career changed for the better over the past year.

• 71% of creators posted weekly on social media or even more frequently

and more...

MIDiA hopes you will find these insights as interesting as they did, and they extended their gratitude for New Music Lives™ participation in this survey. 

Tap the link to download the PDF: MIDiA Research Panel Creator Survey | 2023

• COMING ATTRACTIONS— Introducing New Music Lives™ AI-Powered Music Creation

Coming Attractions, indeed. Not ready yet and... We're working on it. You can sample the results on Spotify with the link below.

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In the ever-evolving landscape of music creation, the introduction of the New Music Lives™ AI initiative dares to stand at the crossroads of controversy and innovation. 

On one side, fear-mongering critics and doom-sayers argue that the advent of AI in music heralds the end of authenticity, fearing that the heart-felt essence and the of songwriting will be overshadowed by the cold, calculated outputs of algorithms, potentially marking the death of authentic musical creation. 

Contrary to this dystopian view, a growing number of Singer Songwriters and music industry optimists see AI not as a threat, but as a revolutionary new tool— a veritable gift— that promises to expand the horizons of creativity. They counter that AI  technology provides unprecedented resources and capabilities, allowing artists to explore new realms of musicality and expanded horizons of expression previously unattainable, thus enriching the very warp and weft of artistic creation. 

Our New Music Lives™ AI initiative, stands not just as a technological advancement, but as a beacon of debate, symbolizing the dual-edged sword of progress in the arts. Risk and reward. They always and in all ways go together.

"This is the best tool that's ever existed to help define your unique sound and enhance your creativity."
— Kallan Dahn

In the ever-evolving world of music, technology continually offers new tools to enhance creativity and production. The latest buzz in the industry is about leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize song creation, offering both seasoned musicians and aspiring young artists unprecedented opportunities to explore and materialize their musical visions. At the heart of New Music Lives™ pioneering endeavor into AI is Kallan Dahn— a software developer with deep roots in music— whose partnership collaboration with us aims to unveil a membership benefit that will empower Singer Songwriters with AI capabilities for generating new songs.

Kallan's journey into music and technology is as rich and diverse as the possibilities AI itself brings to music creation. Growing up in a household that breathed music, Kallan was exposed to the intricacies of the music industry from a young age. His father, a booking agent and band manager in Escanaba, Michigan (a 'seaport' on the Great Lake), instilled in him a love for music that transcends mere appreciation. Kallan is not just a multi-instrumentalist with proficiency in guitar, bass, drums, saxophone, and piano; he embodies the bridge between the artistic soul of a music creator and the analytical mind of a software developer.

This unique blend of talents and experiences positions Kallan as the ideal pioneer in the integration of New Music Lives™ AI music creation. The project is not just about introducing a new tool; it's about reshaping the creative landscape for Singer Songwriters. Kallan's work promises to offer a virtual 'adult' sandbox for musical experimentation, where artists can explore new melodies, harmonies, and rhythms, pushing the boundaries of their creativity and craft.

The process, as Kallan describes, is both intuitive and revolutionary. By inputting simple prompts and lyrical cadences into the AI, artists can experiment with styles, structures, and sounds. This AI platform does not just replicate traditional music-making processes; it enhances them, offering unexpected melodies and harmonies that can inspire new directions for your songs. It's about transforming what's in the artist's head into a tangible musical piece, sometimes with surprising and serendipitous results.

What makes this project even more exciting is the commitment to simplicity and accessibility. The aim is for New Music Lives™ Members to experience progress and evolution in their musical journey through the AI's capabilities. From generating a basic melody to exploring complex arrangements and production, the platform is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that artists can focus on their creativity rather than being bogged down by technical complexities.

Kallan's enthusiasm for this project is palpable. He sees it as the "best tool that's ever existed to help define your sound and enhance your creativity." This is not just hyperbole; it's a testament to the transformative potential of combining AI with musical artistry. The platform is envisioned as a catalyst for artistic discovery, enabling artists to explore genres, experiment with instrumental arrangements, and refine their sound with an unprecedented level of control and flexibility.

As New Music Lives™ prepares to roll out this exciting offering, the focus is on our community of Singer Songwriters who stand to gain a new avenue for musical expression. This is more than just a tool; it's a new chapter in music creation, where technology serves as a bridge between imagination and reality, helping artists to realize their musical dreams in ways they never thought possible.

The integration of AI into music creation marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the industry. With Kallan at the helm, New Music Lives™ is poised to offer its members an unparalleled opportunity to explore, create, and innovate. As we stand on the brink of this new frontier, the message to Singer Songwriters is clear: the future of music creation is bright, and it's within your grasp.

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Show & Tell—  An Exploration of Emotion Through AI

Liner Notes for Into Chaos by Descent from Kallan Dahn

In the making of Into Chaos, I embarked on a deeply personal journey, channeling a lifetime of emotions into a series of tracks crafted with the help of artificial intelligence. This project was never just about music for me; it was a means to navigate the complex tapestry of feelings that define the human experience. My human experience.

The emotions delved into throughout this album are universal— rage, lust, greed, and the perennial struggle with one's sanity. These are feelings as old as time, yet they demand to be expressed anew by each generation. Through Into Chaos, I sought not just to explore these emotions but to validate them, to illuminate the darkest corners of the soul, and affirm that no one is alone in the depths of their being.

This album is a testament to the fact that emotions are fluid and ever-changing, often caught in the whirlwind between the positive and negative poles of love and hate. It's a reminder that it's more than okay to feel, to be overwhelmed by the intensity of my own emotions, and to recognize the profound impact they have on who I am... we are.

Metal, with its raw power and unapologetic intensity, became the perfect medium to express these more turbulent emotions. It symbolizes the resilience we forge through our battles, the hardness that life etches into our being. Yet, it was important for me to also explore the vulnerability that lies beneath this armature. Into Chaos ventures into this softer underbelly of being, questioning the valor in perpetually playing the 'nice guy' (which I've done and done and...) and inviting my listeners to confront their own complexities.

Into Chaos is more than an album of new music creation; it's a journey through the spectrum of feeling awareness, a deep dive into the tumultuous waters of the human condition. It's about embracing the chaos within, acknowledging that our emotional states are in perpetual motion, and recognizing that within this volatility lies our shared humanity.

Through the fusion of metal and the innovative use of AI, I aimed to create something that resonates on a deeply personal level, encouraging listeners to embrace their full selves— chaos and all. Especially chaos. And all. This album is an invitation to reflect on the myriad emotions that shape us, to feel deeply, and to find solace in the shared experience of being beautifully, messily, human.

Tap the title link to listen to the tracks on Into Chaos on Spotify.

• BACKSTAGE PASS—  10 Tips To Get Those 1,000 TrueFans by Paul Saunders

Creating music isn't just about the melodies and lyrics; it's about sharing your art with the world. Yet, the gulf between releasing a song and reaching a multitude of listeners can seem vast, especially for Singer Songwriters embarking on their journey. 

If you're looking to leap across that chasm and gather a tribe of 1000 TrueFans for your next music release, then these ten strategies will set the stage for your success.

1. Harness the Power of Social Media

Social media is the modern-day megaphone for your musical voice. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok offer not only outreach but also engagement opportunities. Tailor content that resonates— behind-the-scenes footage, live jams, or sneak peeks of upcoming tracks— to stir excitement and shareability among followers.

2. Gig Relentlessly

There's no substitute for live performances in building a loyal fanbase. Get on stage at local venues, open mics, and even unconventional spaces (for example: Farmer's and Flea markets) to showcase your talent. Each gig is a chance to win hearts and ears— make the most of it by delivering electrifying performances every time.

3. Collaborate and Conquer

Aligning with other Singer Songwriters opens up avenues to their fan bases. Seek out fellow musicians with a complementary style for collaborations that can amplify your reach. Think duets, covers, or simply joining forces for a unique concert experience.

4. Engaging Email Campaigns

A personal touch goes a long way. An email list allows for intimate conversations with your audience. Share updates, stories, and exclusive content to make subscribers feel like part of your artistic journey. An engaging newsletter can turn casual listeners into fervent supporters.

5. Master the Art of Storytelling

Your music has a story— share it! Whether it's through your blog, podcast interviews, or song explanations, storytelling can form deep connections with your audience. Let your narrative flow and enthrall listeners, weaving them into the fabric of your musical tapestry.

6. Create Compelling Content

Release content that snaps, crackles, and pops across all mediums. Whether it's gripping YouTube videos, captivating album art, blog posts that delve into the creative process or innovative merch, quality content is the bait that lures in curiosity and converts it into fandom.

7. Cultivate Community Spirit

Foster a community with your listeners by engaging them in conversation, seeking their opinions, and involving them in your music-making decisions when appropriate. This transforms passive listeners into active participants and evangelists for your sound.

8. Utilize Music Platforms Wisely

Music streaming services are more than just libraries— they're discovery engines. Optimize your presence on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music with well-crafted profiles, and be strategic about playlist inclusion to ensure your tracks get the exposure they deserve.

9. Offer Exclusivity

Who doesn't love feeling special? Offer your early supporters exclusive access to content or experiences, such as limited edition merchandise, private online concerts, or first dibs on ticket sales. It's a powerful motivator for fans to spread the word.

10. Analyze and Adapt

Lastly, mine your data. Tools like Google Analytics and social media insights can reveal what resonates with your audience. Use this knowledge to fine-tune your strategies, doubling down on what works and pruning what doesn't.

Building a tribe of a thousand fans might seem daunting, but it's achievable with the right mix of dedication and creativity. Engage genuinely, perform passionately, and share your story compellingly. The digital landscape offers countless pathways for connection— find yours, and your fans will follow.

• the 100 GREATEST SINGER SONGWRITERS of All Time—  Patti Smith

The high priestess of punk poetry. Rock was getting too slick for its own good when Patti Smith burst on the scene and tore it apart. She shrieked and howled literate yet street-savvy lyrics, unflinchingly confronting topics from religion to the Beat movement.
— Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (2007)

Patricia Lee Smith stands as a singular figure in the annals of rock music. From her groundbreaking debut album Horses to her enduring influence on subsequent generations of artists, Patti Smith's impact transcends genre boundaries and continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

Born on December 30, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, Smith's journey to musical stardom began in the vibrant artistic milieu of 1970s New York City. Inspired by the raw energy of the burgeoning punk rock scene, Smith forged her own path with a blend of poetic lyricism, defiant attitude, and unapologetic authenticity.

In 1975, Smith unleashed Horses upon the world, a visionary work that defied categorization and laid the groundwork for a new era of rock music. The album's opening track, Gloria, with its incendiary lyrics and hypnotic riff, announced Smith as a fearless artist unafraid to challenge conventions. Horses remains a landmark in rock history, celebrated for its innovative fusion of punk, poetry, and performance art.

Following the success of Horses, Smith continued to push boundaries with albums like Easter (1978) and Wave (1979). Easter features the anthemic Because the Night, co-written with Bruce Springsteen, which became a radio staple and solidified Smith's status as a rock icon. Wave showcased her versatility, from the haunting Dancing Barefoot to the introspective Frederick, further establishing Smith as a formidable songwriter and performer.

In 1988, Smith returned with Dream of Life, featuring another anthemic, People Have the Power, a stirring call to action that remains a rallying cry for social change. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Smith continued to release critically acclaimed albums, including Gone Again (1996) and Trampin' (2004), showcasing her evolving sound and unwavering commitment to artistic integrity.

Beyond her music, Smith's literary contributions have earned widespread acclaim. Her memoir, Just Kids (2010), offers a poignant reflection on her relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe and their experiences in the New York City art scene of the 1970s. The book received the National Book Award for Nonfiction, underscoring Smith's prowess as a storyteller both on stage and on the page.

Smith's activism and feminism are integral to her identity as an artist. While she may resist labels, her commitment to social justice is evident in her music and her actions. From her support for the Green Party in the 2000 U.S. presidential election to her vocal opposition to war and injustice, Smith has consistently used her platform to advocate for change.

In recognition of her contributions, Smith has received numerous awards and honors. In 2005, she was named a Commander of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French Minister of Culture, acknowledging her impact on both music and literature. In 2007, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, where she delivered a memorable performance of The Rolling Stones' Gimme Shelter. Tap the link to see her performance.

As Patti Smith's musical career progressed, she continued to captivate audiences with her electrifying live performances and thought-provoking lyrics. Her concerts became legendary events, blending poetry readings with rock music in a mesmerizing fusion of art and activism. Smith's stage presence was magnetic, commanding the attention of audiences with her raw emotion and boundless energy.

Smith's influence extended far beyond the realm of music. Her collaborations with artists across disciplines showcased her versatility and creativity. From her cameo appearance in Jean-Luc Godard's Film Socialisme to her performance in Terrence Malick's Song to Song, Smith's forays into film underscored her status as a multifaceted artist unafraid to explore new creative avenues.

In addition to her musical and cinematic endeavors, Smith's commitment to literature remained steadfast. Her contributions to the literary world, including essays, poetry, and memoirs, further solidified her reputation as a literary luminary. Smith's writing reflects her keen intellect and profound insights into the human condition, earning her accolades from critics and readers alike.

Smith's impact on popular culture reverberates to this day. Her songs have been covered by a diverse array of artists, a testament to the enduring relevance of her music. From alternative rock bands like The Waterboys to pop icons like Madonna, Smith's influence transcends genre boundaries, inspiring artists from all walks of life.

In recent years, Smith has continued to push artistic boundaries with projects like her concert-documentary film Horses: Patti Smith and her Band and her participation in Darren Aronofsky's VR experience Spheres: Songs of Spacetime. These ventures demonstrate Smith's ongoing commitment to innovation and experimentation, cementing her status as a visionary artist in the digital age.

As Smith's career enters its sixth decade, her legacy remains as potent as ever. Her music continues to resonate with audiences around the world, inspiring new generations of artists to push the boundaries of creativity and activism. Whether through her music, writing, or activism, Patti Smith's impact on the cultural landscape is undeniable, ensuring her place in the pantheon of rock music's greatest icons.

In recognition of her contributions, Smith has received numerous awards and honors. In 2011, she was awarded the Polar Music Prize, joining the ranks of music's most revered figures. In 2022, she was named an Officer of the French Legion of Honor, further cementing her status as a cultural ambassador.

Patti Smith's musical legacy is a testament to the power of art to inspire change and transcend boundaries. Through her music, writing, and activism, Smith has left an indelible mark on the world, reminding us all of the transformative power of creativity and compassion. As she continues to chart her own path, Patti Smith remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.

Smith's legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and activists. Her fearless pursuit of artistic expression, coupled with her unwavering commitment to social justice, cements her status as a cultural icon. Whether through her music, writing, or activism, Patti Smith remains a powerful voice for change in a world hungry for both art and activism.

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To visit on the MusicThisDay.com website, tap the link: The 100 Greatest Songwriters Of All Time.

in partnership with Your Morning Coffee and Jay Gilbert

• MONDEGREEN— from In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida (In the Garden of Eden) by Iron Butterfly

Original

"In-a-gadda-da-vida, honey"

Mondegreen

"In a glob of Velveeta, honey"

Arguably the first heavy metal song, In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida peaked at #30 on the Billboard charts. The original song is over 17 minutes long but uses only 30 different words. It was this version (not the four-minute radio cut) that Iron Butterfly was set to perform at Woodstock before they got stuck in an airport and couldn't make it.

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• PS from PS— Will AI Kill the Music We Know and Love and You Make? 

Oscar and Grammy-winning composer Hans Zimmer, said, "I fear that AI will take over music because artists are now thinking in terms of machines and not in terms of emotions." 

Okay, Hans. Back at ya' with my liberal paraphrase of Gandhi, "First they ignored AI, then they laughed at AI, then they fought AI, then... AI won."

I recently saw this post on Don's Tunes (on Facebook): 

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"I’m just a soul trapped in this circuitry." The voice singing those lyrics is raw and plaintive, dipping into blue notes. A lone acoustic guitar chugs behind it, punctuating the vocal phrases with tasteful runs. But there’s no human behind the voice, no hands on that guitar. There is, in fact, no guitar. In the space of 15 seconds, this credible, even moving, blues song was generated by the latest AI model from a startup named Suno. All it took to summon it from the void was a simple text prompt: "Solo acoustic Mississippi Delta blues about a sad AI." To be maximally precise, the song is the work of two AI models in collaboration: Suno’s model creates all the music itself while calling on OpenAI’s ChatGPT to generate the lyrics and even a title: Soul of the Machine. Tap that link to hear the song. 

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Now while some of you may have felt a shiver or some cold something somewhere reading that piece, that's not how I take it. Hey... Are you EVER going to see ChatGPT perform this Saturday at the club or at a friend's house concert— much less drop a few hundred dollars on tickets for the AI Celebration or Eras Tour? AI Live ain't ever going to happen. 

Machine Music vs Human Music. And the winner is...?

For some time to come— some waaayyyy long and winding time— music will require human interaction to provide the Information, Involvement, Inspiration, and direction. AI is an aid to creativity. By no means is the end of the music world as anyone knows it. More like a new beginning.

New Music Lives™ is working on ways to enable you to harness the power of AI to create and expand your ability to be a more and better musical artist. Worst of times. Best of times. We choose BEST, because... New Music Lives! Always!

Until we speak again...

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