the AMP Issue 54

"We have that storytelling history in country and bluegrass and old-time and folk music, blues – all those things that combine to make up the genre. It was probably storytelling before it was songwriting, as far as country music is concerned. It's fun to be a part of that and tip the hat to that. You know, and keep that tradition alive." 
— Chris Stapleton

In This Issue... 17 pages [about 24ish minutes to read] You'll Get...

Hey! Is the AMP a newsletter or a magazine...?

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• Recommends—  aGreatQuestion 

• the Biz—  No $$$ for Singer Songwriters

• the Greatest Singer Songwriters of All Time— Allison Krauss

• In Our Opinion— Is Allison Krauss Really a Songwriter or just...?

• Mondegreen—  Let Me Touch You For A While. Allison Krauss

• Backstage Pass— What is an artist, and do you consider yourself one? from Ian Temple

• PS from PS—  There can be $$$ for Singer Songwriters

Here's the playlist

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• Recommends— aGreatQuestion— Unlocking the Untapped Power of Your Mind Every Day from Paul Saunders

It's time to tell you about John Fogg, my Co-Founder here at New Music Lives™ and the writer, editor, curator, and creator of the AMP and the New Music Lives™ Community on Facebook and he wrote the TrueFans Manifesto.  

John is a million-selling author— twice— and has helped co-write a couple of dozen books for other people. He's a successful course creator, has done speaking gigs all around the world and he's been my mentor-coach and good friend for more than 30 years— well before I came to the USA. 

The reason I'm telling you about John is not just to praise the amazing work he does to serve all of our Singer Songwriters, but to tell you about something he's doing that over-the-top killer! And you should all know about it.

aGreatQuestion

Have you ever been asked A Great Question? One that made you think a new thought? One that had you reflect more deeply on some important aspect of your life and work? What do you think would happen if you were asked such a Great Question every single day? And you also has the opportunity to share your answer, read other people's, and get feedback and support? That's what John has created with aGreatQuestion tap the link.

I'M ASKING YOU to to consider subscribing. Get the full benefit of being asked A Great Question every single day. 

I ALSO WANT TO KNOW what you think of the idea of New Music Lives™ working with John to create aGreatQuestion for Singer Songwriters. Be something like this... 

if you like the idea of aGreatQuestion specifically for Singer Songwriters like you, let us know. I promise John would love to do that! 

Paul Saunders

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• the Biz—  No $$$ for Singer Songwriters

No $$$ For Singer Songwriters

"Musicians are being taken advantage of because we do it for the love of it." 

The cost of playing live is going up but grassroots artists say they're not being paid more.

In a new survey by rehearsal and recording studio chain Pirate of 1,700 band members, solo artists, and DJs found a worrying 54% of live acts have reported no change in gig fees, while 29% reported a decrease. While rising ticket prices have made headlines for mainstream artists, the effect is being felt on the grassroots level too. 86% of artists surveyed reported an increase in ticket prices when gigging, but only 17% had seen an increase in their gig fees. Inflation doesn't seem to be translating to better pay for artists. 

As a newsletter/magazine for Singer Songwriters, this is certainly an important topic to cover. So... hold your nose and jump. A covering we will go. (And, yes, the numbers above are repeated below.)

The Financial Reality for Singer Songwriters
The music industry continues to present significant financial challenges for many Singer Songwriters, particularly those at the grassroots level. Recent data suggests that a majority of these artists are struggling to maintain, let alone increase, their income from live performances. Here's what we know is happening.

1. Stagnant Gig Fees: A concerning 54% of live acts report no change in their gig fees, despite rising costs associated with performing.

2. Decreasing Income: Even more troubling, 29% of artists have experienced a decrease in their gig fees.

3. Rising Costs: 86% of artists report an increase in ticket prices for their gigs, but this isn't translating to higher earnings for the performers themselves.

4. Minimal Increases: Only 17% of artists have seen an increase in their gig fees, failing to keep pace with inflation and rising costs.

These statistics paint a picture of an industry where many Singer Songwriters are finding it increasingly difficult to make a living solely from their music. While exact numbers of those making a sustainable income are hard to determine, it's clear that a significant portion of grassroots artists are facing financial challenges.

So... To survive and potentially thrive in this environment, Singer Songwriters need to consider the following ideas:

1. Diversify income streams (e.g., merchandise, licensing, teaching)
2. Build a strong online presence and engage with fans directly
3. Collaborate with other artists to share costs and expand audience reach
4. Explore alternative performance models, such as house concerts or livestreams

While the passion for music drives many to pursue their craft regardless of financial returns, the industry needs to address this growing disparity to ensure a healthy ecosystem for emerging talent.

Hoping this brief report provides a useful overview. We're not singing Chicken Little's The Sky Is Falling. We are saying what we've said all along: It's Time... for a Change. Big Time. Past Time.

And yeah, we keep saying, 'Coming soon. Not ready yet.' And you cannot be as tired of hearing/reading that as we are of saying/writing that. Just know that we ARE workin' on it. Every day. 

— the New Music Lives™ Team

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• the Greatest Singer Songwriters of All Time— Allison Krauss

The Legacy of Alison Krauss: A Captivating Musical Journey

Singer-vocalist-bandleader-producer Alison Krauss is one of the most influential performers to ever be associated with bluegrass music. Her career got underway while still a young teenager and took an upward trajectory almost immediately. She presented a mix of instrumental prowess: captivating, emotion-laden vocals; an amazing repertoire; and an unassuming yet charismatic, personality. 
— International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame

Alison Krauss stands as a towering figure in the landscape of country and bluegrass music, blending technical virtuosity with heartfelt emotion to create a unique and enduring sound. With a career spanning over three decades, she has become one of the most influential singer-songwriters of our time, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry and inspiring countless artists.

Her Musical Achievements
Alison Krauss' music career began at a young age, showcasing her prodigious talent with the fiddle and her captivating voice. She released her debut album, Too Late to Cry, in 1987 at the age of 16, quickly establishing herself as a formidable talent in the bluegrass scene. Her breakthrough came with the album Now That I've Found You: A Collection (1995), which not only showcased her bluegrass roots, but also reached a wider audience, achieving double platinum status.

"Alison has a voice that is both angelic and powerful. She brings a level of sincerity and emotion to her music that is truly inspiring."
—  Dolly Parton

Some of her biggest hits include When You Say Nothing at All, Baby, Now That I've Found You, The Lucky One, and Let Me Touch You for Awhile. These songs, marked by their lyrical depth and exquisite arrangements, have resonated with fans across genres.

Popular Records and Albums
Throughout her career, Krauss has released a series of critically acclaimed albums. So Long So Wrong (1997) and Forget About It (1999) solidified her status as a crossover artist, appealing to both country and pop audiences. Her collaboration with Robert Plant on Raising Sand (2007) was a defining moment, earning five Grammy Awards and showcasing her ability to seamlessly blend genres.

"Alison Krauss is one of the most natural singers I have ever worked with. Her voice is pure and effortless, and her understanding of music is profound."
—  Robert Plant

Other notable albums include Lonely Runs Both Ways (2004), A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection (2007), and Paper Airplane (2011), each contributing to her legacy with their rich, soulful soundscapes and heartfelt storytelling.

Concerts and Awards
Krauss is renowned for her live performances, captivating audiences with her impeccable musicianship and emotional delivery. Her tours have taken her around the world, performing in prestigious venues and festivals. Her concerts are not just musical performances but immersive experiences that leave lasting impressions on her audiences.

"Alison's music has a timeless quality. She manages to capture the essence of traditional bluegrass while making it accessible to modern audiences."
—  James Taylor

Her accolades are numerous, with 27 Grammy Awards to her name, making her one of the most awarded singers in Grammy history. She has also received honors from the Country Music Association, the Academy of Country Music, and the International Bluegrass Music Association, among others.

Inspirations and Personal Life
Alison Krauss has often cited her early influences, including the likes of Tony Rice, J.D. Crowe, and Ricky Skaggs, who helped shape her musical style. Her dedication to preserving the traditions of bluegrass while infusing it with contemporary elements has inspired a new generation of musicians.

On a personal note, Krauss has kept much of her private life out of the public eye. She was married to musician Pat Bergeson from 1997 to 2001, and they have a son together. Despite the challenges that come with balancing a demanding career and personal life, Krauss has remained grounded and focused on her music.

"Working with Alison is always a highlight. She has an incredible ear for harmony and a deep respect for the roots of country music."
—  Brad Paisley

Political and Social Activism
While not overtly political, Krauss has been involved in various charitable activities and has used her platform to support causes close to her heart. She has participated in benefit concerts and has been a quiet yet influential voice for positive change within her community.

Impact and Influence on Other Singer Songwriters
Alison Krauss' influence extends far beyond her own music. She has played a pivotal role in bringing bluegrass to a broader audience and has been instrumental in the genre's evolution. Her collaborations with artists like Robert Plant, James Taylor, and Brad Paisley have pushed the boundaries of country music, creating a more inclusive and diverse musical landscape.

"Alison is one of the finest musicians I have ever known. Her talent is matched only by her humility and dedication to her craft."
—  Vince Gill

Changing Country Music and Collaborations
Krauss' work has significantly impacted the country music genre, blending traditional and contemporary sounds in a way that appeals to a wide audience. Her collaboration with Robert Plant on Raising Sand is a prime example of her ability to transcend genres and create something truly unique. This album not only won multiple Grammy Awards but also demonstrated how versatile and innovative Krauss can be.

Her partnerships with artists like Union Station, Vince Gill, and Brad Paisley have further cemented her status as a collaborative force in the music industry. These collaborations have not only resulted in critically acclaimed music but have also helped to bridge the gap between different musical styles and audiences.

Alison Krauss' journey through music is a testament to her talent, dedication, and ability to touch the hearts of listeners worldwide. Her influence continues to shape the landscape of country and bluegrass music, making her one of the greatest singer-songwriters of all time.

in partnership with Ian Temple and Soundfly

• In Our Opinion— Is Allison Krauss Really a Songwriter or just... ?

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"Though Alison Krauss is more renowned for her vocal and instrumental prowess rather than her Songwriting and she doesn't fit the conventional definition of a Songwriter, we believe Songwriters come in all shapes and sizes." 

For us, Krauss is one. Her exceptional talent for interpreting and bringing songs to life with her unique voice and musicality makes her an integral part of the Songwriting process. 

She collaborates closely with other Songwriters and her band, Union Station, contributing to the arrangement and emotional depth of the music she performs. Krauss's ability to select songs that resonate deeply with audiences and her meticulous approach to shaping their final form showcases her deep connection to the craft. In every note she sings and every performance she gives, Alison Krauss exemplifies the heart and soul of a true Songwriter.

"It's not that I have resisted songwriting, it's just not something I felt I have had to do. I've just not woken up and thought, I must do this. But I have often heard music that I have instantly felt I have to sing that song." She has also remarked that the songs she writes are often 'too sad' for her to perform regularly.

The Collaborator and Interpreter
While Alison Krauss may not be primarily known as a Singer Songwriter, her influence and involvement in the music she performs are profound. She has a keen sense for selecting songs that resonate deeply with her and her audience, often collaborating closely with Songwriters and her band, Union Station, to shape the final product.

Songwriting Contributions and Collaborations
Krauss has written a few songs over her extensive career, but she is more celebrated for her interpretations and the emotional depth she brings to songs written by others. Her rare Songwriting contributions include tracks like It Doesn't Matter, co-written with Union Station band members.

Her collaborative spirit is evident in the way she works with Songwriters and musicians. For example, her collaboration with Robert Plant on the album Raising Sand involved significant creative input, where she helped shape the arrangements and the overall sound of the record.

Involvement in the Writing Process
Krauss's involvement in the music-making process goes beyond just performing. She is known for her meticulous approach to selecting songs, ensuring that each piece she records aligns with her artistic vision. She works closely with Songwriters, providing input and feedback that influence the final version of the songs. Her collaboration with Union Station, is a testament to her active participation in the creative process.

Her role can also be seen as that of a curator and an interpreter, someone who brings songs to life with her unique touch. She has an exceptional ability to convey the emotional essence of a song, whether it is a traditional bluegrass tune or a contemporary piece.

Statement on Alison Krauss's Involvement
Though Alison has a close involvement with her group and a long career in music, she rarely performs music she has written herself. Her strength lies in her ability to choose and interpret songs that resonate deeply with her audience. She works closely with Songwriters and her band, Union Station, to shape the music, providing invaluable input that influences the final product. Her rare songwriting contributions and collaborative efforts showcase her deep understanding and connection to the music she performs.

Emphasizing Her Role
While she may not have a vast catalog of self-written songs, Krauss's artistry shines through her interpretative skills and her collaborative nature. Her ability to bring out the best in a song and her involvement in the arrangement and production processes are critical to her success and enduring impact on the music industry.

Alison Krauss's legacy as one of the greatest musicians of all time is not diminished by her seemingly limited Songwriting contributions. Instead, it is her exceptional talent for interpretation, collaboration, and her profound impact on the songs she performs that solidify her place in the annals of music history. Her influence and contributions to the craft of music are a testament to her artistry and dedication.

So... Is Allison Krauss really a Songwriter?

Your answer goes here ________________________ .

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• MONDEGREEN— Let Me Touch You For A While. Allison Krauss

Original

And now you're in a wonderama
I wonder what you're doing here.

Mondegreen

And now you're in a Wonder Bra
I wonder what you're doing here.

If you're up for a 'few' more mondegreens of Allison Krauss tap the link. There are just a few.

And for hundreds of other head-shaking misheard lyrics, tap this link to go to AmIRight. "Making fun of music, one song at a time, since 2000" and they're amazing!

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• Backstage Pass— What is an artist, and do you consider yourself one? from Ian Temple

You can choose to be an artist in anything you do. 

Like making great pizza. 

The dictionary defines it in a few ways, "someone who creates art" being maybe the least helpful. "A skilled performer"— that one feels a little too narrow. "A person who is very good at something," too vague. In many ways, it's a tough word to nail down because we do use it in a variety of ways. 

One thing I've noticed working with musicians is that many seem a little allergic to the word. They're wary of calling themselves artists. We regularly refer to people who have released their music as "artists"— but in a way that kind of implies that you need a record deal to be one. An artist is someone over there, seemingly unreachable, a star. 

Personally, I've always been drawn to a more expansive view. In fact, it's a word I think about a lot, because I find that when I approach life as an artist, it helps me be more of the creative, thoughtful person I want to be. Let me expand on that. 

When I was 16 years old, I went to live with a host family in a small town in Italy for a year. It was an amazing experience— not least of all because the family I lived with owned a pizzeria where I got to hang out, meet lots of people, and learn the language. And eat pizza every night.  

A couple weeks ago, I visited my old host family again, with whom I've stayed in touch for 23 years. I even went back and worked there at one point. It was amazing to introduce them to my kids and catch up— but also really wonderful to see how their pizzeria, which was always a very popular place, has blown up. It was started 40 years ago by Pietro and Simonetta Carletti, the mom and dad in this family, in a town with only about 5,000 people in it— and yet, the pizza was so good that it's always brought in people from the entire region. 

About 10 years ago, the son Simone took over, and moved into a fancy new location down the road, three ovens, expanded kitchen, double the staff. Now, they consistently make about 500 pizzas a night. In this tiny, sleepy medieval village without a ton of opportunity or optimism, you turn a corner and happen upon this absolutely bopping restaurant, tables packed, conversation bumping, pizzas slinging. No tourists, all locals. Unmatchable vibes.  

We all know the restaurant business is a killer industry. In the US 60% fail within the first year, and 80% within the first five years. How has this small town pizza place been so successful? 

It's obvious within a moment of being there. First Pietro (the father) and now Simone (the son) are artists. And by that I mean, they've thought and sweated over every detail. The olive oil they use, the shape of every pizza, the right level of crispness on the crust, the way that orders are taken and received. Without a ton of resources at their disposal, it's a journey— everything isn't always perfect, but it's always done with such care and intention. And that comes through to the customers. 

My enduring image from my time there as a kid is Pietro screaming for me from the kitchen when a pizza had been waiting too long... "YANKEEEE!!!" He was never afraid to lay into someone if he thought the product or service were at risk. And like so many artists, he's driven himself absolutely crazy at times with his perfectionism. But the corollary is that the pizza is exceptional, and they've overcome huge obstacles to build something that delivers an endless amount of joy (and deliciousness). 

Why am I telling you this? Well, this is precisely why I love the word artist. Because being an artist to me is a way of being, one you can choose to put on in any facet of your life. Being an artist means approaching life with consideration, doing things for their own sake, and appreciating the act of creation in and of itself. It means sweating the details no one else will notice, trying to do the best you can with what you have, even sometimes on seemingly thankless tasks. 

You can be an artist in how you wear your clothes, or how you mop the floors. You can be an artist in how you build relationships or how you help a customer. You can obviously be an artist in how you make pizza. Whenever you consider deeply what you're doing and how you're doing it, whenever you try to find a sense of joy and beauty in your actions and deliver joy in what you share, whenever you try to paint the world in vibrant colors with your work, to me you are being an artist. 

That's why I love the word. Because in my music as in my day-to-day life, I often find myself on autopilot, or trying to find shortcuts, or copying what others have done. That's when I stop, and ask myself how I can be an artist instead, and it helps me re-find that creative, careful, sometimes even mischievous side of myself that can find meaning in anything I do. Being an artist is the ultimate act of subversion— not doing something because it's the way to do it or because you're told to, but because you're finding the artistry within it. And to me, that's a better way to be. 

I'm working on a new album right now, as well as developing some piano and  production skills, fueled by lingering dreams of the best pizza in the world (in my humble opinion). What are some examples of unexpected artistry in your own life, and how can you draw inspiration from them?

What do you think? What does the word "artist" mean to you?

Yours, Ian

To learn more about Ian Temple, CEO and Founder of Soundfly, scroll waaayyy up to the box In partnership with...

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PS from PS— There can be $$$ for Singer Songwriters

In this issue there's an article, "No $$$ For Singer Songwriters."

I want to share my favorite option for a way for Singer Songwriter to get paid more and better. So, I will...

As Gig Fees haven't changed much in the last 10 years… Performers are still making the same $150 play at a bar or patio they were making years ago. It’s even worse now due to inflation: that 2014 $150 should be $202.30 today. Then there’s rising prices, and, and, and. Everyone else in the music business is making money except the ones who create the music— Singer Songwriters.

As we say (again and again and…): It’s Time… for a Change. Big Time. Past Time.

Here’s one proven way to bring about that change for yourself.

Go to your email list (you've got one I hope) and send a post to all your fans (you can duplicate this on social media, too) that are local— say within a 50-mile radius. Ask them if you can come and play in their living room, or backyard, or barn or… Ask them to invite all their friends. Some will. Some won’t. Hold your nose and jump.

My experience is a bunch of email replies will come in. Contact the ones that you want to play. They invite their friends. You show up. And play. More than a win-win, this is a Win-x's-Win. Win^{2. The best} part is their friends who are quite like them, will shut up and really listen to you. And they will donate or tip you. You will make more than that forgettable bar show you didn't want to play. Promise. And any of those friends be interested in hosting you for their friends?

Now this may sound like, ‘Yeah you've told us before.’ True, I have. We are working on a way more-than-clever system to enable you to turn this process of asking your fans into an easy way to make a local schedule of a few gigs, to a longer tour of 5 or 10 performances, and even expand it into something that could make you a full-time professional Singer Songwriters. We’re talkin' helping you create the emails, laying out the itinerary, the whole nine. We’re so close. I promise that for some of you, this will change the way you make a living doing what you love playing music to people who are listening and falling in-love and in=love with you.. 

It's coming. The first few designs are looking good. When they’re looking great, you‘ll be the second to know. 

If you're interested in the concept, message me. Gotta have a few folks test it out. Love you to be one of them.

Until we speak again..

Help Us Create More Success For 
More Singer Songwriters Than Ever Before!

It's Time... For a Change. Big Time. Past Time.

New Music Lives™ is 100% committed to the success of every Singer Songwriter we can reach. With the AMP, we're intent on providing the very best resources, inspiration, and knowledge— free of charge— to ALL Singer Songwriters, because Your Music  MUST BE HEARD! 

Our mission is clear: "Put Success in Your Singer Songwriter Career."

Why Free Matters
Money should never be a barrier for any aspiring artist. Those Singer Songwriters who need the AMP the most are often the ones who can afford it the least. That’s why we’ve made the AMP accessible to everyone. Free. No Charge. And No Strings. 

And... we're asking for your support to continue this mission— and reach more Singer Songwriters than ever!

If you like an' love the AMP, benefit from its content, and believe in our cause, please consider making a donation. Your contribution ensures we can keep providing this invaluable resource to more and more Singer Songwriters.

And here to please Share our mission with your friends, family, and fellow singer songwriters.

Every dollar helps us Inform, Involve, and Inspire more singer songwriters like you and keep the AMP the best newsletter in the business. 

Thank you for being an important part of your New Music Lives™ .comUnity. Together we are the future of music.

Join Us. Support the AMP. You  Make a Difference.

Thanks for reading. Give us your feedback.

And PLEASE, if you've got any Singer Songwriter friends, pass the AMP on, because... It’s Time... for a Change. Big Time. Past Time...