the AMP Issue 60

"Today when I create my music, I feel like an instrument of nature. I wonder what delight nature must feel when we open our hearts and express our God-given talents."
– Michael Jackson

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

In This Issue... 18 pages [about 26ish minutes to read] You'll Get... 

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• RECOMMENDS— InspiringQuotes.com

• the BIZ— Making Music That Sells is a Bad Goal by Friedemann Finnegan

• the GREATEST SINGER SONGWRITERS of ALL TIME— Michael Jackson

• BACKSTAGE PASS— 4 Business Skills that Makes Artists Millions by Chris Greenwood, aka Manafest, from Smart Music Business

• SONGWRITING— 16 Lyrics to Live By From Grammy-Winning Songs
from Inspiring Quotes .com

• PS from PS— A Wake-Up Call! The Danger of Being Your Own Audience

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Here’s the playlist

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• Recommends— InspiringQuotes.com

If you're looking for a daily source of inspiration that challenges your mind, lifts your spirit, and fuels your creativity— AND is a consistent source of songwriting words and fresh new and proven old ideas— InspiringQuotes.com is a must-visit. With a carefully curated collection of thought-provoking quotes from history's greatest minds— philosophers, leaders, artists, pop culture and visionaries— it offers a fresh perspective on life, love, success, and self-discovery. Each quote is more than just words; it's a spark that can ignite personal growth and reflection, as well as a rich resource for Songwriters.

What sets InspiringQuotes.com apart is the depth and variety of its content. Whether you need motivation for the day ahead, comfort during tough times, or just a gentle reminder to stay present, you'll find something that resonates with where you are in your journey. It's not just about quick inspiration—  it's about building a mindset that fosters positive change.

We highly recommend InspiringQuotes.com for anyone looking to add a touch of wisdom and daily inspiration to their routine. It's a site you'll want to bookmark and return to again and again. And a 'Killer App' for Singer Songwriters.

Tap this link to establish a positive mindset every morning, and approach your day with optimism, determination, and a general sense of well-being Inspiring Quotes Daily Inspiration.

Scroll (way, way) down for a taste of Inspiring Quotes: 16 Lyrics to Live By From Grammy-Winning Songs

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• the BIZ— Making Music That Sells is a Bad Goal by Friedemann Finnegan for Realistic Songwriting Academy

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What is the most damaging belief for artists, producers and Songwriters trying to make a living in the music industry today?

The most damaging belief in the music business is...

Writing "commercial music" will lead to success. 

Many musicians today feel frustrated because they haven't "made it," or they feel stuck producing generic music that doesn't satisfy them. This frustration often stems from a flawed mindset: "I want to be successful, so I write commercial music." But this approach is counterproductive and prevents artists from reaching their full creative potential.

What is Commercial Music?
When artists think of commercial music, they often define it as having mass appeal— simple melodies, repetitive structures, and a modern sound. It's the kind of music that blends into the background at stores or on the radio. But here's the issue: writing music that sounds like what's already on the charts forces you to copy trends, making it hard for your music to stand out. 

Commercial music is often safe and unobtrusive, designed to keep listeners from changing the station. This creates a sameness that can stifle originality. Many current artists rely on "A-B tracks," comparing their songs to hits on the charts to ensure they sound similar enough. But copying what's popular makes it hard for new voices to emerge, and in the long run, it limits creative growth.

"If you're writing music just to sound like what's on the charts, you're already behind."

Do You Want to Make Commercial Music?
Ask yourself: Do you want to spend your days imitating others and chasing trends? By the time your song is out, those trends may already be old news. Moreover, even if you successfully imitate popular artists, you can't replicate their unique experiences and stories. What makes an artist like Doja Cat or Ed Sheeran stand out isn't just their sound; it's their personal history and identity, which can't be copied.

"If all you're doing is copying other artists, you're not just competing with them—you're competing with AI."

Does Commercial Music Work?
Sure, commercial music can get you short-term success, like a spot on the radio or a playlist. But it's less likely to create lasting impact or build a loyal fan base. Casual listeners, who primarily consume commercial music, aren't the ones who will drive miles to see you perform or support you in meaningful ways like buying your merch or joining your Patreon. To build a sustainable career, you need TrueFans— people who deeply connect with your unique music and story.

Go Indie: The Power of a Niche Audience
Here's a different approach: Instead of chasing mainstream success, focus on a niche audience that loves what you do. According to Kevin Kelly's "1,000 True Fans" theory, you don't need millions of listeners to make a living. If 1,000 dedicated fans spend $100 on you each year, that's $100,000. Building an indie following may seem like a slower path, but it can provide more stability and creative freedom.

Be Authentic, Not a Copycat
True artistic growth comes from taking risks and being authentic. It's okay to start by imitating others, but you should use that as a springboard to find your unique voice. Copying what's already successful may get you on the charts and there's a place for a great, unique cover, but that won't sustain you or make a lasting impact. Instead, aim to write music that genuinely reflects your experiences and perspective. Authenticity, not imitation, is what will attract loyal fans and set you apart.

"Personal experiences are the core of great music. You want listeners to feel like they're having a conversation with you."

The Long Game: Building a Sustainable Career
If you want a sustainable music career, you need to think long-term. It's about more than just writing a hit song— it's about building a fan base, TrueFans, creating meaningful music, and continuously growing as an artist. It takes time, but the effort will be worth it. The most successful artists didn't start by following trends; they created new ones. By staying true to your voice, you can build something lasting and meaningful.
 
"If you want to build a movement, your goal is not to show your music to as many people as possible— it's to find your unique audience and make them happy."

Write— and Sing— Your Own Story
In the end, the key to success isn't chasing trends or writing or performing commercial music. It's about creating something authentic that resonates with a specific audience. Be brave enough to tell your story, and don't be afraid to alienate those who aren't your tribe. The more you hone your unique sound, the more you'll attract true fans who will support you for the long haul.

"The more divisive your music, the easier it will be to find your TrueFans."

Note: This article was created by transcribing and condensing the YouTube video,  Making Music That Sells is a Bad Goal. Tap the link to watch the 19ish minute original.

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Holistic Songwriting is a most relevant resource for modern Songwriters/Producers on the net. Friedemann Findeisen is an award-winning Songwriter and the author of the bestselling book The Addiction Formula. As a musical profiler, he coaches some of the biggest producers in Germany helping make your music more awesome by showing you the skills you need to express yourself as an individual. Findeisen and his team do this by showing you all the pulls and levers in your music and how to use them to reveal character. In short: EVERYTHING you need to know to become a true master of song creation.
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Tap the link to join their mailing list to start seeing the matrix and gain full control over your creativity and get your free eBook: Fill That Page: How To Write More Lyrics

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• the Greatest Singer Songwriters of All Time— Michael Jackson

Not Only One of the Greatest Singer-Songwriters of All Time— One of the Greatest Artists the World Has Ever Known

"Michael Jackson didn't just shape music— he redefined it. His genius transcended genre, culture, and generations, establishing him as one of the most iconic and influential Singer Songwriters— and artists— in the history of modern music." 

Musical Genius and Prolific Career
Michael Jackson, the "King of Pop," was not only a Singer Songwriter and phenomenal performer, but also one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. From his early days in The Jackson 5 to his groundbreaking solo career, Jackson consistently pushed the boundaries of music production, song composition, and global stardom.

"Michael Jackson was more than an entertainer— he was a genius who changed the way we experience music. His creativity inspired me to push boundaries."
— Beyoncé

Production, Sales, and Major Hits
With a career spanning more than four decades, Jackson's music influenced millions worldwide. He sold over 750 million records globally, making him one of the best-selling music artists in history. His biggest hits, including Billie Jean, Thriller, Beat It, Bad, Man in the Mirror, and Smooth Criminal, defined and redefined the pop landscape.

Thriller (1982): Still the best-selling album of all time, Thriller revolutionized music videos and brought a new level of artistry and storytelling to the medium.

Bad (1987): Produced by Quincy Jones, it became the first album to produce five consecutive Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles, a feat unmatched at the time.

Off the Wall (1979): Marked Jackson's transition to adulthood and helped set the stage for the pop/R&B fusion that would dominate the 1980s.

Dangerous (1991): Showcased Jackson's innovative use of New Jack Swing, further proving his ability to adapt to evolving musical trends.

Jackson's records won countless accolades, including 13 Grammy Awards, the Grammy Legend Award, and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Concerts and Global Reach
Jackson's concerts were events like no other the world had seen. His 1987–89 Bad World Tour, the Dangerous World Tour (1992–93), and the HIStory World Tour (1996–97) broke attendance records and set new standards for live performance production. Jackson had an uncanny ability to connect with audiences across all continents, creating a global pop culture phenomenon.

Inspirations and Personal Life
Jackson drew inspiration from a variety of genres, including R&B, soul, funk, rock, and disco. Artists such as James Brown, Jackie Wilson, and the Motown sound shaped his early career, but Jackson also drew on more classical influences, such as Fred Astaire, when it came to dance and performance.

However, his personal life was often fraught with challenges. From his tumultuous relationship with his father to the intense scrutiny he faced in the media, Jackson's struggles were well-documented. His personal battles with fame, privacy, and health issues, especially in the latter part of his life, cast a shadow over his career but never  diminished his creative output or legacy.

"What Michael did with music, performance, and fashion continues to inspire me. He showed that an artist could truly be larger than life."
— Lady Gaga

Political and Social Activism
Michael Jackson was also deeply committed to social causes. Songs like Man in the Mirror and Heal the World reflected his passion for inspiring change through music. He was an advocate for racial harmony, children's rights, and global peace, founding several charitable organizations and supporting over 39 charities during his lifetime. Jackson's humanitarian efforts won him the admiration of fans and world leaders alike.

Impact on Other Singer-Songwriters
Michael Jackson's influence on music is incalculable. He has been credited with shaping modern pop music and setting new standards for songwriting, production, and live performances. Many artists across genres cite Jackson as a significant influence on their careers, from Beyoncé to Justin Timberlake, from Usher to Lady Gaga. 

His groundbreaking work in both music and video production redefined the possibilities of pop music, inspiring artists to merge storytelling with visual art.

"He has always been my biggest inspiration. He transcended pop music and left a legacy that no one will ever touch."
— Justin Timberlake

"Without Michael Jackson, I wouldn't be the artist, performer, or person I am today. His influence is in everything I do."
— Usher

Jackson's mastery of blending diverse musical styles— from rock to R&B to disco— opened doors for artists to experiment with genre fluidity. His lyrics often explored themes of personal growth, love, social justice, and human suffering, encouraging generations of songwriters to infuse their music with deep emotional and cultural meaning.

Michael Jackson's Legacy

"To this day, his artistry and creative genius set the bar for what pop music could be. There's only one Michael Jackson."
— Madonna

Despite the controversies surrounding his personal life, Jackson's legacy as a musician, Songwriter, and cultural icon remains unparalleled. His ability to blend timeless melodies with powerful lyrics and cutting-edge production techniques has left a lasting imprint on modern music.

Michael Jackson's impact with the We Are the World project was profound, as he co-wrote the song with Lionel Richie to bring attention to the Ethiopian famine. The song united some of the biggest names in music and raised over $63 million for humanitarian aid, demonstrating Jackson's commitment to using his artistry for global causes and inspiring social change.

Jackson's innovation extended beyond songwriting. He pioneered the integration of music and visual media, creating iconic music videos that remain cultural touchstones. Even today, Jackson's influence can be seen in artists who embrace theatricality, grand production, and multi-dimensional artistry in their own performances.

With his towering achievements in songwriting, production, and performance, Michael Jackson remains one of the greatest artists the world has ever known. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of Singer Songwriters to challenge the limits of creativity, making him truly one of the greatest artists of all time.

in partnership with Chris Greenwood and SmartMusicBusiness

• BACKSTAGE PASS— 4 Business Skills That Make Artists Millions by Chris Greenwood, aka Manafest, from Smart Music Business

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It's easier to ask for forgiveness than permission

I tried. Really. Five times I sent and received a message from young Mr. Greenwood's team at Smart Music Business that they received my request for permission to use this article in the AMP. I transcribed and edited-down a YouTube video Chris made I thought was really valuable and useful for you. But... still haven't received a response. So... Chris, if you read this, please, don't sue me. 

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Have you ever wondered why so few artists make significant money from their music? It's not about talent alone. Many talented musicians struggle financially because they lack essential business skills.

Skill #1: Residual Income
In the music business, there are two primary types of income: service-based and product-based. 

• Service-based income comes from activities like touring or playing shows. You perform once and get paid once, limiting your earning potential to the time you can trade for money.

• Product-based income, however, includes selling CDs, vinyl, digital downloads, or generating streams on platforms like Spotify. Here, you earn repeatedly from the same work. This type of income is residual, meaning it continues without requiring more of your time.

"You've got to learn how to sever your income earning ability from time."

By building a catalog of music, I've created streams of income that pay me while I sleep— what I call "Swiss dollars." For instance, a sync placement in the Super Bowl featured a song I wrote three years ago. I did the work once, but it keeps paying off.

Residual income is the key to financial freedom. While touring and performing are important, learning to generate product-based income allows you to earn money passively.

"Sales while I sleep soundly— residual income is the cornerstone of long-term financial freedom."

Skill #2: Partnerships
Partnerships are critical to scaling your music career. You can't do everything alone, and collaboration often leads to greater success. One of my most important partnerships is with DistroKid, which distributes my music across all platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and TikTok. They have the relationships and infrastructure to make distribution seamless.

"I'd rather have 20 percent of a watermelon than 100 percent of a grape."

Working with a record label early on allowed me to sell thousands of albums weekly, because they had the connections I didn't. Even though I took a smaller percentage, the overall pie was much bigger.

Collaborations can also happen with booking agents, sync companies, or influencers. Instead of doing everything yourself, partner with people who excel in their areas. For example, collaborating with other artists has brought in new fans and streams, growing all our audiences together.

"If you want to go far, go together."

Skill #3: Marketing
Marketing is how you get your music in front of more people. It includes everything from making music videos to leveraging social media and email lists.

Touring can be a form of marketing, but you should also consider "buying on" to bigger artists' tours. This way, you're paying to get in front of their audience, which can expand your reach.

"You're paying for attention— someone else has done the hard work, and you get the benefit."

Building an email list or SMS list over time allows you to market directly to your fans, keeping them engaged and turning them into lifelong supporters [TrueFans].

Skill #4: Advertising
While marketing can be organic, advertising involves paying to accelerate the process. Ads on Facebook, YouTube, Spotify, or TikTok allow you to reach a much larger audience quickly.

The key is to take the content that performs best organically and turn it into ads. This way, you're putting your most effective messages in front of the most people.

"If you want to scale fast, advertising is how you take your message to the masses."

Be cautious with playlist promotions, as there are many shady services out there. Only invest in legitimate opportunities that can provide a real return.

Key Takeaways:

• Residual income is essential for long-term financial freedom. 
• Partnerships can multiply your reach and income. 
• Marketing builds awareness, while advertising scales it faster.

These four business skills are what separate struggling artists from those making millions.

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Tap here to watch Chris' original YouTube video, Business Skills that Make Artists Millions.

AND... scroll up and up to the in partnership with... gold box to connect with and learn more about Chris Greenwood and Smart Music Business.

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• SONGWRITING— 16 Lyrics to Live By From Grammy-Winning Songs from Inspiring Quotes .com

Every year, the Recording Academy brings together the best of mainstream music with the Grammy Awards, honoring artists and writers across all genres, from country and rap to classical scores and pop. The highly coveted title of Song of the Year is perhaps so esteemed because it crosses genre lines: past winning artists have included Bruce Springsteen, Lorde, Childish Gambino, and Tina Turner.

From U2's Beautiful Day to Beyoncé's Single Ladies, the Song of the Year hits that magic combination of accessible lyrics and well-crafted music, offering us the double-whammy of relatability and a good hook. In these 16 lyrics from winning songs over the last 50 years, we find timeless encouragement to choose new experiences, take a chance on love, and remember that we aren't alone.

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Two drifters, off to see the world / There's such a lot of world to see
Moon River by Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer, (performed by Audrey Hepburn), 1962

The shadow of your smile / When you are gone / Will color all my dreams / And light the dawn
The Shadow of Your Smile by Paul Francis Webster and John Mandel (performed by Tony Bennett), 1966

I'm sailing right behind / Like a bridge over troubled water / I will ease your mind
Bridge Over Troubled Water by Paul Simon (performed by Simon & Garfunkel), 1971

You just call out my name / And you know, wherever I am / I'll come running / To see you again
You've Got a Friend by Carole King (performed by Carole King and James Taylor), 1972

You and I will make each night a first / Every day a beginning
Evergreen by Paul Williams and Barbra Streisand (performed by Barbra Streisand), 1978

I took the good times, I'll take the bad times / I'll take you just the way you are
Just The Way You Are, written and performed by Billy Joel, 1979

Let us realize / That a change can only come / When we stand together as one
We Are The World by Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson (performed by USA for Africa), 1986

Keep smiling and keep shining / Knowing you can always count on me
That's What Friends Are For by Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager (performed by Dionne Warwick), 1987

No one to tell us no / Or where to go / Or say we're only dreaming
A Whole New World by Alan Menken and Tim Rice (performed by Peabo Bryson & Regina Belle), 1994

Love can touch us one time / And last for a lifetime
My Heart Will Go On by Will Jennings and James Horner (performed by Céline Dion), 1999

It's a beautiful day / Don't let it get away
Beautiful Day by Adam Clayton, David Evans, Laurence Mullen, and Paul David Hewson (performed by U2), 2001

You don't have to put up a fight / You don't have to always be right / Let me take some of the punches / For you tonight
Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own by Adam Clayton, David Evans, Laurence Mullen, and Paul David Hewson (performed by U2), 2006

I made my bed, and I sleep like a baby / With no regrets and I don't mind sayin'
Not Ready to Make Nice by Martha Maguire, Natalie Maines, Emily Robison, and Dan Wilson (performed by The Chicks), 2007

I could care less what you think / I need no permission
Single Ladies by Beyoncé, Terius Nash, Thaddis Harrell, and Christopher Stewart (performed by Beyoncé), 2010

Throw your soul through every open door / Count your blessings to find what you look for
Rolling in the Deep by Adele Laurie Blue Adkins and Paul Richard Epworth (performed by Adele), 2012

Tonight / We are young / So let's set the world on fire / We can burn brighter than the sun
We Are Young by Jack Antonoff, Jeff Bhasker Andrew Dost, and Nathaniel Ruess (performed by Fun. and Janelle Monáe), 2013

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Written and compiled by Paola Bennet

Paola Bennet is a writer based in Brooklyn, NY. She writes a fortnightly newsletter that treasures the mundane, called Small Histories. Find her on Instagram @paolafbennet.

Inspiring Quotes aims to set a positive outlook— encouraging you to approach your days with wisdom, clarity, and a sense of peace. Their intention is to help you view your life through an optimistic lens. They hope to become a part of your morning ritual, establishing the tone for the days, weeks, months, and years ahead. 

Tap this link to establish a positive mindset every morning, and approach your day with optimism, determination, and a general sense of well-being Inspiring Quotes Daily Inspiration.

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PS from PS— A Wake-Up Call! The Danger of Being Your Own Audience

You've just spent the last nine months pouring your heart and soul into writing, composing, and recording your album. Every lyric, every melody, and every chord progression is etched into your mind like a tattoo. You know each song inside and out, backwards and forwards. It's perfect, right? It speaks to you on a deep, personal level.

But here's the cold, hard truth: 

You Are NOT Your Audience.

Let that sink in for a moment. It might be a tough pill to swallow, but it's a crucial realization that could make or break your success as a Singer Songwriter.

The Reality Check
Ask yourself this: How many people in your audience know your songs as intimately as you do?

None.

Your listeners, even your most dedicated TrueFans, simply don't have the same level of intimacy and connection to your music that you do. They haven't lived with these songs for months on end. They haven't agonized over every word choice, every key change, or every nuance in your vocal delivery.

The Listener's Perspective
Put yourself in the shoes of your average listener. They might:

• Stream your single a few times
• Watch your live performance video on YouTube for a few minutes
• Add your album to their playlist
• Listen to it in the background while working or commuting or jogging maybe

Even if they absolutely love your music, their experience of it is fundamentally different from yours. They're interpreting your lyrics and melodies through the lens of their own experiences, not yours.

The Danger of Self-Indulgence
When you start believing that you're your own target audience, you risk falling into a trap of self-indulgence. As a Singer Songwriter, you might:

• Overlook lyrical ambiguities that are clear to you but confusing to others
• Assume emotional connections that aren't evident to fresh ears
• Fail to explain the story behind your songs effectively
• Miss opportunities to connect with listeners on a universal level

Selling to Your Real Audience
Remember: You didn't write these songs just for yourself. You crafted them for your TrueFans, for potential new listeners, for the world at large. 

So why are you trying to sell them to yourself?

It's time to shift your perspective. Stop thinking about what each song means to you personally, and start considering what it could mean to others. Ask yourself:

• What emotions might this lyric evoke in someone hearing it for the first time?
• How can I present this song in a way that's relatable to a wide range of listeners?
• What aspects of my songwriting might resonate with different types of people?
• How can I bridge the gap between my personal experience and universal themes?

The Bottom Line
Let's say it one more time, with feeling:

You Are NOT Your Audience 

Got it? Good. Because understanding this fundamental truth is the first step towards creating and promoting songs that truly connect with the people you want to reach.

Your passion, your song poetry, and your unique voice are invaluable. But to succeed as a Singer Songwriter, you need to combine these with a clear-eyed understanding of your actual audience. Only then can you bridge the gap between your personal expression and the personal experiences of your listeners.

So go forth, write boldly, but always remember: Your songs aren't just for you anymore. They're for them. And that's what makes songwriting such a powerful form of artistic communication.

Until we speak again... 

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