the AMP Issue 66

"The true beauty of music is that it connects people. It carries a message, and we, the musicians, are the messengers."
— Roy Ayers

In This Issue... 15 pages [about 22ish minutes to read] You'll Get... 

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• RECOMMENDS— Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band

• the BIZ— Musician Brand Image: Is it Helping or Hurting You? by Tony van Veen of DiskMakers

• the GREATEST SINGER SONGWRITERS of ALL TIME— Taylor Swift

• COACHING— Mental Health Resources for Musicians in 2024

• PS from PS— The Power of LIVE Performance: Where New Music LIVES™

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Here’s the playlist

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• Recommends— Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band

A must-watch for those who want to know what it takes to be unforgettable.

Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band offers the most in-depth look ever at the creation of their legendary live performances, including footage of band rehearsals, backstage moments, rare archival clips and personal reflections from the Boss himself.

Road Diary captures Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band on a journey that's as raw and soul-stirring as their music itself. For any Singer Songwriter aspiring to reach new heights in connecting with an audience, this documentary is a masterclass in performance, passion, and the art of unforgettable stage presence.

Springsteen is the consummate performer. From behind-the-scenes glimpses into his meticulous preparation to the intensity he brings to each performance, Road Diary reveals why Springsteen is so revered. He's not just showing up; he's crafting every second of the experience for his audience, prepared with even rehearsed spontaneity that keeps the energy alive and the moments fresh. Every show is approached with 100% dedication, and it's clear he's deeply committed to leaving it all on the stage— no holding back, no shortcuts. Watching his process, you're reminded of the magic that happens when an artist merges skill with sincerity, turning each concert into an immersive, authentic experience that audiences carry with them long after the lights dim.

And Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band have been doing it for more than 50 years...

For Singer Songwriters, Springsteen's journey on Road Diary is not just inspirational, but also a reminder of what it means to truly connect with your audience, to stay grounded in the music, and to honor the power of live performance. This documentary isn't just about following a band on tour; it's a reminder that with preparation, passion, and an unbreakable work ethic, you, too, can create moments that resonate with fans for a lifetime. 

A must-watch for those who want to know what it takes to be unforgettable. On Disney+ and Hulu :01h 39mins.

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• the BIZ— Musician Brand Image: Is it Helping or Hurting You? by Tony van Veen of DiskMakers
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This article was transcribed and condensed from a YouTube presentation. Tap this link to watch Tony's complete 9 minute video Musician Brand Image

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As an independent artist, establishing a memorable brand is one of the keys to your long-term success. Building a brand has two important parts: creating awareness so fans know your name and, just as crucially, positioning yourself in their minds. Today, we'll dive into the second part— how you create that image so your fans think of something specific when they think of you.

Consider some well-known examples. Bruce Springsteen: New Jersey working-class hero. Snoop Dogg: Compton gangbanger with a love for THC. Taylor Swift: Smart, young, often exacting revenge on exes and detractors. Kendrick Lamar: The intellectual observer of life in the hood. When you hear these names, you immediately form an image. Their brand personas have been carefully crafted over time, often with help from PR teams, to align with who they are and how they want to be seen.

Why Is a Strong Brand Important?
There are three major reasons:

1. It Makes You Memorable— Strong brand positioning sticks. Think of Madonna when she first emerged with Like a Virgin— that bold, in-your-face image made her unforgettable.

2. It Sets You Apart— Madonna's daring persona also made her distinct from other female pop stars of the time. In recent years, Lil Nas X's unique position as a Black, gay, pop-country singer with flamboyant visuals immediately set him apart in a crowded industry.

3. It Helps You Find Your True Audience— Artists like Adele resonate with fans who've experienced heartbreak, drawing people in with relatable lyrics and imagery. But a strong brand can also attract fans who are intrigued by a lifestyle they don't live. Plenty of suburban kids, for example, became fans of N.W.A. and Dr. Dre, identifying with the rebellious image even though their own lives were worlds apart.

Building Your Brand Identity
So how do you go about building a brand that resonates?

• Be Clear on What You Stand For— Your brand is often rooted in where you're from or what you represent. Springsteen and Eminem embraced their origins, while Adele and Dr. Dre built their brands on relatable themes.

• Tell Your Story— This is about how you communicate who you are. Use lyrics, visuals, promo photos, album covers, music videos, and even interviews to reinforce your narrative. Artists who've made it big create a clear, cohesive story across these elements, helping fans form a strong mental image.

• Be Consistent— Telling your story once isn't enough. You need to reinforce your positioning through your lyrics, look, and interviews, making your brand clear and unmissable over time. 

Adapting as You Grow
Does this mean your brand can never change? Not necessarily. When you're in the early stages of building success, a consistent brand image is essential. But later in your career, evolution might even be desirable. Jay-Z is a great example. His early image was that of a smart, talented ex-drug dealer who was climbing his way out of the hood. As he grew his career, his brand evolved into that of a wealthy industry mogul with refined tastes, which even his marriage to Beyoncé supported. Yet, the core of his story— his gritty roots— always remained.

Questions to Consider
Whether you realize it or not, everything about how you present yourself— from the clothes you wear to the stories you tell— is already forming a brand. This brings up two key questions:

1. Is Your Brand Deliberate or Accidental? Are you consistent with the image you portray, or are you letting a story be told about you that you're not controlling?

2. Is Your Brand Effective? Is the image you're projecting unique and memorable in your fans' minds? If not, take some time to define it. Sit down with a pen and paper and consider: Who are you as an artist? What sets you apart? Once you're clear, think about how you can consistently reflect this image in your look, actions, and music.

Brand-building might feel like fabrication, but think of it as storytelling. In fact, the artists who stick in fans' minds are the ones who tell their stories with purpose and consistency. Creating your brand deliberately ensures that fans can form a clear image of who you are and why they should follow you.

And here's a tip: physical media, like CDs, can be a great tool for reinforcing your brand. With a CD, you have multiple panels for photos, graphics, and lyrics that can tell a richer, deeper story about you as an artist. Plus, in a streaming-dominated world, a CD shows you're serious about your art and your audience. When you're ready to make those CDs or vinyls, you know where to find us!
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About Tony van Veen and DiskMakers
Tony van Veen, CEO of DiskMakers, has spent over 30 years championing independent musicians and empowering them to bring their creative visions to life. Under his leadership, DiskMakers has become a trusted resource in the music industry, offering high-quality CD, vinyl, and merch production services tailored to the needs of artists who want to make a lasting impression. Tony's commitment to supporting indie musicians has made DiskMakers an invaluable partner in helping artists elevate their brand and connect meaningfully with fans.

Why Choose DiskMakers?
DiskMakers goes beyond standard production to offer independent artists the tools and expertise they need to succeed. From professional packaging to custom merch and reliable fulfillment, DiskMakers ensures that your physical media not only looks amazing but also helps tell your unique story. When you're ready to create CDs or vinyls that resonate with your audience, DiskMakers is there to make it happen, every step of the way.

DiskMakers offers a host of Free Guides and Catalogs. Their catalog features all of their current products and prices and downloadable PDF guides give expert advice on everything from outfitting and using your home studio to planning your album and selling CDs— and a whole lot more.

You can sign up for their newsletter here: DiskMakers Newsletter Signup.

in partnership with We the People of the United States of America

No matter who... Just be sure you do... 
VOTE! because...

Taylor Said So !!!

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• the Greatest Singer Songwriters of All Time— Taylor Swift

A Legacy Unmatched: The Phenomenon of Taylor Swift

"Taylor Swift isn't just a Singer Songwriter and Performer; she's a Cultural Phenomenon, a billion-dollar powerhouse, and a record-breaking visionary. With every album, every tour, and every connection she makes with fans, she sets a new standard not only in music, but in what it means to be an artist today."

Crafting a Legacy of Storytelling, Evolution, and TrueFan Devotion
Taylor Swift's journey from a teenage country singer to one of the highest-earning and most influential artists of all time is nothing short of legendary. As a trailblazer in the music industry, her meteoric rise has shattered records and redefined success. Her recent Eras tour became a billion-dollar success, setting the bar for live performances worldwide, while her consistent reign at the top of the charts is nothing short of historic. But beyond these achievements lies a deeper story: Taylor Swift has built a phenomenon around herself that transcends music, creating a community of TrueFans who feel as much a part of her journey as she is of theirs. Through her storytelling, authenticity, and unwavering dedication to her fanbase, she has fostered a connection so strong that it has become a cultural movement all its own.

Starting Young and Striving Big
Growing up in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, Taylor's love for music was evident from a young age. She performed at local festivals and fairs, showing a natural talent and determination that led her family to make the bold decision to move to Nashville when she was just 14. In Nashville, she absorbed the fundamentals of country music and honed her songwriting skills, eventually securing a contract with Big Machine Record— the youngest artist ever to do so.

"Taylor writes songs that touch the soul. She understands people on a deeper level, and that's what makes her music timeless."
—  Keith Urban

Taylor's self-titled debut album, Taylor Swift (2006), introduced her country-pop blend to the world, featuring hits like Tim McGraw and Our Song. Swift's gift for transforming personal stories into universally relatable music quickly resonated with audiences, setting the foundation for what would become an extraordinary career.

Breaking Boundaries with Fearless and Speak Now
With her sophomore album, Fearless (2008), Taylor's talent for storytelling and knack for writing catchy, heartfelt songs hit new heights. Tracks like Love Story and You Belong with Me catapulted her to international fame, winning her Album of the Year at the Grammys and making her the youngest artist to receive that honor. Fearless bridged country and pop, pulling fans from both worlds and establishing her as a rising star on a path to superstardom.

Swift's third album, Speak Now (2010), was a watershed moment in her career as she wrote every song herself. Songs like Back to December and Mean showcased her storytelling mastery and her willingness to share deeply personal experiences. This album firmly positioned Taylor as a gifted Songwriter who valued her artistry and message above all else.

"Taylor Swift is a real Songwriter. She's one of those people who you know will be around for a long time because her music is from the heart, and it speaks to people in a special way."
—  Dolly Parton

Expanding Her Reach with Red and Embracing Pop Stardom in 1989
Taylor's evolution continued with Red (2012), an album that boldly experimented with pop sounds while retaining her country roots. Hits like We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together and I Knew You Were Trouble became cultural anthems, cementing her as an artist who wasn't afraid to take risks and explore new sounds.

Then came 1989 (2014), a full pivot to pop that would redefine Taylor's career. 1989 was a smash hit, producing massive singles like Shake It Off, Blank Space, and Bad Blood, and earned Taylor her second Grammy for Album of the Year, making her the first female solo artist to win the award twice. With 1989, Taylor had officially transformed into a global pop icon, delivering a blend of sharp lyricism and infectious beats that resonated worldwide.

"Taylor Swift is a master of her craft. She's paved the way for so many artists, and her work ethic is something we all aspire to."
—  Shawn Mendes

Reinvention and Resilience with Reputation and Lover
With Reputation (2017), Taylor confronted public controversies head-on, channeling personal challenges into a darker, edgier sound. Hits such as Look What You Made Me Do and Delicate showcased her resilience and adaptability in the face of intense scrutiny. Although initially polarizing, Reputation underscored Taylor's ability to turn adversity into art, once again solidifying her place in the industry.

Swift followed Reputation with Lover (2019), a more optimistic, colorful album that focused on themes of love, self-acceptance, and personal growth. Singles like ME! and You Need to Calm Down displayed her versatility and reaffirmed her connection with fans, offering a brighter outlook and demonstrating her range as an artist.

"Taylor has an incredible gift for connecting with people through her music. She's fearless in her songwriting, always willing to put her personal life out there, and that bravery resonates with fans and fellow musicians alike."
—  Ed Sheeran

Introspection with Folklore and Evermore
During the pandemic, Taylor surprised fans with the release of Folklore and Evermore (2020), two indie-folk albums that shifted her focus to storytelling beyond her personal experiences. Collaborating with Aaron Dessner of The National, Swift crafted intricate, reflective narratives that showed a new side to her artistry. Tracks like Cardigan and Willow revealed Taylor's willingness to explore vulnerability and fictionalize her storytelling, resulting in another Grammy for Album of the Year with Folklore and showcasing her adaptability in creating intimate, timeless music.

Fighting for Her Art with Taylor's Version
One of the most defining aspects of Taylor's career is her battle to regain control of her music masters. Following a publicized dispute with Big Machine Records, Taylor chose to re-record her early albums, including Fearless and Red, under Taylor's Version. This bold move not only underscored her commitment to her art and autonomy but also empowered countless other artists to demand their rights in an industry often fraught with restrictive contracts.

The Swifties Phenomenon: Cultivating TrueFans
Taylor Swift's relationship with her fans, the "Swifties," is unlike anything seen in the industry. From Easter eggs in her lyrics and videos to surprise album releases, she has nurtured an engaged, loyal community through her attention to detail and genuine interactions. Taylor's dedication to fan engagement is unparalleled; she has built this relationship not as a byproduct of her fame, but as a core part of her artistry. Her use of social media, cryptic messages, and surprise meet-and-greets has created a sense of shared experience, giving the Swifties a feeling of belonging that transcends music. 

"There's nobody who cares about her fans more than Taylor. She doesn't just perform for them; she creates an entire world for them to be a part of."
—  Selena Gomez

Her approach to fan engagement has redefined the concept of a fanbase, with Swifties not only supporting her but actively participating in her career. This level of connection is something many artists aspire to but few achieve, making Taylor's fan-centric legacy a model of TrueFan cultivation and proof-positive of it's role in creating success.

Taylor's Impact and Influence on Music and Songwriting
Taylor Swift's influence extends far beyond her own music. Her courage to experiment across genres has opened doors for countless artists, encouraging them to break free from rigid genre boundaries. Her success proves that authenticity, resilience, and respect for fans create a sustainable career that transcends the fickleness of the music industry. Her influence is particularly notable among young, emerging Singer Songwriters who see in Taylor not only a musical icon but a fearless advocate for artistic independence and integrity.

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COACHING— Mental Health Resources for Musicians in 2024 by Randi Zimmerman from Symphonic.com

Over 70% of independent musicians struggle with anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. Let's face it, being a musician is challenging. Hell, being human is challenging! The consistent pressure to be the best can become overwhelming, and those high expectations can take a toll on anyone's mental health. We place the utmost importance on providing consistent support in our community for those in need. If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, these resources are here to help…

Mental Health Resources for Musicians in 2024

• Music Industry Therapist Collective
Founded by psychotherapist and former venue and festival programmer Tamsin Embleton, MITC has extensive experience of working with mental health, mental illness and addiction; from high-end treatment centers to private practice and the NHS. Each therapist in MITC has their own unique music industry experience and psychotherapy specialisms to help provide the best care possible for people in the music industry who may need their support.

They understand that the working conditions of the music industry can exacerbate pre-existing psychological difficulties as well as sow the seeds for new challenges to develop. That's why they work to provide a safe, confidential, trustworthy and culturally-sensitive space for their clients to share, understand and process their experiences leading to increased self-awareness, resilience, self-compassion and self-agency. Learn more here

Silence The Shame
Silence the Shame is a nonprofit organization that focuses on education and awareness of mental health in this industry. They work tirelessly to eliminate the shame and stigma that all too often comes with seriously addressing mental health. They also offer recurring community conversations, mental health first-aid training, volunteer opportunities, fundraisers, and so much more. Learn more here.

Sweet Relief Musicians Fund
Sweet Relief Musicians Fund provides financial assistance to all types of career musicians and music industry workers who are struggling to make ends meet while facing illness, disability, or age-related problems. They provide services and financial assistance for career musicians, singers, composers and arrangers. Assistance is available to artists from any music genre located in the U.S. and Canada. Learn more here.

Music Health Alliance
Music Health Alliance's mission is to Heal the Music by providing access to healthcare through services that protect, direct, and connect music professionals with medical and financial solutions. With a team of advocates and active Board of Directors and Advisory Board, MHA has now served 20,000 music industry professionals and their families, and secured over $100 million in healthcare cost reductions to Heal the Music. Learn more here.

Music Minds Matter
With 99 years of supporting musicians under their belt, this organization understands the complexity of working in music. Music Minds Matter was created as a dedicated service for anyone working in the industry who is struggling to cope, or know someone who is. It doesn't have to be a crisis, or even about music. In addition, their Music Minds Matter Counsellors are available at any time to listen, support, and help anyone in need. Learn more here.

MusiCares
MusiCares provides a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need. MusiCares' services and resources cover a wide range of financial, medical, and personal emergencies, and each case is treated with integrity and confidentiality. Additionally, MusiCares focuses the resources and attention of the music industry on human service issues that directly impact the health and welfare of the music community. Learn more here.

Backline
Backline connects music industry professionals and their families with mental health and wellness resources–streamlining access to a network of trusted organizations and care providers that specifically understand this line of work. Our friends at Backline have some of the best mental health resources in the game, which we broke down in this post to help you out. Learn more here.

Finessed Media
Finessed Media is a New York City-based WOC-led startup which provides resources and education for underrepresented artists and other music industry entrepreneurs, and hosts quarterly events focused on mental health featuring professionals from across the music industry. Learn more here.

There are mental health resources all over the country available for those who need help.  All of us have experienced the damage done by the pressures of this industry to some of our greatest minds. From Avicii to Mac Miller, these issues affect everyone and anyone. Through de-stigmatizing the way we talk about mental health, we reassure those suffering from it that they can feel comfortable asking for help when they need it. Everyone should have the resources to reach out without judgment and move forward with confidence.

You are not alone.

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Recommendation: Follow Symphonic Blog

Explore the latest insights and industry advancements in music marketing,  moneytization, artist development and more. Brought to you with care by Symphonic Distribution.

For anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the music industry, Symphonic Blog is an invaluable resource. They consistently provide expert insights, tips, and advice on everything from music distribution to marketing strategies tailored specifically for independent artists. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your craft and career, Symphonic Blog is a must-follow. Visit their site to explore a wealth of knowledge designed to help you thrive in today's music landscape. You can check them out by tapping here: Symphonic Blog and be sure to subscribe to their updates!

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PS from PS— The Power of LIVE Performance: Where New Music LIVES™

In Bruce Springsteen's Road Diary, there's a moment that captures everything magical about LIVE music. The Boss, after 50 years of performing, still spends hours rehearsing not just the songs, but the spaces between them. Even his spontaneous moments are carefully crafted, because he understands a fundamental truth: every second on stage is a chance to change someone's life.

Fast forward to 2023, and there's Taylor Swift, turning her Eras Tour into a billion-dollar phenomenon. Not just concerts, but LIVE life events that people will remember forever. Two different artists, two different eras, one shared understanding— LIVE performance is where music transforms from sound to soul.

Here's the real secret: this magic isn't reserved for stadium shows. It happens in small bars, coffee shops, and backyards. It happens whenever a Singer Songwriter stands before an audience and dares to be real. LIVE. Every time you step on stage, you're not just playing songs— you're creating moments that can't be streamed, can't be downloaded, and can't be replicated and... will never be repeated!

LIVE performance is your truth serum. It's where you learn if that clever lyric really lands, if that bridge really soars, if your heart really connects with others. It's where you discover that sometimes the imperfect note sung with conviction touches more hearts than the perfect one sung with anything else.

Whether you're playing to three people at an open mic or three thousand at a theater, every LIVE show is a chance to turn listeners into believers or as we call them your TrueFans. Because when you're on stage, you're not just sharing your music— you're sharing your story, your journey, your truth. And in a world of infinite playlists and algorithmic recommendations, that human connection is more powerful than ever.

So take a lesson from Bruce and Taylor: prepare like every show matters, perform like every listener counts, and remember that every stage, no matter its size, is an opportunity to create something unforgettable. LIVE.

Because at the end of the day, it's not about being perfect. It's about being present. It's not about the size of the crowd. It's about the size of your commitment.

Your stage is waiting. Are you ready to show up LIVE?

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."

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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. 

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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...