the AMP Issue 68

"Watching Michael and Quincy work together was like witnessing history in the making. They complemented each other in ways that made Thriller unforgettable. It was an honor to be a part of that experience."
— Paul McCartney, who collaborated with them on Thriller's The Girl is Mine.

In This Issue... 17 pages [about 25ish minutes to read] You'll Get... 

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• RECOMMENDS— Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones' Thriller

• DOIN' the BIZ— Social Media for Musicians: Crafting a Comprehensive Strategy
by Lauren Davish, from DiskMakers

• the GREATEST SINGER SONGWRITERS of ALL TIME— Michael Jackson & Quincy Jones

• COACHING— OMTM. the 'One Metric That Matters' by Carlo Kiksen from The Fanbase Builder

• PS from PS— Pick your ONE thing.

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Here’s the playlist

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• Recommends— Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones' Thriller

Album Review– A Masterpiece That Continues to Define Pop Music

"With Thriller, Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones didn't just release an album; they reshaped the music world. Decades later, its power still resonates, reminding us of why it's a masterpiece that remains as vibrant and influential as ever."

Released in 1982, Thriller was much more than just an album— it was a cultural milestone. Produced by Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones, Thriller was the culmination of Jackson's unique talent, innovative vision, and commitment to pushing artistic boundaries. With its genre-defying sound, blending pop, rock, funk, and R&B, Thriller transcended musical categories and became an unprecedented global success. 

Critical Acclaim & Timeless Sound
Critics at the time hailed Thriller as an album that "revolutionized pop" (Rolling Stone). Billboard called it "a flawless, timeless pop record," celebrating how Jackson and Jones crafted a cohesive yet versatile soundscape that could appeal to everyone. From the smooth grooves of The Girl is Mine to the rock edge of Beat It featuring Eddie Van Halen's guitar solo, the album's versatility kept listeners intrigued and engaged.

"Michael Jackson has created a musical world on Thriller that is magnetic and universal," wrote The New York Times, praising Jackson's ability to cross cultural and genre boundaries. From the first note of Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' to the last beat of The Lady in My Life, Thriller captured listeners imaginations, taking them on an unforgettable musical journey.

Cultural Impact and Unmatched Visual Storytelling
Beyond its audio excellence, Thriller became a visual and cultural phenomenon. Jackson redefined the music video format with his iconic short films for Thriller, Billie Jean, and Beat It. The Thriller music video, a groundbreaking horror-inspired mini-movie, has been called "one of the greatest music videos of all time" (MTV). Today, it's impossible to imagine Halloween or pop culture without its influence.

"The Thriller video alone changed music, fashion, and dance," Variety noted, calling it "a blueprint for modern music videos." By elevating the music video into an art form, Jackson turned Thriller into an experience that transcends audio, creating visuals that are as iconic as the songs themselves.

Chart-Topping Success and Enduring Legacy
Thriller's commercial success is unmatched: it's the best-selling album of all time, with more than 70 million copies sold worldwide. Seven of its nine tracks were released as singles, with each charting on the Billboard Hot 100. The album also won eight Grammy Awards in a single night, setting a record that still speaks to its universal appeal and groundbreaking artistry.

Reflecting on Thriller's legacy, The Guardian described it as "an album that perfected pop music," citing how each track is a world of its own, yet they all connect seamlessly into a narrative of creativity, emotion, and musical sophistication. Michael Jackson's emotive voice, Quincy Jones' meticulous production, and the all-star collaborators brought Thriller a depth and dynamism that artists continue to emulate.

Why Listen Again?
Whether it's your first listen or a rediscovery, Thriller offers a reminder of Jackson's genius and the high-water mark for pop music. Revisit the unforgettable rhythm of Billie Jean, the powerful anthem of Beat It, or the chilling brilliance of Thriller itself. Watching the Thriller music video is an experience unto itself— one that continues to captivate with its choreography, storytelling, and cinematic scale.

After all these (40+) years, Thriller remains a testament to Jackson's and Jones's talent, vision, and legacy, one that truly rewards both devoted fans and newcomers alike. 

If you haven't experienced Thriller in a while, dive back in. You'll not only hear why it's a classic, but feel why it's still a vital and part of living music history.

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• DOIN' the BIZ— Social Media for Musicians: Crafting a Comprehensive Strategy by Lauren Davish, from DiskMakers

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This article is condensed down to half the word count of the original. Bound to be some good stuff left on the cutting room floor, so... If you're curious, tap this link to go to the original blog post: Social Media for Musicians.

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If you're a musician— signed or independent— you likely know that social media is essential for sharing your music. Social platforms offer valuable ways to connect with fans, develop TrueFans and promote your work— and a well-thought-out social media strategy can make the difference between staying in the background or standing out in the music industry.

Top social media platforms for musicians include Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter), each with unique features and audiences. Understanding these strengths will help you build a strategy to get noticed and drive your career forward. Here are some tips for building an effective online presence.

Building a Strong Foundation on Instagram
A strong Instagram presence starts with an engaging bio. It should briefly describe your music style, highlight notable achievements, and include links to your latest releases or website. Show a bit of personality to convey your brand— whether you're humorous or serious. Anyone landing on your profile should immediately grasp who you are.

Leverage Instagram Stories and Reels to engage your audience. Stories allow you to share behind-the-scenes content, announce shows, or use Polls and Questions for direct fan interaction. Reels can showcase your music in short videos that reach a broad audience. Use this feature to share clips of performances, new releases, or personalized content.

Leveraging TikTok for Musical Exposure
TikTok has become a powerhouse for musicians looking to connect with new audiences. To succeed, create content with viral potential by embracing trends and challenges— while adding your personal spin. Short, catchy music clips work well on TikTok, especially when tied to trending themes.

TikTok's algorithm is designed to promote engaging content. Even if you don't have a huge following, videos that resonate with viewers can go viral. Aim to grab attention within the first few seconds and keep videos concise to encourage full views. By mastering these strategies, TikTok can help broaden your reach— and maybe even become enjoyable to use.

Effective Strategies for Facebook
While not the most "fun" platform anymore, Facebook remains a powerful tool for connecting with fans and TrueFans. Share a mix of content, including updates, behind-the-scenes footage, and personal stories that resonate. High-quality images or videos generally perform well.

Consider using Facebook Live to connect in real-time through acoustic performances, Q&A sessions, or casual chats. Facebook's algorithm favors live content, making it a valuable tool for engagement.

For music promotion, Facebook Ads can reach a highly targeted audience. Use Ads to promote new releases, drive website traffic, or boost event attendance. Define your audience precisely with targeting options for location, age, interests, and more.

Exploring Opportunities on Platform X
X, formerly Twitter, is ideal for real-time interaction. Share updates, participate in discussions, and network with industry professionals. Hashtags and trending topics allow your content to join larger conversations, expanding your reach.

X also offers Spaces, a live audio feature, which can be used for discussions, performances, or listening parties. The platform's link-sharing capability makes it easy to direct followers to streaming services, ticket sales, or merchandise.

Content Creation Tips Across Platforms
Your brand voice— the tone that represents you as an artist— should be consistent across platforms. Define your brand's values and ensure each post reflects this voice. Consistency builds trust and creates a cohesive online identity.

Authenticity is key. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses, personal stories, and industry insights. Consider creating a content series to keep fans engaged, like weekly Q&A sessions, music tutorials, or "Throwback Thursday" posts featuring older performances or unreleased tracks.

Engagement Strategies to Boost Interaction
Interacting with fans (and especially your TrueFans) is essential to building a community around your music. Regularly respond to comments, acknowledge fan support, and show appreciation. A simple thank-you or personalized reply can go a long way.

Collaborating with other artists and influencers expands your reach. Joint sessions, featured posts, or collaborative videos are effective ways to tap into each other's fanbases.

Cross-promotion also maximizes reach. Each platform serves a different purpose, so sharing content across platforms ensures visibility. For example, if you release a music video on YouTube, promote it on Instagram Stories, tweet about it, and create a TikTok clip. This multi-platform approach drives traffic and boosts engagement.

Increase Your Artist Presence}

Here's a quick recap of best practices:

• Create an authentic profile: Use engaging bios and profiles to showcase your brand and genre.

• Utilize platform features: Take advantage of Instagram Stories and Reels, TikTok trends, Facebook Live, and real-time interaction on X.

• Engage with your audience: Regularly interact with fans, building community through consistent engagement.

• Collaborate and cross-promote: Work with other artists to enhance visibility across platforms.

• Experiment and adapt: Try different content types and engagement strategies to see what resonates.

• Monitor and analyze: Track your performance metrics and make data-driven adjustments to refine your approach.

Social media is constantly evolving, so stay flexible and open to new ideas. Experiment with different content types, posting schedules, and engagement strategies. Analyze your results to understand what drives engagement and adjust accordingly. Staying adaptable will help you connect with fans, get your music heard, and grow your career.
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About Lauren Davish  
Lauren Davish is a writer, Singer Songwriter, yoga instructor, and voice coach with an MA in Creative Writing. She enjoys writing blog posts and song lyrics.

About DiscMakers
If you're a Singer Songwriter looking to take your music career to the next level, Disc Makers is a partner you need to know. For decades, they've been a trusted resource for independent artists, offering top-notch CD and vinyl manufacturing, digital distribution, and packaging services. Whether you're releasing a new album or looking to create limited-edition physical copies, Disc Makers can help bring your project to life with professional quality. 

What sets them apart is their commitment to empowering independent musicians—helping you not only produce your music but also market and distribute it effectively. Their comprehensive services also include graphic design, mastering, and even USB duplication, making them a one-stop shop for all your production needs.

Connecting with DiscMakers ensures you have the tools to get your music out there in a polished, professional way, so you can focus on what you do best— creating. For any Singer Songwriter serious about growing their audience, Disc Makers is an invaluable ally. 

They offer 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: Discmakers Newsletter Signup 

in partnership with Jason Blume

• the Greatest Singer Songwriters of All Time— Michael Jackson & Quincy Jones
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We featured young Mr. Jackson as one of the Greatest... back in the AMP, Issue 60, on September 18, 2024. Given the recent passing of 'Sir' Quincy Jones, and his historic collaborations with Michael, we thought we'd do a little Inform, Involve, Inspire and write about them together for you. So... 
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Michael Jackson & Quincy Jones: A Partnership that Redefined Music

"Michael Jackson didn't just shape music— he redefined it. Together, he and Quincy Jones created a sound that transcended generations, genres, and expectations, leaving a legacy that's simply unmatched." 

A Musical Partnership for the Ages
Michael Jackson's rise as a music icon is inextricably linked to his collaboration with Quincy Jones, the legendary producer who recently passed at 91. Together, they crafted Thriller, the album that would become the best-selling album of all time, and a defining moment for pop music globally. Quincy and Michael's partnership was more than that of producer and performer; it was a rare meeting of two creative visionaries who understood each other's artistry on a deep level. Jones brought his vast musical knowledge, honed through years of working across jazz, pop, and film, while Jackson infused a fearless ambition and relentless drive for perfection. 

The Unparalleled Success of Thriller
Released in 1982, Thriller set a new standard for album production, ushering in a sound that blended pop, rock, funk, and R&B. Jackson and Jones collaborated on iconic tracks such as Billie Jean, Beat It, and Thriller, each pushing the limits of genre boundaries and cementing Jackson's place as a pop innovator. With Thriller, Jackson didn't just become a global star; he became a cultural phenomenon, crossing racial and generational divides to unite fans across the world. Jones' musical expertise and Jackson's magnetic performance style made the album a landmark of musical history.

Quincy Jones once reflected, "We challenged each other, pushed each other to the limit. Michael's creativity and my experience made Thriller what it is. That kind of collaboration only happens once in a lifetime," and his words capture the transformative effect their work had on pop culture. 

Thriller sold over 70 million copies worldwide, making it the best-selling album of all time— a record that stands to this day. This groundbreaking album also won eight Grammy Awards in one night, an achievement that set the bar for musical artistry and reinforced Jackson's status as the "King of Pop."

Collaborations Beyond Thriller
Jackson and Jones' creative synergy didn't begin or end with Thriller. Their partnership started with Off the Wall in 1979, a project that saw Jackson breaking away from his Motown roots to establish his own unique sound. Tracks like Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough and Rock with You introduced a new Michael Jackson to the world, one that blended pop with disco and funk in a way that felt both effortless and groundbreaking. Off the Wall laid the foundation for the genre-crossing work they would achieve on Thriller and propelled Jackson into a new level of artistry and independence.

Their collaboration continued with Bad (1987), the final album they worked on together, which further cemented Jackson's star power. Bad produced five consecutive Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles— a record that no other album had achieved at the time. The album also pushed Jackson to explore new themes and sonic territories, thanks to Jones' skill in bringing Jackson's ambitious ideas to life.

Jackson and Jones also teamed up on We Are the World in 1985, a charitable anthem co-written by Jackson and Lionel Richie. The song united some of the biggest names in music to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia, demonstrating Jackson's dedication to using his music as a force for good. This monumental project raised over $63 million and showcased the power of music to inspire social change, a theme that Jackson carried throughout his career.

A Mutual Respect
The mutual respect between Jackson and Jones was palpable, and each understood the other's genius. Jackson, underscoring the vital role Jones played in shaping his sound and refining his vision. once noted...

"Quincy is one of the most incredible people I have ever met. He brought out things in me musically that I didn't even know were there. He believed in me and pushed me to be better."

For Jones, Jackson's unparalleled drive and raw talent were a perfect complement to his own musical intuition. Capturing the profound impact Jackson had on his own career, Jones once remarked...

"Michael was so committed to excellence that he made everyone around him want to be better. He worked so hard to make Thriller a masterpiece, and it's one of the highlights of my career."

Inspirations and Personal Life
Throughout his career, Jackson's inspiration drew from a wide spectrum of musical influences, including R&B, soul, funk, rock, and disco. Artists such as James Brown, Jackie Wilson, and even the Motown sound left a lasting impact on him, shaping the style and energy that would make him famous. Jackson also looked beyond music, drawing inspiration from Fred Astaire's graceful movements and Charlie Chaplin's emotive storytelling, infusing his performances with a theatrical, larger-than-life quality that captivated audiences worldwide.

Behind the scenes, however, Jackson faced significant struggles. His turbulent relationship with his father and the intense scrutiny he faced in the media were well-documented, casting a shadow over his life. Yet, even in the face of personal difficulties, Jackson's commitment to his art never wavered. His dedication to music, dance, and visual innovation remained unmatched, further solidifying his legacy.

"Quincy has been like a father to me. He's guided me, protected me, and taught me so much about music and life. Working with him was more than just making music; it was having someone in my corner who believed in me completely."

Political and Social Activism
Jackson used his platform to advocate for social issues close to his heart. Songs like Man in the Mirror and Heal the World showcased his desire to inspire change through music. His charitable contributions extended beyond his music; Jackson supported over 39 charities during his lifetime, making a lasting impact on causes such as racial harmony, children's rights, and global peace. His humanitarian work earned him admiration and respect, proving that his legacy was as much about giving back as it was about entertainment.

"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

Legacy and Influence on Generations of Artists
Jackson's impact on music is immeasurable. He has been credited with shaping modern pop music and setting new standards for songwriting, production, and performance. 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.

"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

"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

The Enduring Legacy of their Partnership
Even today, the influence of Jackson and Jones' work can be seen in the way artists approach production, songwriting, and performance. Thriller, Bad, and We Are the World stand as cultural milestones, and their collaborations set a high bar for artistic excellence and cultural impact. As Madonna once said... 

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

In looking back at Jackson's legacy, we see not only his creative genius but also the importance of his partnership with Quincy Jones— a partnership that created music that will be celebrated and studied for generations to come.
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COACHING— OMTM— the One Metric That Matters by Carlo Kiksen from The Fanbase Builder

The OMTM helps identify primary issues to focus on and define a straightforward goal for a certain time to get results more quickly.

To cut through the noise of overwhelming data, artists should care about just one metric above all else. Tools like Spotify for Artists, Instagram Account Insights, and other data points such as ticket sales reports provide artists with a lot of data to measure their growth. With all these metrics for success, it can be overwhelming to distinguish where to focus.|

Selecting a One Metric That Matters (OMTM) for a certain period of time helps artists focus on impactful improvements in their strategies towards a better brand, more fans, and higher revenue.

How it works

The concept of the OMTM was first described by Alistair Croll and Benjamin Yoskovitz in their book Lean Analytics as "the only metric you care about above anything else at any given time."

The OMTM helps identify primary issues to focus on and define a straightforward goal for a certain time to get results more quickly.

Extremely simplified: Artists could select their OMTM by asking themselves, 

"What would I focus on if I had only the next three months to grow my artist brand?"

Some examples:

• Improve Awareness by focusing on reached accounts on Instagram
• Improve Activation by focusing on video watch time on YouTube
• Improve Retention by focusing on newsletter open rates
• Improve Revenue by focusing on vinyl sales on Bandcamp
• Improve Referrals by focusing on shares on TikTok

Go Deeper: Start with a fan funnel based on the AARRR framework. And what's that?

AARRR is a popular framework in marketing and business, especially in startups, to understand and optimize the customer journey. It stands for:

• Acquisition— How people find out about you (e.g., through ads, social media, word-of-mouth).

• Activation— Getting users to take a meaningful first action, like signing up, downloading, or interacting in a way that shows interest.

• Retention— Keeping users engaged and coming back over time (e.g., through email updates, new content, or exclusive offers).

• Referral— Encouraging satisfied users to tell others about you, helping you grow your fan base organically.

• Revenue— Converting users into paying customers or supporters, generating revenue for your business.

When you "start with a fan funnel based on the AARRR framework," the goal is to attract fans, engage them meaningfully, retain their interest, encourage them to spread the word, and finally, monetize their support in a sustainable way. It's a structured approach to building a dedicated fanbase that supports your long-term growth.

So start with a fan funnel based on the AARRR framework. Identify bottlenecks in the funnel: Where do potential fans drop out? Use this to determine what problem the OMTM should address for the next three months.

Don't stop measuring other metrics when using an OMTM. Artists should maintain a broader sense of what's going on in their careers. Approach the OMTM as a focus metric for a predefined period. The OMTM will change once the target is reached or the period is completed.

Select an OMTM. Take three months to improve this metric with growth experiments.  Come up with tactics to grow the OMTM. Experiment, measure, learn and repeat.

Take action now!
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About Carols Kiksenthe
Carols Kiksenthe, the mind behind The Fanbase Builder, is a seasoned fan engagement strategist with years of experience in helping creators connect meaningfully with their audiences. Carols specializes in innovative fan funnel tactics and community-building techniques that turn casual followers into devoted supporters. Through his writing, Carols shares valuable tools and insights to empower creators in building a sustainable fanbase that supports their creative journeys.

About The Fanbase Builder
The Fanbase Builder on Substack is a go-to resource for creators looking to grow,  engage, and sustain their fan communities. Covering strategies from audience  acquisition to loyal fan retention, The Fanbase Builder provides practical insights and  actionable advice to help artists, writers, and musicians build a thriving, dedicated  following. Tap this link to learn more: The Fanbase Builder 

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PS from PS— Pick your ONE thing.

Reading about Quincy Jones's passing got me thinking about how he and Michael Jackson created Thriller without a single social post, without worrying about their Instagram aesthetic, nor fretting over TikTok algorithms.

Yet here we are, drowning in metrics, chasing trends, splitting our creative energy across five different platforms, wondering why our music isn't cutting through the noise.

The inconvenient truth: Most all of us are guilty of it. I catch myself losing an hour  reading social media posts when I could be working on the development of New Music Lives™.

Here's what I learned today thinking about Quincy and Michael's legacy: They had OMTM— excellence. One focus. One vision. A commitment they pursued relentlessly. That was their OMTMM— the extra 'M' is for Most!

Here's my challenge to you:

For the next three months, pick your ONE thing. Just one.

• Maybe it's finishing that EP you've been sitting on
• Maybe it's mastering Instagram Stories to truly connect with your audience
• Maybe it's diving deep into TikTok to find your unique voice there
• Maybe it's perfecting your live show
• Maybe it's building a genuine email connection with your true fans

Whatever you choose, give it the Jackson-Jones treatment. Pursue it with the kind of focus that created Thriller. Don't scatter your attention. Don't dilute your creative power. Because here's the truth: 

The platforms will change. The algorithms shift. But your craft— that pure, essential thing that made you pick up your guitar or sit down at the piano in the first place— that's timeless. And special.

Will you join me in this challenge? DM me with your OMTMM focus for the next three months. Let's hold each other accountable. Let's create something that matters. For me: To release the first suite of core (useful and valuable) tools that will help you develop your Singer Songwriter career. That's my commitment— what is yours?

Remember, Quincy and Michael didn't set out to make the best-selling album of all time. They just set out to make every single second their of music matter.

What will you make that matters... Most?

Until we speak again...

P.P.S. Still not sure what to focus on? Look at where your potential fans are dropping off. Are they finding you but not sticking around? Are they listening but not connecting? Are they connecting, but not converting to TrueFans? Start there. Make that your focus. Make it count.

It really is Time… for a Change. Big Time. Past Time.

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. 

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

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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...