the AMP Issue 72

"As my father used to tell me, the only true sign of success in life is being able to do for a living that which makes you happy."
— Weird Al Yankovic

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

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• RECOMMENDS— Symphonic: Free Newsletter, Blog, Podcast and More

• the BIZ— the State of the Singer-Songwriter's Union from New Music Lives™

• the GREATEST SINGER SONGWRITERS of ALL TIME— Weird Al Yankovic

• COACHING— Are you ever too old to pursue your music goals? By Tony van Veen of Disc Makers

• PS from PS— Music that Matters... Matters. Most.

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Here’s the playlist

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• Recommends— Symphonic: Free Newsletter, Blog, Podcast and More

For Singer Songwriters striving to navigate the ever-evolving music industry, Symphonic offers a treasure trove of free resources designed to educate, inspire, and empower artists at every stage of their journey. Through their newsletter, blog, and  podcast, Symphonic provides actionable advice, industry insights, and creative tools— at no cost.

the Blog
Symphonic's blog is a go-to destination for independent musicians, covering topics that matter most, including:

• Music Promotion Tips: Learn how to maximize your reach with social media, playlist placements, and fan engagement strategies.

• Revenue Strategies: Get insights into how to diversify your income, from streaming royalties to merch sales and sync licensing.

• Tools and Trends: Stay ahead of the curve with updates on the latest music technology and industry trends.

• DIY Guides: Find step-by-step instructions for everything from releasing your first single to planning a tour.

the Newsletter
Symphonic's newsletter delivers the best of their blog straight to your inbox, alongside exclusive updates and resources tailored for independent artists. It's a convenient way to stay informed and gain an edge in this competitive industry.

the Music Industry 360 Podcast
For even deeper insights, tune into Music Industry 360, Symphonic's podcast dedicated to helping musicians take their careers to the next level. This engaging series covers topics like:

• How to Make Money Off Your Music: Learn innovative strategies for turning your passion into profits.

• Promotion and Marketing: Discover tips to grow your audience and build your brand.

• Industry Expertise: Gain valuable perspectives from music professionals and artists who share their experiences and success stories.

Whether you're looking for quick promotional tips or a deep dive into industry challenges, Music Industry 360 delivers actionable advice with every episode.

Other Symphonic Services
While the blog, newsletter, and podcast are free, Symphonic also provides robust paid services for artists ready to take their careers to the next level. From digital distribution to marketing and sync licensing, Symphonic's offerings are designed to empower creators to focus on what they do best: making music.

Start Learning Today
Whether you're an emerging artist or an established Songwriter looking to level up, Symphonic's blog, newsletter, and podcast are invaluable tools to help you navigate the complexities of the music industry. Tap here to start exploring their free resources: Symphonic Blog and subscribe to their newsletter. Be sure to check out Music Industry 360 on your favorite podcast platform for even more insights.

Because the best investment in your music career starts with knowledge— and Symphonic helps makes that accessible to all. 

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• the BIZ— The BIZ: the State of the Singer-Songwriter's Union from New Music Lives™

In the U.S., the President of the United States delivers the 'State of the Union' address to a joint session of Congress in January or early February. We're not bound by such tradition, so here's New Music Lives'™ State of the Singer Songwriter's Union. Our 'Is What It Is' report on where the Biz is at. Now. And... broad brush. There's more to say on each point.

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As we look to the future, one thing is clear: the role of Singer Songwriters as storytellers and cultural curators is more important than ever. 

The music industry is evolving faster than ever, presenting Singer Songwriters with unprecedented opportunities— and challenges. As we step further into the digital-first era, it's vital to understand the state of the industry, emerging trends, and how to adapt for long-term success. So...

Where the Music Business Sits, Stands and Dances Today

• Streaming Dominance: Streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube now account for the lion's (and tiger's and bear's share) of global music revenue, generating 65% of the industry's income in 2023 (MIDiA Research). For Singer Songwriters, this means visibility on streaming services is paramount, but it also underscores the difficulty of standing out in such a crowded space.

• Independent Artists on the Rise: The independent sector has seen explosive growth, with DIY artists accounting for $2 billion in revenue in 2023, a 25% increase year-over-year (Luminate). Tools like DistroKid, Symphonic, and CD Baby are empowering creators to bypass traditional labels.

• AI and the Creative Process: Artificial intelligence is reshaping music creation, marketing, and fan discovery. AI tools like ChatGPT for lyrics and DAWs with built-in AI composition are becoming mainstream, offering new ways for artists to enhance their craft and their audience.

• Direct-to-Fan Models: Platforms like Patreon, Substack, and Bandcamp have empowered artists to moneytize their fanbase directly, with subscription models and exclusive content becoming key revenue streams.

• Short-Form Content Rules: TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts continue to drive music discovery. Viral trends often translate into streaming success, putting pressure on artists to develop compelling short-form content alongside their music.

Key Trends Shaping Your Future

• Collaborative Creation: Co-writing and cross-genre collaborations are on the rise, as they allow artists to tap into new audiences and stay relevant in this dynamic market.

• Sync Opportunities: The demand for music in TV, film, and advertising is growing. Singer Songwriters who own their publishing rights are well-positioned to benefit from sync licensing deals.

• Globalization of Music: Regional genres are going global thanks to platforms like Spotify and YouTube. This trend offers an opportunity for Singer Songwriters to incorporate diverse influences and audiences into their work world-wide.

• NFTs and Blockchain: Still in the early stages— and, we say, mostly vapor-ware— NFTs are 'promising' to provide artists with new ways to moneytize their music, offering fans exclusive access to songs, experiences, or collectibles. But... In this we of NML do not trust! Time will tell.

Challenges Singer Songwriters Face

• Revenue Disparity: Despite the growth of streaming, most artists earn fractions of a penny per stream. Diversifying revenue streams is critical.

• Content Overload: With more than 100,000 tracks uploaded to Spotify every day— a significant increase from the 60,000 tracks per day that were uploaded in February 2021, and the 20,000 tracks per day that were uploaded in 2018— breaking through the noise requires both strategic promotion and unique, authentic artistry.

• Burnout: The pressure to constantly produce content, engage on social media, tour and perform can lead to creative and personal burnout. Balancing output with your well-being is essential— and not all that easy to do.

How to Navigate the Future

• Leverage Technology:

• Use AI tools for songwriting assistance, mixing, mastering and marketing.

• Optimize your presence on streaming platforms with metadata tagging and playlist targeting.

• Experiment with tools like Soundtrap or Splice for remote collaboration.

• Embrace Short-Form Content:

• Post behind-the-scenes footage, acoustic covers, or songwriting tips on TikTok and Instagram. Make it personal.

• Engage with your audience directly through live sessions and interactive Q&A.

Build a Direct-to-Fan and TrueFan Ecosystem:

• Use platforms like Patreon for exclusive content and recurring revenue.

• Create a newsletter to keep fans and TrueFans informed about new releases, tours, and personal updates.

Maximize Sync Opportunities:

• Submit your music to sync libraries and establish relationships with music supervisors.

• Focus on creating versatile tracks that fit multiple moods and themes.

Focus on Authenticity:

• Audiences connect with genuine stories and emotions. Share your journey, struggles, and creative process. Again, make it personal.

Educate Yourself:

• Stay informed about industry trends through blogs, podcasts, and newsletters (like the AMP. (Symphonic, MIDiA Research, and Music Business Worldwide are great resources).

• Invest in learning the business side of music, from royalties to contracts.

NML's Final Takeaway
In today's music business, adaptability and resourcefulness are the names of the game. 

Singer Songwriters who embrace technology, diversify their income streams, and focus on building authentic connections with their fans and TrueFans are best positioned for success. 

While the road can be challenging, it's also filled with opportunities for those who dare to innovate and evolve.

As we look to the future, one thing is clear: the role of Singer Songwriters as storytellers and cultural curators is more important than ever. Seize this moment, harness your creativity, and let your voice shape the next chapter of music. 

in partnership with DiskMakers 

• the Greatest Singer Songwriters of All Time— Weird Al Yankovic 

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Wait! What!?! Weird Al Yankovic 'the Greatest'. Okay, the weirdest, fer sure and certain. And that said, what do you call a dozen+million selling Grammy Award winning sold-out all the time concert performing Singer Songwriter who garners unbridled praise from the likes of Paul McCartney, Lady Gaga, Kurt Cobain, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Chamillionaire? We'll stick with Weird Al being one of the Greatest. And... you be the judge.

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Weird Al Yankovic: The Unlikely Genius Who Redefined Music and Laughter

"Weird Al Yankovic is a one-man revolution in music— brilliant, fearless, and truly one of the most ingenious creators of our time. To call him a parody artist is to miss the deep depth of his artistry." 
– Questlove

When we think of the greatest songwriters of all time, certain names immediately come to mind: Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Pauls Simon and McCartney. But one name stands out for his unparalleled creativity, razor-sharp wit, and the sheer joy he has brought to generations: "Weird Al" Yankovic.

For over four decades, Yankovic has carved out a singular path in the music industry, not by following trends, but by skewering them— with wit and affection. His ability to parody iconic hits while maintaining his own signature style has earned him a place not just as a master of humor, but as a musician with extraordinary talent and an indelible legacy.

A Career Defined by Ingenuity and Perseverance

Weird Al's rise to fame began humbly, with accordion lessons at the age of seven and homemade recordings on his family's cassette player. In 1979, he burst onto the comedy music scene with his parody of The Knack's My Sharona, re-imagined as My Bologna. From there, he went on to produce a string of parody hits that mirrored the zeitgeist of each decade.

Among his most iconic works are:

Eat It (a parody of Michael Jackson's Beat It), which became his first Grammy-winning hit and solidified his place in pop culture. 

Like a Surgeon (a riff on Madonna's Like a Virgin), a collaboration famously inspired by Madonna herself. 

Amish Paradise (a take on Coolio's Gangsta's Paradise), which sparked headlines over supposed controversy but became a fan favorite. 

White & Nerdy (a parody of Chamillionaire's Ridin'), which soared to #9 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it his highest-charting single. 

"Weird Al is the only guy who made a parody of one of my songs and made it better than the original." 
— Chamillionaire

In total, Yankovic has sold over 12 million albums, earned five Grammy Awards, and performed thousands of sold-out concerts worldwide.

Albums That Shaped a Genre
While Yankovic is often celebrated for his individual songs, his albums showcase his versatility and musicality. Albums like Dare to Be Stupid (1985), Bad Hair Day (1996), and Mandatory Fun (2014) reveal not only his talent for parody, but also his ability to create original music in various styles. Mandatory Fun, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200, marked a historic moment as the first comedy album to achieve that feat.

"Weird Al didn't just parody songs; he taught us how to listen to them differently. That's genius." 
— Lin-Manuel Miranda

A Trailblazer in Concerts and Collaborations
Weird Al's live shows are legendary. Combining musical virtuosity with comedic genius, his concerts are immersive experiences featuring costume changes, elaborate stage props, and video interludes. Yankovic has also collaborated with icons such as Ben Folds, T-Pain, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, further cementing his role as a respected figure in the music industry.

Inspirations, Activism and Legacy
Yankovic draws inspiration from a wide range of artists, from The Beatles to Frank Zappa, and his work reflects a deep understanding of musical history. Offstage, he is known for his integrity and kindness. Although largely apolitical in his public persona, Yankovic has lent his voice to causes like education and anti-censorship initiatives.

A defining moment of his legacy is his impact on other artists. Lin-Manuel Miranda once remarked, "Weird Al taught me that you can love something and still poke fun at it—that's what great art is about."

"I think it's cool that someone as talented as Weird Al is doing what he's doing. His version of Smells Like Teen Spirit was hilarious." 
— Kurt Cobain 

Personal Life and Influence
Unlike many in the entertainment industry, Yankovic has lived a remarkably stable personal life. He married Suzanne Krajewski in 2001, and the couple has a daughter, Nina. Yankovic's grounded nature and devotion to family stand as a testament to his character amidst a chaotic industry.

"Weird Al is a true artist— his parodies are so thoughtful and well-crafted. I'm honored he parodied one of my songs."
— Lady Gaga  

His influence extends beyond parody; artists across genres cite Yankovic as an innovator who expanded the boundaries of what songwriting could be. Many credit him with inspiring their own musical experimentation and humor.

The Final Note on Weird Al's Legacy

"He's brilliant, and he's made us all laugh while showing incredible respect for music." 
— Paul McCartney

"Weird Al" Yankovic's career defies convention. He has proven that humor and music are not just compatible but can elevate each other to heights of universal appeal. His artistry lies in his ability to simultaneously celebrate and satirize, leaving a legacy that is both impactful and irreplaceable. To generations of Songwriters, he is not just a parody artist— he is a pioneer, a master of reinvention, and, undoubtedly, one of the greatest.

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Are you ever too old to pursue your music goals?

I'm going to let you in on a little secret. Last week, I turned 60.

And, well, I wasn't exactly thrilled about it. Turning 30, 40, 50, the previous big milestones never bothered me. But even though I don't feel particularly old, 60 sounds... it just sounds old.

Hitting this milestone did get me thinking, however. When am I too old to do some of the things that I do or that I want to do? Whether it's mountain biking, or hiking, or jumping into the mosh pit at a concert, or running a disc making company. I know, as a young musician in my late teens and early 20s, that I had dreams of what I wanted to accomplish with my music.

Many of them, I never reached, in part because the goals were unrealistic. I probably wasn't talented enough. But mostly because I didn't work hard enough at them. Fortunately, my first real job out of college was entry level right here at Disc Makers, and I consider myself extremely fortunate that I have way exceeded any goals and dreams I had about work when I started here. But enough about me.

What about you? Are you too old to achieve your music goals? Are you ever too old to make it in music in general? I mean, we all know that commercial success in certain genres, pop in particular, comes with an expiration date or an expiration age. If you have hopes of being the next big thing in pop and you're over 27, it's probably too late for you. But for the rest of us, I got good news.

We're never too old. You can be over 60 and still rock hard. Metallica's James Hetfield is 61.

ACDC's Angus Young turns 70 next year, and have you seen him jump around on stage in his little schoolboy outfit recently? And speaking of jumping around on stage, old man Mick Jagger is 81 and, might I say, in phenomenal shape and selling out stadiums. There are some advantages to pursuing music when you're a bit older in your 30s, 40s, 60s. Advantage number one is that with age comes perspective.

You have a clear view of what is achievable. You can know what's realistic and what is not, and you can adapt your goals to what you can realistically commit to your music. Advantage number two is that the experience you've gained over the years allows you to have a clear focus.

You know what you want to do. You have the proper perspective to set realistic goals, and you know the amount of time and effort you're willing and able to dedicate to achieving those goals. 

You don't have time to waste on the unrealistic dreams you had when you were a teenager.

You can focus your time and attention on those efforts that will let you get out of music exactly what you want to get out of it. Maybe it's not pop stardom, or touring the world, or playing stadiums, but you can certainly write, and record, and perform. You can get sync licensing placements.

You can put your music on YouTube, manage the social media for your music. You can market yourself, build a loyal fan base, and, of course, sell CDs and vinyl. And that's just a partial list of the many things that you can do in music at any age.

Just remember to be authentically you. Be yourself. Don't try to be something you think the market wants.

Wear your years, your experience with pride. Yeah, you've been around the block. We all have.

You've got some war stories to tell. You've made your mistakes, and you've learned from them. Put that experience to good use.

Set or reset those goals. Tune up that guitar, strap it on, and let's rock. Thanks for letting me share this with you.

I feel a little better already just talking it through one-on-one. Tomorrow morning, I'm shaving off this gray stubble, and I'm going to seize this next decade. Carpe Decennium.

I will see you next time. If you've got thoughts on this, in your age, or age in music, drop a comment below. I read them all.

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About Tony van Veen
About Tony van Veen is the CEO of DIY Media Group, the parent company of Disc Makers, BookBaby, and Merchly. With over three decades of experience, he has been instrumental in empowering independent artists to produce, distribute, and promote their own music. Under his leadership, Disc Makers transformed from a regional vinyl pressing plant into a leading provider of CD and DVD manufacturing services for independent artists in the U.S.

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: DiskMakers Newsletter Signup.

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• PS from PS— Music that Matter Matters. Most.

In an era where the noise (can I say screams!) of digital platforms and their marketing demands threatens to drown out authentic expression, Singer Songwriters face a critical moment of choice. While streaming platforms command 65% of global music revenue, the true value of the Singer Songwriter has never been more vital— they remain our culture's essential storytellers and truth-tellers creating the sound-track for our lives. 

Now at my age, I've witnessed the evolution of music from vinyl 45s through cassettes to CDs to streaming, and okay I'm 67 years old— I prefer to say years young— and for me one truth remains constant: 

Authentic voices always find their TrueFans.

Consider "Weird Al" Yankovic, who turned an accordion (of all instruments!) and parody songs into a dozen-million-selling, Grammy-winning career spanning four decades. With endorsements from Paul McCartney to Lady Gaga, he proves that authenticity and passion trump conventional wisdom about what makes a "successful" artist. As Tony van Veen in his article asserts, there's no expiration date on musical dreams. 

It's these story tellers with stories to tell regardless of their age or experience— they fuel my own passion— not as a performer, but as a devoted advocate for Singer Songwriters who dare to share their art and truth through music. I may have never written a hit song or played to packed venues, but my mission is clear: to help Singer Songwriters navigate this complex industry while keeping their artistic soul intact. 

So whether you're wielding an accordion like Weird Al, picking that Martin DB back-up at 50, or releasing your first ever song at 20, success in music doesn't have to be defined by streaming numbers or social media metrics. 

It's about creating music that matters. Most. Driven by an unwavering passion to share your unique voice with the world. 

And just as it's never too late to start making music, it's never too late to support those who do. That's why we're here, still championing authentic artistry in an age of algorithms— no matter what age you are..

Until we speak again... 

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...