the AMP Issue 78

"Action is the antidote to despair."
— Joan Baez

In This Issue...  16 pages [about 24ish minutes to read) You'll Get... 

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• Recommends— the LA Fires: How to Help Musicians in Need

• the BIZ— 2025 Live Music Trends: Key Insights for Singer Songwriters by Bob Lefsetz

• the Greatest Singer Songwriters— Johnny Cash

• Guest Article— Busting Music Myths by Phil Circle

• PS from PS— a Time for Change: Our Music Community Stands Together

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Here’s the playlist

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• Recommends— the LA Fires: How to Help Musicians in Need

The recent Los Angeles fires have devastated the music community, with thousands of musicians and industry professionals affected. Here are the primary ways you can help. Tapping the links will take you to their website.

Direct Aid Organizations

MusiCares Emergency Relief 

• Pledged $1 million to support affected music professionals
• Providing immediate assistance for displaced individuals
• Offering both short•term emergency aid and longer•term recovery support
• Accepting donations to expand their support efforts

Sweet Relief Musicians Fund 

• Dedicated fund for LA County music professionals
• Covers equipment loss, medical bills, and living expenses
• Direct financial assistance to affected musicians
• 100% of donations go to fire relief

The 100 Percenters Relief Fund 

• Immediate grants up to $2,500 for housing and essentials
• Larger grants up to $10,000 for equipment replacement
• Mental health support grants up to $2,000
• Focused on professional songwriters, producers, and artists

Equipment Replacement & Studio Space

Guitar Center 

• Offering instrument replacement assistance
• Supporting musicians who lost gear in the fires

Seahorse Sound Studios 

• Providing free storage for evacuated musicians' gear
• Downtown LA location

Good Boy Records

• Offering free studio time in Studio City
• Supporting displaced musicians

Industry Support Initiatives

Sound Royalties Wildfire Relief Program 

• No-cost royalty advances up to $50,000
• Available to qualified applicants in designated emergency zones
• No personal guarantees required
• Applications open through March 31, 2025

ASCAP Emergency Relief 

• $1 million distribution to affected Songwriters and composers
• Eligibility: Members who lost homes/studios or were evacuated

Upcoming Benefit Events

FireAid Benefit Concert 

• January 30th at Intuit Dome and Kia Forum
• Features major artists including Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish, Red Hot Chili Peppers
• Multiple broadcast channels
• All proceeds go to relief efforts

Mental Health Support

Backline

• Free mental health services for music industry professionals
• 24/7 support available via Disaster Distress Hotline: 1-800-985-5990
• Case management for long•term support

Music Health Alliance Mental Health Fund 

• Providing outpatient mental health resources
• Focused on qualified music industry professionals

Additional Resources:

• Entertainment Community Fund
• The Black Music Action Coalition Relief Fund
• Inevitable Foundation Emergency Relief Fund (for disabled creatives)
• NAMM Relief Fund

For immediate assistance or to make a donation, visit MusiCares.org or contact any of the listed organizations directly. Every contribution helps support our music community during this crucial time.

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• the BIZ— 2025 Live Music Trends: Key Insights for Singer Songwriters by Bob Lefsetz

Success in 2025's music industry will come from combining authentic artistry, strong songwriting, skilled performance, and direct audience connection. While streaming and digital platforms matter, building a sustainable career requires focusing on live performance, merchandise, and creating genuine connections with fans.

The Real Action is in the Small Shows
While media focuses on pop stars, the true vitality of the music industry lies with smaller acts who focus on touring and merchandise rather than streaming revenues. These artists are building sustainable careers outside the national consciousness, proving that success doesn't require mainstream attention. The key is developing a dedicated audience through consistent touring and direct fan engagement.

The Evolution of Genre and Authenticity
Country music continues its exponential growth, effectively becoming "rock in sheep's clothing" with big guitars and anthemic sounds. Unlike pop acts, country artists aren't dependent on hits – they're building careers that last. This sustainability comes from focusing on audience connection and consistent touring rather than chasing streaming numbers.

The industry is seeing a return to skilled musicianship, as exemplified by artists like Billy Strings. However...

Technical skill alone isn't enough— the song remains paramount. Artists need both instrumental ability and strong songwriting to build lasting careers.

Streaming and Revenue Realities
The streaming landscape continues to evolve, but artists need to understand its true nature. It's a pool of money divided based on overall listens, not a per-stream payment system. While artists may complain about Spotify payouts, the real opportunity lies in building direct relationships with fans through live shows and merchandise.

Songwriting and Artistic Identity
Self•written songs are increasingly valued as badges of authenticity. The public hungers for honest, personal expression— exemplified by artists like Zach Bryan. While committee-written songs dominate pop charts, artists building long-term careers need to develop unique voices and authentic connections with their audience.

Strong melodies and memorable choruses remain essential for broader appeal. Even in niche markets, the ability to write songs that connect emotionally and are memorable is crucial for career longevity.

Live Performance and Touring
The club business continues to evolve, but new opportunities emerge. House concerts and intimate venues provide sustainable income streams for developing artists. Acts succeeding in clubs and theaters typically differ significantly from Spotify Top 50 artists, focusing on:

• Instrumental skill

• Strong Songwriting

• Personal credibility

• Genuine audience connection

• Unique artistic identity

While ticket prices remain high where demand exists, artists need to build their leverage through growing audiences. The split improves as you move up to larger venues, but you must prove your draw.

Industry Structure and Career Development
Major labels maintain power through catalog ownership, but artists have more options than ever. Publishing companies emerge as major competitors to traditional labels, and tour deals increase in importance. The global market offers expanded opportunities for artist growth, even in niche markets.

Strategic Career Focus for 2025

1. Build a career rather than chase hits
2. Develop strong live performance skills
3. Create genuine connections with audiences
4. Consider alternative venues like house concerts
5. Invest in songwriting and instrumental skills
6. Focus on merchandise and direct fan relationships
7. Develop a unique artistic identity
8. Understand that growth takes time—focus on sustainable progress

The Future of Music
The industry awaits artists who can capture broad attention while maintaining artistic integrity. As Lefsetz notes, "We are waiting for that one act which will gain the attention of the entire nation, the entire world, that everybody wants to listen to." Meanwhile, there's money in niche markets, but the biggest returns come from creating music that connects broadly— songs with strong melodies and hooks that audiences can embrace.

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About Bob Lefsetz

Bob Lefsetz is a music industry analyst and critic known for his influential newsletter, The Lefsetz Letter. Since the 1980s, he has been writing about the music business, technology, and cultural trends. His often controversial opinions and direct style have made him one of the most widely•read voices in the music industry, with his newsletter being essential reading for industry professionals, artists, and music enthusiasts.

You can sign up for Bob's newsletter at lefsetz.com.

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• The Greatest Singer Songwriters— Johnny Cash

If you're asking what took us so long to feature Johnny Cash, just know we're asking ourselves the same thing... No excuse.

"Johnny Cash was more than a Singer or a Songwriter; he was the voice of America's soul— gritty, honest, and endlessly compassionate." 
— Rolling Stone Magazine

Johnny Cash's name is synonymous with authenticity, resilience, and raw storytelling. Born in Kingsland, Arkansas, on February 26, 1932, Cash's journey from humble beginnings to global stardom mirrors the narrative arc of a great American folk tale. With a career that spanned nearly five decades, he earned his place as one of the most iconic Singer Songwriters of all time. His deep, resonant voice, evocative lyrics, and unmistakable style cemented his legacy not only in country music but also across genres, inspiring countless artists.

"There's no one like Johnny Cash. He was the ultimate storyteller, and his voice carried all the pain, joy, and truth of life." 
— Bob Dylan

Music Production, Sales, and Hits
Johnny Cash's music was as varied as it was prolific. Over the course of his career, he released more than 90 albums and charted over 130 hit singles. His biggest hits— like Ring of Fire, I Walk the Line, Folsom Prison Blues, and Man in Black— remain timeless anthems that continue to resonate with audiences today.

Cash's approach to production was rooted in simplicity and emotional depth. His music often featured stark arrangements that allowed his voice and lyrics to shine. He recorded for several labels, most notably Sun Records and Columbia Records, and his albums consistently achieved commercial success. For instance, At Folsom Prison (1968) and At San Quentin (1969) were groundbreaking live albums that captured the raw energy of his performances behind prison walls, earning him critical acclaim and solidifying his image as a champion of the marginalized.

Concerts and Collaborations
Johnny Cash was a consummate performer. His live concerts were legendary for their intensity and authenticity. He connected with his audiences through his down-to-earth demeanor and unvarnished storytelling. His prison performances, particularly at Folsom and San Quentin, were a testament to his empathy for the downtrodden and his ability to bring hope through music.

"Johnny Cash was an artist who transcended genres. He could speak to everyone, whether you were a farmer in Kansas or a punk in London." 
— Bono

Collaboration was another hallmark of Cash's career. He worked with an array of artists, including Bob Dylan, June Carter Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, and Waylon Jennings. As part of the Highwaymen, alongside Nelson, Kristofferson, and Jennings, Cash contributed to a supergroup that produced timeless hits like Highwayman. His partnership with his wife, June Carter Cash, was both a personal and professional triumph, yielding hits such as Jackson and If I Were a Carpenter.

Awards and Recognition
Johnny Cash's career was punctuated by numerous accolades. He won 13 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999. He was inducted into multiple halls of fame— Country Music, Rock and Roll, and Gospel— underscoring his broad influence. His television show, The Johnny Cash Show, aired from 1969 to 1971, bringing a diverse lineup of musical acts to mainstream audiences and showcasing Cash's versatility.

Inspirations and Trailblazing Legacy
Cash's music drew inspiration from his own life experiences, blending elements of country, folk, rock, and gospel. His faith, struggles, and empathy shaped his Songwriting, creating a body of work that was deeply personal yet universally relatable. He was a pioneer in addressing social issues through his music, often championing the underdog. Songs like The Ballad of Ira Hayes highlighted the plight of Native Americans, while his prison performances humanized incarcerated individuals in ways few had dared.

"Johnny Cash didn't just play music; he lived it. You could feel every ounce of struggle and triumph in his songs." 
— Willie Nelson

As an artist, Johnny Cash transcended genres and broke barriers. His influence can be heard in the music of artists across generations, from Bob Dylan to U2. Bono once said, "Johnny Cash was an artist who transcended genres. He could speak to everyone, whether you were a farmer in Kansas or a punk in London." His authenticity and raw honesty made him a touchstone for musicians striving to tell their own truths.

Personal Life and Struggles
Johnny Cash's life was as tumultuous as it was inspiring. He battled addiction to amphetamines and barbiturates during much of his early career, a struggle that nearly derailed his life and career. Despite these challenges, Cash's determination and faith helped him achieve sobriety, largely with the support of June Carter Cash, whom he married in 1968. Their love story became one of the most celebrated in music history, serving as a source of inspiration and stability for Cash.

He's a very rare man, a very good man, and I've had a good life with him. I'm proud to be walking in the wake of Johnny's fame. I chose to be Mrs. Johnny Cash in my life.
— June Carter Cash

Faith played a significant role in Cash's life and work. He often explored themes of redemption and spirituality in his music, culminating in several gospel albums. His commitment to social justice, his advocacy for prisoners, and his work with Native American causes reflected a deep sense of compassion and conviction. He authored the book Man In White, a portrait of six pivotal years in the life of St. Paul.

Enduring Legacy
Johnny Cash's impact on music and culture endures to this day. His songs continue to inspire new generations, and his influence is evident in the work of countless singer-songwriters. Kris Kristofferson summed it up best

He was a rebel with a cause and a poet with a guitar. Johnny Cash was, and always will be, a legend."

Cash's ability to speak to the human condition, his willingness to embrace vulnerability, and his unyielding commitment to truth make him a timeless figure in the pantheon of great artists. 

"Johnny Cash was a true pioneer. His music broke barriers, and his humanity connected us all." 
— Bruce Springsteen

Today, Johnny Cash's legacy lives on not just in his music but also in the values he championed empathy, resilience, and the courage to stand up for what is right. Johnny Cash remains a guiding light for those who seek to make their mark on the world, one heartfelt song at a time.

in partnership with Musical U

• Guest Article— Busting Music Myths by Phil Circle

In this article, author, Singer Songwriter, teacher and coach, Phil Circle dissects commonly held myths in the world of music education and the music industry. Circle emphasizes the importance of skill-building, hard work, and loving the creative process over seeking a mythical end goal. It's a wake-up call for aspiring musicians to focus on tangible actions and a healthy mindset, rather than falling prey to these pervasive myths.
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I wrote this in spring— a time of renewal, with countless rituals that encourage or mystify us about something that's natural and is going to happen anyway.

People are superstitious. We dig mythology. I'm personally fascinated by human cultures. Our myths and origins. With regards to musicians, Joseph Campbell said we're myth-makers. And that's true. But, I'm not excited about the mistaken myths many have attached to music education or preparing others for the professional world of music. These include ideas such as:

• You either have talent or don't
• You can be tone-deaf.
• You come from a musical family, so you have an advantage.
• People might 'boo' you off the stage the first time you're up there.
• You'll be 'discovered' by some guy with a briefcase full of cash.
• You and your band risk falling into a haze of addiction and that is somehow romantic, and after one of you dies in a tragic accident, you'll all regroup at the Betty Ford Clinic for your return to the top.
• You're going to write that hit song and find happiness.

And my 'favorite'...

There's a place you and your music can get to and everything will be perfect.

Now, keep in mind that many of the above are legitimate fears and the requisite guards against failure that we've invented. I recognize that. But they're not to be believed. And once we step through our fears, we should discard these miscreations. We should also make clear to the aspiring musical artists next in line that these are all myths.

You either have talent or you don't.
It's true that each of us may have specific inclinations to certain things and these will drive our desire to learn and master them. But plenty of people who appear to have talents in some area fail to ever see them through. For instance, I'm great with numbers. But I'm no mathematician. Nor do I have a desire to be one. Yet I've seen so many people uncover a burning desire to make music without showing much in the way of skills, and through digging down and working at it, they've uncovered tremendous creative gifts. Which is what I think talent tends to be: Creatively applied skills. And yes, I realize I may be making myself less special, but I'm okay with that. I worked for this, trust me.

You can be tone-deaf.
That's just a flat-out... Nope! If we were tone deaf we'd never recognize our friends' voices, our favorite songs, or a siren blaring. You simply need to develop your ear-voice coordination. Yep, more skill-building. And yep again, I've seen proof of this truth. I've had people walk into my studio and not come anywhere close to hitting the notes I was asking for— yet 3 months later, they were blowing people away.

If you come from a musical family, you have an advantage.
There's no evidence for this. I come from a musical lineage. But I'm the youngest of six and only two of us still play music. Even though we were all trained for it. And I've seen way more students who were fantastic musicians, with absolutely no musicians in their family. The only advantage you may gain is if your family encourages you and you want it, too.

Interestingly, my Dad was an entrepreneur, but he was the one who encouraged me in music. More so than my Mom, the musician who was a producer as well.

People will 'boo' you off the stage the first time you get up there.
Only in the movies. Never in my life have I seen this happen— and I've hosted thousands of open mic nights and events. Makes for good drama in film. Just isn't real.

You'll be 'discovered' by some guy with a briefcase full of cash.
Again: Only in the movies. You're actually going to have to work really hard. And if some guy shows up at your gig with an offer and a briefcase full of cash, I'd have to question if he's just laundering drug money through you and your music. More seriously, in modern business, if someone comes to you with funding, you're likely already there and don't need it. Remember, you're the boss. Stay that way.

Your entire band risks falling into a haze of addiction and...
I actually had a counselor at Betty Ford tell me that every musician is either in treatment or should be. That's really the only falsehood I heard in the nine weeks I was there— as far as addiction treatment information sharing went. I was the only problem in any of my bands— and with only two exceptions out of the dozens of musicians I worked with in my career. In the arts, we're so comfortable with telling our truths, our weaknesses are just more widely admitted— and unfortunately romanticized. Giving credit to the idea that once someone gets clean, they may rise up again, it's more likely, they're just getting back on track.

You're going to write that hit song and find happiness.
Two things here.

1. Your happiness isn't found in hit songs.
2. It's unlikely you know which song is going to be a hit.

Is there a formula that many hit songwriters have used? Sure, but you haven't heard all the crap they wrote and threw away. Just keep writing, keep evolving, and keep loving it. And keep in mind that many hit songs— most of them really— don't stand the test of time. At best, they become nostalgic for the generation they spoke to at the time.

There's some place that you can get to and everything will be perfect.
Learn to enjoy the process. This isn't some platitude to make ourselves feel better when we're not seeing our goals fulfilled. This is something to prepare yourself for success with a healthy mindset. Ideally, as soon as you get somewhere, you already have the next place in view.|

Striving is a way of life that breeds fulfillment. Comes from gratitude. I promise you, that learning to find joy despite what's happening around you will make those great moments even more powerful. You'll begin to get that sense of life that you get when you're hiking in the mountains. You go down into a valley with great anticipation of crossing it. Climb the next hill. Come upon another valley. Find your way up a taller hill. Pass through a deep crevice. Surmount a beautiful summit. And see the world spread out around you. By the time you reach the crest, it's already long past being your goal. Love the hike— or whatever your own metaphor works best.

It's been reported that Gandhi said, 'Be the change you want to see in the world.'

It's been reported that I said, 'Be the change you want to hear in the world.' 

In my case, the reports are true.

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About Phil Circle

Phil Circle is a renowned guitarist, performer, and music educator with a career spanning over three decades. Known for his versatile style that blends rock, blues, jazz, and folk, Phil has captivated audiences around the world with his dynamic performances and unparalleled passion for music.

As a performer, Phil has graced stages of all sizes, from intimate clubs to major music festivals. His innovative guitar techniques, heartfelt lyrics, and soulful voice create a unique musical experience that resonates deeply with listeners. Whether performing solo or collaborating with other artists, Phil's artistry leaves a lasting impression.

In addition to his performing career, Phil is a dedicated music educator who has inspired countless students to discover their own musical voices. He specializes in guitar instruction, offering personalized lessons that cater to all skill levels. Phil's teaching philosophy emphasizes creativity, technique, and the joy of musical exploration, making learning both accessible and deeply rewarding.

Phil is also an advocate for the transformative power of music, often integrating storytelling and life lessons into his work. His ability to connect with audiences and students alike stems from his belief that music is a universal language that bridges gaps and fosters understanding.

With several albums, collaborations, and a loyal following, Phil Circle continues to make his mark as a guitarist, teacher, and storyteller. His commitment to his craft and his dedication to inspiring others ensure his legacy as a true ambassador of music.

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• PS from PS— a Time for Change: Our Music Community Stands Together

My heartaches. So much I want to say... and do.

I'm writing  about the devastating losses our community has endured in the recent Los Angeles fires.  I've watched with profound sadness as places that once resonated with melodies and dreams have been reduced to ashes. Not just buildings— sanctuaries where artists found their voices. Songs were born. Countless memories were created.

The impact of these fires extends far beyond the physical destruction. These losses represent years of work. Irreplaceable instruments. Spaces that held hopes and aspirations... gone. Each charred mixing board, destroyed studio, once a home, tells a story of creativity interrupted and dreams deferred.

Dark times, yet I see glimpses of hope that remind me why our music community is so special. The outpouring of support. All the offers of temporary spaces. The sharing of resources. These demonstrate the unbreakable spirit that binds us together. 

We are more than individual artists— we are a family that stands united in times of crisis.

I'm particularly moved by the initiative of one of our New Music Lives™ Members,  Phil Circle, who is channeling his artistry into action. Phil is currently working on producing a song dedicated to supporting the victims of these fires. His project embodies exactly what our community represents— using our art not just for self-expression, but as a force for positive change and healing.

This moment calls for more than just rebuilding what's been lost. It calls for re-imagining what could be. These tragic events can serve as a catalyst for positive change.  Big Time! We have an opportunity to come together and  support those who have lost everything, and to create something even stronger than was before.

To those who have lost their homes, their studios, their instruments: We see you. We stand with you. We will help you rise again. The music will not stop; it will only grow stronger through our collective resilience.

This is a time for a Change— a change in how we support each other. How we prepare for the future. How we unite as a community. The melody may be somber today, but together, we'll compose a symphony of hope and renewal.

If you'd like to support Phil's initiative or learn about other ways to help those affected by the fires, please reach out. Scroll up to Recommends for a list of Resources. Every note of support, every chord of compassion makes a difference.

Together, we will ensure that the music plays on, stronger and more meaningful than ever before.

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...