the AMP Issue 87

In This Issue...  13 pages (about 19ish minutes to read) You'll Get... 

• Recommends— the #1 Recommendation for Musical Artists— REST

• the BIZ— Musician's Guide to LinkedIn from Ariel Hyatt of CyberPR

• the Greatest Singer Songwriters— Janis Joplin

• Feature Article— Why So Many Talented Singer Songwriters Struggle Part 2. 

• PS from PS—Transcendance

Here’s the playlist

• Recommends— the #1 Recommendation for Musical Artists— REST

Usually, this section of the AMP is where we turn you on to great resources, such as websites, authentic experts in the Art and Biz, books and authors... Like that. This Recommends is different— and frankly, it's THE most important, useful and valuable recommendation we've ever made. Here's the deal in one word...

REST!

J.W. Wilson, Founder and Executive Director of The Learning Code Institute and author of Cracking the Learning Code, has spent more than 30 years researching how we learn. His 5-Step Learning formula is: 1. Instruction. 2. Implementation. 3. Coaching. 4. Deliberate Practice. And 5... Did you guess right? REST!

And it's the #1 step most creative people forget. Especially musical artist-entrepreneurs. You'll work all your brain-mind and body parts off writing songs, re-working them, rehearsing, recording, performing, booking, PRing, attending to your social media, and, and, and. And you'll REST if and when you can find time. And most of those times, you can't. Find time. Because you cannot find time. You have to make time. 

So... Here's our Highest Recommendation with a gently edited piece from business development leader Terry Danylak that he posted on LinkedIn.   

Top performers know one secret to success..

Top performers know one secret to success.

Getting good sleep is not enough to be the best.

According to Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, to perform at our best, we need 7 types of rest.

Here they are:

1. Physical Rest
Physical rest involves things like getting quality sleep, naps or a spa day.

2. Mental Rest
Take breaks to calm your always-on mind. Meditation works.

3. Sensory Rest
Try reducing the sensory overload created by technology and life. Shut off the iPhone.

4. Social Rest
Being around people that drain you saps your energy and kills your mood. Only the lonely is not always a bad thing.

5. Spiritual Rest
Sometimes, you must find meaning in life to help you recharge.

6. Emotional Rest
Acknowledge your emotions and let your mind process pain.

7. Creative Rest
Let your mind rest so that your creativity comes back in full force. Just walk away Rene. The song will still be there when you get back.

The secret to top performance for musical performers is not about how long and hard you work, but how well you REST.

• the BIZ— Musician's Guide to LinkedIn from Ariel Hyatt of CyberPR

If you read my blog regularly, you know I have been focusing a lot lately on Micro-Networking and my theory that execution is critical if you want to cause a tangible shift in your career as an artist.

This leads me to a social site you may not have considered for your music career: LinkedIn. You probably already use it for your day job, freelance work, or other non-music activities. LinkedIn is a gold mine when it comes to networking, especially within industries. 

But if you're new to LinkedIn, how can you set yourself up and optimize for networking there?

SetUp Your Fully Optimized Profile

This initial stage will take an hour or so of your time, but I promise it's worth it. First, set up your profile with all the necessities, including adding a professional photo. Studies show that your profile is 11 times more likely to be viewed when it includes a photo, so add an up-to-date professional photo.

Build Your 500+ Connections
It sounds like a lot I know, but you'll be there in no time! LinkedIn will suggest a lot of initial connections for you, and from there, take some time to look at the suggestions they offer based on who you know, as well as your emails and social media to find even more connections. LinkedIn is a great way to show off elements about yourself that you can't get across on other socials such as work history, awards and honors, charity affiliations, board member positions, and past and present affiliations. Plus... 

...the more connections you have, the more suggestions you'll get and the higher your chance of making valuable connections.

Create Personalized Invites
A quick note for when you're building those 500+ connections— don't take the lazy way out and go with the stock "I'd like to add you to my network on LinkedIn" note. Take the time to say something meaningful, compliment them or remind them of a time spent together or a mutual colleague. If you don't know them but are still looking to connect for the first time, take a moment to scan their profile and find a common interest or other way to connect and compliment them. 

Use LinkedIn To Find New Connections
LinkedIn's search engine is there for a reason. You can find specific people you're looking for or target specific industries, interests, and so on. This means you can search, say, festival organizers or radio personalities or label A&R, and you can get creative in finding local influencers or potential backers for your project. The search function can help you not only find people for your followers, but also individuals who might help you build your career.

Never send the "Stock" LinkedIn invite. 

Most people take the lazy way out and send the pre-canned "I'd like to add you to my network on LinkedIn" note. Take the time to say something meaningful, compliment them or remind them of a time spent together or a mutual colleague.

Join Relevant Groups
Think of these like Facebook Groups. They're based around different interests or topics. Just as with Facebook, there are plenty filled with spam, so take some time to make sure you're joining active ones in all the right ways. Then, once you're in there, make sure you participate in discussions, pose and answer questions, welcome new members, help members by introducing them to your connections, post great resources pertinent to the group, and so on. You have to be an active group member for others to respond to you.

Another great thing about groups is that when you share content on your profile, oftentimes, LinkedIn will also invite you to share to specific groups, increasing your reach.

Here are a few to check out: 

• Music & Entertainment Professionals— 181K members  
• Music Industry Network— 133K members 
• Music Industry Forum— 128K members 
• Music & Marketing— 100K members 
• MusicBiz— 92K+ members 

MaxOut Your Groups
Groups are usually formed around a particular topic, interest, or commonality— it can be a school or university, profession, hobby, location, expertise, and so on. Groups are either open (anyone can join) or closed (you must be approved by a current member). You can join up to 100 groups, and I suggest that you join as many as you can, as it will increase your reach when you go to share your content (posts) on LinkedIn. 

Participate and Add Value In Groups
So if you join a group, make sure you participate in discussions, pose and answer questions, welcome new members, help members by introducing them to your connections, post great resources pertinent to the group, and so on — and do this long before you mention anything to do with your products or projects. You have to be an active group member for others to respond to you. Once you've established yourself, it's easy to ask the group for advice or support or for them to reach out to their connections and let them know about your project or product. 

The more groups you're a part of, the more relationships you can build, and the more connections you'll have.

Post at Least Three Times a Week
Don't panic! This doesn't have to be 100% original content. It can be recycled and reused from your blog or social media and made appropriate for LinkedIn. For instance, you could cross-post your blog to LinkedIn or share an insight you had while working on a new song. The more you use LinkedIn and engage with others, the more content you'll think of throughout the week to share.

Practice Random Acts of Kindness
Truly, this is a great practice to get into in all areas of your life, but as it applies to LinkedIn, it means this: write people recommendations, "Endorse" people for the skills they share on their profile, and tag them in relevant posts. 

The more you help others, the more they'll help you, and honestly, it's just a nice habit to get into.

Final Thought: the Magic of LinkedIn Lies In Your Connections
LinkedIn is organized around three levels of connections: the people you know (first degree), the people they know (second degree), and the people those people know (third degree). The first-degree connections have obvious benefits, including frequent In Your Connections interaction and an easy way to get in touch. 

However, it's often in the second- and third-degree connections of the people in your network where you will find the kinds of links that can provide entry into new ecosystems. Meaning, new connections, insights, and inspiration. Embrace these, and you'll get to see the full potential of LinkedIn.

__________  

About Ariel Hyatt and Cyber PR

Ariel Hyatt is a seasoned digital marketer, author, and educator dedicated to empowering independent musicians. As the founder of Cyber PR, a New York-based artist development and marketing strategy firm, she has been instrumental in guiding artists through the evolving music industry landscape. Cyber PR specializes in crafting comprehensive marketing plans, executing effective publicity campaigns, and providing strategic guidance to musicians and music-related brands.

With over two decades of experience, Ariel has authored several influential books, including Music Success in 9 Weeks, Cyber PR for Musicians, and Crowdstart, offering valuable insights into social media, marketing, and crowdfunding for artists. Her commitment to education is evident through her speaking engagements across 12 countries, where she has shared her expertise with over 100,000 creative entrepreneurs. 

Under Ariel's leadership, Cyber PR continues to innovate in the realms of digital PR, social media strategy, and artist development, providing musicians with the tools and knowledge necessary to build sustainable and impactful careers in the music industry.

Join over 20,000 musicians and industry pros— subscribe for solid advice, tips on navigating the music business and a host of free resources including a free Music Marketing Toolkit. Tap this link: CyberPR Music https://cyberprmusic.com/

• The Greatest Singer Songwriters— Janis Joplin

Janis Joplin: Her Unforgettable Voice Was Raw Emotion

"Janis Joplin's voice was a raging wildfire— raw, unapologetic, and utterly, dramatically  captivating. Yet in a heartbeat, she'd pull a 180 and become the littlest of little girls. When she sang, you didn't just hear music; you felt the deep heartache and explosive passion of a soul fighting to break free."

"Janis had a spirit unlike anyone else. Her legacy isn't just in her music; it's in every artist who dares to bare their true self on stage." 
— Patti Smith

A Legendary Force
Janis Joplin remains an iconic figure among the greatest Singer Songwriters of all time. Her emotional intensity, gravelly voice, and electrifying stage presence earned her legendary status, making her one of rock and blues' most influential artists.

Musical Roots and Inspirations
Born in Port Arthur, Texas, Janis's journey was steeped in the soulful richness of blues and rock, drawing inspiration from pioneering artists like Bessie Smith, Odetta, and Lead Belly. Her music resonated profoundly with listeners, transcending mere performance to become powerful, personal confession.

"Janis didn't just push the boundaries; she erased them. Every female singer owes her a debt of gratitude." 
— Melissa Etheridge

Breakthrough Moments
Her breakout came during the historic 1967 Monterey Pop Festival, where her riveting performance of Ball and Chain captivated audiences and propelled her to stardom. Janis’s meteoric rise continued with the album Cheap Thrills, recorded with her band Big Brother and the Holding Company. This record soared to number one on the Billboard charts, fueled by hits like Piece of My Heart, Summertime, and Ball and Chain, ultimately achieving multi-platinum status.

Solo Career and Iconic Albums
Following her time with Big Brother, Janis launched a solo career, forming the Kozmic Blues Band and later the Full Tilt Boogie Band. Her solo albums, I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama! (1969) and the posthumous Pearl (1971), showcased her evolving artistry. Pearl was a profound commercial and critical success, anchored by iconic songs such as Me and Bobby McGee, Mercedes Benz, and Cry Baby. Released after her untimely death, Me and Bobby McGee became her only number-one single, immortalizing her as a songwriting legend.

"When Janis sang, you felt every note. She didn't just perform; she bared her soul on stage." 
— Robert Plant

Live Performances: Electric and Authentic
Janis Joplin's concerts were transformative experiences, characterized by intense emotion and authentic vulnerability. Her stage presence influenced countless artists, from contemporaries to modern-day musicians who cite her fearless authenticity as inspiration.

"Janis Joplin sang blues like no other white woman before or since. She sang from the heart and gut, and it changed me." 
— Stevie Nicks

Memorable Collaborations
Throughout her career, Janis collaborated with numerous notable artists, including appearances alongside the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, and Jimi Hendrix. These collaborations underscored her position within the heart of the 1960s rock scene, cementing her legacy as a vital figure of the musical revolution of that era.

Personal Struggles and Triumphs
Despite her professional triumphs, Janis faced significant personal struggles, particularly with substance abuse, insecurity, and a quest for acceptance that often eluded her. Her deeply personal battles infused her music with unparalleled emotional depth, making her work resonate deeply with audiences who identified with her raw vulnerability.

"Listening to Janis Joplin was hearing raw truth poured straight from the soul. Nobody could touch that kind of honesty." 
— Bonnie Raitt

Activism and Authenticity
Janis was a symbol of countercultural rebellion, embodying the values and struggles of her generation. While her political and social activism was implicit rather than explicit, Janis’s profound personal authenticity challenged societal norms and inspired others to embrace individuality and freedom.

"Her voice was a powerful storm of emotion. It taught us all the meaning of true expression." 
— Bruce Springsteen

A Timeless Legacy
Remarkably, Janis Joplin's legacy endures with undiminished intensity. She was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995, received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005, and continues to inspire generations of musicians. Her unique blend of rock, blues, and soul broke musical barriers and set a benchmark for emotional honesty in songwriting and performance.

in partnership with Musical U

• Feature Article— Why So Many Talented Singer Songwriters Struggle. 

and What It Takes to Build TrueFans (Part 2... )

How to Break Through the Noise and Build TrueFans for Life (Part 2: The Solution)

In Part 1 (the AMP Issue 86), we uncovered the biggest challenge Singer Songwriters face: 

Standing out in today's crowded musical landscape and emotionally connecting with an audience consistently enough to create a dedicated fan base— your TrueFans.

Now, let's dive into the practical, proven strategies to overcome these hurdles, genuinely resonate with listeners, and build a thriving, sustainable music career.

1. Clarify Your Authentic Voice
Standing out isn't about trying to please everyone. It's about YOU and YOUR crystal-clear authenticity. Identify what makes you uniquely you— your personal experiences, insights, quirks, and the emotions you genuinely feel. Lean into these qualities fully. The artists who connect most deeply are those brave enough to be completely themselves.

ACTION: Write down three core truths about your life or personality that you've avoided expressing. Challenge yourself to integrate at least one of these truths into your next song.

2. Share Your Story Boldly
Audiences connect deeply to stories. Your struggles, triumphs, heartbreaks, and joys become the bridges that draw listeners into your music and your life. Share openly and bravely. The vulnerability in your storytelling is precisely what builds lasting emotional connections.

ACTION: Regularly share short, personal insights— behind-the-scenes moments, inspirations, life stories— in your social media posts or newsletters. Make each song release a storytelling moment.

3. Engage Personally and Consistently
Consistency builds trust, and trust builds TrueFans. Regularly communicate with your audience through authentic, direct channels— emails, social media interactions, live Q&A sessions and from stage. Respond personally when possible. Fans become TrueFans when they feel truly seen and valued.

Action: Create a simple content calendar with at least one weekly touchpoint— whether an email update, livestream, or thoughtful social media post.

4. Create Meaningful Experiences
In a digital world flooded with content, shared experiences create lasting bonds. This might be intimate live performances, exclusive online listening parties, or behind-the-scenes glimpses into your creative process. Giving your audience special, memorable experiences turns listeners into devoted TrueFans.

ACTION: Plan one unique fan experience this quarter— such as a private livestream concert, early music preview, or an interactive songwriting session.

5. Invest in Community, Not Just Followers
TrueFans don't just follow your music— they join your community. Building a community around shared values, passions, or emotions amplifies loyalty and creates a supportive space where fans feel they belong.

ACTION: Start a simple, fan-focused community group (like a Facebook group, Discord server, or membership platform). Engage regularly, encourage interaction, and nurture a supportive culture.

6. Make Fans Part of Your Journey
Invite your fans into your music-making process. Allow them to influence choices— song covers, release dates, merchandise ideas. When fans feel involved, they're emotionally invested and eager to champion your success.

ACTION: Poll your audience on social media or in your newsletter about your next musical decision, letting their voice shape your path.

Your Path to TrueFans Begins NOW!
Yup. Nike. Just Do It! By embracing these strategies, you move beyond simply releasing music. You create a lasting, authentic emotional connection that transforms casual listeners into lifelong TrueFans— fans who will fuel your creativity, spread your music, and sustain your career.

Building TrueFans isn't easy— like building friendships— but it is powerful and transformative. Commit to these actions, and watch as your music resonates, your audience grows, and your career thrives— for life.

• PS from PS— Transcendance 

I still remember the first time I got to watch Janis Joplin's performance of  Summertime  from Woodstock in 1969. I was alone in my parents' living room watching the Old Grey Whistle Test— at the time the UK's only rock music show. I was deep into wrestling with the confusion of adolescence, when her voice erupted through television screen. The footage was grainy. The sound imperfect. But something positively passed between Janis and me across time and space at the speed of light!

Transcendance

From the first haunting notes, my skin prickled with some kind of... what? Recognition? She stood there, draped in purple and bangles. Her body swaying as though possessed by something ancient and knowing. This wasn't just a performance— it was a spiritual channeling. The way she transformed Gershwin's 'Great American Songbook' lullaby into a raw blues confession left me breathless. Each note seemed wrung from some deep well of experience I couldn't yet name, but somehow recognized in my own young heart.

What moved me most was the beautiful contradiction she embodied— ferocious power coupled with devastating vulnerability. In those moments when she closed her eyes, her face contorting with the effort of reaching impossible emotional depths, I glimpsed both her magnificent strength and heartbreaking fragility. 

I didn't fully understand then why tears streamed down my face, but I knew I was dancing with something transcendent. Transcendance.

Years later, that performance still serves as a creative touchstone to transcendance. In moments of self-doubt, I return to it. Not to imitate her inimitable voice— no one could, ever— but to channel her courage to stand emotionally naked before the world. Her Woodstock Summertime remains a testament to what's possible when an artist offers their whole, unfiltered self. A gift.

The tragedy of the 27 Club* robbed us of witnessing how her artistry might have evolved, but in that perfect, preserved moment, Janis gave us everything she had... and then gave us more. And even decades later, when those familiar notes begin, summer still stands still, and goosebumps still rise on my arms— my body remembering what my soul has never forgotten. As said... Transcendance. 

* The "27 Club" refers to a group of influential musicians who died at the age of 27, often due to drug/alcohol abuse or other tragic circumstances. Some most notable members include:

• Robert Johnson (1911-1938) Blues pioneer 
• Brian Jones (1942-1969) Rolling Stones founder 
• Jimi Hendrix (1942-1970) Revolutionary guitarist 
• Janis Joplin (1943-1970) Powerful blues/rock vocalist 
• Jim Morrison (1943-1971) The Doors frontman 
• Kurt Cobain (1967-1994) Nirvana frontman 
• Amy Winehouse (1983-2011) Soul/jazz vocalist 

The phenomenon gained more attention after Cobain's death, and particularly following Winehouse's death, which occurred nearly 17 years later. While many other musicians have died at 27, these above are generally considered the most culturally significant 27 Club members.

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...