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the TrueFans AMP— POSTED Issue 83

Author

PAUL SAUNDERS
May 17, 2025

"This ain't a Country album. This is a 'Beyoncé' album." 
— Beyoncé on Cowboy Carter

• BREAKING: The president of the American Federation of Musicians fires a pummeling barrage at Donald Trump in retaliation for his unhinged attacks on industry superstars Taylor Swift and Bruce Springsteen… 

"The American Federation of Musicians will not remain silent as two of our members— Bruce Springsteen and Taylor Swift— are singled out and personally attacked by the President of the United States,” 

No matter your ‘political’ opinion, this is happening. Now. What are you thinking?

• Beyoncé Has 2025's Highest Concert Gross With $56 Million At SoFi Stadium from news.pollstar .com— Beyoncé makes a big splash at the boxoffice with the first ticket sales figures reported from her “Cowboy Carter Tour,” produced by Live Nation. One Question: Where Are the Guys…? The Women are the ones breaking all the records: Lady Gaga, Taylor, Beyoncé. Hmmmmm.

• Music Trade Update: Q1 2025’s Top Countries in Export Power from luminatedata .com— The global export market for recorded music continues to evolve, with Q1 2025 revealing subtle but meaningful shifts in the international trade landscape. The latest data from Luminate’s Export Power Score— a metric designed to evaluate a country’s ability to export music globally— showcases the top recorded music exporting nations and the largest importers for each.

• Who Really Owns the Future of Culture? from Amplify— This weeks topics cover a fascinating cross-section of political power, platform shifts, and pop spectacle — from 2 million people on a beach in Rio singing along to Lady Gaga, to the quieter (but no less consequential) political firing of the U.S. copyright chief, right as AI copyright policy is heating up.

• Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down) Live from Jazz At Lincoln Center) on YouTube. There are covers, and then... There Are COVERS! TONY BENNETT & LADY GAGA: CHEEK TO CHEEK - LIVE 

In Partnership with Chris Greenwood and SmartMusicBusiness

Chris Greenwood, known by his stage name Manafest, is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion in the music industry. With over a decade of experience as a successful Singer Songwriter, Manafest has not only conquered the stage with his dynamic performances and hit records, he's mastered the business side of music. His journey from aspiring artist to industry veteran is a source of inspiration for many.

Manafest's discography is a vibrant mix of rock, rap, and hip-hop, reflecting his versatile talent and dedication to his craft. He has garnered a loyal fanbase worldwide, thanks to his authentic lyrics and high-energy shows. His hits like Impossible, No Plan B, and Edge of My Life have not only topped charts, but also resonated deeply with listeners, motivating them to push beyond their limits.

Leveraging his extensive experience, Manafest founded Smart Music Business, a platform dedicated to empowering independent artists to navigate the complexities of the music industry. Through Smart Music Business, Chris and his team offer invaluable insights and practical advice on everything from music marketing and crowdfunding to building a sustainable career. His mission is to help artists turn their passion into a profitable profession, just as he has done.

Chris Greenwood's YouTube channel is a treasure trove of knowledge, featuring videos on essential topics such as fan engagement, revenue streams, and industry trends. His transparency and willingness to share his own experiences make his advice both relatable and actionable. Additionally, his website offers a wealth of resources, including courses, eBooks, and one-on-one coaching opportunities for artists at any stage of their career.

For those looking to thrive in the music industry, following Chris Greenwood's journey and tapping into the resources offered by Smart Music Business is a step in the right direction. Tap the links to visit his YouTube channel and the Smart Music Business website to learn more and start your path to success today.

... and here's the more...

• Your TrueFans AMP™ just keeps getting better, better, better. Hey Jude!

• How Politics Are Negatively Impacting Live: NEA Cuts, Visa Issues, Israeli-Palestinian Divide Lead To Show Cancellations from Pollstar News— Politics are adversely impacting the live business in ways that is hurting the bottom lines of many artists, venues, promoters and agents.

• for All You Piano Men and Women… PEABODY HAS A MASSIVE COLLECTION OF GRAND PIANOS FOR VIRTUOSOS AND THOSE IN TRAINING. MEET THE TALENTED TECHS WHO KEEP THEM TUNED AND PERFORMANCE READY

• How to Find Your Unique Voice as a Singer from songtown .com— I gotta tell you about the time I walked into Brett Manning’s studio thinking I’d just do a few vocal warmups, maybe stretch out the pipes a little. I left that place hitting notes I didn’t even know I had. No joke— I went from topping out at an A in the office to belting a high D at home the next day.

• Is Pop Culture Worse Than Ever? on podcasts.apple .com— Plain English with Derek Thompson. This piece is for Thinking Musical Artists ONLY… In music, billion-dollar investments in old catalogues are squeezing out new music. In film, Hollywood has become addicted to the regurgitation of familiar IP. In visual art, critics bemoan the straitjacket of political correctness. On TV… we're in a Gilded Age of television, where every prestigious show looks absolutely amazing—but that gilded veneer often covers up for dull storytelling. 

• Let It Be Happy Mother’s Day from Paul McCartney and his ‘Mother Mary. from Dan Rather's a Reason To Smile ™ steady.substack .com

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...