Everything you need to start from scratch and get on the map.
Every indie journey begins somewhere. This is your launchpad—everything you need to set up, show up, and step into the music world with confidence.
Before chasing fame or followers, you need to know who you are musically. This post helps you define your genre, voice, and message—and why it matters more than trends.
Topics We’ll Cover:
genre exploration, artist branding, vocal identity, niche vs mainstream.
Key References:
• Berklee Online on developing musical identity: berklee.edu
• DIY Musician (CD Baby): blog.cdbaby.com
Don’t let gear hold you back. Learn how to build a home studio for under $500 and start recording industry-quality demos from your bedroom.
Topics We’ll Cover:
mics, DAWs, audio interfaces, acoustic treatment, recording tips.
Key References:
• Produce Like A Pro: producelikeapro.com
• Sweetwater Gear Guide: sweetwater.com
Learn the fundamentals of writing lyrics, melody, and hooks that connect—plus tools to overcome writer’s block and refine your craft.
Topics We’ll Cover:
songwriting structure, storytelling, tools, emotional expression.
Key References:
• ASCAP's songwriter tools: ascap.com
• Songwriting basics by Soundfly: soundfly.com
From Spotify to Apple Music, this blog breaks down how to release music digitally, which distributors to use, and how to protect your royalties.
Topics We’ll Cover:
DistroKid, TuneCore, copyright, ISRCs, metadata.
Key References:
• DistroKid vs. TuneCore comparison: musicgateway.com
• BMI’s guide to protecting your music: bmi.com
Your brand is your story, your voice, and your vibe. Learn how to create a powerful image that resonates with fans and sets you apart.
Topics We’ll Cover:
social identity, visuals, logo, storytelling, artist persona.
Key References:
• Branding tips from Symphonic: symphonicdistribution.com
• Hypebot on artist development: hypebot.com
From TikTok trends to Instagram reels—this guide helps you grow your audience, stay consistent, and promote your music without burning out.
Topics We’ll Cover:
content strategy, engagement, tools, trends, automation.
Key References:
• Social Media for Musicians (Bandzoogle): bandzoogle.com
• TikTok guide by MIDiA Research: midiaresearch.com
Get on stage with confidence. This blog shows you how to find performance opportunities, book shows, and make the most of every set.
Topics We’ll Cover:
gig booking, performance prep, crowd engagement, gear for live shows.
Key References:
• Indie on the Move booking platform: indieonthemove.com
• ReverbNation tips: reverbnation.com
Music is your intellectual property—so treat it like gold. This blog gives you the tools to protect your songs and get paid.
Topics We’ll Cover:
copyright, publishing, performance rights organizations (ASCAP, BMI), contracts.
Key References:
• U.S. Copyright Office: copyright.gov
• ASCAP/BMI signup: ascap.com, bmi.com
There are dozens of ways to earn as an artist. This blog introduces you to merch, streaming income, licensing deals, and fan memberships.
Topics We’ll Cover:
sync licensing, Bandcamp, merch design, Patreon, royalties.
Key References:
• Songtrust on royalties: songtrust.com
• Sync licensing intro by Berklee: berklee.edu
You’re not in this alone. This blog teaches you how to find a tribe, connect with collaborators, and build a support system that lifts you higher.
Topics We’ll Cover:
collabs, online communities, critique circles, events.
Key References:
• Reddit r/WeAreTheMusicMakers: reddit.com/r/WeAreTheMusicMakers
• SoundBetter & AirGigs: soundbetter.com, airgigs.com
Want to know who’s visiting your site and what they’re doing? This blog breaks down how to integrate Google Analytics and use that data to grow your music career.
Topics We’ll Cover:
website traffic, user behavior, bounce rate, fan location, engagement.
Key References:
• Google Analytics Help: support.google.com/analytics
• GA4 Music Guide (Hypebot): hypebot.com
Google Tag Manager helps you track actions on your website—without needing to touch code every time. This blog helps you understand tags, triggers, and how to use GTM for music marketing.
Topics We’ll Cover:
tag basics, GTM vs GA, conversion tracking, music funnels.
Key References:
• Google Tag Manager Help: support.google.com/tagmanager
• Musicians on GTM: indiehackers.com
Learn how to tap into trending searches and find what fans are curious about in real-time. This blog helps you use Google Trends to boost content timing and keyword targeting.
Topics We’ll Cover:
trend discovery, keyword ideas, regional search interest.
Key References:
• Google Trends: trends.google.com
• YouTube Trends Tool: youtube.com/trending
Want to promote your release or grow your YouTube views? This guide breaks down Google Ads (formerly AdWords) for indie artists who want smart promo without wasting money.
Topics We’ll Cover:
YouTube ads, search campaigns, targeting tips, budgeting.
Key References:
• Google Ads Help Center: support.google.com/google-ads
• DIY Google Ads for Artists: indiemusicacademy.com
Squarespace and Wix are easy—but they have limits. This blog explains why building a real HTML website can give artists more control, speed, and SEO power.
Topics We’ll Cover:
SEO flexibility, site ownership, performance, branding.
Key References:
• HTML vs. Builders: blog.hostgator.com
• Web Dev for Musicians: musictech.net
This is your digital business card. This blog walks you through how to claim and optimize your Google Artist Knowledge Panel so fans (and bookers) get the right first impression.
Topics We’ll Cover:
Google search panel, artist verification, data syncing.
Key References:
• Google Knowledge Panel: support.google.com/knowledgepanel
• Artist Verification Tips: indiemusicacademy.com