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I have been boring my friends to death with this very subject for years now - not only is it possible, it is necessary - as the record labels are killing the music industry - the sooner they die off the better, and artists can be free to do what they want musically - you're an inspiration
Not long ago I would have wholeheartedly agreed, but the problem with this is that it's letting the people off the hook. It's the people that killed mainstream music. Record companies are after all companies that exist to make money. If that means exchanging music as an art form for sex imagery and posturing then it's up to the people to reject it. It's astonishing how few people can speak intelligently about books, art, music, theater, etc. The entertainment industry capitalizes on this ignorance because it is much easier and cheaper to just dictate to the masses what's cool, rather than send out armies of talent scouts to scour the land for the next Charlie Parker, when all it takes is a professional song writer, a producer and a hot girl who can lip sync and be appropriately scandalous. This is where we have sunk to as a society as much as record companies being shameless profiteers.
@@stevesmith3990 I don't believe that Steve - it is the new media, better get used to it - doing it yourself these days over a variety of platforms can pay off better than a label would pay you - ok , so Taylor Swift isn't getting the millions that she wants, who cares ? The truth is the future is bright for self promotion, you can arrange your own merch, UA-cam channel, affiliate links and concerts
@@stevesmith3990 Yes, they do, as the music industry is mostly too bloated to deal with the slim pickings from a streaming service. For the artist, however, less has changed, because they mostly got their money through gigs - this has not change over the years. What is the most amazing thing, however, is that people outside the recording industry can create professional tracks - and that is truly groundbreaking.
I've been in the music industry since 1980 in New York and LA. I've been signed as a producer to a major label, was a consultant to Sony, have gotten many many deals for others as well as many publishing deals, on and on and on. I know the ins and outs. You made right choice. Its too complicated to go into here, but if you sign with a label, you will own nothing and have no future. Its that simple.
Thank you for taking the time and effort to share this with us. We need more musicians who do their best to motivate other musicians. Keep up the good work ;)
Hi Mary! Thank you for endorsing what I have been telling people for several years now! I have been a professional musician with varying degrees of success for a loooooonng time. Coming to the end of my lifespan now probably, but still not my career! I've performed in front of 67k live and 17m on TV in my time, and worked with many household name stars etc; and though I'm nowhere near famous anymore (I had my 15 minutes in the 80's!) I've enjoyed a great life of making music with no hassles. That, with my friends and family (and guitars!) is all that matters! Thank you for your most interesting videos, and your talent, and easy on the eyes and ears too!!
Such a great video, Mary. There's no way our band would ever be able to secure a record deal so we have to do the things that will directly benefit us. To date, we are wildly unsuccessful but even in our 50s we aren't giving up. I enjoy your talent and your music. Your insight into how to do what we love to do is immeasurable. Thank you.
I gave up on the record label deal years ago. Independent is absolutely the way to go in the modern music industry. I put my own music on hold for 15 years. These videos and your podcast are part of the reason I'm jumping back into it - and I'm not holding out for a record deal at all. You're an inspiration, Mary.
Late as a subscriber to your channel, but damn, so glad I did. It's not just your music and singing that is such a pleasure to listen to, but your sense of purpose and how to go about it so refreshing.
Love the fact that you make clear that it is HARD WORK and you will be tired and you will have to prioritize and compromise. Too many believe that success happens overnight by luck....you even said it to Rob Chapman in your interview...nothing like a ten year overnight success......you are successful and will continue to be because of your work ethic. Talent, which you have in spades, is not enough. Keep it up. I just love your outlook. Best.
Been watching and listening to you for a while. You deserve all you get, your good. Don't rush yourself to be great. Take the time to be happy with what you done and don't be afraid to ask for help or advice from the people that you trust.
Welcome to the club. As a child of the 80s I (we) were chasing the dream, too, and friends of mine even got a SONY deal. From todays standpoint I am glad I never succeeded that way, but secured the job I have today and make music in my own studio every day (an understanding wife helps). My "big" moment was, when I released my first album through CD Baby and everyone could buy it on iTunes. THAT moment I never forget. Then again, I am free, own all right to my current bands, and don't have to do management discussions or executive meetings about the next release. I am doing that in my day job, thats enough, thank you very much. All the best to your endeavours, Mary.
I love the way you are very logical about the business and practical aspects of what you do, you are well organized as well as having your musical and video making talent. It’s obvious you work very hard too, I respect that.
Thanks, Mary for posting this. I'm trying to figure things out and this has really helped me sort through the minutiae. I'm old enough now to understand that pursuing a "record deal" or doing an "album" may not be the best choice anymore but trying to figure out a start point has been very daunting.
Great vid Mary. Only just found your channel! Music producer 20+ years here - have seen the industry change so much. Great advice and something that needs to be fundamentally understood. An Indie mindset is the way fwd; no label will sign an artist without a critical mass of fanbase. Even then, most contracts now are 360º deals or imprint deals (artists signed via a production company who take the risk on artist development & upfront recording costs). Majority of an Artist's income comes from live shows (tickets), merch and endorsements, not mechanicals anymore - streaming, as we know, has decimated this income.
Great video Mary. Over 10 years ago I fronted a band, and ya our goal was to get a music deal, or something like that. Times have changed so much in music over the last 10 years. see you next week :)
Keep doing what your doing, you on the right tract and you are building a large fan base all on your own. I think you are very talented and already successful in your own rights.
You are on the cusp of the wave that is change. You have such talent and like ability, that is not going unnoticed. Looking forward to see it all grow for you.
Mary, know that so many really love you and all you are doing for music. Enjoy every minute and please oh please keep sharing your life with the world. It will carry you through!
This is exactly what I needed to see and hear. I've been dragging my feet and excusing myself from moving forward with making music for a living. I do need to get organized and figure out what to start with, or where I should start but that just sounds like I'm making excuses again doesn't it? Thank you Miss Mary you made my day! 🎸😏🎸
I managed the last band I was in. I was lucky enough to have taken a few music industry classes in college by a teacher who had become a prominent manager in the industry. Having that insight into how the industry works demystified the business of making and distributing music for me and gave me a path forward. When I started managing my band I took to the internet to get what I wanted. I used kickstarter to fund purchasing merchandise and also hype up the small fan base we had amassed, I used band camp to host a merch and streaming store, I used CdBaby to press our album and to distribute our music to all of the major streaming services, I then tied it all together with HostBaby by creating a website where we kept an active blog and published our tour dates. learning the art of marketing yourself is vital in todays industry. As you said, building a team as you need them is way more important than trying to get signed and have a prebuilt team tell you how it is. I great analogy would be, when building a business you dont just focus on hiring 1000 people right away. no the focus should be on gaining customers and only hiring as you need them. The illusion of a successful business is still just that, an illusion.
Thanks for this video and well done... your voice (brand or image or what else you might want to call it) has really all come together now. And good luck for the Mayer video.
Good luck, Mary! I've only watched your videos for a couple of weeks and wish you the best of luck!!! I wish there were more people had greater income for many reasons including supporting today's artists.
I'm not sure if this will make sense but this was a rather inspirational video about what you can do if you just work hard and put yourself out there. I loved at the end when you appeared to get a bit choked up talking about what your supporters mean to you. Good Stuff.
This was a great T.T. episode Mary. I’ve been a performing guitarist for a very long time. I’ve watched the music industry change to the point that it only exists to service a few hundred stars and sell music from their catalogs. They aren’t interested in developing talent anymore. I think that the DIY route is the only path forward for musicians, and has been so for at least a decade or more. Had you not gone that route we wouldn’t have you to entertain us all! Please keep your show coming and never give up. You will find your own success that is relevant to you, like I did.
Oh, too! I`ve heard this said before and I want to acknowledge it with you - "You should not take anyone`s advice on what you want to do unless they have succeeded at doing it themselves" You are the /anyone/ in that quote! I really feel strongly that your well on your way. I`ve got to get crackin!!
This has been the reality for the better part of 20 years now. A record deal is an antiquated concept. Distribution was the main reason to get a record deal in the old days. Now anyone can distribute an album through a website. Promotion from a record label was minimal for the vast majority of signed bands. They expected bands, and still do expect them, to promote themselves through touring, interviews, etc. Now with platforms like UA-cam, promotion is easier than ever, even though the market is over-saturated with talent. It's never been easier to make a living as a musician, but it's also never been more difficult to stand out, if that makes sense.
As others have already stated here, your talent will take you there. I first ran across you by checking out one of Leos covers, and after checking him out, and liking his content. I clicked on your parts, and was blown away. Good luck with all your endeavors!
I am glad you took this path. As an American I found out about you when you did a spot with Lee Anderton. and I followed you from that day on. Had you taken a record deal you may have not have met Rob S., Rob C., Leo M., Lee A,. and all of the wonderful people you have met. You did it by yourself, you earned all this, and I love the path you took Mary.
First time I have watched this Mary and it's 2020! Spot on reality check for all aspired musicians that NEED to hear and embrace...the new truth, a better truth. Total control over your own works and path. A very wise person stated that the power of achieving the centre of your strength and potency of your talent is achieved via the root (pardon the musical pun!) of the circumference. 12 perspectives of growth will achieve your centre...and serious traction. Like your keen followers I will also be supporting you on this journey in 2020 and beyond.
UA-cam's recommendation algorithm works!! Your video has inspired me a lot. I'm left feeling that is possible. Your video was really motivational. Please keep producing content like this :)!
Who needs Scooter’s advice, you are a real life example of snowballing success and exposure that IS working. Thank You for all your hard work Mary! I’ve never known anyone that said, I’m really sorry I worked so hard towards something.
Mary, you’re doing great! I’ve been subscribed a while now and it’s fantastic seeing your progress and integrity in what you do. I would define success as connecting with others through your music. You’re heading in the right direction, please keep it up and don’t change.
Great vid...build the foundation/fan base. There are so many artist that seem bigger than life, receive millions in pay and have no talent, they simply were a BRAND that was created. You have talent and have already established a recognition and respect of your fans.
Mary thank you truly for sharing your insight and experience. Your channel is VALUABLE. I enjoy the content for educational purposes and having these bits of information allows me to compile and make my own informed choices from many resources. Yours is swiftly becoming a favorite. Please keep em coming and please....as you said.. ALWAYS MAKE MUSIC!!
Mary, I have to admit I just discovered you on UA-cam very recently and I have to say you are doing the right thing. There is nothing in A&R anymore. Not only are you an extreme talent but from what I can tell, you are wise beyond your years. If you are ever in the States again, I'd love to have you do a show with my band
Once again another brilliant insightful video by Ms. Spender! I love your honesty and I always thought possibly the harsh realities signing to a major was not your calling! Not because the talent or drive isn't there, but your maturity and independent side of wanting to be your own artist would come to blows of their vision for you as a artist. You have inspired me to start my own UA-cam channel in Jan. 2019, and I will do a Check& Discover Review of the Mary Spender channel, hope u see it! As always Ms. Spender be true yourself as a person and artist and whatever happens you win in your heart!
What an awesome public service to share such timely and sagely advice to those who need to hear it. Ya gotta stoke the fires of your soul, hone your talent, and find your voice, before expecting the world (and success) to beat a path to your door. Simply hiring someone with a proverbial megaphone (to draw attention) wont work if there is nothing to hold people's attention once you get it. It all makes perfect sense to me, and i'm not even a musician.
What a great topic! Our band has been trying to get going for awhile, we have plenty of pretty good material. However a few of the members are a little older and stuck in the old ways. I’ve been more than a little discouraged by this thinking and I know that there are much better ways to go. I know that if we could just all work together to get the social media, UA-cam, internet machine going, it would get us to a better place!
Mary, thanks so much for posting this video! It is amazingly well timed - I am 48 and have taken my first steps in reclaiming the musical career I shelved when I was younger. I have a mountain to climb before I can walk away from my career, but I believe that in today’s music world, it’s possible! Thanks.
My teenage daughters are venturing out into the world of being artists and entrepreneurs. I directed them to your channel. You set the example. Thanks.
Mary, may I call you Mary? This video is hands down the Best representation of: the good, the bad & the reality of the music business today. I'm a musician & product of the '80's Hollywood scene. I've literally watched friends both die trying to get signed, and others die Because they got signed. Best of luck to you. You are an inspiration. Peace. JR
Great video showing how dynamic the music industry is right now. Thanks for sharing the interview clips, look forward to listening too them in full. Very exciting to see how the passion and commitment of individuals and independent bands is the future of Rock and Roll! 🎸
Mary... @ 10:35 you say basically the exact same thing that Rhett Shull says "there is no plan B". You're passionate and one hell of a talent. Keep up the good work and and passion, and I think it will eventually really pay off. God bless.
Mary, my wife & I have been self funding our music for about 20yrs now, it is a business with a product like any other business, if I knew now & can go back to 1981, I would be way more popular & rich, I remember a guy back then telling me " come see me in 20yrs with your plan" because everything changes, including the music industry, so while you are young, be smart with your money, don't give up on your dreams, but don't let people fool you either, you can never get your youth back, great video & stay safe out there, God Bless !!!
I'm watching this nearly two years on and I think it resonates way beyond music and guitar playing. The principal route to getting traditional artistic work out to an audience have changed whatever the form. Whether it be publishing, design, art... the only one still stuck in the dark ages is the British theatrical establishment. The internet has created a level playing field where the best PR is by word of mouth and by recommendation, or by randomly finding someone on spotfify. What needs to be clear to people are the words 'success' and 'failure' as these have been predetermined signifiers for years, determined by external factors like chart positions. There was an interview with Iggy Pop (with Melvin Bragg on the South Bank Show) who said best. He said 'success is whatever YOU want it to mean.' Since the 60s he was doing 300 shows a year, every year, for 30 years and barely made a penny and yet two songs on the Trainspotting film/soundtrack effective made him a millionaire. So the moral, you determine your own goals but be willing to change them and then back again based on whatever becomes successful in your work.
Wow this gave me a whole different look on the record label dream. Building a foundation is so important and honestly the way I would like to do it. Quite new to the channel and loving it. Thanks Mary 😊🎸
Albums are insignificant yet when I listen to music from an artist I always listen to their albums and very rarely their singles. Yes individual tracks of genius lyrics that capture the imagination are the breakthrough goal for every artist and only singer songwriters like yourself are going to find those through your hard work and efforts. The internet is a great leveller in terms of exposure opportunity but talent is what floats the boat above the crowd. Keep at it Mary - your talent and voice (which is amazing) will get you a chance one day.
Also another positive benefit of being a solo artist/musician is that you can decide on your own artistic direction and if you're signed to a label (sometimes) you cant even decide on your own artistic direction and the label owns you.
Hey there, I stumbled over your channel a couple of weeks ago after seeing you featured in some other channel. Love Tuesday Talks and the music as well. I think you really nailed it in this video. Today, at least when starting your career (eg struggling with it) taking care of you fan base is really crucial. either your building a music career or just running an You Tube channel, connecting with the fans via social media, acknowledging and also being grateful for the support they show is basic and quite simple marketing. Most people love accessible performers an pleased fans will talk about an down to earth and cool artist and help spreading the word.
Hi Mary, I almost cried when you expounded on Scooter's point on "getting to A". I've been feeling bad lately because I'm still in the process of finding myself and my voice as an artist. I've also been getting frustrated at myself because I fear i'm being "too slow" about my process. So thank you for reminding us to be patient with our own journeys
Mary, I have been a fan of yours for a while now , and I think you are an extremely talented musician, and your music is beautiful. I truly hope you already feel a sense of accomplishment and success with what you have created so far . I think (as many do ) that the days of measuring musical success by filling stadiums and signing mega deals with big labels is over , and thank God it is . When you sign to a label , you are essentially their slave , and they control your creativity. As a music fan who listens to everything from classical to death metal , I truly believe the music being produced by unsigned , independent artists is fantastic .
Well done. I've been thinking the same thing in the past few years. Music is a job. You work really hard and you can be successful. Whether you're a recording artist, session player, youtube artist, touring musician, songwriter or all of the above, it's the work you put into it that brings success. Success isn't making it "big". Success is making a living at it and enjoying the hell out of it.
Awesome video. When I was growing up in South Texas my friends and I would drive 250 miles to Austin to hear live music. Sometimes it was to go to a concert with a big name but mostly it was just to hear a local musician at a small venue. What we all wanted was not just big names but a local music scene. I think that this is what social media and the disintermediation of music has really helped. Everyone now has access to acts that before only a few hundred people would see.
Nice Mary, I'm one of the artists caught in transition, currently struggling against this new way of making 'art business'. Thanks for the content, nice as always.
I have very little knowledge of the music inustry and how it works, but with the voice you have Mary i am sure you will reach your goals sooner rather than later. Your take on "Fast car" with Leo (Frog Leap) was one of the most amazing things i've heard in a long time. I shared it with all my friends and have told them to check you out, cause you are an amazing artist. I wish you the best in the future, and i will probably listen to your song when i'm 90 and teaching my great grandkids what good music is. Much love from Norway
That's very comforting to hear, thank you for this video! I've been trying to do this for a long time and yet I'm so far from being able to live with this, but I am really hopeful for the future :)
The music industry is a business.they only care about profits.not talent.it is all about what they can market and sell and current trends.you Mary have actual talent.talent is timeless.it stands up on it own regardless of genre or current fades.just be true to yourself and keep doing what you love.f%ck the industry.you will be just fine.i have been a musician for many years.i recognise geniune talent when I see it.you got it Mary.trust me. Real musicians will take notice and appreciate your music.you are developing a loyal fan base and I promise you it will keep growing.love your work.
Indeed. You do not need someone to throw fuel on your fire to explode, you simply need to fan your own flames with spirit, emotion and skill in order to burn bright.
I've been saying to musicians since the mid-90's when the first truly affordable digital recording workstation arrived (pssst.... Roland VS-880). That piece of kit was the forerunner to the current self-produce, self-promotion that is going on now. Even without UA-cam/Instagram/Facebook/Twitter/etc. an enterprising musician could find their way to radio airplay back then. Wonderful video! I'm a fan.
Gawd bless ya girl, this vid is the truth on the march. The record companies were ever thieves and if you had been around twenty years ago some A&R sleaze bucket would've tried to feed on you. You are a fine guitarist and artist so keep it on your terms. And to think I would watch you and despair that you had no label - this video has schooled be to realise that those of us who admire you should be grateful f'r it!
Great Vid...Record Companies Will Just Manipulate and Dictate The Direction they wish you to go in..However the Great Thing About You and Your Music is That you are not only in control .you are choosing the way you wish to go...I've seen you live and have cds by you...You Create great music and in my personal opinion you do not need a record company..Stay as you are.
A lot to unpack there. I did niche instrumental jazz/rock in the 90's when John Mayer was coming up. I had that problem where the labels didn't want to take a risk on that type of sound. Mayer was like one of the last guys to get through the old label branding system, barely. Even then the quality of the deals were going down hill. Good talent, strong tenor voice, Berklee connections. There was a lot of luck involved, as there always is. He's managed to hang on, which is a testament to how smart and versatile he can be. The truth is nowadays it's very much a class thing. Like modeling, it's become something for the rich kids to do, they don't need the money. The mega-corporations of the world have been successful at conditioning the younger generations to accept way less in every aspect of revenue streams; and it's working. They are using brute force too, you've heard the story about Spotify, by their rules, owed Smokey Robinson, $250k. They gave him $12,000 and told him to get lost. Yeah that. You've heard the story about how the labels sold the artist share off to the streaming services to get a bigger foot hold in the steaming service and to have preferential release treatment in specific times in specific markets. Only big money can tolerate that kind of function. Small people will always be left out. If you are anywhere below upper-middle class, it's close to impossible to get through. Even John Mayer is perpetuating this idea. Look at that super nice watch he's wearing and all the success he's had and he's telling that kid it's cool to just do it yourself. He couldn't have become himself without help. All business' find success through expensive marketing and music marketing is millions of dollars of premium air time to get a name going. Truth is they count on successful social network artists to make a few bucks here and there and then petering out a few years later after life calls. That times a million artists and you have yourself a business model. Of course, it would be nice to be on a label but you have to be super good, at least a little rich and to be lucky in that whatever you are doing happens to strike on some type of current event relevancy. Over the years, I've been to most of the major labels in LA. Though some are impressive, they all show signs of wear. They used to be golden, now they're more like Ikea. However, if you can get one of the 6 jobs they have available for artists, you might as well give it a shot. It's seriously based on what powerful people you know well enough and how inclined they are to believe in your sound. It's become a rich kid sport, like polo. I can go on and on, I'll stop there.
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I have been boring my friends to death with this very subject for years now - not only is it possible, it is necessary - as the record labels are killing the music industry - the sooner they die off the better, and artists can be free to do what they want musically - you're an inspiration
Not long ago I would have wholeheartedly agreed, but the problem with this is that it's letting the people off the hook. It's the people that killed mainstream music.
Record companies are after all companies that exist to make money. If that means exchanging music as an art form for sex imagery and posturing then it's up to the people to reject it.
It's astonishing how few people can speak intelligently about books, art, music, theater, etc. The entertainment industry capitalizes on this ignorance because it is much easier and cheaper to just dictate to the masses what's cool, rather than send out armies of talent scouts to scour the land for the next Charlie Parker, when all it takes is a professional song writer, a producer and a hot girl who can lip sync and be appropriately scandalous.
This is where we have sunk to as a society as much as record companies being shameless profiteers.
@@clutch1141 Agree with that too
No, Spotify and other streaming services are killing the music industry.
@@stevesmith3990 I don't believe that Steve - it is the new media, better get used to it - doing it yourself these days over a variety of platforms can pay off better than a label would pay you - ok , so Taylor Swift isn't getting the millions that she wants, who cares ? The truth is the future is bright for self promotion, you can arrange your own merch, UA-cam channel, affiliate links and concerts
@@stevesmith3990 Yes, they do, as the music industry is mostly too bloated to deal with the slim pickings from a streaming service. For the artist, however, less has changed, because they mostly got their money through gigs - this has not change over the years. What is the most amazing thing, however, is that people outside the recording industry can create professional tracks - and that is truly groundbreaking.
"Actually live your life. Make sure you have things to write songs about". Excellent advice!
I've been in the music industry since 1980 in New York and LA. I've been signed as a producer to a major label, was a consultant to Sony, have gotten many many deals for others as well as many publishing deals, on and on and on. I know the ins and outs. You made right choice. Its too complicated to go into here, but if you sign with a label, you will own nothing and have no future. Its that simple.
Thank you for taking the time and effort to share this with us. We need more musicians who do their best to motivate other musicians.
Keep up the good work ;)
Hi Mary! Thank you for endorsing what I have been telling people for several years now! I have been a professional musician with varying degrees of success for a loooooonng time. Coming to the end of my lifespan now probably, but still not my career! I've performed in front of 67k live and 17m on TV in my time, and worked with many household name stars etc; and though I'm nowhere near famous anymore (I had my 15 minutes in the 80's!) I've enjoyed a great life of making music with no hassles. That, with my friends and family (and guitars!) is all that matters! Thank you for your most interesting videos, and your talent, and easy on the eyes and ears too!!
Virgin, Sony and three more hated this.
Such a great video, Mary. There's no way our band would ever be able to secure a record deal so we have to do the things that will directly benefit us. To date, we are wildly unsuccessful but even in our 50s we aren't giving up. I enjoy your talent and your music. Your insight into how to do what we love to do is immeasurable. Thank you.
Thank goodness for artist like you that are bucking the trend, keep doing what you are doing! We have faith you have faith, the best is yet to come.
Paying my dues with a packet of your picks. Loving your 'brand'; your sound, your channel, and you've always got a smile for us on a Chewsday.
I gave up on the record label deal years ago. Independent is absolutely the way to go in the modern music industry. I put my own music on hold for 15 years. These videos and your podcast are part of the reason I'm jumping back into it - and I'm not holding out for a record deal at all. You're an inspiration, Mary.
Late as a subscriber to your channel, but damn, so glad I did. It's not just your music and singing that is such a pleasure to listen to, but your sense of purpose and how to go about it so refreshing.
Love the fact that you make clear that it is HARD WORK and you will be tired and you will have to prioritize and compromise. Too many believe that success happens overnight by luck....you even said it to Rob Chapman in your interview...nothing like a ten year overnight success......you are successful and will continue to be because of your work ethic. Talent, which you have in spades, is not enough. Keep it up. I just love your outlook. Best.
Mary, you have such a great attitude, as well as musical aptitude - I love watching Tuesday Talks - thanks for all you do.
Chewsday !!
😊😊😊
Been watching and listening to you for a while. You deserve all you get, your good. Don't rush yourself to be great. Take the time to be happy with what you done and don't be afraid to ask for help or advice from the people that you trust.
Great video with a great message!
Do what you want to the best of your ability because without that inner drive to do that, nothing else can happen.
Welcome to the club. As a child of the 80s I (we) were chasing the dream, too, and friends of mine even got a SONY deal. From todays standpoint I am glad I never succeeded that way, but secured the job I have today and make music in my own studio every day (an understanding wife helps). My "big" moment was, when I released my first album through CD Baby and everyone could buy it on iTunes. THAT moment I never forget. Then again, I am free, own all right to my current bands, and don't have to do management discussions or executive meetings about the next release. I am doing that in my day job, thats enough, thank you very much. All the best to your endeavours, Mary.
I love the way you are very logical about the business and practical aspects of what you do, you are well organized as well as having your musical and video making talent. It’s obvious you work very hard too, I respect that.
Thanks, Mary for posting this. I'm trying to figure things out and this has really helped me sort through the minutiae. I'm old enough now to understand that pursuing a "record deal" or doing an "album" may not be the best choice anymore but trying to figure out a start point has been very daunting.
As a musician, it’s pretty draining having to explain this concept to everyone I meet. Thanks for putting this in a positive refreshing light.
Great vid Mary. Only just found your channel! Music producer 20+ years here - have seen the industry change so much. Great advice and something that needs to be fundamentally understood. An Indie mindset is the way fwd; no label will sign an artist without a critical mass of fanbase. Even then, most contracts now are 360º deals or imprint deals (artists signed via a production company who take the risk on artist development & upfront recording costs). Majority of an Artist's income comes from live shows (tickets), merch and endorsements, not mechanicals anymore - streaming, as we know, has decimated this income.
Great video Mary. Over 10 years ago I fronted a band, and ya our goal was to get a music deal, or something like that. Times have changed so much in music over the last 10 years. see you next week :)
Been watching a lot of your videos and you’re incredibly inspiring Mary. Thanks for sharing your opinions and your willingness to be vulnerable!
Keep doing what your doing, you on the right tract and you are building a large fan base all on your own. I think you are very talented and already successful in your own rights.
You are on the cusp of the wave that is change. You have such talent and like ability, that is not going unnoticed. Looking forward to see it all grow for you.
Wow Mary!! Your advice is gold!! Thanks for inspiring me and teaching me what the industry is all about as a singer songwriter... You're GREAT!!!
Mary, know that so many really love you and all you are doing for music. Enjoy every minute and please oh please keep sharing your life with the world. It will carry you through!
This is exactly what I needed to see and hear. I've been dragging my feet and excusing myself from moving forward with making music for a living. I do need to get organized and figure out what to start with, or where I should start but that just sounds like I'm making excuses again doesn't it?
Thank you Miss Mary you made my day!
🎸😏🎸
I managed the last band I was in. I was lucky enough to have taken a few music industry classes in college by a teacher who had become a prominent manager in the industry. Having that insight into how the industry works demystified the business of making and distributing music for me and gave me a path forward. When I started managing my band I took to the internet to get what I wanted. I used kickstarter to fund purchasing merchandise and also hype up the small fan base we had amassed, I used band camp to host a merch and streaming store, I used CdBaby to press our album and to distribute our music to all of the major streaming services, I then tied it all together with HostBaby by creating a website where we kept an active blog and published our tour dates.
learning the art of marketing yourself is vital in todays industry. As you said, building a team as you need them is way more important than trying to get signed and have a prebuilt team tell you how it is. I great analogy would be, when building a business you dont just focus on hiring 1000 people right away. no the focus should be on gaining customers and only hiring as you need them. The illusion of a successful business is still just that, an illusion.
I could listen to Mary talk all day very soothing to the ears and she's even better to listen to when she sings
Thanks for this video and well done... your voice (brand or image or what else you might want to call it) has really all come together now. And good luck for the Mayer video.
Good luck, Mary! I've only watched your videos for a couple of weeks and wish you the best of luck!!! I wish there were more people had greater income for many reasons including supporting today's artists.
I'm not sure if this will make sense but this was a rather inspirational video about what you can do if you just work hard and put yourself out there. I loved at the end when you appeared to get a bit choked up talking about what your supporters mean to you. Good Stuff.
This was a great T.T. episode Mary. I’ve been a performing guitarist for a very long time. I’ve watched the music industry change to the point that it only exists to service a few hundred stars and sell music from their catalogs. They aren’t interested in developing talent anymore.
I think that the DIY route is the only path forward for musicians, and has been so for at least a decade or more. Had you not gone that route we wouldn’t have you to entertain us all!
Please keep your show coming and never give up. You will find your own success that is relevant to you, like I did.
WOW. This is something I just can`t thank you enough for! I mean really, really, for real...thank you! You /are/ on your path as it should be!!!
Oh, too! I`ve heard this said before and I want to acknowledge it with you - "You should not take anyone`s advice on what you want to do unless they have succeeded at doing it themselves" You are the /anyone/ in that quote! I really feel strongly that your well on your way. I`ve got to get crackin!!
This has been the reality for the better part of 20 years now. A record deal is an antiquated concept. Distribution was the main reason to get a record deal in the old days. Now anyone can distribute an album through a website. Promotion from a record label was minimal for the vast majority of signed bands. They expected bands, and still do expect them, to promote themselves through touring, interviews, etc. Now with platforms like UA-cam, promotion is easier than ever, even though the market is over-saturated with talent. It's never been easier to make a living as a musician, but it's also never been more difficult to stand out, if that makes sense.
Really inspiring video Mary! Thanks!
You are deffo keeping us happy with what you love to do!!!!
My God you keep my creative light burning. You still have the best Patreon, Artist and Educator site I've ever supported.
Wow Mary.. not only a talented musician, but very thoughtful.. just bought and downloaded Faux Americana.. thanks for all your hard work..
As others have already stated here, your talent will take you there. I first ran across you by checking out one of Leos covers, and after checking him out, and liking his content. I clicked on your parts, and was blown away. Good luck with all your endeavors!
I am glad you took this path. As an American I found out about you when you did a spot with Lee Anderton. and I followed you from that day on. Had you taken a record deal you may have not have met Rob S., Rob C., Leo M., Lee A,. and all of the wonderful people you have met. You did it by yourself, you earned all this, and I love the path you took Mary.
First time I have watched this Mary and it's 2020! Spot on reality check for all aspired musicians that NEED to hear and embrace...the new truth, a better truth. Total control over your own works and path. A very wise person stated that the power of achieving the centre of your strength and potency of your talent is achieved via the root (pardon the musical pun!) of the circumference. 12 perspectives of growth will achieve your centre...and serious traction. Like your keen followers I will also be supporting you on this journey in 2020 and beyond.
Great video, Mary. Exciting and inspiring.
UA-cam's recommendation algorithm works!! Your video has inspired me a lot. I'm left feeling that is possible. Your video was really motivational. Please keep producing content like this :)!
Who needs Scooter’s advice, you are a real life example of snowballing success and exposure that IS working. Thank You for all your hard work Mary! I’ve never known anyone that said, I’m really sorry I worked so hard towards something.
Mary, you’re doing great! I’ve been subscribed a while now and it’s fantastic seeing your progress and integrity in what you do. I would define success as connecting with others through your music. You’re heading in the right direction, please keep it up and don’t change.
Great vid...build the foundation/fan base. There are so many artist that seem bigger than life, receive millions in pay and have no talent, they simply were a BRAND that was created. You have talent and have already established a recognition and respect of your fans.
Mary thank you truly for sharing your insight and experience. Your channel is VALUABLE. I enjoy the content for educational purposes and having these bits of information allows me to compile and make my own informed choices from many resources. Yours is swiftly becoming a favorite.
Please keep em coming and please....as you said.. ALWAYS MAKE MUSIC!!
You are amazing and your style is unique and awesome. Just keep doing it.
Mary, I have to admit I just discovered you on UA-cam very recently and I have to say you are doing the right thing. There is nothing in A&R anymore. Not only are you an extreme talent but from what I can tell, you are wise beyond your years. If you are ever in the States again, I'd love to have you do a show with my band
Once again another brilliant insightful video by Ms. Spender! I love your honesty and I always thought possibly the harsh realities signing to a major was not your calling! Not because the talent or drive isn't there, but your maturity and independent side of wanting to be your own artist would come to blows of their vision for you as a artist. You have inspired me to start my own UA-cam channel in Jan. 2019, and I will do a Check& Discover Review of the Mary Spender channel, hope u see it! As always Ms. Spender be true yourself as a person and artist and whatever happens you win in your heart!
Great video Mary. Love all the New York Jets memorabilia in the interview. Go Jets!
What an awesome public service to share such timely and sagely advice to those who need to hear it.
Ya gotta stoke the fires of your soul, hone your talent, and find your voice, before expecting the world (and success) to beat a path to your door. Simply hiring someone with a proverbial megaphone (to draw attention) wont work if there is nothing to hold people's attention once you get it.
It all makes perfect sense to me, and i'm not even a musician.
What a great topic! Our band has been trying to get going for awhile, we have plenty of pretty good material. However a few of the members are a little older and stuck in the old ways. I’ve been more than a little discouraged by this thinking and I know that there are much better ways to go. I know that if we could just all work together to get the social media, UA-cam, internet machine going, it would get us to a better place!
Mary, thanks so much for posting this video! It is amazingly well timed - I am 48 and have taken my first steps in reclaiming the musical career I shelved when I was younger. I have a mountain to climb before I can walk away from my career, but I believe that in today’s music world, it’s possible! Thanks.
One of the better editorial pieces about the 'new vs old' music business, Mary.
Your expression of gratitude brought pools to my eyes.
This was great Mary, I enjoy and am inspired by what you do and how you do it, Keep your drive alive!
My teenage daughters are venturing out into the world of being artists and entrepreneurs. I directed them to your channel. You set the example. Thanks.
Thank you very much for sharing Mary. It's clear now how it works.
Mary, you're the best. I love your videos. I just found you recent;y but you are inspirational and lovely.
Being independent and working for yourself, gives you a feeling like no other. You have a great attitude and I'm sure you will be successful. 👍😎🎸🎶
I love your channel, what your doing is amazing, don't ever change.
Thank you, Mary! What a great content
Mary, may I call you Mary?
This video is hands down the Best representation of:
the good, the bad & the reality of the music business today.
I'm a musician & product of the '80's Hollywood scene.
I've literally watched friends both die trying to get signed,
and others die Because they got signed.
Best of luck to you. You are an inspiration.
Peace. JR
I’m so excited for you Mary 😊 ...I enjoy your videos and music
Thanks Mary, Its was very inspiring. It is a very important topic to any musician nowdays
You rock
Great video showing how dynamic the music industry is right now. Thanks for sharing the interview clips, look forward to listening too them in full. Very exciting to see how the passion and commitment of individuals and independent bands is the future of Rock and Roll! 🎸
Mary... @ 10:35 you say basically the exact same thing that Rhett Shull says "there is no plan B". You're passionate and one hell of a talent. Keep up the good work and and passion, and I think it will eventually really pay off. God bless.
Mary, my wife & I have been self funding our music for about 20yrs now, it is a business with a product like any other business, if I knew now & can go back to 1981, I would be way more popular & rich, I remember a guy back then telling me " come see me in 20yrs with your plan" because everything changes, including the music industry, so while you are young, be smart with your money, don't give up on your dreams, but don't let people fool you either, you can never get your youth back, great video & stay safe out there, God Bless !!!
I'm watching this nearly two years on and I think it resonates way beyond music and guitar playing. The principal route to getting traditional artistic work out to an audience have changed whatever the form. Whether it be publishing, design, art... the only one still stuck in the dark ages is the British theatrical establishment. The internet has created a level playing field where the best PR is by word of mouth and by recommendation, or by randomly finding someone on spotfify. What needs to be clear to people are the words 'success' and 'failure' as these have been predetermined signifiers for years, determined by external factors like chart positions. There was an interview with Iggy Pop (with Melvin Bragg on the South Bank Show) who said best. He said 'success is whatever YOU want it to mean.' Since the 60s he was doing 300 shows a year, every year, for 30 years and barely made a penny and yet two songs on the Trainspotting film/soundtrack effective made him a millionaire. So the moral, you determine your own goals but be willing to change them and then back again based on whatever becomes successful in your work.
Wow this gave me a whole different look on the record label dream. Building a foundation is so important and honestly the way I would like to do it. Quite new to the channel and loving it. Thanks Mary 😊🎸
Very awesome stuff Mary. Great video, and a great message!
Love Your videos and listening to you talk about your dreams. You are on the right track for sure. All The Best!!!
Hi Mary, thanks for this video, cool channel, your awesome for giving us the heads up and helping us to stay inspired. all the best, Darren Ross.
Great video, Mary. Thanks for posting.
Great info very well communicated.
Thank you for posting this!
Albums are insignificant yet when I listen to music from an artist I always listen to their albums and very rarely their singles. Yes individual tracks of genius lyrics that capture the imagination are the breakthrough goal for every artist and only singer songwriters like yourself are going to find those through your hard work and efforts. The internet is a great leveller in terms of exposure opportunity but talent is what floats the boat above the crowd. Keep at it Mary - your talent and voice (which is amazing) will get you a chance one day.
inspiration. thank u. blessings.
Brilliant video Mary 💪
Also another positive benefit of being a solo artist/musician is that you can decide on your own artistic direction and if you're signed to a label (sometimes) you cant even decide on your own artistic direction and the label owns you.
Hey there, I stumbled over your channel a couple of weeks ago after seeing you featured in some other channel. Love Tuesday Talks and the music as well. I think you really nailed it in this video. Today, at least when starting your career (eg struggling with it) taking care of you fan base is really crucial. either your building a music career or just running an You Tube channel, connecting with the fans via social media, acknowledging and also being grateful for the support they show is basic and quite simple marketing. Most people love accessible performers an pleased fans will talk about an down to earth and cool artist and help spreading the word.
Hi Mary, I almost cried when you expounded on Scooter's point on "getting to A". I've been feeling bad lately because I'm still in the process of finding myself and my voice as an artist. I've also been getting frustrated at myself because I fear i'm being "too slow" about my process. So thank you for reminding us to be patient with our own journeys
Mary, I have been a fan of yours for a while now , and I think you are an extremely talented musician, and your music is beautiful. I truly hope you already feel a sense of accomplishment and success with what you have created so far . I think (as many do ) that the days of measuring musical success by filling stadiums and signing mega deals with big labels is over , and thank God it is . When you sign to a label , you are essentially their slave , and they control your creativity. As a music fan who listens to everything from classical to death metal , I truly believe the music being produced by unsigned , independent artists is fantastic .
Well done. I've been thinking the same thing in the past few years. Music is a job. You work really hard and you can be successful. Whether you're a recording artist, session player, youtube artist, touring musician, songwriter or all of the above, it's the work you put into it that brings success. Success isn't making it "big". Success is making a living at it and enjoying the hell out of it.
Awesome video. When I was growing up in South Texas my friends and I would drive 250 miles to Austin to hear live music. Sometimes it was to go to a concert with a big name but mostly it was just to hear a local musician at a small venue. What we all wanted was not just big names but a local music scene. I think that this is what social media and the disintermediation of music has really helped. Everyone now has access to acts that before only a few hundred people would see.
Nice Mary, I'm one of the artists caught in transition, currently struggling against this new way of making 'art business'. Thanks for the content, nice as always.
I have very little knowledge of the music inustry and how it works, but with the voice you have Mary i am sure you will reach your goals sooner rather than later.
Your take on "Fast car" with Leo (Frog Leap) was one of the most amazing things i've heard in a long time. I shared it with all my friends and have told them to check you out, cause you are an amazing artist. I wish you the best in the future, and i will probably listen to your song when i'm 90 and teaching my great grandkids what good music is. Much love from Norway
I wish you all the best Mary... I like you so much...many greetings from Germany...
That's very comforting to hear, thank you for this video!
I've been trying to do this for a long time and yet I'm so far from being able to live with this, but I am really hopeful for the future :)
The music industry is a business.they only care about profits.not talent.it is all about what they can market and sell and current trends.you Mary have actual talent.talent is timeless.it stands up on it own regardless of genre or current fades.just be true to yourself and keep doing what you love.f%ck the industry.you will be just fine.i have been a musician for many years.i recognise geniune talent when I see it.you got it Mary.trust me. Real musicians will take notice and appreciate your music.you are developing a loyal fan base and I promise you it will keep growing.love your work.
Indeed. You do not need someone to throw fuel on your fire to explode, you simply need to fan your own flames with spirit, emotion and skill in order to burn bright.
I've been saying to musicians since the mid-90's when the first truly affordable digital recording workstation arrived (pssst.... Roland VS-880). That piece of kit was the forerunner to the current self-produce, self-promotion that is going on now. Even without UA-cam/Instagram/Facebook/Twitter/etc. an enterprising musician could find their way to radio airplay back then. Wonderful video! I'm a fan.
Hey Mary, love your channel. Love this video. Thank you for confirming my resolve to go forward and build my own brand of music.
Gawd bless ya girl, this vid is the truth on the march. The record companies were ever thieves and if you had been around twenty years ago some A&R sleaze bucket would've tried to feed on you. You are a fine guitarist and artist so keep it on your terms. And to think I would watch you and despair that you had no label - this video has schooled be to realise that those of us who admire you should be grateful f'r it!
Great Vid...Record Companies Will Just Manipulate and Dictate The Direction they wish you to go in..However the Great Thing About You and Your Music is That you are not only in control .you are choosing the way you wish to go...I've seen you live and have cds by you...You Create great music and in my personal opinion you do not need a record company..Stay as you are.
What an honest man !!!
A lot to unpack there. I did niche instrumental jazz/rock in the 90's when John Mayer was coming up. I had that problem where the labels didn't want to take a risk on that type of sound. Mayer was like one of the last guys to get through the old label branding system, barely. Even then the quality of the deals were going down hill. Good talent, strong tenor voice, Berklee connections. There was a lot of luck involved, as there always is. He's managed to hang on, which is a testament to how smart and versatile he can be. The truth is nowadays it's very much a class thing. Like modeling, it's become something for the rich kids to do, they don't need the money. The mega-corporations of the world have been successful at conditioning the younger generations to accept way less in every aspect of revenue streams; and it's working. They are using brute force too, you've heard the story about Spotify, by their rules, owed Smokey Robinson, $250k. They gave him $12,000 and told him to get lost. Yeah that. You've heard the story about how the labels sold the artist share off to the streaming services to get a bigger foot hold in the steaming service and to have preferential release treatment in specific times in specific markets. Only big money can tolerate that kind of function. Small people will always be left out. If you are anywhere below upper-middle class, it's close to impossible to get through. Even John Mayer is perpetuating this idea. Look at that super nice watch he's wearing and all the success he's had and he's telling that kid it's cool to just do it yourself. He couldn't have become himself without help. All business' find success through expensive marketing and music marketing is millions of dollars of premium air time to get a name going. Truth is they count on successful social network artists to make a few bucks here and there and then petering out a few years later after life calls. That times a million artists and you have yourself a business model. Of course, it would be nice to be on a label but you have to be super good, at least a little rich and to be lucky in that whatever you are doing happens to strike on some type of current event relevancy. Over the years, I've been to most of the major labels in LA. Though some are impressive, they all show signs of wear. They used to be golden, now they're more like Ikea. However, if you can get one of the 6 jobs they have available for artists, you might as well give it a shot. It's seriously based on what powerful people you know well enough and how inclined they are to believe in your sound. It's become a rich kid sport, like polo. I can go on and on, I'll stop there.