Indie Artist Playbook: Tips for a Sustainable Music Career
Want to make a living from your music while staying independent? The Indie Artist Playbook shares 25 years of insider knowledge, giving you the tools to build a sustainable career, market your music, and thrive in today’s music industry. Here’s an excerpt from the new book.
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Excerpt from The Indie Artist Playbook: Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Successful Music Career
by DOUG ROSS
The Journey of an Independent Artist
In the early ’90s, I remember watching Mix Master Mike from the Beastie Boys cutting and scratching beats on stage as part of their performance. It totally captivated me and inspired me to want to become a DJ and performer. I’m Doug Ross and I’ll be your guide through this book. With 25 years of experience working in the music industry, I’ve had the privilege of touring the world, sharing my music with millions, and earning a living from my passion. My career began as a DJ and producer, releasing tracks that found their way into clubs, onto TV shows, and radio stations. I’ve performed in front of crowds in the tens of thousands and experienced the highs and lows that come with being an independent artist.
My journey expanded beyond performing. I’ve been a booking agent, artist manager, tour manager, promoter, A&R rep and event organiser. My true passion lies in discovering talent and helping artists carve out successful, sustainable careers in music. I understand the challenges and triumphs of this path and want to share my insights with you.
This book is more than just a guide; it’s a roadmap to help you navigate the often chaotic world of independent music. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your career, my goal is to equip you with the tools, insights, and inspiration you need to make your mark.
So why this book and why now?
I’ve faced the uncertainty, the long hours, and the tough breaks. But I’ve also seen dreams come to fruition. Through this book, I want to show you that it’s possible to turn your passion into a profitable career.
Honouring Friends: This book is dedicated to some good friends who have passed away in recent years, who dedicated their lives to helping new talent grow and discover their potential. Their legacy inspires me to continue supporting emerging artists.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap: In a world where information is at your fingertips, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and not know what to lean into. This book aims to provide guidance on what to focus on and the right paths to take.
Empowering Independent Artists: I want to empower you with my personal insights from 25 years in the industry, offering practical advice, what tools to use and strategies for success.
Staying Up with Industry and Technology Changes: The music industry is constantly evolving. This book provides up-to- date information on the latest trends and technologies.
Creating a Lasting Resource: This book is a resource you can return to time and time again, and share with friends, ensuring you have the support you need throughout your journey.
Each chapter will walk you through a different aspect of being an independent artist. From honing your unique sound and setting up a home studio, to mastering the art of self-promotion and monetising your music, I’ll cover it all. I’ll share personal stories, practical advice, and actionable steps to help you overcome obstacles and seize opportunities.
You’ll find insights into industry trends, tips for building a loyal fanbase, and strategies for leveraging social media to expand your reach. I’ll discuss how to navigate the business side of music, from contract negotiations to understanding royalties. This book aims to equip you with the knowledge and tools to not only survive but thrive in the music industry. It’s designed to help turn your artistic dreams into reality, providing the guidance and inspiration you need to succeed.
What You’ll Gain
Insight: Learn from my experiences and the lessons I’ve gathered over the years.
Practical Tips: Get straightforward advice on everything from recording to marketing.
Inspiration: Feel motivated to pursue your dreams with confidence and determination.
Tools for Success: Equip yourself with the knowledge and strategies needed to thrive as an independent artist.
My passion lies in helping you succeed. I believe that with the right mindset and resources, you can achieve incredible things. By the end of this book, I hope you’ll feel empowered to take your music seriously, make bold moves, and build a career that brings both fulfilment and financial reward.
The Independent Artist’s Path
An independent artist crafts, produces, and promotes their music outside the traditional record label system. Unlike artists who sign with major labels, indies take full control of their careers, making decisions about their music, branding, marketing, and distribution.
As an independent artist, you’re not just a musician; you’re also a businessperson, marketer, social media manager, and sometimes even your own booking agent and tour manager. This level of control allows you to stay true to your artistic vision without external pressures to conform to commercial trends.
I’ve seen many artists who have signed with major record labels but found themselves with limited control, facing artistic differences, and being pushed in directions that didn’t align with their own values and vision. While it works for some, many end up disillusioned, dropped from their label or frustrated. The freedom to create and steer your own career is invaluable.
The independent path is challenging but incredibly rewarding. It offers the freedom to experiment, the ability to connect directly with your audience, and the potential to reap all the financial benefits from your music. You set the pace, make the creative choices, and ultimately, you define your success.
In this book, I’ll walk you through the essential components of being an independent artist. My goal is to provide you with practical advice and inspiring stories that will help you navigate the complexities of the independent music scene and achieve your dreams.
Let’s go!
Doug has produced and released over 100 tracks on multiple reputable record labels and continues to do so. If you are into Drum & Bass Music, check out his music under the artist alias KUBIKS. See discount and links below.
Special 30% Discount
The Indie Artist Playbook is available in Paperback and as an Ebook. Hypebot readers get an exclusive 30% discount on the paperback edition.
Just use the discount code IAP30 at checkout from dougross.bigcartel.com
Connect With Doug
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569680854538
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kubiks_dnb
- Music: www.linktr.ee/kubiks
