Being a musician today goes beyond talent and passion. It requires a good dose of knowledge and digital tools. Mastering resources for musicians, such as marketing, production, social media management, and other key areas is crucial for success in the current industry.
Luckily, there’s a wealth of online resources to empower your musical journey. Here’s a curated list of American blogs, podcasts, and YouTube channels to support you at every stage:
Resources for Musicians – Blogs:
- Indie Shuffle: A platform dedicated to independent music, featuring artist interviews, album reviews, news, and recommendations. Discover fresh talent and stay informed about the indie scene.
- Pitchfork: A renowned online music publication known for in-depth album reviews, interviews, features, and news. Gain insights into music trends and critical perspectives.
- Relix: A magazine and blog focusing on jam bands and the improvisational music scene. Explore in-depth interviews, live show reviews, and cultural commentary for fans of Grateful Dead, Phish, and similar artists.
- BrooklynVegan: A blog covering all things indie rock and alternative music. Find emerging artists, live show reviews, news, and insightful articles.
- The Needle Drop: A YouTube channel featuring music reviews, interviews, and industry discussions hosted by the charismatic Anthony Fantano. Gain entertaining and thought-provoking takes on new releases.
Resources for Musicians – Podcasts:
- Song Exploder: A podcast where renowned musicians deconstruct their songs, analyzing creative choices and the stories behind the music.
- Dissect: Deep dives into iconic albums, dissecting their production, lyrical themes, and cultural impact. Hosted by the insightful Cole Cuchna.
- All Songs Considered: A long-running NPR program featuring music news, interviews, live performances, and insightful discussions on a wide range of musical genres.
- Broken Record: Interviews with influential figures in the music industry, from artists and producers to journalists and label executives. Hosted by music veterans like Malcolm Gladwell and Rick Rubin.
- Switched On Pop: Music analysis with a focus on pop music, exploring the production techniques, songwriting strategies, and cultural context behind chart-topping hits.
Resources for Musicians – YouTube Channels:
- Rick Beato: Music theory and analysis for music lovers and aspiring musicians. Rick Beato delves into song structure, chord progressions, and production techniques in an engaging and informative way.
- Andrew Huang: Another dimension of Song Exploder! Andrew Huang’s channel showcases his creative process and musical experiments, offering inspiration and practical tips.
- JustinGuitar: Learn to play guitar with JustinGuitar’s comprehensive video lessons for all skill levels. Easy-to-follow tutorials and a friendly approach make learning guitar fun and accessible.
- You Suck At Producing: Production tips and music industry insights with a humorous twist. Learn valuable lessons about recording, mixing, and mastering in a lighthearted and entertaining format.
- MusicTechHelpGuy: In-depth tutorials and reviews of music production software, hardware, and recording techniques. Get the most out of your music gear and unleash your production potential.
- Andrew Scheps: A Grammy-winning producer offers masterclasses and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his creative process. Gain valuable insights from a top industry professional.
- 12tone: Explore music theory, composition techniques, and ear training with professional musicians and educators. Sharpen your musical skills and deepen your understanding of music.
- Live Nation Concerts: Immerse yourself in the live music experience with high-quality concert recordings featuring a wide range of artists and genres. Find inspiration, relive iconic performances, and discover new artists.
Bonus Recommendations:
- Online communities: Join online communities and forums dedicated to musicians. Connect with other musicians, share experiences, ask questions, and offer support to one another.
- Music business courses: Consider enrolling in online courses or workshops on music marketing, artist branding, and the music industry. Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to navigate the business side of music.
- Live music events: Attend live music events whenever possible. Observe professional musicians on stage, network with other music enthusiasts, and gain inspiration for your own performances.
- Music streaming services: Explore music streaming services beyond the big players. Platforms like Bandcamp and SoundCloud offer a wealth of independent and underground music, allowing you to discover new sounds and connect directly with artists.
Remember: Continuous learning is key to evolving as a musician. These online resources are a valuable springboard to elevate your music knowledge, skills, and career aspirations.
Rock on!
