Legal mashups and studio management are critical skills that can make or break an independent music career. In this episode, George Ajjan (The ajjancy) shares his systematic approach to creating and distributing mashup covers within legal boundaries, plus his proven strategies for efficient studio sessions and sustainable creative scheduling.

George explains the complex world of music copyright, explaining the legal differences between covers, remixes, and mashups. He reveals how YouTube's Content ID system creates a "safe harbor" for mashup covers and shares his real-world experience navigating copyright holders and clearance challenges.

We also dive deep into studio management, where George explains his preparation process, how he scouts and works with session musicians, and why being over-prepared is still never enough. His batching approach to recording has created a 2-3 year backlog of releasable material including original compositions.

For independent artists struggling to balance creativity with business realities, George offers practical frameworks for long-term creative scheduling, weekly content strategies, and adapting to the changing landscape of independent music.
Whether you're interested in exploring mashup covers, maximizing your studio efficiency, or building sustainable creative practices, this conversation provides actionable insights you can implement immediately.

The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.

Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor

This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes.

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Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.

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The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo

Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income

Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music

Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.

More Resources for musicians

Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure) Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!

Stay in touch!

@RobonzoDrummer on Instagram

@UnstarvingMusician on Facebook and YouTube

Multi-art creativity takes center stage in this conversation with Christian DeWild, a Folsom, California-based artist who seamlessly juggles music, literature, and visual art while working for an electrical contractor. Christian has just released his first single of 2025, "By Your Side," recorded on his analog Tascam system and he's the author of two published books including "Dead Flowers: Let's Get Married On Halloween" and "Some Days Are Ashes: Poems, Limericks, and Illustrations."

In this episode, we explore Christian's unique approach to balancing multiple creative disciplines, his experience with self-publishing books, and the challenges that come with it. We discuss his obsessive relationship with art projects, his philosophical contemplations about creativity within the finite nature of life, and his active role in Folsom's blues scene.

Christian shares insights about the importance of face-to-face networking for securing gigs, his transition to releasing only singles rather than full albums, and the varying timelines he experiences when finishing songs. Whether you're a multi-disciplinary artist or looking to expand your creative practice beyond music, this conversation offers perspectives on maintaining authenticity while pursuing diverse artistic passions.

The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.

Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor

This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes.

Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.

Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.

Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.

The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo

Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income

Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.

More Resources for musicians

Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure) Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!

Stay in touch!

@RobonzoDrummer on Instagram

@UnstarvingMusician on Facebook and YouTube

Game composition opportunities have transformed dramatically in recent years, creating new pathways for musicians to enter the video game industry. In this episode, I reconnect with Timothy Reid, a guitarist-turned-video game composer based in Osaka, Japan, for his second appearance on the show since our 2021 conversation.

Timothy shares his journey from session guitarist to working at a major AAA game studio, and how recent industry layoffs led to what he calls "the best thing that could have happened" – discovering the world of indie game development. We explore the creative differences between large studio structures and freelance composition work, the learning curve of adaptive music and sound design, and how traditional musicianship skills translate to the gaming industry.

Whether you're a musician curious about video game composition or interested in navigating career transitions in creative fields, Timothy's insights offer valuable perspective on finding new opportunities within industry upheaval.

The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.

Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor

This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes.

Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.

Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.

Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.

The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo

Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income

Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music

Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.

More Resources for musicians

Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure) Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!

Stay in touch!

@RobonzoDrummer on Instagram

@UnstarvingMusician on Facebook and YouTube

Music funding changed everything for Anmara. The Virginia-based singer-songwriter has secured over $75,000 through grants, crowdfunding, and her recent Chrome City Records deal.

In this episode, Anmara shares her approach to financing her music career. She won a prestigious $75,000 House Artist Grant in 2014. Later, she successfully built albums through Patreon pre-orders.

We explore her evolution from dreamy ambient folk toward pop. Chrome City Records now invests in exploring her pop star potential. Plus, she shares DIY strategies for creating professional music videos and photo shoots on minimal budgets.

Anmara compares crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter versus Patreon. She discusses receiving multiple grants from Prescott College. She also shares the healthy habits that fuel her continuous creative output.

From charting on iTunes’ top 100 singer-songwriter albums to touring Europe and the West Coast, Anmara opens up about several topics:

• Imposter syndrome
• Today’s changing music consumption landscape
• Her mission to touch lives through music and newsletter
• Essential self-care practices for show days

This conversation offers insights and inspiration for independent musicians. It covers diverse revenue streams like grants, crowdfunding, and label partnerships. Learn how to build sustainable careers on your own terms.

Whether you’re exploring funding options or seeking creative inspiration, this episode provides practical wisdom from an artist who consistently finds innovative ways to fund and create her art.

The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.

Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor

This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes.

Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.

Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.

Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.

The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo

Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income

Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.

More Resources for musicians

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!

Stay in touch!

@RobonzoDrummer on Instagram

@UnstarvingMusician on Facebook and YouTube

This music collaboration episode features the return of Tracee Perrin discussing her creative partnerships in Nashville and the release of her 2024 EP "The Clearing." Tracee shares insights about her upcoming single "Seasons Change" with Lauren Anderson and how their collaborative mini-tour succeeded through effective merchandise strategies. We explore the parallels between marriage and musical partnerships, techniques for maintaining vocal health while touring, and the creative process behind their joint content creation. Tracee reflects on embracing artistic challenges and her fear of not fulfilling her creative potential. Whether you're an independent musician looking to expand your collaborative projects or seeking practical touring advice, this conversation offers valuable lessons from an artist thriving in Nashville's competitive music scene.

The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.

Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor

This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes.

Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.

Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.

Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.

Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.

Kit – Email Marketing for Musicians – Email marketing and audience building software that helps musicians like you turn your passion into a full-time career by connecting you to your fans faster. ​Start a free trial​.

The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo

Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income

More Resources for musicians

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!

Stay in touch!

@RobonzoDrummer on Instagram

@UnstarvingMusician on Facebook and YouTube

Touring strategy, recording, and collaboration are at the heart of this conversation with independent music artist Abe Partridge. Fresh from recording with Steve Shelley of Sonic Youth, Abe shares his journey on the road since 2017, including performing with Matthew Sweet and recently signing with a booking agent. We explore his Alabama Astronaut podcast documenting the undocumented folk music of serpent-handling churches in Appalachia, and discuss practical approaches for planning shows, building industry relationships, and creating sustainable revenue through live performances rather than streaming. Gain valuable insights on navigating the music business as an independent artist who's found his unique path to success.

The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.

Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor

This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes.

Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.

Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.

Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.

The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo

Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income

Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music

Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.

More Resources for musicians

Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure) Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!

Stay in touch!

@RobonzoDrummer on Instagram

@UnstarvingMusician on Facebook and YouTube

In this episode, we explore Canadian immigration essentials for touring musicians with expert Maggie Stewart, a Los Angeles-based immigration lawyer with 15 years of experience specializing in Canadian immigration law. Discover crucial information about navigating criminal conviction waivers, work permit requirements, and visa processes for performing in Canada. Maggie shares valuable insights on border crossing best practices and insurance considerations that every touring artist should know. We also touch on the Canadian arts and festival scene.

Whether you’re a musician, manager, crew member, or agent planning performances in Canada, this conversation provides actionable legal guidance to ensure your international tours proceed without immigration complications.

The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.

Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor

This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes.

Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.

Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.

Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.

The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo

Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income

Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music

Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.

More Resources for musicians

Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure) Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!

Stay in touch!

@RobonzoDrummer on Instagram

@UnstarvingMusician on Facebook and YouTube

Creative storytelling bridges worlds in this special episode where I speak with acclaimed Mexican novelist Sofía Segovia, author of the internationally celebrated book "The Murmur of Bees." Our conversation explores the fascinating parallels between writing novels and creating music - from creative discipline and narrative techniques to building an international audience and adapting to changing industries.

This interview had personal significance as Segovia's novel is set in Linares, Mexico. Linares was the birthplace of my father in 1922, creating a powerful connection that became even more meaningful after my recent journey to Mexican citizenship. Segovia shares insights from her evolution as a ghostwriter to an acclaimed international author, how she balances creative output with teaching writing workshops, and her experience bringing Mexican stories to global audiences.

Whether you are a musician, writer, or creative entrepreneur, you'll find valuable wisdom in Segovia's journey about the universal elements that help creative work resonate across cultural boundaries. Don't miss our thought-provoking conversation about creative processes, audience building, and the bridges between literary and musical storytelling.

The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.

Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor

This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes.

Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.

Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.

Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com/LinerNotes. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.

The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo

Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income

Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music

Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.

More Resources for musicians

Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure) Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!

Stay in touch!

@RobonzoDrummer on Instagram

@UnstarvingMusician on Facebook and YouTube