The DIY Daily Podcast #54 - February 3, 2012
Today's Topic?
The Key to Success? The Law of Commonality.
Follow @thornybleederClick To Read More...
How To Not Suck | Ep. 44: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
This Week's Topic? How To Not Suck
Making your music matter online, from social media reviews to songwriting.
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The DIY Daily Podcast #53 - February 2, 2012
The DIY Daily Podcast #52 - February 1, 2012
Today's Topic?
Why you must stop dreaming and take a flying leap, right now.
Follow @thornybleeder
Click To Read More...
The Rock Star Branding Podcast #2 - More Lessons From AC/DC: Living Up To Fan Expectations
Our all-new weekly podcast series continues with our second episode. Hit 'play' and join us for another quick 10 min. episode as we dive deeper into branding lessons musicians can learn from AC/DC.
New episodes will air every Wednesday in all of the usual spots. You'll be able to find it right here on Thorny Bleeder, but of course you'll also be able to find it on iTunes, Soundcloud, Stitcher Radio, The DIY Daily, MichaelBrandvold.com and BrandLikeARockStar.com.
Click To Read More...
Creative Digital Marketing For Songwriters
Here's a free download of a slideshow presentation I prepared for my speaking engagement at Songposium 2012 in Toronto last week.
The slides are a summary of the main "talking points" I was intending to use for my presentation… but unfortunately I ran out of time since I was having far too much fun going over this: Top 31 Ways to Suck at Social Media Marketing.
Regardless, many of the slides are represented by blogs I've already written and posted here on Thorny Bleeder. So if a certain slide intrigues you just do a quick search for it and you'll find more info.
Click To Read More...
Hisham Dahud Talks About Music Marketing With BitTorrent | Ep. 43: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Join Michael Brandvold and myself, Brian Thompson, for this week's 37min. episode.
This week we're joined by special guest Hisham Dahud (music industry journalist for Hypebot and digital marketer with Fame House). We get down and dirty and have a very in depth discussion about the recent and very successful campaign that electronic artist Pretty Lights did in partnership with BitTorrent.
Hit play below and share your thoughts with us in the comments. Or of course you can always send us a tweet or leave us a comment on Facebook too. Whichever you choose... share share share!
Click To Read More...
I Want YOU To Be The Star In My New Crowdsourced Video
So I decided to make a little "testimonial" video. It's not going to be anything fancy, just a short little thing for people to get a vibe for what I'm doing.
And I want YOU to be the star of the video.
That's right… I'm crowdsourcing baby!
So… if I've possibly taught you some cool new things, or if I've helped you in some way, or simplified your daily routine, or inspired you or motivated you somehow, then send me a brief 10-30 second video message with your testimonial.
And it doesn't matter whether you're a present or past client, a fellow tweeter, a happy facebooker, a blog reader, a quote lover, a newsletter diehard or a podcast fan. It doesn't matter… I just want to see your smiling face and hear what you have to say!

So turn on your camera (or use your iPhone), say a few short words (no longer than 30 seconds) and then send the file using the form that's right here in this blog post.
On February 15 I'll edit the clips together and air the video we made together right here on this page.
This will be fun!
I can't wait to see what you come up with.
—Brian Thompson
Follow @thornybleeder
Click To Read More...
The Rock Star Branding Podcast Ep. #1 - Lessons From AC/DC: Meeting Your Fan's Expectations

The Music Biz Weekly Presents… The Rock Star Branding Podcast
with your hosts Brian Thompson, Michael Brandvold and author Steve Jones.
Today's Topic?
Lessons From AC/DC: Meeting Your Fan's Expectations
This all-new weekly podcast series will air every Wednesday in all of the usual spots. You'll be able to find it right here on Thorny Bleeder, but of course you'll also be able to find it on iTunes, Soundcloud, Stitcher Radio, The DIY Daily, MichaelBrandvold.com and BrandLikeARockStar.com.
Follow @thornybleeder
Click To Read More...
The DIY Daily Podcast #48 - January 24, 2012
Today's Topic?
The New Music Economy: Demand = Value
+
How To Get Motivated RIGHT NOW!
Click To Read More...
The DIY Daily Podcast #47 - January 23, 2012
Today's Topic?
In Discussion, my new controversial blog post:
I Don't Want To Own Music, I Just Want To Listen To Music.
Click To Read More...
FREE Webinar Announcement: How To Use Facebook To Promote Your Music
Michael Brandvold and I are excited to announce the next Music Biz Weekly Music Marketing Webinar. This is going to be another great event for everyone, especially considering the topic: How To Use Facebook To Promote Your Music!
Oh… did I mention that it's free? Here's the deets:
When:
February 6, 2012
6pm–7:30pm PST
Cost to Attend Live Webinar:
Free
Recorded Video After the Event:
$5.00Click To Read More...
Contest! Enter To Win A Free Music Consultation

This is an amazing opportunity for you to ask two experienced music marketers any questions you have on the music biz, branding, marketing, or social media. This is essentially a free consultation with both Brian Thompson and Michael Brandvold… except this will be recorded and made available for the entire world to hear!
After our 45min. podcast with YOU is complete, we'll end the podcast featuring one of YOUR recorded songs. This is an amazing opportunity for you to showcase your music to the world!
Entry is simple! Click To Read More...
New Series Announced: The Rock Star Branding Podcast

We had such a great time recording that podcast and had such a tremendous response from it that we decided to do some brainstorming to see what else we could possibly do together. Well, it quickly dawned on us… why spoil a good thing? Let's do more podcasts together!
And so… a new series was born:
The Music Biz Weekly Presents… The Rock Star Branding Podcast
with your hosts Brian Thompson, Michael Brandvold and Steve Jones.
This all-new weekly podcast series will air every Wednesday in all of the usual spots, with the debut episode airing on Wednesday, January 25. You'll be able to find it right here on Thorny Bleeder, but of course you'll also be able to find it on iTunes, Soundcloud, Stitcher Radio, The DIY Daily, MichaelBrandvold.com and BrandLikeARockStar.com. Click To Read More...
SOPA Hopes To Censor The Internet + Marketing On Pinterest | Ep. 42: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

This week we bullshit about various music and marketing topics such as thepending American legislation to censor the internet under the guise of killing piracy (SOPA and PIPA), plus more thoughts on using Facebook and Pinterest to market your music.
Hit Play and share your thoughts with us in the comments below! Or of course you can always send us a tweet or leave us a comment on Facebook too. Whichever you choose... share share share!
Click To Read More...
The DIY Daily Podcast #42 - January 16, 2012
Today's Topic?
"As You Evolve, So Should The Things That Describe You"
(OR... How I Just Invented the Term: Idea Development Engineer)
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As You Evolve, So Should The Things That Describe You

When I do branding consultations I tell clients they need to have a clear and well crafted elevator pitch that accurately conveys the message of who they are and what they're all about.
Your elevator pitch needs to be the essence of you, distilled down into a carefully concocted piece of prose. And If you're not happy with it, then you need to refine it. It needs to evolve, in tandem with you.
And so it dawned on me that I needed to heed my own advice.
Click To Read More...
Van Halen, Facebook Subscriptions & Spin Magazine Twitter Album Reviews | Ep. 41: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Join Michael Brandvold and myself, Brian Thompson, for this weeks 42min. episode as we bullshit about various music and marketing topics such as Van Halen, Facebook Subscriptions, MOG and Spin Magazine Tweets Album Reviews.
Click To Read More...
Two Guys Bullshitting About Music | Ep. 40: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Join Michael Brandvold and myself, Brian Thompson, for a 40min. episode as we bullshit about various music marketing topics such as listening to the social web for mentions of your brand, social media etiquette, how to pitch your music to people in the industry, plus a new option for you to get your music onto streaming music sites such as Spotify, Rdio, and MOG.
Click To Read More...
Buy Your Tix Now: Songposium in Toronto, Halifax & Winnipeg

January 28 is quickly approaching and that's the day I'll be speaking on Digital Marketing at Songposium 2012 in Toronto. The event is also being live streamed to Halifax and Winnipeg, so if you're a musician in any of these areas I hope you'll take advantage of this amazing day of information.
BUY TICKETS HERE:
Toronto
Halifax
Winnipeg
Click To Read More...
2012 Music Marketing Trends & Predictions | Ep. 39: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

Click play below to listen to our end-of-the-year discussion on Music Marketing Trends and Predictions for 2012, inspired by this blog post from Bob Baker.
From myself and co-host Michael Brandvold… Happy New Year and all the best for 2012!
—Brian Thompson
Click To Read More...
What's More Important, a Facebook Like Or an Email Address? | Ep. 38: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

There's lots to consider with your digital strategy when releasing new media to your fans. Hit Play below and get our take on the subject.
What do YOU think?
Click To Read More...
The Compelling And Powerful Power Of Confidence

When I think of bands without confidence, I think of shoegazers for example. You know, those bands who stand on stage and simply stare at their feet, too shy to truly connect with the audience. Too nervous to even look up and be 'present', for fear of being judged.
Click To Read More...
Bob Baker Explains The 3 E's Of Content Marketing | Ep. 36: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

Join myself, Michael Brandvold and Bob Baker for a fantastic 45min. roundtable discussion as we dive into Bob's 3 E's of Content Marketing: Educate, Entertain and Enlighten.
Not sure what the hell I mean by that? Well then click Play to find out!
Follow Bob online here:
Facebook | Twitter | The Buzz Factor Website
Click To Read More...
More from Branding Like A Rock Star + Wordpress | Ep. 35: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
New Webinar: How To Use Wordpress For Your Band's Website

This next Music Biz Weekly Webinar is titled:
How to Use WordPress for Your Band’s Website
and will happen on December 15, 2011 at 6pm PST.
We’ll be covering the following topics:
Click To Read More...
The DIY Daily: Inspire. Educate. Motivate.

What started as a simple newsletter in January 2011 has now evolved into a full-fledged website. And it's all thanks to the amazing feedback, support and encouragement that I receive from all of my readers!
So as of today, The DIY Daily now has its very own web site and finally, an online archive. And with the new site I hope to continue pursuing my new mission statement for this new venture of mine: Educate. Inspire. Motivate.
Want to know the story behind The DIY Daily?
Click To Read More...
Introducing… The DIY Daily Podcast, Episode #1
Welcome to the spontaneously recorded Episode #1which marks the beginning of... ? Well, the beginning of something which is clearly yet to be defined.
This is my all-new daily podcast which I plan to publish every weekday morning and will serve as a companion piece to The DIY Daily newsletter.
This is something I've thought about for quite some time, but have been putting off… simply due to it being a little out of my comfort zone. No cohost. Just me, sitting here at my computer talking to no one, yet pretending the world is listening. Would I have enough to talk about?
I could have kept on thinking about it and delaying it forever, but I just had to launch the damn thing it and get rolling.
Life beings at the end of your comfort zone.
This is clearly a work in progress, but I invite you to join me every morning and we'll figure it out together. Cool?
And for the record, yes… I will tone down my fake radio voice for tomorrow's episode.
Listen on the player below or directly Soundcloud here.
Click To Read More...
I'm a Featured Speaker at Songposium 2012

This just in: I'll be a featured speaker at the annual Songposium in Toronto on Saturday, January 28th, an event put on by the Songwriters Association of Canada.
Songposium is a one-day intensive seminar for aspiring and emerging songwriters. This year, Sonsposium will be held in Toronto and streamed to Winnipeg and Halifax in association with Manitoba Music and Music Nova Scotia. Hear from some of the foremost international talent in the music industry as they share their experience and knowledge to help you get your songs heard. This is also a great opportunity to network with songwriters in your area.
Click To Read More...
Brand Like A Rockstar! Ep. 34: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
This week's guest is best-selling author Steve Jones, whose newly released book Brand Like A Rock Star is racing up the Amazon book charts. Join Michael Brandvold and Brian Thompson for an incredibly insightful discussion on marketing, branding and what people can learn from the careers of successful musicians.
For nearly 30 years, Steve Jones has worked in the music industry in the US, Canada, and the Caribbean. He's had a front row seat to the rise (and sometimes fall) of some of rock & roll's biggest. Combining his two passions, music and business, Steve takes the lessons learned from the greatest acts in rock history and applies them directly to your business.
Build a business as consistent as AC/DC and as surprising as KISS. Create fans as dedicated as Jimmy Buffett and The Grateful Dead. Be as passionate as U2 and as focused as Bob Marley.
Brand Like A Rock Star reveals the core marketing and branding strategies behind the success of the world's greatest bands and uses them to make your business rich and famous.
Check out Steve and Brand Like A Rock Star here:
http://brandlikearockstar.com
CHECK OUT OUR BRAND NEW WEBSITE: The DIY Daily.com
Click To Read More...
The Future of Music With Radio Legend Alan Cross - Ep. 33: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

Alan Cross is a Canadian radio broadcaster and a music writer… and admitted professional musical geek. He started in radio in 1980 and moved on to become Program Director at The Edge in Toronto, then the Senior Program Director for Corus Interactive and then Head Curator for Explore Music. His radio show The Ongoing History of New Music debuted in February 1993 and since then it’s… well, it's taken on a life of its own. There have been over 690 one-hour episodes... making it the longest-running music documentary in Canada and one of the longest in North America—if not the world!
Alan also has a weekly national column in the Metro newspaper and most recently has not only started a brand new radio show, The Secret History of Rock (Astral Radio), but he's also become the new voice of Aux.tv.
So click play and join us music nerds as we chat about music, technology and the shifting tides in the entertainment industry.
You can subscribe to The Music Biz Weekly Podcast on iTunes here, listen to it on Soundcloud here, or use the player below.
Click To Read More...
Are Musicians Still Delusional About Getting Signed? - Ep. 32: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

Why? Because it's a fact that 75% of artists still want to get signed by a major label, despite the fact that the majority of artists never see any money from these relationships and they often get dropped after only a couple of years, leaving them with nothing… not even the ownership of their album masters.
Join Michael Brandvold and I as we kick off our discussion around a recent email to Bob Lefsetz that was sent to him by Matt Murphy, The Jazz Lawyer.
You can subscribe to The Music Biz Weekly Podcast oniTunes here… or listen to it on Soundcloud here or using the player below.
Ep. 32: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast - Are Musicians Still Delusional About Getting Signed? by Thorny Bleeder
As always I'd love to hear your thoughts and comments, join in on the discussion below...
Click To Read More...
Songwriting Tips From Heart's Multi-Platinum Co-Writer Sue Ennis - Ep. 31: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

Sue Ennis is a nationally recognized songwriter, best known for her work with the platinum-selling Seattle rock band Heart.
Sue has co-written over 50 songs with Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart with over 30 million records sold. She has earned 10 gold, 4 platinum, 1 triple platinum and 1 quintuple platinum album.
Sue is a band member of The Lovemongers, a Music Producer, a Vocal/Performance Coach, teaches songwriting workshops, and is President of the Board of Governors, Pacific Northwest Chapter of the National Recording Academy (NARAS).
You can subscribe to The Music Biz Weekly Podcast on iTunes here… or listen to it on Soundcloud here or using the player below.
Join us in an amazing discussion with this phenomenally creative and successful artist!
Ep. 31: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast - Songwriting Tips From Heart's Co-Writer Sue Ennis by Thorny Bleeder
As always I'd love to hear your thoughts and comments, join in on the discussion below...
Click To Read More...
Social Media Updates from Klout, Bandcamp and Chime.in - Ep. 30: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

This week's podcast is a couple of days early since I'm flying up North to Whitehorse, Yukon tomorrow to speak at the BreakOut West Festival, which is a part of the Western Canadian Music Awards.
Today's discussion is a digital media 2.0 update centred around a few different topics. We talk about how co-host Michael Brandvold is featured as a Klout Star this week on Klout's website, and we also chat about a newly discovered feature from Bandcamp, their brand new Facebook music player app for a band's fan page.
For independent bands out there, this is HUGE. Read all about it here. No lie… it took me 90 seconds to install it.
And lastly, we discuss a brand new social media network that was just launched yesterday called Chime.in. I've only spent a day on it, but I'm already a big fan.
Sign up to Chime.in and check it out! And don't forget to follow me, here's my profile: http://chime.in/user/thornybleeder
You can subscribe to The Music Biz Weekly Podcast on iTunes here… or listen to it on Soundcloud here or using the player below.
Ep. 30: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast - Social Media Updates from Klout, Bandcamp and Chime.in by Thorny Bleeder
Click To Read More...
Kyle Bylin from Billboard on Social Charts & Geo-Social Mobile Music Apps

We're joined today with special guest Kyle Bylin, Social/Streaming Chart Manager at Billboard. Kyle is also the former Editor of Hypebot.com and Music Think Tank.
This is a really intriguing and thought provoking discussion on the future of music, social music charts, mobile music apps and where things are headed with music discovery.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on today's podcast, please join the discussion and leave your thoughts in the comments below. Go on… do it!
You can subscribe to The Music Biz Weekly Podcast on iTunes here… or listen to it on Soundcloud here or using the player below.
Ep. 29: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast - Kyle Bylin from Billboard on Social Charts & Mobile Music by Thorny Bleeder
Click To Read More...
Brian Thompson Joins Music BC's Board of Directors

I'm a tireless advocate for the music community, artist development and DIY career education… and Music BC does an amazing amount of selfless work for arts and culture in British Columbia. This is a perfect fit. I'm excited to sit down with the rest of the board members and play an active role in our Province's amazing future in music!
What is Music BC?Click To Read More...
A Tribute to Steve Jobs - Ep. 28: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

You can subscribe to The Music Biz Weekly Podcast on iTunes here… or listen to it on Soundcloud here or using the player below.
Ep. 28: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast - Tribute to Steve Jobs by Thorny Bleeder
Click To Read More...
Bob Cramer CEO of Nimbit Offers Direct-to-Fan Advice - Ep. 26: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

Nimbit creates solutions for independent musicians and independent record labels around the Direct-to-Fan Music Business Model. Direct-to-Fan gives musicians control over their music, fans, business and careers.
Nimbit artists use an online dashboard to see and manage their music business. This includes sales information, fan information, marketing promotions and results, storefront results, central product catalog (e.g., digital and physical music, merchandise, eTickets), central content management (e.g., band profile and gigs). This allows products and content to be entered once then viewed and changed in one place.
You can subscribe to The Music Biz Weekly Podcast on iTunes here… or listen to it on Soundcloud here or using the player below.
Ep. 26: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast - Bob Cramer CEO of Nimbit Offers Direct-to-Fan Advice by Thorny Bleeder
*sorry for the crummy audio from my end of Skype on this podcast. For some reason my iMac's mic kicked in instead of the really good external mic I always use. Dammit.Click To Read More...
Music Industry Showcase Tips for Artists - Ep. 25: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

Whether your showcase is in front of a panel of judges, A&R reps, music industry executives, or just in front of an audience of tastemakers at a conference… we have some straight forward and simple advice to share with you.
You can subscribe to The Music Biz Weekly Podcast on iTunes here… or listen to it on Soundcloud here or using the player below.
Ep. 25: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast - Music Industry Showcase Tips for Artists by Thorny Bleeder
Click To Read More...
Social Media Week Vancouver: Music Is Social. Are You?

Music Is Social. Are You?
How to Use Social Media to Elevate Your Career as an Artist
PLEASE REGISTER HERE
Join Brian Thompson (leading music biz blogger, music industry consultant, artist manager) from Thorny Bleeder and Chris Brandt (Music Business Professor) from Nimbus School of Recording Arts in a three hour session dedicated to helping artists understand the world of social media and how to leverage it to create new fans and business opportunities in the arts.
Friday, September 23
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
ING Café (466 Howe St., Vancouver, BC)
FREE
Click To Read More...
A Plan to Focus on Fan Relationships. Ep. 24 - The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

Michael Brandvold and I talk about the importance of having a long term plan and a band philosophy which everyone agrees with and which can be a unifying theme behind everything you do.
The idea for today's discussion popped up after seeing the following article on Hypebot. Check it out:
Rich Holtzman, Manager Of Portugal. The Man On How Social Media Built & Saved The Band
You can subscribe to The Music Biz Weekly Podcast on iTunes here… or listen to it on Soundcloud here or using the player below.
Ep. 24: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast - A Plan to Focus on Fan Relationships by Thorny Bleeder
And as a thanks to you, the dedicated listeners of our podcast, we'd like to pass on a special discount for our recent webinar.
Just use the following coupon code - mbww050 - and you can receive our 84min. hands-on video tutorial entitled How To Use Twitter to Promote Your Music for only $5.
That's a 50% savings from our regular price. Only 5 bucks to learn how some advanced Twitter techniques to gain new fans and promote your music? Sweet.
Download the 84 minute hands-on video tutorial here.
Click To Read More...
How to Use Twitter to Promote Your Music (free download)
Here's a free download of the slideshow that accompanied last night's Music Marketing Webinar that Michael Brandvold and I presented on behalf of The Music Biz Weekly Podcast.
Did you miss the live webinar?
Download the 84 minute hands-on video tutorial here for only $9.99.
Click To Read More...
so, you want to buy me a beer eh?

i've had a number of people on twitter and facebook recently say they'd like to buy me a beer as a thank-you for all of the valuable info and music i share every day. that's totally cool of you guys, thanks.
well, why not then?
so i decided to take you up on your generous offer… just use the donate button below to quench my thirst and say thanks.
you guys rock.
Click To Read More...
Paul Myers Discusses Content Creation in the Digital Market
Ep. 22 - The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

Paul has tons of experience in many different content types from music, book publishing, journalism, writing, broadcasting… you name it, he's done it. He's also a digital native and is involved online with both his music blog and twitter account, so he has a great sense of how to leverage the power of the internet to propel his content.
Ep. 22: The Music Biz Weekly - Paul Myers Discusses Content Creation in the Digital Market by Thorny Bleeder
Click To Read More...
Ep. 21 - The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Jonny from Art Of Dying Talks About Connecting With Fans And Social Networking

Today's podcast is an exclusive discussion with one of my closest friends, Jonny Hetherington, lead singer for the hard rock band Art Of Dying.
Our discussion centres on how Jonny and Art Of Dying use social media to stay connected with their fans and what drives them to stay so dedicated and passionate to their use of new media. We also get the no-bullshit inside-scoop on what it's really like for a band signed to a major label with digital marketing.
Art Of Dying had a Top 10 song earlier this year with the hard rocking track Die Trying. Their latest single Get Thru This is featured on the Transformers 3 Soundtrack and the band is now touring through America on the Uproar Tour along with Avenged Sevenfold, Three Days Grace, Seether, Bullet For My Valentine, Escape The Fate, Sevendust, Black Tide and Hell Or Highwater.
Ep. 21 - The Music Biz Weekly Podcast: Art Of Dying Talks About Social Networking by Thorny Bleeder
Special Offer To Our Podcast Listeners!
Use "mbwp025" for a 25% discount on our upcoming Music Marketing Webinar on August 31, How To Use Twitter To Promote Your Music.
Click To Read More...
Dream Theater Keyboardist, Guest On Next Podcast

Our special guest on the next episode of The Music Biz Weekly Podcastis Dream Theater keyboardist Jordan Rudess.
We'll be talking about how he connects with fans using social media,

Tune in to http://www.thornybleeder.com this coming Friday, August 12thand join myself and cohost Michael Brandvold for what's going to be an amazing new episode.
The podcast will be posted immediately after it's recorded and should be online around 12:30-1pm PST.
Click To Read More...
Ep. 20 - The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Jordan Rudess of Dream Theater Talks Fan Engagement

This is a must listen episode…
The Music Biz Weekly, a weekly podcast co-hosted by Michael Brandvold and Brian Thompson. Each week we discuss the latest events in the music business and music marketing events and techniques.
Tune in every Friday for the latest episode.
Episode 20 - The Music Biz Weekly Podcast: Jordan Rudess of Dream Theater Talks Fan Engagement by Thorny Bleeder
Special Offer To Our Podcast Listeners!
Use "mbwp025" for a 25% discount on our upcoming Music Marketing Webinar, How To Use Twitter To Promote Your Music.
Click To Read More...
Music Marketing Webinar: How To Use Twitter To Promote Your Music

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM (Pacific Time)
$49 USD
Michael Brandvold & Brian Thompson, hosts of The Music Biz Weekly Podcast are proud to announce the first of their new Live Webinar Sessions where we'll be teaching music marketing techniques and hands-on instruction for artists to grow their audience and get their music heard.
This Music Biz Weekly Webinar is titled:
"How to Easily use Twitter to Promote Your Music"
We'll be covering the following topics:
- How to setup and customize your Twitter profile
- How to get more followers targeted to your unique musical style
- How to monitor what is being said about you online
- How to talk and engage with your fans
- How to create and find new opportunities in the music industry
Additional topics could be added as time permits.
Our goal is to make sure you leave this webinar with hands-on action items which you can put into use immediately. We'll have also have an open question period at the end of the session.

Click To Read More...
New DIY Resource: Thorny Bleeder Trending Topics
There's also plenty of you that haven't subscribed to my daily newsletter, The DIY Daily. That makes me sad too. But hey, you can still sign up any time you want for free right here.
My goal is to provide as much valuable content as possible for you on a daily basis regarding music marketing, social media, DIY tips, indie advice, digital music news and entrepreneurial motivation. So if you're not following either of the above resources, you're missing out on some serious shit that can help your career.
But that's ok, I have a new solution for you!
And it's thanks to a new website called Twylah. Every day this new page of mine auto-magically updates itself based on the popularity of the web links that I tweet out every single day.
If I send out a news story that no one cares about, you won't see it. If it's super popular, it'll be front and centre so you don't miss it. This new webpage an amazing summary of all my Twitter posts… and you don't even have to be a Twitter user to enjoy it.
Check it out below and add this site to your daily online reading:
http://www.twylah.com/thornybleeder

Click To Read More...
Episode 19 - The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Email Marketing for Musicians
The title says it all… today's podcast touches on Email Marketing for Musicians.
Click the Soundcloud widget to listen to it right here, or listen directly on Soundcloud itself here.
Follow us on Twitter:
@michaelsb
@thornybleeder

Follow us on Google+:
http://gplus.to/brandvold
http://gplus.to/thornybleeder
This Podcast is Available on iTunes and at:
http://www.thornybleeder.com
http://www.michaelbrandvold.com
Click To Read More...
8 Ways To Get 100 Visitors A Day To Your Website

I received a tweet yesterday from fellow music marketer Chris Rockett from Promote Your Music, asking if I'd like to participate in a mutli-blogger guest post he's putting together for his website.
He had one question to ask and wanted a reply that was around 200 words long. So without skipping a beat I quickly cranked out the following email and fired it off to him.
Stay tuned to Promote Your Music for Chris's complete post with more tips on this topic from other music marketing bloggers.
Question:
What is the fastest way to get 100 targeted fans per day visiting your website on a consistent basis, without using paid traffic?
My Answer:Click To Read More...
Episode 18 - The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Introduction to Google+ for Musicians
The Music Biz Weekly, a weekly podcast co-hosted by Michael Brandvold and Brian Thompson. Each week Michael and Brian discuss the latest events in the music business and music marketing events and techniques. Tune in every Friday for the latest episode.
This week we take on the hottest piece of tech and social media news there is, Google Plus, the exciting new social network that's only a month old.
- Do you need to be on Google+?
- Why should you be on this ultra-new network?
- Do I need to invest a lot of time in it?
- How can Google+ help me market my music?
Episode 18 - The Music Biz Weekly Podcast: Introduction to Google+ for Musicians by Thorny Bleeder
Follow us on Twitter:
@michaelsb
@thornybleeder

Follow us on Google+:
http://gplus.to/brandvold
http://gplus.to/thornybleeder
This Podcast is Available on iTunes and at:
http://www.thornybleeder.com
http://www.michaelbrandvold.com
Episode 16 - The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Mobile Apps For Musicians
It's Friday! And that means another new episode of The Music Biz Weekly Podcast with Brian Thompson from Thorny Bleeder and Michael Brandvold from Michael Brandvold Marketing.
Todays topic is all about smart phones and the must-have mobile apps that can make a musician's life easier, more organized, and more connected to the social networks to help you market your music.
Be sure to follow Brian on Twitter here and Michael on Twitter here. Join the discussion and let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
If you can't see the embedded podcast player, click here to go to the podcast page directly on Soundcloud.
You can also subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by clicking here.
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Google+ Thorny Bleeder
To be honest, I really don't know what to think of it yet. It's clearly in a Beta development stage with lots of bugs and some usability issues, not to mention no iPhone app yet (although apparently it's finished and they're just waiting for Apple to approve it for the App Store).
Hopefully it fairs better than Google's previous attempts with social media, ie. Google Wave and Google Buzz. But one positive thing is that a lot of people seem to really love it so far. I'm not 100% sold yet... but I'm still giving it a go regardless. Never say never!
So if you're on Google+ add me to one of your circles here: http://www.gplus.to/thornybleeder
And if you're not on it yet and you want an invitation, just leave your email address in the comments below or send me a direct message on Twitter and I'll send you an invite!
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Episode 15: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Interview with Tom McAlevey CEO of Radical.FM
Radical.FM combines user tailored music stations (like Pandora™ and Slacker™) with on-demand playlist functionality (like Rhapsody™ and Spotify™), and adds unique social networking and powerful personal broadcasting capabilities.
But there is so much more.
Truthfully, this could very well be a game changer in not only streaming and on demand music, but also in personalized radio DJ radio broadcasting, instantly giving every user a live voice to the world... with their very own radio station.
Listen to the entire podcast and judge for yourself all of the exciting features Radical.fm will soon be launching.
What do you think? Have you tried Radical yet? Join the discussion and let us know in the comments below!
If you can't see the embedded podcast player, click here to go to the podcast page directly on Soundcloud.
You can also subscribe to the podcast on iTunes by clicking here.Click To Read More...
Episode 14: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
MySpace, Google+, Turntable.fm and Radical.fm
Welcome back to The Music Biz Weekly Podcast! We've had the last two weeks off while Michael was taking a vacation, but we're back at it and have lots to talk about.
In today's episode we talk about a new Apple patent for technology that allows venue operators to disable your iPhone's camera functions during live events, the sale of MySpace, the new social network that Google has launched (Google+), and two new internet-radio based startups, Turntable.fm and Radical.fm.
** Don't miss next week's podcast (episode 15), we'll be joined by the CEO and founder for Radical.fm, Thomas McAlevey.
Be sure to follow Brian on Twitter here and Michael on Twitter here. Join the discussion and let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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Episode 13: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast - Apple's iCloud
For more info on the full set of iCloud features, click here. For more information on iTunes in the Cloud, click here.
Be sure to follow Brian on Twitter here and Michael on Twitter here.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Thanks for listening,
~ Brian Thompson
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Episode 12: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Web Tools To Make You Stand Apart From The Crowd
For this podcast we had no preplanned topics at all, we just hit "record" and went for it!
We start off by talking about Lady Gaga's response to the Amazon 99 cent album promotion, and then we shoot off into a discussion about new web tools to help bands market their music and to stand out from the rest of the crowd. We chat about Soundcloud, Tumblr, Soundrain, Minno, VYou, and then close the episode with some tips on formatting your blog posts.
Be sure to follow Brian on Twitter here and Michael on Twitter here.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below and share your own tips and tricks with us!
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20,000 Tweets By The Sea
This is a special broadcast in celebration of my 20,000th tweet!
I'm a nerd, I know.
But seriously though, I've had so much amazing success on Twitter that I felt I just had to do something special for this momentous little occasion.
So this is it. No cake. No presents. Just one big huge Thank-You to all of my amazing friends on Twitter! You guys rule. Seriously.
If you're wondering what the website is that you can vote on, that I mentioned in the video, here it is: http://urbancultureconference.com
And lastly... if you're wondering what that wicked blues tune is that's playing in the background, it's Ross Neilsen & The Sufferin' Bastards, "She Ain't You", featuring none other than the legendary Luther Dickinson on slide! Visit Ross online here: http://www.rossneilsen.com
Thanks for watching... peace!
Brian
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Brian Thompson: Most Influential Twitter User in Vancouver?

Whoa.
Most of the nominations have been collecting votes for the past month, so I've got some massive catching up to do! It's a fan-voting process, one vote per person, and luckily there's no sign up or registration required.
If you follow me on Twitter and like the shit I post and share, it'd be wicked to have your support.
Let's show everyone how awesome the Thorny Bleeder community is!

Vote Here
Click on "Misc" then on "Twitter User"
PS - Thorny Bleeder is also nominated as Best Music Blog! So we'd love to have your vote for that category too :)
Follow Brian On Twitter Here!
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Episode 11: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
How To Create An Event Around Your Album Release
Want to hear more? Well you'll just have to click 'play' then won't you? :)
Be sure to follow Brian on Twitter here, Michael on Twitter here, Ian on Twitter here, and Topspin Media on Twitter here.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below and share your own tips and tricks with us!
Thanks for listening,
~ Brian Thompson
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Episode 10: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
What Do Fans Want? Albums, Singles, or EPs?
Well after two weeks of having some amazing guests (Ian Rogers from Topspin on Episode 8, J Sider from RootsMusic on Episode 9), this week's episode finds us back to just Michael and myself. Today's discussion begins with a reading from a recent article titled "Albums" (from April 28, 2011) in The Lefsetz Letters, written by Bob Lefsetz.
Check out Bob Lefsetz and The Lefsetz Letters. Read the "Albums" article here.
What begin on-topic with how music used to be released in the past, and how it should be released now, in the digital social age. But then we take a bit of a detour and discuss "brand monitoring" on social channels and across the web. Are you listening to what the internet is saying about you? If not, you need to. Anyways, listen to the podcast to learn more!
And many thanks listening everyone. If you enjoyed this episode and think you might have a friend who'll dig it, please share!
So, what do you think... Albums, Singles, or EPs? What's your choice?
~ Brian Thompson
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DIY Tip - Sometimes I Work Better In The Dark
You can find success, inspiration, and get some serious work done on these projects by simply changing your routine and/or the environment you do them in.
Every now and then I'll pull an all-nighter work session. I turn the lights out, close the blinds, turn on some non-distracting music (classical, mellow jazz, ambient, etc.)... and Focus!
It's amazing how much quality work you can crank out when there's no distractions. Its quiet, it's easier to get "in the zone", there's no emails coming in, there's no phone calls... there's no expectations.
It's just you and your work.
Now I'm not saying everyone should pull all-nighters, but you can find similar success with increased productivity by simplebeing in a different environment and having a different mind-set or approach to the task at hand.
Even something as simple as relocating to a coffee shop for a couple of hours with your laptop can equal 5 hours of work anywhere else!
Mix it up and stay inspired.
Thanks for watching :)
Brian Thompson
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Episode 9: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Discussing Facebook Marketing with the CEO of RootMusic

RootMusic is a music startup based in San Francisco, California that makes the popular application BandPage, which is currently the number one entertainment application on Facebook with over 17 million users a month. BandPage launched in March 2010 and is an application that allows artists to create customized Fan Pages within Facebook. In August 2010, Billboard named RootMusic one of the "Top 10 Best Digital Media Startups".
The RootMusic BandPage Editor enables bands and musicians to easily create a professional-grade Facebook fan page via a simple and intuitive process. There have been over 200 articles written about BandPage, with TechCrunch saying that "RootMusic will probably be the service that changes the way Facebook looks when it comes to music."
Music player
Video Streaming
Live Twitter Feeds
Touring Schedule
Integrated photos from Facebook
Downloadable Tracks
Biography and Contact Panes
Integrated Facebook Wall
On April 1, the company launched a "Plus" edition of the product, which is available for $1.99 a month. This option allows users to customize their colours, fonts and have a banner on the top of their page.
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Episode 8: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Music Marketing w/ Ian Rogers, CEO Topspin Media


Topspin Media (also known as Topspin) is a technology company that provides e-commerce and marketing software & services for artists, their representatives, and their business partners. According to their website, their mission is to empower independent artists to build sustainable businesses, and to supply established artists, record labels, and managers with tools that allow them to operate in the modern music industry.
Topspin was founded in 2007 by Peter Gotcher (co-creator of ProTools) and Shamal Ranasinghe. In 2008, former Yahoo!Music General Manager Ian Rogers was named CEO of Topspin. The company initially engaged with a small number of clients on a one-on-one basis, gradually adding more artists and new features. In 2008, Topspin was named Indie Visionary of the Year by Billboard magazine. The company has had a notable presence at industry conferences such as MIDEM and South By Southwest.
Listen the podcast on Soundcloud here:
Topspin serves over three thousand artists including musicians, filmmakers, and authors. Notable clients include: David Byrne and Brian Eno, Paul McCartney, Linkin Park, Eminem, Beastie Boys, Arcade Fire, and Trent Reznor.
Be sure to follow Brian on Twitter here, Michael on Twitter here, Ian on Twitter here, and Topspin Media on Twitter here.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below and share your own tips and tricks with us!
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DIY Tip - Under Sell & Over Deliver
I get solicited with a ton of new music from independent artists. And on the flipside of that, I've also sent out a slew of cold-call emails and press releases to industry people as well.
One of the main things I've learned from being on the receiving end of these messages, and from getting successful replies to the messages I've sent out, is that you need to NOT "over sell" your music or product.
If you rave and go on and on and on about how great you or your product is, I immediately call BS and delete the message, let alone listen to the music. And I know I'm not alone in this. When you receive hundreds and hundreds of weekly emails, it's just a natural part of the review and editing process.
So... if you want your message to be read, and for your links to be clicked and listened to or looked at, under sell... and over deliver! Intrigue me with a short little description. Be humble. Be honest. Give me an idea of what it is about, but please don't tell me it's the next-best-thing... nothing can ever live up to that hype. Nothing.
But if you create an air of intrigue and pull me in and I end up being blown away by it, you win! Nothing beats the feeling of having discovered something truly amazing... especially if you get the sense that the artist doesn't even realize how killer the music is.
So there you go. A quick little promo tip for you...
Under Sell & Over Deliver!
Thanks for watching :)
Brian Thompson
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Episode 7: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
E-Commerce Solutions For Bands
Here we go folks, another edition of our weekly podcast featuring Brian Thompson from Thorny Bleeder and Michael Brandvold from Michael Brandvold Marketing.
This week's topic? E-Commerce Solutions for Bands.
We discuss everything from getting your music up on iTunes and the Amazon MP3 Store, in addition to options on how to handle your merchandise sales and email marketing campaigns.
What platforms are you using to sell your band's music and merch?
Be sure to follow Brian on Twitter here and Michael on Twitter here.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below and share your own tips and tricks with us!
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Episode 6: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Cloud Music Vs. Subscription Music

Hey, it's Friday again! Sweet. And that means that we have another new episode of The Music Biz Weekly Podcast.
Today Brian and Michael discuss "The Cloud", what it is, and how some players in the new music industry hope to use as "the next big thing" to spur innovation and new revenues. On the flip side of these music storage lockers in the cloud are Subscription Music Services.
Listen to the podcast below to hear about the pros and cons of each service and to hear Brian and Michael's opinions.
Episode 6: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast - Cloud Music vs. Subscription Music by Thorny Bleeder
Be sure to follow Brian on Twitter here and Michael on Twitter here.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below and share your own tips and tricks with us!
Thanks for listening, see you again next week!
BrianClick To Read More...
DIY Tip - Change Your Future!
Change your future by making changes in your life Today!
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DIY Tip - Personal Branding
Outside of (and in addition) to what you're already doing with your band, you should also consider your own personal branding and how it can complement and enhance your music's brand.
Do you write? Are you a photographer? A cartoonist? Are you a producer, film directors, music teacher, graphic artist, financial analysts, chef, yoga instructor, train collector, or kite enthusiast?
Diversify. Add these elements to your bio and discuss them in interviews. Blog about them on your band's website. Join niche forums on the internet dedicated to these creative pursuits and start new conversations with those communities.
Publicize and promote what you're doing... and your music will have a better chance of being found and stumbled upon by an entirely new community.
Thanks for watching,
Brian ThompsonClick To Read More...
Episode 5: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Social Media Etiquette

This week's discussion is about Social Media etiquette on Facebook and Twitter, along with some additional tips and tricks to help take you to the next level of engagement and interactivity with your followers and fans.
Episode 5 Music Biz Weekly Podcast - Social Media Etiquette by MichaelBrandvoldMarketing
Be sure to follow Brian on Twitter here and Michael on Twitter here.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below and share your own tips and tricks with us!
Thanks for listening, see you again next week!
Brian
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Episode 4: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast
Music Industry Still Blaming Napster

Listen to the podcast below and feel free to download a copy of the mp3 for your iPhone/iPod (by clicking on the little down arrow):
Episode 4: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast - Music Industry Still Blaming Napster With False Numbers by Thorny Bleeder
Below is the original article, appearing as it was published on Mashable:
According to the labels, record sales would have burgeoned if not for the existence of file-sharing site Napster. The labels’ optimistic forecast comes in the form of a chart included in a trial brief for their case against LimeWire.
The above chart was born out of a case brought by major labels like Sony Corp.’s Arista Records and Warner Music Group Corp.’s Atlantic Records against LimeWire. The trial is scheduled to begin May 2.
In the brief, the labels say:
“The evidence will demonstrate that there has been a $55 billion decline in record industry revenue over the last decade. Plaintiffs and Defendants disagree as to whether mass filesharing through peer-to-peer services has been the primary cause of this decline (Plaintiffs’ position), or just one of several causes (Defendants’ position). But even if LimeWire caused only a fraction of this decline, Plaintiffs’ damages would still be in the billions of dollars. Plaintiffs will offer evidence at trial demonstrating that far greater than a fraction of this harm was caused by LimeWire.”
What do you think of the labels’ position? Are Napster, LimeWire and Co. to blame for the declining music industry? Should the labels have embraced file-sharing earlier and adapted it to their own purposes? Let us know in the comments.
[via Mashable, via The Hollywood Reporter]
Image courtesy of iStockphoto, shulz
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DIY Tip - Polish Before You Promote
- Have a website.
- Can I listen to your music somewhere other than MySpace? (Bandcamp, Soundcloud, etc.)
- Can I download free samples of your music?
- Make sure you have a Blog and have recent posts.
- Optimize your Facebook Page and have a music player installed on it (and make sure you're actually engaging with fans on FB regularly too).
- Be active on Twitter.
- Do you have video performance clips on YouTube?
You might only have one chance at connecting with an industry insider, make sure all of your ducks are in a row before you reach out to them! If your presentation is anything less than professional, they'll probably just walk away and ignore you.
Polish Before You Promote!
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Episode 3: The Music Biz Weekly
Majority Of Bands Still Want To Get Signed

Welcome to the third episode of The Music Biz Weekly, a weekly podcast co-hosted by Michael Brandvold and Brian Thompson.
We've been getting some amazing feedback, keep 'em coming! Send us your subject ideas for future episodes, thoughts on what we've discussed and any comments on how we can make the podcast better.
This week’s episode:
Majority Of Bands Still Want To Get Signed
In a recent survey conducted by ReverbNation and Digital Music News, over 75% of indie artists said that it was one of their goals to get signed to a record label. The exact percentage varied from genre to genre, including a high of 81% of hip hop artists wanting a deal, and a low of 63% of alternative artists wanting to get signed. See the poll here.
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DIY Tip: Where's The Wow?
Ok. Your album rocks. It's a modern day masterpiece. It's FULL of Wow. The Wow Factor is in full effect!
But… why are you having such a tough time to get people to talk about you? Where's the word of mouth? Where's the press and the blog buzz? Where's the fans freaking out about you on Facebook and Twitter? Where are the people at your gigs? And… where are the sales?
I'm willing to bet that you're lacking the Wow Factor in everything else you're doing. If you want to stand out from the crowd, you have to be different than everyone else, in everything you do. Add some Wow to your marketing and promotion, your graphics, photos, videos, blogs and tweets!
If you want to be the subject of people raving about you behind your back, make sure you're worth talking about… in everything you do. Add some Wow!
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Episode 2: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast

Welcome to the second episode of The Music Biz Weekly, a weekly podcast co-hosted by Michael Brandvold and Brian Thompson. The first podcast was received with great comments and over 200 listens in the first week!
This week’s episode:
A Band’s Website & How A Band Should Blog
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DIY Tip - Make Do With Less and Be More
Ok, first things first. This video was shot early in the morning after an insomnia-filled night, resulting in less than three hours sleep. So I made do with less. I look tired. My voice sounds a little scratchy. My eyes are watery... but I think I still got my point across in a record 49 seconds.
Today's DIY Tip is a quick little reminder of something we all know but rarely practice. By following this tiny little bit of advice you can learn more, do more... and accomplish more!
So this is it. Make do with less. Less TV, less video games, less pointless web surfing for pointless content, and perhaps for some people... even less sleep.
Instead, take those minutes and hours saved and do more reading, researching, learning, communicating, networking, marketing, promoting, practicing, creating... doing!
Make your life Rock. Get off the couch and just do it!
Thanks for watching!
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DIY Tip: Passion, Persistance, Perseverance & Tenacity
Today's DIY Tip is a simple reminder of what history has proven to us time and time again:
Success = Passion + Persistance + Perseverance + Tenacity
If you have these ingredients and and personality traits, you are destined to succeed at whatever it is you set out to do in life.
I also talk a little about the new Art Of Dying album that was just released, Vices And Virtues, and the fundraising campaign that Billy the Kid has launched.
Thanks for watching!
Brian Thompson
Episode 1: The Music Biz Weekly

Welcome to the debut episode of our brand new podcast, The Music Biz Weekly!
Featuring your hosts Michael Brandvold and Brian Thompson.
Come back every Friday to download a new episode.
The Music Biz Weekly Podcast - March 18, 2011 by MichaelBrandvoldMarketing
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The Music Biz Weekly: A New Podcast

I'm excited to announce a new feature here on Thorny Bleeder, The Music Biz Weekly, a weekly podcast co-hosted by Michael Brandvold and Brian Thompson. Each week Michael and Brian will discuss the latest events in the music business and music marketing events and techniques.
Tune in every week for the latest discussions and comments on the music business
Be sure to follow both Michael and Brian on Twitter for updates on each week's podcast.
Michael Brandvold - @michaelsb
Brian Thompson - @thornybleeder
Debut Episode : March 18, 2011
Topics:
Introductions to Michael and Brian, and a discussion on Jon Bon Jovi blaming Steve Jobs for killing the music business.
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DIY Tip: Social Media Rewards For Fandom & Loyalty

Today's DIY Tip is about monitoring the mentions of your band (or brand) online and making the most out of your supporters and fans.
If you're tracking what's being said about you online (Twitter, blogs, blog comments, Facebook fan page postings, etc.) you have a huge opportunity to reward your fans and strengthen the relationship.
Do you have a casual, unconnected fan who casually mentioned you in their Twitter feed? Why don't you send them a private thank you message? Why don't you reward their public display of affection for you with a link to a free download? Or a coupon for a discount in your store? Or a meet n' great opportunity at one of your live shows? Or a personalized video thank you message?
The possibilities are endless and the upside benefits are immeasurable. And it only takes a moment of your time!
By giving out random acts of kindness to people who speak about you, you're opening the doors to creating a potential lifelong fan or customer, who in turn will continue to evangelize you to their friends and followers, which in turn creates new fans.
It's just one big happy, continuous circle of social currency paying off... for both you and your fans.
Reward your fans and keep the love coming!
Thanks for watching!
Brian Thompson
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DIY Tip: Social Media Is A Slow Roast, Not A TV Dinner
Today's DIY Tip video blog is about developing and nurturing new relationships with people of influence (music blogger, magazine editor, agent, manager, label, etc.) through social media, before you hit them up with a sales pitch or a favour.
Don't rush things online, it doesn't work! To quote Chris Brogran in his book Trust Agents, "Social Media Is A Slow Roast, Not A TV Dinner!".
Thanks for watching!
Brian ThompsonClick To Read More...
DIY Tip: Transform Online Chatter into Offline Opportunities
Today's DIY Tip video blog is about transforming online chatter into offline opportunities.
Stuck in a rut online? Take it offline and connect in real life!
Stand out from the crowd, connect with influencers in your industry via the phone or going out for a beer or a coffee. Become more than just a tweet that scrolls across someone's screen... new opportunities await you.
PS - Can you tell that there's some reno's going on in my building?
Thanks for watching!
Brian
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Video: Q&A with Columbia
Here's the recorded video from our Live Video Q & Eh? web chat via Livestream, from March 1st, with special guests Kevin and Richard from the band Columbia.
We had a small little glitch with the feed, so we had to chop it up into two parts... sorry for the tech difficulties everyone!
As always, thanks for tuning in!

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Ask Brian From Thorny Bleeder Anything
...And He'll Reply With A Video!
VYou allows people to broadcast video structured as conversations, offering the most personal form of social interaction on the web. It works like this: you record video responses to messages entered by friends and fans. VYou organizes their messages and your videos into conversations, making the experience feel continuously live even though the content is stored.
VYou lets you get advice from experts, interact with your favourite celebrity or organization, or communicate with friends and family using a social presence that persists even when you're away!
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Schedule Change: Webchat with Columbia now March 1

So... the Live Video Q & Eh? Session with me, Brian Thompson, along with Kevin and Rich from the band Columbia, that was originally planned for tomorrow night has been officially rescheduled for:
Tuesday, March 1 at 7pm PST / 10pm PST
Grab your phone and put in your calendar with a little reminder, we want you to join us and participate! We'll be answering your questions live as you type them into the chat window. Columbia will also be performing some live acoustic songs for us too!
It's gonna be a killer fun night, see you then!
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Video: Q&A with Pro Drummer Jay Deachman
Here's the recorded video from our live video Q & Eh? web chat via Livestream from February 20th, with special guest Jay Deachman.

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Feb 20: Live Q&A with Pro Drummer Jay Deachman
Tune in to our Livestream channel this Sunday, February 20 at 7pm PST / 10pm EST for a LIVE video web chat with Brian Thompson from Thorny Bleeder and International Dude of Leisure, Jay Deachman: Professional Drummer, Teacher, and Writer.
Jay has toured with Default, Theory Of A Deadman, Paul Gilbert, Loveboy, Daniel Wesley and many more. He's also an in-demand session drummer and drum tech and has a very impressive list of credits.
If you haven't tuned in to one of our live Q & Eh? sessions before, you're in for a treat. It's a no-holds barred, unscripted music industry chat. No bullshit. Just a couple of dudes hanging out, drinking a couple of pints and chatting with our live audience! We sit down in the front of the camera with no agenda other than to answer your questions as you type them into our chat window!
Tune in LIVE here:
http://www.livestream.com/thornybleeder
I'll see you on Sunday night at 7pm!
For more info on Jay, check out his website here:
http://www.jaydeachman.com
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Video: Q & Eh? with the Music Director from The Peak FM
In case you missed the live web chat event, here's the two hour recorded video from the February 13, 2011 Q & Eh? with Brian Thompson and guests James Sutton (Music Director, The Peak FM) and Josh Palmer (The Rebellion).
Enjoy!

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This Sunday: Live Video Webchat Q&A with James Sutton
Tune in here: http://www.livestream.com/thornybleeder


James Sutton is the Music Director for 100.5 The PEAK. You can also hear him on the air on various weekdays from 10am-3pm.
Schedule
Mon-Fri - 10:00am to 3:00pm
Description
James, unlike the rest of The PEAK crew, is not living his dream. He’s actually always wanted to be a dragon slayer in fantasy novels, movies, video games and such. Wait, scratch that, he’s actually always wanted to be a science fiction hero; a SPACE dragon killer.Sadly, he is cursed spending his days playing excellent music and pretending he’s a DJ.
James Sutton is the Music Director for 100.5 The PEAK. You can also hear him on the air on various weekdays from 10am-3pm.
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Live Podcast Schedule: Q & Eh? with Brian Thompson
I've got some killer guests coming up who I know will be entertaining, funny, and informative. I hope you tune in live and participate in the live Q & Eh? with Brian Thompson. It's really cool talking to people live and answering your questions, as they roll in, straight from you.
Another really cool thing that's happening is that viewers are connecting one on one in the chat room and are making new friends, through the music.
I think that's pretty fucking awesome.
Join me here:
Sunday, February 13 - 7pm
with special guest James Sutton
Music Director, 100.5 The PEAK FM

with special guest Jay Deachman.
Professional Drummer (Theory Of A Deadman, Default)
Sunday, February 27 - 7pm
with special guests Columbia featuring live acoustic performances
Tune in live here:
http://www.livestream.com/thornybleeder
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Video: Thorny Bleeder Q & Eh? with Nimbus School Of Recording Arts

We had such a great turnout that it went for over two and a half hours long.
Whoa.
So... if you have a spare 2 1/2 hours, and you're really interested in music marketing, watch the recorded version of our video web chat below!

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Storify: Making Stories From The Social Web
Every time I see a new social media tool, utility, service, app or website I just have to try it out. You never know which one's going to be the next big thing and you can't really trust all of the hype, reviews and press releases that flood the blogs. So whenever I see one that catches my eye I immediately sign up, dive in, and just try things out for myself.
This approach has led to some pretty spectacular tools in my social media arsenal. There are tools I can't live without such as Evernote and Instapaper, and then there's great Twitter management tools like Tweepi, Klout, and Twitter Grader, and of course there's always a plethora of new music sites which offer great potential, with my most recent favourite being Viinyl.
I was on a popular news site not too long ago when I noticed...
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Brian Thompson Added as Speaker at Social Media Camp
Thorny Bleeder is happy to announce that our very own Brian Thompson has just been added as a speaker to the Social Media Camp 2011 conference in beautiful Victoria, BC.

The first Social Media Camp in Victoria had over 450 people in attendance. See how they rated SMCV10.
The second annual Social Media Camp, dubbed #SMCV11 (for your Twitter users), is scheduled for Friday, June 3rd & Saturday, June 4th at the Victoria Conference Centre. Two jam packed days committed to the Social Media exploration, sharing and learning with a double-shot of networking.
Whether you are an avid Facebook user, interested in learning about Twitter, or you’re trying to grow your business by leveraging social media tools – there is something for everyone at this event.
Hope to see you there!
Register Today
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NEW Q & Eh? Live Video Chat: Sunday, Feb. 6
Join Thorny Bleeder's Brian Thompson and special guest Chris Brandt for an uncensored, live video chat Q & EH? session:


Sunday, February 6
7pm PST / 10pm EST

http://www.livestream.com/thornybleeder
This is a free event and it's a completely open forum for you to ask whatever questions you have for Brian and Chris. Topics for discussion include (but aren't limited to):
- Social Media Marketing
- Artist Development
- Music Marketing
- Thorny Bleeder
- Nimbus School Of Recording Arts
Who the F@#k is Chris Brandt?

With 10 years’ experience at Universal Music, Chris managed the sales, promotion and marketing of over 6,000 releases a year. In 2004 he launched Cazart! Records, an independent label and music publishing company. Most recently, Chris spent 3 years as the President of the Board of Directors for Music BC.
Through his work at Nimbus, Chris is proud to support the efforts of Music Therapists at BC Children’s Hospital and Canuck Place, and partner with The Music Therapy Ride to design mobile recording units for use in hospitals. In his other life, Chris teaches regular yoga classes and workshops.
Lock this date into your calendar now and we'll see you online Sunday, February 6th at 7pm PST!
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DIY Artist: Let Your Fans Ask You Anything

Have you checked out the latest popular social media site, Formspring?
It's a site which simply allows users to ask you anything, even anonymously, with no limits to the length of your reply. Fomspring encourages people to find out more about each other in a simple and fun way. Responses can range from straightforward to surprising and can lead to understanding something more about the people you know or find interesting.
This social website is growing very quickly, especially within the under-20 demographic, and already has over 20 million users.
Last Friday I created a profile for myself, and in just a few days I've answered 41 questions from fans & followers across my networks.
One of my artists, Billy the Kid, created her Formspring page the following day here. And since Saturday, she's answered a whopping 162 questions from fans! And with each and every reply she makes, she strengthens the bond between artist and fan.
If you want to truly embrace the social web, connect with fans and peers, and open yourself up to new potential, don't ignore Formspring. It's a powerful tool for building a lasting relationship with your most ardent supporters. With Formspring you can have fun, share insights, and relate to fans in a completely new way.
Note: Tumblr blogs also have a "Ask Me Anything" feature, although it does have a different demographic.
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Video Performance with Billy the Kid
Here's the recorded video of tonight's debut episode of Q & Eh? with Brian Thompson, featuring a hangout session and live acoustic performance with singer/songwriter Billy the Kid.
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Live Video Chat & Performance with Billy the Kid
Join us this Sunday, January 2 at 7pm PST/10pm EST for a LIVE Video Chat with Brian Thompson from Thorny Bleeder Records and his special guest, Billy the Kid.
Grab a drink, pull up a chair, and spend your evening chilling with us for the debut episode of Q & Eh? with Brian Thompson.
Both Brian and Billy will be answering your questions live, as they roll in from our viewers, and the subject matter is completely open. And not only that, but Billy will also have her guitar with her, so you can expect to see a couple of live acoustic performances from this amazing singer/songwriter too.
Nice.
You can either come back to this page and watch the live video in the player below, or you can visit our official channel on Livestream at the following link: http://www.livestream.com/thornybleeder.
So don't forget, we need YOU to help make this a success! Plop a little reminder into your phone's calendar and join us this Sunday night for some wicked conversations, live music, fun times and good laughs!
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Billy The Kid Joins Thorny Bleeder Management Roster

Listen: Billy The Kid - These City Lights
I can't tell you how excited I am about this piece of news. What started out as me being a casual listener of Billy The Kid quickly morphed into me becoming a true fan and believer, which then resulted in us becoming good friends...and it's now taken the next logical step: I'm now managing Billy The Kid. That's right, Its official folks, Billy The Kid has joined the Thorny Bleeder collective of managed artists! Welcome to the family Billy!

Billy has an amazing story that you simply must read for yourself. Pop over to her website and give her bio a read, you'll see what I mean. She's an inspiring, one of a kind artist who has an incredibly bright future.
Billy The Kid is just about to finish the busiest year of her life, with over 120 live performances in the past twelve months, plus countless interviews, news articles, blogs, and TV appearances. She just returned home from a six week Canadian Tour with Rex Goudie and ten short days later she's flying to Newfoundland for her final 12 shows of the year.
So what's next? Recording, recording, and more recording. Billy has a ton of new songs and is stoked to get back in the studio and lay them down. We've got some pretty damn cool stuff in the works for 2011, it's going to be a pretty creative and fantastic year.
Billy is an artist you definitely want to follow online. She's all over social media and constantly talks to her friends and fans, posts photos and videos, shares news and experiences as they happen, posts random contests, and the coolest thing of all...she regularly posts new songs as they're written.
Follow Billy The Kid on Twitter. Like her on Facebook. And if you really want to show your support, pre-order her upcoming album here.
Stay tuned to Thorny Bleeder for more great news coming soon!
-- Brian Thompson
The Way I Miss You - Live at Tractorgrease
Back In The Sand, Live @ The Verge/XM Radio
Quotes from the press:
"Precociously gifted."
- The Georgia Straight
“One of Canada’s rising stars.”
- See Magazine
"Prolific and incredibly talented."
- The Leader-Post
“Billy is a DIY poster girl.”
- Vue Weekly
"Always stood apart from the pack with true street-level integrity, an almost Mennonitish indie-rock work ethic and outstanding musicianship."
- Nerve Magazine
"(Billy)'s the kind of thorough, do-it-yourself poster girl that will go to hell and back in order to put out a good record."
- Beatroute Magazine
“If you need any inspiration to keep your New Year’s Resolution “I shall cast off the shackles of procrastination and actually do something with myself...” look no further than a young lady who goes by the name of Billy the Kid.”
– Chartattack
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Music & Marketing Q&A: Watch It Live @ 7pm PST
** UPDATED POST **
The video below is now the pre-recorded version from the live event.
Tune in tonight...Tuesday, August 31 at 7pm PST (10PM EST), to take part in our very first Live Video Q&A Session with Thorny Bleeder's Managing Partner, Brian Thompson, on the music industry, marketing, and any other questions you might have. And of course, it's 100% free!
Watch the live video & interactive chat right here on this very page. Just login with your Twitter, Facebook, AOL or MySpace login and you're good to go! I'll see you tonight...
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NxEW Feature: Thorny Bleeder Part I: Black Hat Villain
The NxEW music blog, otherwise known as North by East West ("A Geographically Impossible Blog For A Geographically Impossible Country"), has just published the first part in a series of articles and reviews on some of our Thorny Bleeder family. The feature below is an interview with Sam and Scotty from the band Black Hat Villain, where they discuss the band and their relationship with Thorny Bleeder and Brian Thompson, managing partner.
Their feature story is republished below, but please swing by their site and check it out. They're covering some amazing independent Canadian music that the mainstream media is ignoring, assisted by a team of freelance music journalists coast to coast.
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2 Hour Podcast:
The Stepping Stone with Thorny Bleeder & Quartered
Thorny Bleeder's Brian Thompson and all of the guys in Quartered co-hosted The Stepping Stone indie radio show last night for two fast-paced hours of music, laughs, chats about indie artist development, beer and vulgarity...courtesy of our host Dick Maidment!
And a very special treat awaits you...brand new music from Quartered! During the show we spun three different tracks from Quartered's upcoming new album 'Walks Like A Ghost'. You don't want to miss these tracks, they're freakin' unbelievable. We also spun tracks from Black Hat Villain, Special Ops, and Ross Neilsen and the Sufferin' Bastards.
Let's get to it. Below is the full two hour broadcast which you can either listen to right here or download for your iPod or iTunes. The show gets going around the 6 minute mark...
MP3 Podcast: Part 1 - The Stepping Stone with Brian Thompson with Quartered
MP3 Podcast: Part 2 - The Stepping Stone with Brian Thompson with Quartered
(to Download and Save to your desktop, right click on this link and “Save Link As”)

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Podcast: The A-List Interview with Brian Thompson

I had the pleasure of speaking with Amy and Andrea from The A List this afternoon on Blog Talk Radio and I've posted the mp3 below for you to listen to (or you can download it and plop it on your iPod so you can listen to it later while you're sitting on the toilet or on the bus).
The A List is an entertainment show dedicated to both new/up and coming and well-known bands, artists, musicians, actors, comedians, and anything entertainment related. We promise to provide a professional yet relaxed atmosphere to all our guests and the best entertainers for our listeners....
...three women taking the industry by storm and bringing you the greatest interviews in entertainment!
LISTEN HERE:
MP3: The A-List with Brian Thompson
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SchMusic BC: Industry Panel with Thorny Bleeder

The infamous SchMusic BC Networking Party, put on by the fine folks from MusicBC, returns to the Biltmore Cabaret in Vancouver!
You know the deal – come out for a free drink, no cover, and meet some local industry folks and fellow musicians to help forward your career!
Tuesday, May 25th
7:00-9:00pm
RSVP to: rsvp@musicbc.org
*** Added bonus for Music BC Members ***
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Podcast: A Discussion on Digital Media

Thanks to the power of Twitter and its ability to connect strangers all over the world who have a common interest, I recently met Paul Vet, a student at Ryerson University in Toronto. Paul can be found on Twitter with the username @640k.
Paul is a doing his thesis on social media and is taking his Masters in Media Production, so he decided to reach out and see if I was interested in doing an interview with him for his studies...which I gladly accepted.
So in keeping with my beliefs in social media and sharing things with everyone, I recorded our hour-long conversation and posted it below for you to eavesdrop in on.
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Podcast:
Uncharted Waves Interview with Brian Thompson

Brian Thompson, Managing Partner of Thorny Bleeder Records, had a live on-air interview with the Uncharted Waves radio show in NYC on OWWR Radio earlier today.
We've posted an MP3 of the interview below for you to check out in case you missed it.
LISTEN HERE:
MP3 Podcast: Interview with Brian Thompson
(to Download and Save to your desktop, right click on this link and “Save Link As”)
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Podcast: Interview with Ross Neilsen

Ross Neilsen and The Sufferin' Bastards are in Mississippi right now, recording their next album for Thorny Bleeder Records with Cody Dickinson (drummer for North Mississippi Allstars) at the famed Zebra Studios.
Check out this 15 min. chat I just had with Ross where he tells us all about his adventures down South and what we can expect with his upcoming album.
LISTEN HERE:
MP3 Podcast: An Interview with Ross Neilsen (to Download and Save to your library or desktop, right click and “Save Link As”)
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Podcast: Interview with Jason from TV Heart Attack

Welcome to our second audio podcast! Today's episode is an exclusive one-on-one interview between Jason Corbett from TV Heart Attack and Brian Thompson from Thorny Bleeder Records.
We’ll be featuring new interviews each and every week, so sign up for our email alerts (in the right hand column) or subscribe to our RSS Feed so you don't miss out on any of the action.
And don't forget that you can download the latest TV Heart Attack single AO from our brand spanking new Get Thorny 2 free album download! Not strings attached, just click on our Free Downloads tab and start your download now!

MP3 Podcast: An Interview with Jason Corbett
(to Download and Save to your library or desktop, right click and “Save Link As”)Click To Read More...
Exclusive: The Bleeder Blog Interview with Jonny from Art Of Dying

I have a special treat for everyone today, an exclusive one-on-one interview with my good friend and business partner, Jonny Hetherington, from the band Art Of Dying.
We chat about Art Of Dying’s recent signing to Warner/Reprise Records, his time in LA while recording with producer Howard Benson, tips and advice on artist development, Thorny Bleeder Records, and the importance of building a smart business team around you.
The interview is 34 minutes long (33MB), so you might want to save it and listen to it on your iPod while you’re stuck in traffic or sitting on the bus...OR...just listen to it right here!
MP3: The Bleeder Blog Podcast: An Interview with Jonny Hetherington
(to Save to your library or desktop, right click and “Save Link As”)
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Interview with Brian Thompson
This is a special interview with Brian Thompson of Thorny Bleeder Records, brought to you by Todd Sanft, guitarist for Quartered.
MP3: Quartered - Brother
We had conversed over the phone as well as by email and I wanted to share this great stuff with all of you. Stay tuned as this will be an ongoing series with various artists and companies that make up Vancouver and the world. Again thank you for the support and pass it along if you think anyone you know would like to read it.
Todd: How did you get into the music industry? What made you pick this particular industry?
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LIVE Interview On Woody Radio MONDAY NIGHT
Woody Radio will be doing a big feature on Thorny Bleeder Records on Monday night!
DJ Boz will be spinning tons of tunes from our artists and he'll also be interviewing me, Brian Thompson, Managing Partner at Thorny Bleeder.
Tune in live to the Woody Radio website to participate in a live chat with other listeners.
Monday, Sept. 14
6 PM Pacific / 9 PM Eastern
http://www.woodyradio.com
(You can also find Woody Radio on iTunes under Hard Rock/Metal on the Radio toolbar.)
I hope you have a chance to tune in! If you do, send us your comments and feedback...we always love hearing from you!





























