Busting Nashville Myths For Musicians

“It’s basically a city of songwriters and that’s what gives it its strength, that’s what gives it its lasting ability. You’ve got people making all different kinds of music and that’s what attracts me to Nashville as Music City.” – Emmylou Harris

Before visiting or moving to Nashville, many people have misconceptions about this place. Take it from a local: They either get the shock of their lives and adapt, or leave disillusioned. My hope is that this post will help you avoid some of those pitfalls that beset many fresh-faced hopefuls. Read on if Nashville is a place you hope to experience some day.

KrissyBusting Nashville Myths For Musicians
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Does Your Band Have A Compelling Story?

Your music always comes first – it’s the contact point for new fans and it’s the whole reason you’re here. But beyond the music, your story is a huge part of your artistry. It’s what gives context to the music and what can turn a casual fan into a long term listener. A compelling story is also a great way to get press, influencers, and industry connectors hooked into your band. So when my musician friends ask, “How do I get press?”, I tell them to lead with a great song and a better story.

DaveDoes Your Band Have A Compelling Story?
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Two Million Views & Counting: Meet Lyon Hart

“One of the most challenging aspects will always be ‘where do I fit in this music landscape?’ It’s easy to chase after the newest trend or the latest Hype Machine genre hybrid. Finding a sound and a perspective that is true to YOU is the real challenge.”

Meet singer/songwriter Lyon Hart, who’s been in the music game for over a decade as a member of several bands, writing toplines for DJs, lending his vocals as a featured artist, and finally coming into his own as a solo artist. Most recently, he’s been making heads turn with his candid lyrics, sultry vocals, and stunning visuals.

We caught up with Lyon to learn about his journey as an artist, the inspiration behind his brand new video “Delusional,”  the advantages of collaborating with artists outside your comfort zone, and how powerful visual design can lead to over 2 million YouTube views.

DaveTwo Million Views & Counting: Meet Lyon Hart
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What To Do (And Not Do) When Touring, By Empathy Test

Going on an international tour as a support artist is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and it’s something that most musicians aspire to do at some point in their careers. Performing overseas allows you to connect to a new audience and new industry professionals, make new friends, and gain valuable experience. The exposure can be amazing, the memories will last a lifetime, but it’s a big endeavor that requires A LOT of planning. That’s why we asked our friends Empathy Test – who are no strangers to the road – to share some of their expert advice.

DaveWhat To Do (And Not Do) When Touring, By Empathy Test
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Spotify Playlists, Dragon Ball Z, and Collabs: An Interview with FEiN

We’re big fans of collaborations; two ReverbNation artists joining forces, sharing ideas, and giving birth to ridiculously feel-good music. Meet alternative duo FEiN, who recently partnered up with house producer Christofi for a sweet-sounding, funky jam, “The Disco.” In our latest series, we caught up with Luke and Brandon of FEiN to get the deets on their new single, learn about the benefits of collaborating with different types of artists, how their local community has shaped them as musicians, and more.

DaveSpotify Playlists, Dragon Ball Z, and Collabs: An Interview with FEiN
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It’s About the Relationship: How I Got to 1.5 Million YouTube Followers

This post was originally published on the Flypaper blog by Soundfly just before the holidays and is being shared with their permission (we love them guys!). 

It’s almost the holiday season yet again, and to many singers and songwriters like myself, that means Christmas albums are popping up everywhere. I recently released my own album of Christmas music, A Hollens Family Christmas, so I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how to cut through the noise and continue successfully building my community of listeners and fans, despite running up against endless competition online.

DaveIt’s About the Relationship: How I Got to 1.5 Million YouTube Followers
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Get Music Feedback From Twitter Like Brian Hazard Does

Though I’d reaaaallllly like to say we’re the only way to obtain unbiased music feedback from consumers, that’s not necessarily the truth. Brian Hazard, he of the ten-album Color Theory and head mastering engineer at Resonance Mastering, put this belief into play recently when he took to Twitter to solicit some lyrical recommendations from his followers.

DaveGet Music Feedback From Twitter Like Brian Hazard Does
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Invest, Create, Explore, Enjoy: Music Career Advice From Singer M. Maggie

From pop to soul and electronic R&B, New Orleans native M. Maggie is making heads turn. Her effortless croon, heartfelt lyrics, and jazzy flourishes have gotten her noticed by Pigeons and Planes, Buzzfeed, and Nylon Magazine. Her song “Trndsttr” reached #14 on the Dance chart on iTunes and has received over 2 million views on YouTube! That’s not all,  M. Maggie has been selected for several ReverbNation opportunities including Rock N’ Roll Marathon, School Night, and Bold Creative Media. We caught up with the singer to learn about her new single “My Love,” the benefits of collaborating with other artists, and her advice for artists just joining ReverbNation.

DaveInvest, Create, Explore, Enjoy: Music Career Advice From Singer M. Maggie
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