Blog
Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. So we wrote it down.
The real lessons from every episode of The Career Musician podcast, written up so you can come back to them. Because everything you do is an audition.
EP 206What They Don’t Teach You: Mitch Beer on Turning Talent Into a Career (Episode 206)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 206, bassist–producer–studio-owner Mitch Beer breaks down the lessons school leaves out — and why, at TCM, we say everything you do is an audition.
EP 205Before the Oscars: The Night Miles Caton’s Track Failed (Episode 205)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 205, Nomad tells the story of the night Miles Caton’s backing track failed at the HMMA Awards, and the TCM Pro Band saved the performance live.
EP 204Do You Even Gig, Bro? NAMM Pros on Building a Music Career (Episode 204)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 204, Nomad and the TCM Pro Team ask working players at NAMM 2026 “Do you even gig, bro?” The answers are a roadmap for how to get gigs as a musician, and keep them.
EP 203Do You Even Gig, Bro? NAMM Pros’ Best and Worst Auditions (Episode 203)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 203, Nomad and the TCM Pro Team ask working players at NAMM 2026 “Do you even gig, bro?” Their best and worst audition stories are full of music audition tips you can use.
EP 202The Art of the Pivot: Inside an Awards Show House Band Gig (Episode 202)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 202, Nomad and the TCM Pro Team, with front of house engineer Ace Baker, debrief an awards show house band gig where the tracks failed and the band had to pivot live.
EP 201How to NAMM Like a Pro: Gear, Endorsements and Real Friends (Episode 201)
Everything you do is an audition, even three days on the NAMM floor. In Episode 201, Nomad and Joel Meza share how to NAMM like a pro: real endorsements, energy, goals, and friends over networking.
EP 200Action Over Resolution: 200 Episodes of Building a Music Career (Episode 200)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 200, Nomad marks the milestone with the TCM Pro Team, Joel Meza and Emily Lauren: why methods change but principles remain, why done beats perfect, and how a simple CRM keeps you top of mind.
EP 199Skip the New Year's Resolutions: Make a Musician's Plan of Action (Episode 199)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 199, Nomad explains why New Year's resolutions fail musicians and walks through a simple ETHOS plan of action for the right gigs.
EP 198Year in Review: The Top 10 Music Career Tips of 2025 (Episode 198)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 198, Nomad wraps 2025 for The Career Musician: the show’s growth, the TCM Pro Team, and the top 10 music career tips of the year.
EP 197Crash 'n Crunch: The Beatqualizer on Branding as a Drummer (Episode 197)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 197, Nomad talks with Baltimore drummer Bryant Wilson, The Beatqualizer, about rebuilding after COVID with wedding gigs, a home studio, a beat pack and branded cereal.
EP 196Sean Sobash: How to Become a Touring Musician in LA (Episode 196)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 196, bassist Sean Sobash (Dominic Fike, Remi Wolf) joins Nomad and Joel Meza on how to become a touring musician: community, charts, rates and negotiation.
EP 195Power of Brand: Ron Paul Perry on Personal Branding (Episode 195)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 195, Nomad and Ron Paul Perry (RPP) talk personal branding for musicians, mastering the art of no, and why being cool opens doors.
EP 194Inside a Hollywood Awards Show House Band: The HMMAs (Episode 194)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 194, Joel Meza reacts to Nomad's HMMA vlog: advancing load-in, having your people's back, locking in at soundcheck, and why whoever is running the show is right.
EP 193Real World Guitar: Rob Garland on Building a Guitar Career (Episode 193)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 193, Real World Guitar's Rob Garland shares his path from England to LA and how persistence, diversification and planning built a lasting guitar career.
EP 192The Imaginaries: The Only Unsigned Band on a Film Soundtrack (Episode 192)
Luck = preparation + opportunity. In Episode 192, The Imaginaries (Maggie McClure and Shane Henry) share how they landed on the Reagan soundtrack, kept their master, booked their own tour and built income beyond music.
EP 191Carly Lyman: From Colorado to a K-Pop Hit and Sync (Episode 191)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 191, songwriter, producer and Powers Music Group VP Carly Lyman shares how she landed a K-pop hit by showing up, built a sync career, and why you are always auditioning.
EP 190Devin Powers on How to Get Into TV Music as a Composer (Episode 190)
Work begets work. In Episode 190, TV composer Devin Powers (Blind Date, Naked and Afraid) shares how to get into TV music: clients, overdelivering, templates, stems and writing for editors.
EP 189The Disneyland Audition: Max Diaz and Joel Meza on Saying Yes (Episode 189)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 189, Nomad launches Talk 'n Tunes with bassist Max Diaz and drummer Joel Meza: auditions that aren't auditions, imposter syndrome, and subsidizing your talent.
EP 188Never Lose the Gig: Joel Meza Joins as TCM Co-Host (Episode 188)
Get the gig. Keep the gig. Build the career. In Episode 188, Nomad welcomes drummer and playback tech Joel Meza as the new co-host and they break down how to never lose the gig: road routines, preparation, communication and caring more.
EP 187Band Together: Community Over Competition for Musicians (Episode 187)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 187, Nomad calls on musicians to band together for community, not competition, and shares a simple plan for steady progress.
EP 1864 Rules of Networking for Musicians, Live at a Real Event (Episode 186)
Work begets work. In Episode 186, Nomad takes you to a non-music event to show his four rules of networking for musicians: show up, stand out, ask one question, and the three-foot rule.
EP 185I Need a Gig: Why the Work Comes When You Stop Chasing It (Episode 185)
Work begets work. In Episode 185, Nomad explains why he stopped hustling for the gig, and how doing the work in front of you is how to get gigs as a musician.
EP 184Ghosted After a Gig Lead? Nomad's 3 Strikes Follow-Up (Episode 184)
Low maintenance / no drama. In Episode 184, Nomad shares his three strikes method for following up on a gig lead when you get ghosted, and how to close the loop and move on.
EP 183Insincere Sincerity: Real Music Industry Relationships (Episode 183)
Low maintenance / no drama. In Episode 183, Nomad calls out insincere sincerity, the over-the-top hype that disappears when it matters, and shows what honest support sounds like between musicians.
EP 182Existential Music Crisis: When Your Creative Mind Won't Quit (Episode 182)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 182, Nomad gets honest about the existential crisis creatives face, and how to move through it.
EP 181Music Is Not for Musicians: Play for the People (Episode 181)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 181, Nomad explains why making music to impress other musicians is a trap, and why serving the song and connecting with real listeners builds the career.
EP 180Play the Changes: Nomad on Finding Your Musical Voice (Episode 180)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 180, Nomad explains why getting hung up on playing through the changes can cost you your musical voice, and your growth.
EP 179Payday Friday Is a Myth: Budgeting Tips for Musicians (Episode 179)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 179, Nomad (with an opener from Michael Elsener of Master Music Licensing) explains why payday Friday is a myth for musicians and shares budgeting tips for inconsistent income.
EP 178Creative Flow State: Home Studio Tips From a Pro Musician (Episode 178)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 178, Nomad tours his 10x10 home studio and shares home studio tips for staying in a creative flow state, from simple acoustics to always be recording.
EP 177Music Publishing 101: Protect and Own Your Songs (Episode 177)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 177, Nomad uses a Goodwill cigar box instrument to explain music publishing for beginners: copyright, PROs and owning your publishing.
EP 176Mining the Gigs You Want: Find Gigs Where Musicians Aren't (Episode 176)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 176, Nomad shares a fresh perspective on how to find gigs as a musician: change your methods and go where other musicians never go, like the local Chamber of Commerce.
EP 175What Makes a Pro Musician? 3 Things That Set Pros Apart (Episode 175)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 175, Nomad breaks down what makes a pro musician: dedication, communication, and showing up prepared.
EP 174Grammys for the Win? Art vs. Sport and Why Awards Matter (Episode 174)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 174, Nomad asks whether the Grammys matter to working musicians, and what success really means.
EP 173Become the Chief You Officer: Self-Management for Musicians (Episode 173)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 173, Nomad reads from ETHOS on becoming the CYO, the Chief You Officer of your career.
EP 172Should You Quit Music? Nomad on Resilience for Musicians (Episode 172)
Luck = preparation + opportunity. In Episode 172, right after National Quitters Day, Nomad answers the top reasons musicians quit, with lessons from Tangelene Bolton, Leslie Odom Jr. and his own Nashville bagel shop days.
EP 171NAMM President John Mlynczak on Networking and Growth (Episode 171)
Work begets work. In Episode 171, recorded live at LACM, NAMM president John Mlynczak shares networking in the music industry, lifelong learning, and why your career is a rock wall.
EP 170Time Is Your Secret Weapon: Time Management for Musicians (Episode 170)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 170, Nomad on time management for musicians: discipline over motivation, the compound effect, and knowing your why.
EP 169Mental Health for Musicians: Jed Elliott of The Struts (Episode 169)
Get the gig. Keep the gig. Build the career. In Episode 169, The Struts bassist Jed Elliott and life coach Chelsea Sabo of The Musician's Journey share how musicians build the mental foundation a career needs.
EP 168Get Your Music Heard: Tito Daniel on Dash Radio and Sync (Episode 168)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 168, Nomad and Tito Daniel walk through how to get your music heard on Dash Radio via SmashHaus, plus sync basics and the submit and omit habit.
EP 167Sherilyn on How to Release Music Independently Like a Pro (Episode 167)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 167, singer-songwriter and coach Sherilyn shares how she went from signed artist to independent, and how to release music independently like a pro.
EP 166Jody Friedman: How to Pitch Your Music for TV and Film (Episode 166)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 166, music supervisor and sync agent Jody Friedman explains how sync licensing works, how to pitch without getting deleted, why niches are king, and why the money is in the pennies.
EP 165Eric Baines on Getting the Chicago Gig and Keeping It (Episode 165)
Get the gig. Keep the gig. Build the career. In Episode 165, Eric Baines, singing bassist for Chicago, shares how a small-town player wins in LA: don't fan out, know your strengths, prepare, and send your best sub.
EP 164Stay Ready: Belle Johnson on Staying Employed as a Musician (Episode 164)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 164, Grammy-nominated singer Belle Johnson (Kanye West, J.Lo, Miley Cyrus) shares how to stay employed as a musician: stay focused, stay humble, stay ready.
EP 163NAMM Show Pt. 1: Chris Lord-Alge and Asadi on Music Careers (Episode 163)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 163, Nomad catches mix engineer Chris Lord-Alge and producer and artist Asadi on the NAMM Show floor for quick, real music career advice.
EP 162Big Swede on How to Get Your Music Placed in TV and Film (Episode 162)
Work begets work. In Episode 162, producer and composer Big Swede shares how to get your music placed in TV and film: build a catalog, stay humble, find fair representation and finish your songs.
EP 161Tour Hacking: Michael Walker on Growing Your Music Fan Base (Episode 161)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 161, Modern Musician founder Michael Walker shares how tour hacking sold 24,000 Paradise Fears albums, and how to grow your music fan base online today.
EP 160How to Become a Film Composer: Tangelene Bolton on Scoring TV (Episode 160)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 160, Warrior Nun composer Tangelene Bolton shares how she went from Hans Zimmer's studio to scoring Netflix, and how to handle revisions like a pro.
EP 159Michelle Sabolchick on Tour Life and Mixing Fundamentals (Episode 159)
Low maintenance / no drama. In Episode 159, concert sound engineer Michelle Sabolchick of Mixing Music Live shares how to survive on tour, network like a human, negotiate, and master audio fundamentals.
EP 158Dylan Berry of SmashHaus on How Indie Songwriters Win (Episode 158)
Work begets work. In Episode 158, SmashHaus founder Dylan Berry tells Nomad how indie songwriters avoid failing: scale your work, know your library deals, stay consistent and take honest feedback.
EP 157Why Music's Biggest Names Are Selling Their Catalogs (Episode 157)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 157, Nomad and Lola unpack why superstars are selling their music catalogs for millions, and why every musician should build and own their IP.
EP 156Do Music Awards Matter? Nomad and Lola on the Grammys (Episode 156)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 156, Nomad and Lola ask what music awards really mean for artists, from the 2023 Grammys to Rihanna's Super Bowl halftime show.
EP 155Garrett Hope and Arthur Breur on Music Business for Musicians (Episode 155)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 155, composers Garrett Hope and Arthur Breur of the Ultimate Music Business Summit share music business advice for musicians on networking, niche, pitching and mindset.
EP 154Pink Floyd to NFTs: Scott Page on Direct-to-Fan Music (Episode 154)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 154, Pink Floyd, Supertramp and Toto saxophonist Scott Page shares his SPACE formula for building a direct-to-fan music business, from NFTs to super fans.
EP 153Save The Music's Henry Donahue on Music Education (Episode 153)
The gig is never only the gig. In Episode 153, Save The Music executive director Henry Donahue shares why music education matters, how it supports mental health, and how musicians can help.
EP 152X. Ari on Turning Pain Into Power as an Indie Artist (Episode 152)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 152, alt-pop artist and mental health advocate X. Ari shares how she runs her releases like a business, builds multiple income streams and turned her diagnosis into WisdoManiaFest.
EP 151Diversify or Die: Build a Sustainable Music Career (Episode 151)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 151, Nomad opens season five with Diversify or Die: mental health action, a strengths and weaknesses list, and thinking like a CEO.
EP 150Leslie Odom Jr. on Building a Music Career That Lasts (Episode 150)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 150, Tony and Grammy winner Leslie Odom Jr. shares the advice that kept him from quitting and why love is a verb.
EP 149Ric Mightybone Feliciano: The Teacher Who Shaped Nomad (Episode 149)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 149, Nomad reunites with his high school music teacher, trombonist and arranger Ric Mightybone Feliciano, on teaching, learning the hard way and knowing your lane.
EP 148Ralph T. Lofton on the Career of a Gospel B3 Organist (Episode 148)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 148, gospel B3 guru Ralph T. Lofton shares how to be a session musician who keeps getting called: your own sound, discipline, hymns and building your own house.
EP 147Bill Oakley of Shure on Artist Relations and Endorsements (Episode 147)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 147, Shure veteran Bill Oakley explains how artist relations really works, how to approach brands for gear endorsements, and why it takes a team.
EP 146Big Mike Hart on Producing, Touring and Road Rules (Episode 146)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 146, guitarist, producer and Kenny Lattimore MD Big Mike Hart shares what it takes to be a touring and session guitarist, and the unspoken rules of the road.
EP 145Tod Weidner on the Long Road to Becoming an Indie Singer-Songwriter (Episode 145)
Luck = preparation + opportunity. In Episode 145, Dayton-born singer-songwriter Tod Weidner shares decades in the trenches: self-education, the 10,000 hours, pro demos from a dining room, and handling imposter syndrome when your heroes call back.
EP 144Erin Alden on Saying Yes and Building a Songwriting Career (Episode 144)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 144, LA singer-songwriter Erin Alden tells Nomad how saying yes, connecting people and walking into co-writes with three songs ready built her career.
EP 143Richie Peña on How to Record Drums at Home Like a Pro (Episode 143)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 143, drummer and producer Richie Peña (Babyface, Boyz II Men, Josh Groban) shares how to record drums at home like a pro and why half the job is business.
EP 142Jerry Navarro of the MuzikMafia on Negotiating Your Rate (Episode 142)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 142, bassist and producer Jerry Navarro, Pit Boss of the MuzikMafia, shares how to negotiate your rate as a musician, why you bring every tool to the gig, and how artists built their own business.
EP 141Chris Thigpen on How to Move to LA and Become a Working Bassist (Episode 141)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 141, bassist and drummer Chris Thigpen (Meghan Trainor, The Isley Brothers) shares how he saved up and moved to LA, built a network from jam sessions, and why the player who causes problems never lasts.
EP 140Scott Frankfurt on Studio Life, Many Hats and the Heart Behind the Gear (Episode 140)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 140, studio owner Scott Frankfurt, former VP of Design at Spectrasonics, shares how a drummer became a sound designer, producer and engineer, and the habits that make a studio worth coming back to.
EP 139Vi on How to Become a Session Singer, From Classical to EWF (Episode 139)
Luck = preparation + opportunity. In Episode 139, studio vocalist and pianist Vi (Ivana Cespedes) tells Nomad how she went from classical concert pianist to session singer, and why relationships are everything.
EP 138CD Baby's Joel Andrew on How Independent Musicians Make Money (Episode 138)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 138, CD Baby president Joel Andrew shares how independent musicians make money today, why there is no shame in a day job, and why 20 fans is real success.
EP 137Nathan Furst on How to Become a Film Composer (Episode 137)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 137, composer Nathan Furst (Bionicle, Act of Valor, Need for Speed) tells Nomad how to become a film composer: flight hours, taking notes and defending your ideas.
EP 136Tony Morra on Recording Studio Drums From Home (Episode 136)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 136, Nashville drummer Tony Morra, a pioneer of home drum tracking, shares how to record drums at home that sound pro, learn both sides of the glass, and put yourself out there.
EP 135Viktor Krauss on the Business of Being a Session Bassist (Episode 135)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 135, Nashville bassist Viktor Krauss, Lyle Lovett's bassist since 1994, talks union pay, landing the gig you want, knowing your limits, home recording and real estate as a second income.
EP 134Eric Darken on Building a Session Musician Career (Episode 134)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 134, percussionist Eric Darken (Taylor Swift, Bob Seger, Jimmy Buffett) shares how diversity, preparation and serving the music built his session musician career.
EP 133Scott Francisco on Becoming a Music Editor for Film and TV (Episode 133)
Work begets work. In Episode 133, composer, guitarist and music editor Scott Francisco tells Nomad how he built a career from cartage driver to Malcolm in the Middle by learning everything and saying yes.
EP 132Ashley Jarmack on Building a Session Woodwind Career in LA (Episode 132)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 132, LA woodwind specialist Ashley Jarmack shares how a session musician builds a niche, beats imposter syndrome and treats the body as the instrument.
EP 131Jordan Seigel: The Piano Behind Snoopy in Space (Episode 131)
Work begets work. In Episode 131, composer, orchestrator and pianist Jordan Seigel shares how a film composer career comes together in LA, from Glee and The X Factor to Snoopy in Space.
EP 130The Planets Reimagined: Jeremy Levy on a Career as a Film Orchestrator (Episode 130)
Work begets work. In Episode 130, Grammy-nominated composer, arranger and orchestrator Jeremy Levy shares how he built a film orchestration career in LA and kept a passion project alive.
EP 129Keeping the Gig for 28 Years: Joseph Wooten on Life as a Sideman (Episode 129)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 129, Steve Miller Band keyboardist Joseph Wooten shares how he has kept the gig since 1993, and why real success is measured in who you are.
EP 128Conversations: Gorden Campbell on a Career as a Session Drummer (Episode 128)
Work begets work. In Episode 128, drummer and producer Gorden Campbell shares how being cool, versatile and ready kept him working for nearly 30 years, and why he bet on his own studio.
EP 127The Woodshed: Andy Wood on Guitar Practice, Auditions and Your Brand (Episode 127)
Luck = preparation + opportunity. In Episode 127, guitarist Andy Wood explains why he never practiced exercises, how word of mouth led to Rascal Flatts, and why your brand matters.
EP 126You're Gonna Sound Like You: Tony Shepperd on Recording Vocals (Episode 126)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 126, legendary engineer and producer Tony Shepperd shares how relationships built his career and how to record vocals at home.
EP 125Scoring The Queen's Gambit: Carlos Rafael Rivera on Film Composing (Episode 125)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 125, Emmy-nominated composer Carlos Rafael Rivera shares how mentorship, humility and teaching led to scoring The Queen's Gambit.
EP 124Mobile Sessions: Hufenbecher and Moran on a Studio on Wheels (Episode 124)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 124, recorded inside their RV studio, Mobile Sessions founders Christine Hufenbecher and Kenny Moran share how they built a sustainable mobile recording business.
EP 123How Music Licensing Works: Jennifer Smith on Sync for Film and TV (Episode 123)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 123, music supervisor Jennifer Smith of Rat Dance Party explains how sync licensing for film and TV works and how to get your business buttoned up before you pitch.
EP 122How to Keep the Gig: Rich Redmond on 20 Years With Jason Aldean (Episode 122)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 122, Jason Aldean drummer Rich Redmond shares how over-preparation, the hang and loyalty kept him on the gig for more than 20 years.
EP 121Daydreaming With Discipline: Lili Haydn on Becoming a Film Composer (Episode 121)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 121, Grammy-winning violinist and composer Lili Haydn shares how saying yes, asking to open and falling in love with your star built her career.
EP 120Time Is Money: Lisa Dondlinger on Life as a Session Violinist (Episode 120)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 120, all-star violinist and concertmaster Lisa Dondlinger shares how she blurs classical and pop, leads a section, and stays first call in LA.
EP 119Win-Win Relationships: Dani Felt on How to Network in the Music Industry (Episode 119)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 119, artist and Music Industry Mastery founder Dani Felt shares how a blog, a firing and a lot of patience taught her to network by helping first.
EP 118Knock on Every Door: Michael Goldwasser on Becoming a Record Producer (Episode 118)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 118, Easy Star co-founder and Jason Mraz producer Michael Goldwasser shares how an indie reggae label, a lot of stamps and one dinner built his producing career.
EP 117Fall Forward: A Family of Career Musicians on Building a Career (Episode 117)
Get the gig. Keep the gig. Build the career. In Episode 117, singer Melanie Taylor, guitarist Terry Wollman and pianist Althea Waites share how a family of career musicians builds a sustainable music career.
EP 116Be So Good They Find You: Chastity Ashley on Drumming for Duran Duran (Episode 116)
Luck = preparation + opportunity. In Episode 116, drummer, percussionist and DJ Chastity Ashley shares how years of practice led to Duran Duran, and how she built her own hybrid show, Neon Pony.
EP 115No Such Thing as Oops: Ray Chew on How to Become a Music Director (Episode 115)
Luck = preparation + opportunity. In Episode 115, Dancing with the Stars music director Ray Chew shares how education, saying yes and daily discipline built a career in live television.
EP 114Work Backwards: Cheryl B. Engelhardt on an Indie Music Career System (Episode 114)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 114, composer, indie artist and coach Cheryl B. Engelhardt shares her five-phase success cycle, calendar rules and email lessons for independent musicians.
EP 113Bar Gig Habits: JP Castillo on Touring With J.Lo and The Jacksons (Episode 113)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 113, Latin urban pop artist and percussionist JP Castillo shares how pro habits and treating people right took him from church gigs to opening J.Lo's tour.
EP 112Lights, Camera, Success: Joe Willis and David Garcia on the Entertainment Industry (Episode 112)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 112, manager Joe Willis and director of photography David Garcia go behind the scenes of the entertainment industry: the grind, the ego trap, and why mastery keeps you working.
EP 111The Immediate Family: Russ Kunkel on How to Become a Session Musician (Episode 111)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 111, legendary drummer Russ Kunkel shares the simple creed behind a session career with James Taylor, Carole King and Bob Dylan: find out what's needed and get hired again.
EP 110Monetize Your Music: Rick Barker on Building a Fan Base That Pays (Episode 110)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 110, Rick Barker, Taylor Swift's former manager, explains how to monetize your music as an independent artist: treat it like a business, finish what you start and build a fan base that pays.
EP 109The Power of Positivity: José Elias and Richie Peña on Overcoming Adversity (Episode 109)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 109, saxophonist José Elias (EliSax) shares how he came back from a massive stroke to play a one-handed saxophone, with his best friend, drummer Richie Peña, telling the story from his side.
EP 108Everything Will Be Alright: Alfred Nomad on How to Be an Independent Artist (Episode 108)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 108, independent MC and activist Alfred Nomad shares how he pitches himself, manages his own career with no label or manager, and the mantra behind Everything Will Be Alright.
EP 107Dr. Waddles, I Presume: Brandon Waddles on How to Become a Music Director (Episode 107)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 107, Dr. Brandon Waddles, composer, educator and music director for Ledisi, on the zigzag path, communication and listening.
EP 106String Sessions From Anywhere: Nathalie Bonin on a Versatile Violin Career (Episode 106)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 106, violinist and composer Nathalie Bonin shares how she chose music over med school, broke out of the classical box, and records pro string sessions from anywhere.
EP 105From John Williams to Camila Cabello: Stevie Ray Hernandez on Session Percussion (Episode 105)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 105, LA percussionist Stevie Ray Hernandez shares how versatility, organic relationships and showing up early built a session percussion career from the LA Phil to pop TV.
EP 104Scoring Empire From Home: Fil Eisler on Becoming a Film and TV Composer (Episode 104)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 104, composer Fil Eisler shares his path from Robbie Williams's guitarist to scoring Empire: trusting your own voice, building a great team and learning to conduct by facing his fear.
EP 103Put Your Name on It: Richie Gajate-Garcia on a Percussionist Career (Episode 103)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 103, Phil Collins and Diana Ross percussionist Richie Gajate-Garcia shares how he turned an idea into a royalty, why no sideman gig is forever, and how to sub with integrity.
EP 102Low Cut Connie's Adam Weiner on Becoming a Full-Time Musician (Episode 102)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 102, Low Cut Connie's Adam Weiner shares the long road from piano bars to his own career, and why hostile audiences made him.
EP 101Find You: Dave Koz on a 30-Year Music Career (Episode 101)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 101, saxophonist Dave Koz shares the sideman moment that changed him, the Stevie Wonder session that defines excellence, and the best advice he ever got.
EP 100100 Episodes: Nomad on How to Become a Session Musician (Episode 100)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 100, the TCM team interviews Nomad himself: the residency, the niche, the calls and the audition that built his career.
EP 99Make It Sound Like the Record: Harvey Mason Jr. on Music Production (Episode 99)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 99, producer and Recording Academy leader Harvey Mason Jr. shares how jingles started his career, the Motown lesson that changed his demos, and why excellence is the only marketing.
EP 98Sync Licensing for Musicians: Kristina Benson of Sweet On Top (Episode 98)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 98, Sweet On Top founder Kristina Benson breaks down sync licensing for musicians: masters and compositions, PROs, standing out of the mushy middle and working with an agency.
EP 97The Gift Is Time: Zito on Tour Production Management and the Pivot (Episode 97)
Luck = preparation + opportunity. In Episode 97, tour production manager Zito (Ariana Grande, Backstreet Boys, OneRepublic) shares how he pivoted when touring stopped, and how to lead a crew of strong personalities.
EP 96Confident, Firm, Likable: Chris Lisle on Lighting and Touring (Episode 96)
Work begets work. In Episode 96, lighting designer and production manager Chris Lisle (Robert Plant, Keith Urban, Babyface) shares how he designs a tour, leads a crew and helps touring pros plan for the long run.
EP 95Say Yes and Pivot: Victor Indrizzo on a Session Drummer Career (Episode 95)
Work begets work. In Episode 95, session drummer Victor Indrizzo (Alanis Morissette, Scott Weiland, Lizzo, Beck) shares how saying yes, versatility and recovery shaped a career built on letting the music talk.
EP 94Write Your Way Out: Damon Thomas on How to Become a Music Producer (Episode 94)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 94, six-time Grammy winner Damon Thomas of The Underdogs explains why every era means starting over, the difference between a beat maker and a producer, and why talent alone is not enough.
EP 93Don't Diminish Your Value: Keith Nelson on Musicians Union Benefits (Episode 93)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 93, recorded on a soundcheck break at a David Foster gig, bassist Keith Nelson makes the case for getting involved in your musicians union, and Nomad shares what it has paid him.
EP 92When Johnny Cash Calls: Mac McDonnell on Life on a Concert Tour Crew (Episode 92)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 92, Nomad's road mentor Mac McDonnell, who toured with Johnny Cash, John Denver, Paul Simon and Kirk Whalum, shares what life on a concert tour crew teaches about patience, respect and reliability.
EP 91Answer the Email: Molly Miller on How a Session Guitarist Gets Work (Episode 91)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 91, Jason Mraz guitarist and LACM guitar chair Dr. Molly Miller explains why answering emails, playing casuals and showing up for your community get you more work than chops.
EP 90Bet on Yourself: KEM on Building an Independent Music Career (Episode 90)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 90, R&B star KEM tells Nomad how he built an independent music career from the trunk of his car in Detroit to Motown, and why you should let your yes be yes.
EP 89Time, Feel and Function: Matt Rollings on a Session Musician Career (Episode 89)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 89, Grammy-winning producer and Lyle Lovett keyboardist Matt Rollings explains how session careers used to be built in Nashville, the three skills that still matter, and how he backed into being an artist.
EP 88Find Your Light: Matthew Weiss on Building a Mixing Engineer Career (Episode 88)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 88, Akon's right-hand engineer Matthew Weiss explains how he built a mixing engineer career in LA: a real plan, an open studio door, reliability and follow-up with value.
EP 87Know Your Worth: Lucy Woodward on a Professional Singer Career (Episode 87)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 87, singer-songwriter Lucy Woodward, of Rod Stewart, Snarky Puppy and Charlie Hunter fame, gets real about knowing your worth, saying yes as the sub and leaving a gig well.
EP 86It's Not About You: Walfredo Reyes Jr. on Becoming a Professional Drummer (Episode 86)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 86, Walfredo Reyes Jr., drummer for Chicago and Santana, Steve Winwood and Lindsey Buckingham alum, shares how to become a professional drummer and keep the gig for decades: rudiments, paying dues, listening and serving the music.
EP 85Madonna and Beyond: Brian Frasier-Moore on the Business of Drumming (Episode 85)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 85, drummer Brian Frasier-Moore (Madonna, Justin Timberlake, Janet Jackson) talks preparation, endorsements and treating your career like a business.
EP 84Stevie Wonder's Guitar Ace: Errol Cooney on Session Guitar Prep (Episode 84)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 84, Errol Cooney, guitarist for Stevie Wonder, Janet Jackson and Christina Aguilera, shares how he prepares, reads and serves the music.
EP 83From Bossa to Samba: Sandro Rebel on Reinventing Your Career (Episode 83)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 83, Brazilian keyboard player and composer Sandro Rebel talks reinvention, moving to America, versatility and building a new income stream.
EP 82From Janet to Gaga: Jae Deal on Music Industry Relationships (Episode 82)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 82, producer, keyboardist and bassist Jae Deal (Janet Jackson, Lady Gaga, Elton John) talks relationships, integrity and rebuilding a career.
EP 81YouTube University: Wavy Wayne on How to Become an Audio Engineer (Episode 81)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 81, engineer and YouTube educator Wavy Wayne (Jim Jones, Future, Yo Gotti) shares how he broke in, studio etiquette and running mixing like a business.
EP 80The Career Dancer: Michelle Elkin on Building a Performing Career (Episode 80)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 80, choreographer Michelle Elkin (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Younger, Annie) shows how the dancer's career and the musician's career run on the same rules.
EP 79Headroom: John Stoddart on Producing Vocals and Collaboration (Episode 79)
Work begets work. In Episode 79, Grammy-nominated producer, pianist and artist John Stoddart talks 20 years with Kirk Whalum, producing vocals and why music is relational.
EP 78Out of Hibernation: T. Bear on Relationships That Last a Lifetime (Episode 78)
Work begets work. In Episode 78, legendary career musician Richard T. Bear (Cher, Stephen Stills, Kiss) shares the stories behind his comeback single and why generosity builds careers.
EP 7725 Years of Ozomatli: Uli Bella on How to Keep a Band Together (Episode 77)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 77, Ozomatli founding member Uli Bella shares how equal splits, a band mediator and a killer live show kept six original members together for 25 years.
EP 76Beyoncé's Secret Weapon: Marta Sofia Honer on Session String Work (Episode 76)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 76, violinist and violist Marta Sofia Honer shares how she went from classical training to LA session work and stages with Beyoncé and Mariah Carey.
EP 75Keep the Gig: Sean Hurwitz on Being a Hired Gun Guitarist (Episode 75)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 75, Smash Mouth and Enrique Iglesias guitarist Sean Hurwitz shares how a hired gun guitarist gets the call, keeps the gig and diversifies.
EP 74Dr. Dre's Countryman: Curt Chambers on Sideman to Artist (Episode 74)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 74, guitarist, songwriter and producer Curt Chambers talks Philly roots, working with Dr. Dre and Eminem, and his move into country music.
EP 73Unstoppable: Ericka Guitron on Touring With Jason Derulo (Episode 73)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 73, singer Ericka Guitron shares what a shelved record deal and a Jason Derulo world tour taught her.
EP 72Same Name, Different Game: Steve Sinatra on Being a Music Director (Episode 72)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 72, drummer and music director Steve Sinatra (Hunter Hayes, Little Big Town) shares the traits that make an MD and why your gift is not your identity.
EP 71The Queen of Jazz Funk: Maysa Leak on the Independent Artist Business (Episode 71)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 71, Grammy nominee Maysa Leak shares how she went from Stevie Wonder and Incognito to running her own label and building a brand as an independent artist.
EP 70I Wrote That: J. Que Smith on Songwriting and Knowing Your Why (Episode 70)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 70, hit songwriter Patrick "J. Que" Smith shares how The Clutch got booked year round, magicians vs scientists, and why every songwriter must know their why.
EP 69How to Get a Gear Endorsement: Larry Klenc of McPherson Guitars (Episode 69)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 69, McPherson Guitars A&R man Larry Klenc explains how to get a gear endorsement, how to keep one, and why the NAMM Show is the wrong place to ask.
EP 68Always Ready: Erskine Hawkins on Being a First Call Keyboard Player (Episode 68)
Luck = preparation + opportunity. In Episode 68, keyboardist Erskine Hawkins (Babyface, Rihanna, Eminem) shares how he prepares, negotiates, saves money and stays first call.
EP 67Make Them Want You Back: Kevin Chokan on How to Keep a Gig (Episode 67)
Low maintenance / no drama. In Episode 67, guitarist Kevin Chokan, discovered by George Duke at 22, shares how to keep a gig for decades, play for the song and lead as music director.
EP 66Real Musicians Don't Starve: Michael Elsner on Music Licensing (Episode 66)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 66, Michael Elsner, with more than 2,200 sync placements, explains how music licensing works and how to get your music on TV and film.
EP 65Never Afraid of No: Chloe Flower on Running Your Music Career Like a Business (Episode 65)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 65, pianist Chloe Flower tells Nomad how a 3 a.m. email got her signed by Babyface, why she first said no to Cardi B's Grammy gig, and how to run your music career like a business.
EP 64Play the One Note That Matters: Joe Augello on How to Negotiate as a Session Guitarist (Episode 64)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 64, Robin Thicke guitarist Joe Augello and Nomad talk riffs, finding your own voice, stage volume, and how to negotiate as a sideman.
EP 63It’s Not Been Done by You: Sunna Wehrmeijer on How to Become a Film Composer (Episode 63)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 63, composer Sunna Wehrmeijer tells Nomad how internships, assistant gigs and one early-morning placeholder vocal took her from the Netherlands to scoring DreamWorks series and singing in The Hunger Games.
EP 62Put the Music First: Fishbone’s Norwood Fisher on Advice for Young Bands (Episode 62)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 62, Fishbone bassist Norwood Fisher tells Nomad how the band found its sound, survived the road, and why every young band should talk to a lawyer.
EP 61Say Yes, Then Back It Up: Jason Hartless on How to Become a Session Drummer (Episode 61)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 61, Ted Nugent drummer Jason Hartless tells Nomad how professional communication, saying yes, and studio etiquette took him from touring at 12 to a career as a touring and session drummer.
EP 60Be On Time, Be Likable: Dwayne Smitty Smith on Life as a Touring Bass Player (Episode 60)
Low maintenance / no drama. In Episode 60, bassist Dwayne Smitty Smith tells Nomad how a D.C. go-go groove, a year of life school in LA and a simple road code built his career as a touring bass player.
EP 59Sell Yes: Carl Rydlund on Building a Film Music Career (Episode 59)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 59, orchestrator, conductor and session guitarist Carl Rydlund tells Nomad how he built a film music career in LA by selling yes, playing the long game and never making excuses.
EP 58Make It Easy to Hire You: Tariqh Akoni on Being a Professional Guitarist (Episode 58)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 58, Josh Groban MD Tariqh Akoni tells Nomad what it really takes to be a professional guitarist, from making the singer sound better to making it easy to get paid.
EP 57Learn the Craft So You Can Always Work: Steve Postell on Building a Versatile Music Career (Episode 57)
Luck = preparation + opportunity. In Episode 57, Steve Postell of The Immediate Family tells Nomad how a decision at 16 to learn the craft led to Broadway, session work and a versatile music career that lasts.
EP 56Rehearse Until You Hate It: Waddy Wachtel on the Session Guitarist’s Life (Episode 56)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 56, Waddy Wachtel tells Nomad about the phone that stops ringing, serving the song, rehearsing until you hate it, and why a session guitarist almost never says no.
EP 55Make Them Glad to See You Coming: Danny Kortchmar on a Session Guitarist Career (Episode 55)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 55, Danny “Kootch” Kortchmar talks no plan B, playing the song instead of shredding, learning on Carole King’s demos, and why perfect is not the essence of great music.
EP 54Say Yes, Then Figure It Out: Nicole Row on How to Become a Touring Bassist (Episode 54)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 54, bassist Nicole Row talks Fresno to MI, saying yes before she was ready, Warped Tour reality, and how a Fender rep and a five-hour hang landed her the Panic! at the Disco gig.
EP 53One Percent Better Every Day: Raul Ferrando on String Arranging Tips (Episode 53)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 53, Argentine composer and arranger Raul Ferrando shares string arranging tips, why the vocal is king, and why the session atmosphere is so fragile.
EP 52Never Say ‘We Made It’: Daryl Simmons on Songwriting and Co-Writing (Episode 52)
Work begets work. In Episode 52, recorded at the airport in Narita, Japan, Daryl Simmons, the Silent Partner, talks 47 years of co-writing with Babyface, producing Aretha Franklin, and why you never say you made it.
EP 51Be Where You Say You’ll Be: Xander Smith and Baron Grafft on Managing Your Music Career (Episode 51)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 51, guitarist and road manager Xander Smith and his friend Baron Grafft talk Herb Alpert, Russian arenas, trusting your gut and the sales side of managing your music career.
EP 50It Takes a Village: Christian Swain and Jerry Danielsen on Building a Music Podcast Network (Episode 50)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 50, Pantheon Podcast Network CEO Christian Swain and engineer Jerry Danielsen tell Nomad how two LA rock band rivals found their way back to music and built a music-only podcast network.
EP 49It’s Called Rock ’n’ Roll: Kevin Martin of Candlebox on Building a Rock Band That Lasts (Episode 49)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 49, Candlebox frontman Kevin Martin tells Nomad about opening for Rush and Metallica, getting platinum plaques from Madonna, and why respect decides whether a rock band lasts.
EP 48You’re Not the Artist: Dmitry Gorodetsky on Life as a Touring Bassist (Episode 48)
Work begets work. In Episode 48, Charlie Puth bassist Dmitry Gorodetsky tells Nomad why it’s not who you know but who knows you, how to conduct yourself on tour, and how to negotiate your rate without losing the gig.
EP 47The Cliche Is the Job: Derek Jones of Megatrax on How Production Music Libraries Work (Episode 47)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 47, Megatrax’s Derek Jones explains how production music libraries work and how composers and players can get their music licensed for TV and film.
EP 46Not About the Licks: Tim Stewart on Being a Touring and Session Guitarist (Episode 46)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 46, Lady Gaga guitarist Tim Stewart tells Nomad how learning the material, being on time and serving the record kept him working with Gaga, Rihanna, Britney Spears and more.
EP 45Modern Renaissance Man: Jack Piatt on Jammcard and Building Music Community (Episode 45)
Work begets work. In Episode 45, Jammcard's Jack Piatt traces his path from paratrooper to nightclub GM to building an invite-only community for professional musicians, and explains how to earn your way in.
EP 44Turnin’ the Tables: DJ K Yung on Building a DJ Career From the Ground Up (Episode 44)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 44, DJ K Yung joins Nomad and the Lovely Lola to share how she became a DJ on purpose, why mixing beats scratching for a career, and how one radio mix became a monthly show.
EP 43Who’s Got the Time: Soundbrenner’s Florian Simmendinger on Practicing With a Vibrating Metronome (Episode 43)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 43, recorded at NAMM 2020, Soundbrenner founder Florian Simmendinger explains how a teacher's tap on the shoulder became a wearable metronome, and how to get used to feeling the click.
EP 42The Hollywood Score: Tim Davies on Orchestrating and Conducting for Film (Episode 42)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 42, Hollywood orchestrator and conductor Tim Davies takes you onto the scoring stage: writing parts players can sight-read, studio etiquette from the podium, and fixing a cue in front of 75 musicians.
EP 41The Low Down: Derek Frank on Life as a Touring and Session Bassist (Episode 41)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 41, bassist Derek Frank shares how he juggles Gwen Stefani and Shania Twain, how to sub out a big gig, and why reading the room is the whole job.
EP 40Always Be Writing: Manuel Romero on Building a Latin Singer-Songwriter Career (Episode 40)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 40, the season three premiere, Latin crooner Manuel Romero tells Nomad about growing up on mariachi, getting discovered by Narada Michael Walden at a Vegas showcase, America’s Got Talent, and building the team behind “Aquí Me Tienes.”
EP 39Drummers Unite: Richie Pena, James Agnew, Rashid Williams on Pricing, Endorsements and Camaraderie (Episode 39)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 39, Nomad is outnumbered at the catering table in Chicago by Richie Pena, James Agnew, Rashid Williams and more, talking drum endorsements, double dipping, undercutting the market, and why drummers all get along.
EP 38Hired for How You Think: Rick Watford on Session Guitar Etiquette (Episode 38)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 38, gospel session guitarist Rick Watford tells Nomad why you get hired for how you think, not how you play, plus studio etiquette, uneven months, and the 15 minute session that put him in a movie.
EP 37Constructive Blowouts: DW3 on Keeping an R&B Band Together for 25 Years (Episode 37)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 37, Nomad sits down with R&B vocal group DW3 (Down With Three) between sets at their Spaghettini’s residency to talk about learning the business, getting seen, and keeping a band together.
EP 36Strength to Climb: LA Williams on Keeping a Music Career Through Kidney Failure (Episode 36)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 36, gospel quartet guitarist LA Williams, the Miracle Guitar Man, tells Nomad how he kept his music career going through dialysis and a kidney transplant, and what his mentor Spanky Alford taught him about life.
EP 35Never Say More Than Necessary: Philip Lassiter on Getting the Prince Gig as a Horn Arranger (Episode 35)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 35, Philip “Philthy” Lassiter, horn section leader for Prince, tells Nomad about six months of unpaid homework, a silent meeting at Paisley Park, and how a horn arranger negotiates and keeps the work coming.
EP 34Lucky, Good, Made: Rodney Alejandro on TV Theme Songs and Touring With The Script (Episode 34)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 34, Rodney Alejandro, music director for The Script and writer of The Shield theme, talks writing TV theme songs, touring and studio etiquette, and setting up the business side.
EP 33No Time Like the Present: Clifton Williams Asks Nomad for Music Career Advice in Your Twenties (Episode 33)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 33, Babyface keyboardist Clifton Williams asks Nomad what a 26-year-old musician should be doing now, and gets a plan: brand, self-management, money and consistency.
EP 32Be the Gig: Darryl Williams on Getting Radio Play as an Independent Artist (Episode 32)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 32, bassist Darryl Williams, a smooth jazz sideman turned chart-topping solo artist, shares how he built his own radio campaign, turned airplay into gigs, and why you have to be the gig.
EP 31Use the Downtime: Ziggy Diaz on How Musicians Can Diversify Their Income (Episode 31)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 31, Ziggy Beats, Babyface’s playback engineer and stage manager, shares how learning every DAW, wearing many hats and studying during tour downtime help musicians diversify their income.
EP 30Drum Time: Frank “Third” Richardson on Becoming a Working Drummer People Call (Episode 30)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 30, drummer Frank “Third” Richardson tells Nomad how to stop being a disposable chair: burn no bridges, follow up, be ready on drum time, play the space and build a brand that is just you.
EP 29On Time Is Late: Rickey Minor on What It Takes to Be a Music Director (Episode 29)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 29, Emmy-winning music director Rickey Minor, caught alone practicing at Center Staging, explains how an MD sees the field, why you drop comparison, and why not everybody gets invited back.
EP 28Do the Temple Work: Nathan East and Tom Keane on an A-List Music Career (Episode 28)
Work begets work. In Episode 28, an unplanned studio hang with bassist Nathan East and producer Tom Keane turns into an A-list perspective on musicianship, motivation and keeping your word.
EP 27Nobody Plays You Like You: Wayne Linsey on Session Musician Etiquette and Live TV (Episode 27)
Reliability beats virtuosity. In Episode 27, keyboardist Wayne Linsey tells Nomad why there is no competition between players, how to lose your attachment in the studio, and what live TV really demands.
EP 26Many Lanes, One Career: Catharine Wood on Running a Recording Studio Business (Episode 26)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 26, Planetwood Studios owner Catharine Wood, who engineered the first iPhone commercial, talks lanes, flexibility, studio etiquette and why vibe is everything.
EP 25Keep Your Publishing: Derek “DOA” Allen on Going From Bass Player to Record Producer (Episode 25)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 25, Derek “DOA” Allen tells Nomad how he went from Janet Jackson’s bassist to record producer, kept his publishing, and negotiated his way back onto the Lionel Richie gig.
EP 24Breathe When the Red Light Is On: Nate Morton on Being a TV House Band Drummer (Episode 24)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 24, The Voice drummer Nate Morton tells Nomad how versatility, studio flexibility and a little breathing on the snare head keep a TV house band drummer working.
EP 23Nobody Asked Him To: Michael Raphael on Getting Into Production Music Libraries (Episode 23)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 23, Michael Raphael tells Nomad how he went from the bands Jailhouse and Neve to production music, and why he never waits to be asked.
EP 22Your Gig Is Your Next Audition: Elvin Ross on How to Become a Film Composer (Episode 22)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 22, composer Elvin Ross tells Nomad how a church piano gig led to scoring Tyler Perry’s plays, films and TV shows, and why the work you deliver today is your audition for the next one.
EP 21Think Like the Bandleader: Dave Hooper on a Session Drummer’s Career (Episode 21)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 21, a two-part conversation, LA session and touring drummer Dave Hooper tells Nomad how to think like the bandleader, when to walk from a gig, why to play the song, and why he built Possible Chops.
EP 20United We Stand: John Acosta on Why Musicians Should Join the Union (Episode 20)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 20, AFM Local 47 president John Acosta breaks down scale, pension, health, special payments and the complaints players have about the union.
EP 19Going Viral: Marty Schwartz on How He Built a YouTube Guitar Channel (Episode 19)
Luck = preparation + opportunity. In Episode 19, Marty Music’s Marty Schwartz tells how a guitar teacher’s practice videos turned into one of the biggest YouTube guitar channels, and why it all comes back to sales and marketing.
EP 18Out of the Valley: Doug E. Fresh on Discipline and Positive Energy for Musicians (Episode 18)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 18, Nomad catches up backstage with hip hop pioneer Doug E. Fresh on pulling yourself out of emotional valleys, discipline and why every show is a collective.
EP 17Character Over Chops: Adam Blackstone on What Music Directors Look For (Episode 17)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 17, Nomad sits down with Adam Blackstone at Centerstaging to talk about what music directors look for, why he calls the same players, tour etiquette and running music like a business.
EP 16Awareness, Acceptance, Demand: Josh Pegram on Music Branding for Musicians (Episode 16)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 16, recorded during a Tommy Sims session at Sunset Sound, branding specialist Josh Pegram breaks down awareness, acceptance and demand, and why over-posting dilutes your brand.
EP 15Excellence Is a Habit: Jason Land on Building a Music Teaching Business (Episode 15)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 15, Guitar Ninjas founder Jason Land talks finding your lane, East Coast hustle, never acting out of desperation and why excellence is a habit.
EP 14From Sideman to Center Stage: Michael Manson on Marketing Your Music (Episode 14)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 14, bassist Michael Manson talks moving from sideman to solo artist: social media campaigns, radio promotion, booking agents and building a team that tells you the truth.
EP 13You Never Know Who You’ll Meet: Cecil Guyton on Music History and Reverence (Episode 13)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 13, a car ride in Chicago turns into a music history lesson as Cecil Guyton talks Eddie Kendricks, the Commodores, the Chitlin’ Circuit, adapting to technology and why reverence matters.
EP 12One Shot, Full Confidence: Mark Phillips on Becoming a TV Composer (Episode 12)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 12, punk guitarist turned TV composer Mark Phillips talks confidence on the first pass, publishing, and the moves that put him on The Amazing Race and Survivor.
EP 11Supply and Demand: Babyface’s Cast and Crew on the Music Business Behind the Scenes (Episode 11)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 11, Nomad goes backstage with Babyface’s cast and crew to talk supply and demand, price cutting and why there is no substitute for the live show.
EP 10Treat Your Music Like It Matters: Jason Moss on Music Licensing for Musicians (Episode 10)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 10, Supersonic Noise founder Jason Moss breaks down music licensing for musicians with Nomad: publishing vs. writer’s share, work for hire vs. sync splits, cue sheets, and why relationships and follow-up keep you working.
EP 9Content and Delivery: Kirk Whalum on the Solo Career vs. the Sideman Gig (Episode 9)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 9, saxophonist Kirk Whalum tells Nomad how getting dropped by Columbia led to the Gospel According to Jazz, how he weighed the Whitney Houston gig against his solo career, and why social media is both avenue and distraction.
EP 8Pick Your Fix: Dale & Mark Ranz on Career Direction from the Cockpit (Episode 8)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 8, Nomad rides in the jump seat of a private jet with pilots Dale and Mark Ranz and pulls out lessons on career direction for musicians.
EP 7Pick Seven Cities: Tommy Sims on Independent Artist Marketing and Songwriting (Episode 7)
Make Music Your Business. In Episode 7, Nomad reconnects with Tommy Sims on a session at Israel Houghton’s house to talk independent artist marketing, switching lanes, songwriting and why you should never discount what you do.
EP 6Freedom Within a Framework: Ruslan Sirota on Building a Versatile Music Career (Episode 6)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 6, pianist Ruslan Sirota tells Nomad about secret lessons in the Soviet Union, a full ride to Berklee, gigs with Stanley Clarke and Seal, and why what you love should guide your practice.
EP 5Hiring Is Casting: John Powell on Session Work for a Film Composer (Episode 5)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 5, recorded during guitar overdubs for Ferdinand, film composer John Powell tells Nomad why hiring session musicians is casting, why his only responsibility is the film, and why versatility is a strength.
EP 4Don’t Kick the Can Down the Road: Bernie Boyle on Tour Manager Advice (Episode 4)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 4, legendary tour manager Bernie Boyle tells Nomad how he went from carrying gear for The Beatles at the Cavern to touring with Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson, and why you should check everything yourself.
EP 3The Three-Foot Rule: Joel Stevenett on How a Session Drummer Gets the Gig (Episode 3)
Everything you do is an audition. In Episode 3, drummer to the stars Joel Stevenett tells Nomad how the three-foot rule, one bold phone call and a gracious exit from a cut-short audition landed him a gig, plus the metronome lesson that changed his time.
EP 2Healthy Road Life: Tyrone Mattner and Gareth Katzew on Staying Fit on Tour (Episode 2)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music, or how to stay healthy doing it. In Episode 2, Nomad talks with bodyguards Tyrone Mattner and Gareth Katzew in South Africa about diet, training and sleep on the road.
EP 1Rules of the Road: The Babyface Band and Crew on Touring Etiquette (Episode 1)
You learned how to make music. Nobody taught you how to make a living making music. In Episode 1, Nomad rides home from a gig with the Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds band and crew and gets the unwritten rules of touring etiquette: lobby call, bunks, bus drivers, crew and per diems.