🎙 Tunepact Podcast: The Music Marketing Playbook 🎶

🎙 Tunepact Podcast: The Music Marketing Playbook 🎶

by Tunepact

Marketing Music

Season 1

Creative Evolution in the Independent Music Scene with Michael Grover

🚀 In this episode, we sit down with Michael Grover, the creative force behind the genre-bending project Bag Lady. In this deep dive, we explore Bag Lady’s shift from a solo endeavor to a full-band powerhouse, the importance of personal connection in the digital age, and the powerful role of sobriety in fueling long-term creativity. 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ From Solo to Squad: Why Michael decided to step back from playing every instrument to bring in a full band—and how this new direction is elevating their sound. ✅ The Human Touch: Why Bag Lady chooses to handle every DM, merch order, and conversation personally rather than hiding behind "professional" barriers. ✅ Staying Grounded: A candid look at the importance of sobriety and how it reshapes an artist’s perspective and output in the music industry. ✅ Supporting Local Hubs: The vital role of local staples like Siren Records and how community-driven record stores keep the underground alive. ✅ Direct-to-Fan Success: How to use your website and email lists to bypass the algorithms and keep your fans in the loop. 🔥 WHY LISTEN? If you’re an independent artist trying to find the balance between personal growth and musical ambition, Michael’s story is a masterclass in Authenticity and Intentionality. We discuss: ✅ The "Unprofessional" Advantage: Why being "in charge of everything" and talking to fans directly is actually your biggest marketing strength. ✅Evolution of Sound: Navigating the transition into new creative directions without losing your core identity. ✅The Artist's Mindset: Why being "nice to each other" isn't just a cliché—it’s the only way to build a scene that lasts. If you’re looking for a blueprint on how to stay DIY while growing your impact in 2026, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now and join the Tunepact community! 👉 Support the Band: Grab merch and join the inner circle at bagladymusic.com or follow them on Instagram @bag_lady413. 🔔 Subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Don't forget to like, share, and leave us your feedback! . . . #tunepactpodcast #hadiheidari #baglady #michaelgrover #diyculture #sirenrecords #mchenrymusic #indieartist #musicmarketing #soberartist #punkrock #musicbusiness #supportlocalmusic #independentmusician

🎙️ How Street-Punk Icons—Kids On Fire—Made It to 20 Years

🚀 In this episode, we sit down with Seattle’s own melodic street-punk sweethearts, Kids On Fire. Hailing from the rainy streets of the PNW, these guys have spent nearly two decades perfecting their signature "Bummercore" sound—a unique blend of depressing lyrics that somehow sound incredibly perky. Known for their explosive live energy and deep roots in the community, they are the living embodiment of the "This Is Family" ethos. 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ The 20-Year Blueprint: How to maintain a band's longevity and creative spark for two decades without losing your soul. ✅ Defining "Bummercore": A deep dive into their signature sound—why catchy, high-velocity punk is the perfect vessel for raw, emotional storytelling. ✅ "This Is Family": Why building a genuine community and being "nice to each other" is the secret weapon for independent success. ✅ Navigating the Seattle Scene: How the band has evolved alongside one of the world's most iconic music hubs while staying fiercely DIY. ✅ The Power of Physical Media: Why vinyl, CDs, and tangible merch still matter in a digital world (and where to find the best Kids On Fire gear). 🔥 WHY LISTEN? If you’re an artist wondering how to stay relevant and resilient in an ever-changing industry, this episode is a masterclass in Authenticity and Endurance. Hadi and the band discuss: ✅ How to bridge the gap between "DIY" punk roots and professional consistency. ✅ Why your "Story" and community are the backbone of your marketing. ✅ How to survive the "ups and downs" of the road while keeping the music fun. If you're an independent musician looking to build a sustainable, lifelong career in 2026, this is your blueprint. 🎧 Listen now and join the Tunepact community! 👉 Support the Band: Grab vinyl, CDs, and shirts at kids_on_fire_seattle.bandcamp.com 🔔 Subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Don't forget to like, share, and leave us your feedback! . . . #tunepactpodcast #musicmarketing #hadiheidari #kidsonfire #seattlepunk #bummercore #streetpunk #pnwhardcore #independentartist #musicmarketing #poppunk #diypunk #musicbusiness #artistadvice

🎙️ Gas Station Boner Pills: Creative Process for Music and Videos

🎙️ Gas Station Boner Pills: Creative Process for Music and Videos 🚀 In this high-octane episode, Leigh Pierce sits down with the Dirty South’s favorite party-punk 3.5-piece, Gas Station Boner Pills. While they might come off as the "clowns" of the scene, Misha, Sean, Sam, and Shilo are actually master-level creators who have cracked the code on high-volume production. Since 2022, they’ve dropped over 3 dozen music videos and dozens of singles—all while remaining fiercely independent. 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ High-Volume Creative Output: How the band utilizes their background in film to release over 36 music videos and 24 singles in record time. ✅ The "Serious" Business of Fun: Why treating your "unserious" art with professional seriousness is the secret to longevity and quality control. ✅ The Brett Gurewitz (Bad Religion) Advice: A raw look at the most important rule for indie success: "Don’t break up." ✅ Content as an Escape: Navigating the current cultural "shit show" by creating a fun, welcoming space for fans without sacrificing artistic integrity. ✅ The "SIMPhony" Workflow: A look behind the scenes at the creative process for their upcoming LP and how they manage consistent branding across multiple platforms. 🔥 WHY LISTEN? If you’re an artist struggling to stay prolific, this episode is a masterclass in the Creative Process for Music and Videos. Leigh and the band discuss: ✅ How to bridge the gap between "DIY" antics and "Data-Driven" professionalism. ✅ Why your "Story" is the backbone of your marketing—especially when your brand is bold and risky. ✅ How to maintain high quality while moving at the speed of social media. If you're an independent musician looking to build a sustainable career through consistent, creative content in 2026, this is your blueprint. 🎧 Listen now and join the Tunepact community! 🔔 Subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Don't forget to like, share, and leave us your feedback! . . . #TunepactPodcast #GasStationBonerPills #CreativeProcess #MusicVideos #IndieArtist #MusicMarketing #PartyPunk #SaaSLabel #LeighPierce #BandHustle #ArtistDevelopment #DirtySouthMusic

How to Get Noticed in the Music Industry with Jake McLoud

🎙️ Jake McLoud: Branding, Networking & Building Music Communities 🚀 In this episode, we sit down with industry polymath Jake McLoud to discuss the "Trinity" of the modern music scene: Branding, Networking, and Marketing. Jake shares his unique journey through the music, management, and PR sides of the industry, offering a raw look at what it actually takes to build a lasting presence. 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ The Power of Community: Why "Building Bridges" is more effective than any paid ad campaign. ✅ The All-In-One Perspective: Insights from someone who has seen the industry from the artist, booking, promotion, and PR sides. ✅ Networking with Purpose: How Jake’s project 1876 helped him navigate the music scene with sobriety and intentionality. ✅ Authentic Branding: Why there is "no room" for negativity and how to build a brand that people actually feel welcomed into. 🔥 WHY LISTEN? If you’re an artist or industry professional looking to scale, Jake McLoud provides the blueprint for: ✅ High-level networking that feels natural ✅ Building a brand rooted in community and sobriety ✅ Navigating the industry from multiple professional angles If you're an independent artist or musician trying to get noticed in 2026, this episode is a must-watch! 🎧 Listen now and take the first step toward mastering your music marketing! 🔔 Subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Don't forget to like, share, and leave us some feedback! . . . #TunepactPodcast #MusicPodcast #MusicMarketing #JakeMcLoud #Branding #MusicIndustry #Networking #MusicCommunity #ArtistDevelopment #IndieArtist #IndependentArtist #MusicBusiness

🎙️ Punk Rock, Music Activism & Solidarity with Blind Adam

🎶 In this episode of the Tunepact Podcast, we sit down with Blind Adam (of Blind Adam and The Federal League) to discuss the powerful intersection of high-energy rock n' roll and "boots on the ground" community activism. From Chicago to the world, Adam shares how his music serves as a vehicle for solidarity and mutual aid. We dive into the band’s deep roots in the Chicago scene, their commitment to local organizations, and how they use their platform to support everything from anti-fascist movements to comrades in Minneapolis and beyond. This isn't just a conversation about music; it’s about how artists can be a direct force for change in their own communities. We also explore the importance of supporting independent creators through merch and vinyl—including their limited edition "Abolish ICE" shirts and live records—reminding us that every purchase helps fund the mission. 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ Art as Activism: How Blind Adam and The Federal League balance life as a punk band with direct community mutual aid work. ✅ The Power of Solidarity: Understanding the "solidarity forever" mindset and how it fuels creative and social movements. ✅ Supporting the Scene: Why buying merch and supporting local artists directly impacts community organizations. ✅ Chicago Roots: A look into the local organizations and projects that keep the band grounded and motivated. 🔥 WHY LISTEN? If you believe music should stand for something and want to know how to build a career rooted in values and community, this episode brings: ✅ Insights into "boots on the ground" music activism ✅ A guide to independent artist sustainability ✅ Authentic, high-stakes conversation about punk and justice 🎧 Tune in, hit like, subscribe, and share—and remember: have fun, be nice to each other, because if you don’t, there’s no fucking point. . . . #tunepactpodcast #blindadam #thefederalleague #punkrock #mutualaid #activism #independentartist #chicago-music #solidarity #rocknroll #antifascist #communityovercompetition #diy-musician

Touring, Folk Alliance & Music Connections with Cindy Emch (Emchy)

🎙️ Touring, Folk Alliance & Music Friendships with Emchy 🎶 In this episode of the Tunepact Podcast, we sit down with Emchy to talk about life on the road, the community-driven world of folk music, and the excitement of heading to Folk Alliance International in New Orleans. From playing multiple private showcases in one of the most music-rich cities in the world to upcoming shows in New York and the Bay Area, Emchy shares what it’s like navigating the touring circuit, building connections, and being part of a scene where collaboration and friendship matter just as much as the music. We also get into the power of artist relationships — including the sparkly, joyful energy of Paisley Fields — and how genuine community is often the heart of a lasting music career. This is a conversation about live music, creative momentum, and the people who make the journey worth it. 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ Folk Alliance Experience: What it means to showcase in New Orleans and be part of a global folk music gathering ✅ The Touring Life: Balancing multiple cities, showcases, and different performance settings ✅ Music Community: How friendships and artist connections shape opportunities and careers ✅ What’s Ahead: New York shows, Bay Area dates with Dagga Bondage, and more live music on the horizon 🔥 WHY LISTEN? If you’re a musician, fan of the folk/indie scene, or curious about how artists build careers through community and live performance, this episode brings: ✅ Real touring insight ✅ A look inside the folk music network ✅ Positive, artist-centered conversation 🎧 Tune in, hit like, subscribe, and share—and remember: have fun, be nice to each other, because if you don’t, there’s no freaking point. . . #TunepactPodcast #MusicMarketing #Touring #IndieArtist #IndependentArtist #Emchy #FolkAlliance #IndieFolk #TourLife #LiveMusic #MusicCommunity #DIYMusician #QueerCountry

Comics, Action Figures & DIY Art with Sawborg Destructo

🎙️ Comics, Action Figures & Staying the Same Weird Kid with Sawborg Destructo 🖍️ In this episode, Matt Maguire of Sawborg Destructo returns to the Tunepact Podcast to talk about the creative roots that shaped the band—comics, skating, wrestling, conventions, and building a world that feels authentic. From drawing comics as kids to turning that same DIY imagination into action figures, merch, live shows, and tours, Matt breaks down how staying true to that “15-year-old skater art kid” mindset has defined Sawborg Destructo’s brand and longevity. This is a conversation about making exactly what you would’ve wanted as a kid—and never growing out of it. 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ Creative Origins: How comics brought Matt and Hunter together and shaped everything that followed ✅ World-Building as Art: Why comics, figures, wrestling, and music all belong in the same universe ✅ Brand Without Compromise: Creating for yourself instead of chasing trends ✅ What’s Next: Spring tours, Phase 2 of the action figures, new music, and upgraded live shows 🔥 WHY LISTEN? If you’re an artist, musician, or fan who believes creativity should be fun, personal, and a little unhinged, this episode delivers: ✅ Genuine artist insight ✅ DIY inspiration ✅ A look ahead at a big year for Sawborg Destructo 🎧 Tune in, hit like, subscribe, and share—and remember: have fun, be nice to each other, because if you don’t, there’s no freaking point. . . #TunepactPodcast #SawborgDestructo #DIYArt #ComicsAndMusic #ActionFigures #IndieMusic #WorldBuilding #CreativeProcess #StayWeird

🎙️ Matt Maguire on Streaming Overload & Media Ownership

🎙️ Physical Media, Streaming Fatigue & What’s Next for Sawborg Destructo 📼 In this episode, Matt Maguire of Sawborg Destructo joins the show to talk about streaming overload, Netflix ads, and why owning your media still matters in an era of rented entertainment. From VHS tapes and burned DVDs to corporate consolidation and industry uncertainty, Matt shares an unfiltered take on how fans and artists are losing control—and why physical media remains king. 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ Streaming Burnout: How ads, content bloat, and algorithms are killing the viewing experience ✅ Physical Media Loyalty: Why VHS, DVDs, and Blu-rays still matter to artists and collectors ✅ Industry Reality Check: What media mergers and corporate chaos mean for creators ✅ What’s Next for Sawborg Destructo: Upcoming tours, secret projects, and the possible return of action figures 🔥 WHY LISTEN? If you’re a musician or fan who values ownership, control, and authenticity over convenience, this episode delivers: ✅ Honest industry insight ✅ Artist-first perspectives ✅ A sneak peek at what’s coming in 2026 🎧 Listen now—and stay tuned, because Matt will be back for a second episode. . . #TunepactPodcast #Streaming #PhysicalMedia #IndieMusic #StreamingCulture #DIYArtists #VHSForever #MusicIndustry #SawborgDestructo

🎙️ How 18 Fevers Keeps Punk Alive & Why Live Music Still Matters

🎙️ 18 Fevers: Community, Vinyl Dreams & Why Live Music Still Matters 🚀 In this episode, we sit down with 18 Fevers to talk about late nights, long drives, vinyl releases, and the reality of being a fan and an artist in today’s music scene. From joking about touring logistics to reflecting on why live music still hits differently, this conversation is equal parts fun, honest, and grounded. 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ The Reality of Touring: When FaceTime might beat a 16-hour drive ✅ Vinyl as a Milestone: Why physical releases still matter ✅ Fans First Mentality: Building real connections beyond the stage ✅ Loving Live Music (Without Burning Out): How artists and fans evolve 🔥 WHY LISTEN? If you love discovering bands with personality, humor, and heart, this episode delivers: ✅ Genuine conversation ✅ Indie band perspective ✅ A reminder of why music communities matter Whether you’re an independent artist, a die-hard fan, or someone who still believes in the magic of live music—this one’s for you. 🎧 Listen now and get to know 18 Fevers. . . #TunepactPodcast #MusicMarketing #IndieBand #18Fevers #VinylCulture #LiveMusic #PunkRock #IndieMusic #MusicCommunity #MusicBand #Musicians

Struggles, Mental Health, and Making Music That Heals — with Jennifer Alvarado

🚀 In this episode, we’re joined by Jennifer for a candid, fun, and refreshingly honest conversation about creativity, letting go of over-preparation, and discovering artists in real time. Sometimes the best interviews—and the best music—happen when you leave room for surprise. 💬 Jennifer opens up about what she’s currently working on in the studio, the struggles artists face behind the scenes, mental health, and how deeply personal experiences shape songs that connect on a human level. 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS: ✅ Learning as You Go: Why less preparation can lead to more genuine conversations ✅ Struggles & Mental Health: Honest reflections on navigating creativity, pressure, and emotional wellbeing ✅ Creating From Real Life: Turning personal stories into relatable music ✅ New Music on the Way: A look inside Jennifer’s upcoming EP Map of Broken Hearts ✅ Storytelling Through Songs: The inspiration behind the single My Daddy Doesn’t Like You 🔥 WHY LISTEN? If you’re an independent artist, songwriter, or music fan who values openness and real conversations, this episode gives you: ✅ Insight into an artist’s creative and emotional journey ✅ Reassurance that struggles and mental health challenges are part of the process ✅ A reminder that authenticity beats perfection ✅ A preview of new music worth keeping on your radar From studio updates to raw honesty about mental health, this episode is about staying curious, being kind to yourself, and making music that truly feels real. 🎧If you are an indie artist, listen now and connect with the story behind the songs. . . #tunepactpodcast #hadihheidari #musicpodcast #mentalhealthinmusic #artiststruggles #independentartist #songwriting #authenticmusic #newmusic #indiemusic #womeninmusic #artistjourney

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