House Music Connection

--Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmap Jason Merle and 4E&A Links https://www.instagram.com/jasonmerle_/ https://www.instagram.com/4eanda/ https://www.traxsource.com/label/57152/4e-and-a Summary In this episode of the House Music Connection podcast, Tony Fuel connects with Jason Merle: a house music artist, DJ, producer, and owner of 4E&A Records based in Fresno, CA. They discuss Jason's background in house music, the music scene in Fresno, and the challenges of running a record label. They also touch on the changing landscape of the music industry, the importance of artist experience, and the role of charts in promoting music. In this conversation, Tony Fuel and Jason Merle discuss the challenges of promoting and charting music in the digital age. They explore the role of charts in the industry and the motivations behind charting tracks. They also discuss the decline of music sales and the shift towards streaming, as well as the importance of supporting artists and the labor of love involved in the music industry. Takeaways Jason Merle started in house music in 1996 and has been involved in the Fresno music scene for many years. The music scene in Fresno is vibrant and diverse, with different crews focusing on various genres within the house scene. Starting his own label, 4E&A Records, allowed Jason to have creative control and learn about the process of releasing music. Promotion in the digital age has evolved, with social media and video snippets playing a larger role. The challenges of running a record label include managing artist expectations and finding the right balance between different ways of doing things. Traxsource charts can help get more exposure for music, but they are not the sole determinant of a track's success. Promoting and charting music in the digital age can be challenging due to the vast amount of music available. Charts can be helpful in gaining exposure and recognition, but their impact on sales is uncertain. The decline of music sales has shifted the focus towards other revenue streams, such as merchandise and live events. Authenticity and genuine support from other artists can be more valuable than chart positions. Throwing parties and organizing events can be a labor of love, and the focus should be on celebrating the music and the community. Receiving and listening to demos is an important part of the music industry, and it's crucial to provide timely and respectful feedback to aspiring artists. Chapters 0:00:00 Introduction and Background 0:03:03 The Fresno Music Scene 0:07:51 Starting 4E&A Records 0:13:19 The Changing Landscape of Music Promotion 0:15:43 Managing Artist Expectations 0:20:04 Keeping track of all the tasks 0:23:26 The Role of TraxSource Charts 0:30:20 Are Traxsource Charts Helpful? 0:33:31 The Challenge of Music Promotion in the Digital Age 0:41:41 The Decline of Music Sales and the Shift to Streaming 0:51:34 The Labor of Love in the Music Industry 0:59:27 The Importance of Listening to and Supporting Demos 1:02:38 Release Roadmap Template

Interview with DJ MJ, Founder of Back2houseradio.com [http://back2houseradio.com] || Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmap [https://tonyfuel.com/roadmap] DJ MJ Links https://back2houseradio.com/ [https://back2houseradio.com] https://www.youtube.com/@djmjofficial6141 [https://youtube.com/@djmjofficial6141] https://www.instagram.com/theofficialdjmj/ [https://instagram.com/theofficialdjmj/] https://www.traxsource.com/artist/281829/dj-mj?ipp=100 [https://traxsource.com/artist/281829/dj-mj?ipp=100] Summary DJ MJ, a versatile underground DJ, producer, promoter, and radio station owner, shares her journey and experiences in the house music scene. She recently started her own radio station, Back to House Radio, after broadcasting on MixLR. DJ MJ emphasizes the importance of supporting others in the industry and being a team player. She discusses the challenges she has faced, including threats and negativity, and the need to develop a strong mindset. Networking and social media play a crucial role in getting bookings and promoting oneself in the music industry. In this conversation, DJ MJ discusses the importance of putting yourself out there and sharing your story on social media. She emphasizes the power of being authentic and opening up about your experiences. DJ MJ also talks about the need for collaboration and unity in the music industry, particularly in terms of gender representation. She shares her journey into music production and the joy she finds in creating tracks. DJ MJ encourages listeners to keep it real, do it for the love of music, and not be afraid to promote themselves. Takeaways Supporting others and being a team player is crucial in the music industry. Developing a strong mindset is essential to overcome challenges and negativity. Networking and social media are important for getting bookings and promoting oneself. Being proud of your achievements and promoting yourself is necessary in a competitive industry. Put yourself out there and share your story on social media Authenticity and opening up about your experiences can lead to more engagement Collaboration and unity are important in the music industry Gender representation should be balanced in lineups and events Music production can be a fulfilling and enjoyable creative outlet Keep it real, do it for the love of music, and promote yourself without fear Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and DJ MJ's Background 00:02:39 Starting Back to House Radio 00:07:02 The Decision to Start a Radio Station 00:10:22 Expanding the Lineup and Looking for DJs 00:11:23 DJ MJ's Journey in the House Music Scene 00:16:10 Influences and Musical Eclecticism 00:21:22 Networking and Getting Bookings 00:24:23 Promoting Yourself and Being Proud of Your Achievements 00:27:02 Putting Yourself Out There on Social Media 00:29:32 The Importance of Being Authentic 00:36:42 The Journey into Music Production 00:43:47 Keeping It Real and Doing It for the Love of Music 00:51:59 Release Roadmap Toolkit

Tons of industry insights from Andy Reid of Phoenix Music! Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmap [https://tonyfuel.com/roadmap] ANDY REID LINKS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djandyreid/ [https://instagram.com/djandyreid/] Traxsource: https://www.traxsource.com/artist/141209/andy-reid?ipp=100 [https://traxsource.com/artist/141209/andy-reid?ipp=100] PHOENIX MUSIC LINKS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phoenixmusicinc/ [https://instagram.com/phoenixmusicinc/] Phoenix Music Traxsource: https://www.traxsource.com/label/15520/phoenix-music?ipp=30 [https://traxsource.com/label/15520/phoenix-music?ipp=30] Phoenix Soul Traxsource: https://www.traxsource.com/label/45522/phoenix-soul?ipp=30 [https://traxsource.com/label/45522/phoenix-soul?ipp=30] Phoenix Black Traxsource: https://www.traxsource.com/search?term=PHXBLK [https://traxsource.com/search?term=PHXBLK] Episode Summary In this conversation, Andy Reid, a DJ and label owner, discusses the challenges and strategies of running an independent music label in the digital age. He shares insights on the evolution of the music industry, the impact of streaming, the importance of quality in music production, and the complexities of monetizing music. Andy also addresses the role of teamwork, the changing dynamics of music consumption, and the challenges faced by independent artists and labels. The conversation covers the importance of the idea and emotional quality of music, the role of vocals in tracks, the balance between commercial viability and artistic integrity, and the significance of consistency and authenticity in DJ charts and playlists. In this conversation, Andy Reid and Tony Fuel discuss the impact of curated and DJ charts on driving sales, the importance of personalization in demo submissions, and the significance of gauging one's level in the music industry. They also touch on upcoming projects and events, including the annual ADE mixer and the 100th release celebration EPs on Phoenix Black and Phoenix Soul. Takeaways The challenges and strategies of running an independent music label in the digital age. The impact of streaming on the music industry and the complexities of monetizing music. The importance of quality in music production and the role of teamwork in creating great music. The changing dynamics of music consumption and the challenges faced by independent artists and labels. The emotional quality of the music and the idea behind it are crucial for connecting with the audience. Vocals play a significant role in making a track more relatable and memorable for listeners. Balancing commercial viability with artistic integrity is a personal decision, and the focus should be on creating music that resonates with the artist. Consistency and authenticity are essential in DJ charts and playlists, and artists should prioritize playing and supporting tracks that align with their style and preferences. Curated charts and DJ charts have a significant impact on driving sales, especially for discovery and visibility. Personalization and context in demo submissions can make a difference in getting noticed by labels. Gauging one's level in the music industry and aiming for realistic opportunities is crucial for success. Upcoming projects and events, including the annual ADE mixer and the 100th release celebration EPs on Phoenix Black and Phoenix Soul, offer exciting prospects for the future of Phoenix Music.

Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmap [https://tonyfuel.com/roadmap] Candice McKenzie Links Web: https://www.candicemckenzie.com/ [https://candicemckenzie.com] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candicemckenzie/ [https://instagram.com/candicemckenzie/] ACKEE (Kidney Disease):https://www.ackee.org.uk/ [https://www.ackee.org.uk] SUMMARY Candice McKenzie, a DJ and radio presenter, shares her journey in the music industry, from her early days as a DJ to her battle with kidney failure. She discusses her love for UK Garage, her transition to playing gospel and inspirational house music, and her experiences as a judge for the Eurovision Song Contest. Despite health challenges, music remains a source of strength and inspiration for her. Candice McKenzie shares her insights on DJing, A&R, and her journey in the music industry. She emphasizes the importance of following one's heart and dreams, and highlights the challenges and misconceptions faced in the industry. Additionally, she discusses her work in kidney disease awareness and the impact of faith on her life and career. TAKEAWAYS Candice McKenzie's journey in the music industry spans over 25 years, from her early days as a DJ to her current role as a radio presenter and producer. Her transition to playing gospel and inspirational house music was a significant shift in her career, driven by a desire to spread positive vibes and messages through her music. Despite battling kidney failure, music continues to be a source of strength and inspiration for Candice, and she has released her own song, 'His Promise,' as a reminder of hope and faith. As a judge for the Eurovision Song Contest in 2014, Candice had a unique experience that added to her diverse career in the music industry. Challenges such as gender bias and stereotypes in the male-dominated music industry have been obstacles for Candice, but she remains resilient and focused on her passion for music. The power of a DJ is in their skill, not their sex. Follow your heart, reach for your goals, and live for your dreams. Adhere to label instructions when submitting demos. Respect the time and process of A&R professionals. Organizing is a valuable skill that can lead to career opportunities. House music can be a form of ministry and inspiration. Kidney disease awareness and the importance of kidney health. Deceased kidney donation is a critical aspect of kidney disease awareness. CHAPTERS 0:00:00 Intro 0:10:49 Transitioning to Gospel House Music 0:29:30 Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry 0:31:37 The DJ's Skill and Gender Equality 0:34:12 A&R Tips and Label Submission Etiquette 0:40:54 Working at Defected and Event Organization 0:49:13 The Intersection of Faith and Music 0:57:16 Raising Awareness for Kidney Disease

Overwhelmed with producer tasks? Learn how my free Release Roadmap tool can help: https://tonyfuel.com/roadmap [https://tonyfuel.com/roadmap] Carlos Ruiz / Ruez Links http://www.carlosruiznyc.com/ [http://carlosruiznyc.com] https://www.instagram.com/ruez_nyc/ [https://instagram.com/ruez_nyc/] https://www.traxsource.com/artist/151183/ruez?ipp=100 [https://traxsource.com/artist/151183/ruez?ipp=100] https://www.facebook.com/carlos.ruiz.31945 [https://facebook.com/carlos.ruiz.31945] Summary Carlos Ruiz, an audio engineer and DJ based in New York City, shares his journey in the music industry and his love for house music. He discusses how his day job in the energy industry has influenced his approach to running his mix engineering business. Carlos also talks about the evolution of music production technology, including the use of AI, and the importance of maintaining the human essence in music creation. Carlos Ruiz started taking mixing seriously from an engineering business standpoint about six or seven years ago. He had been doing mixing for a long time before that, but it took him a while to feel comfortable charging for his services. He learned through trial and error and listened back to his early work to improve. Carlos believes that creative mixing is about understanding the artist's vision and creatively extracting it from the song. He uses visual references, such as films and artwork, to inspire his mixes. He also emphasizes the importance of balance and using techniques like reverbs and delays to create dimension in the mix. In this conversation, Carlos Ruiz shares his insights on the importance of taking breaks, physical activity, and mental health in the music industry. He also discusses some of the highlight reels of his career, including working with Ted Patterson and achieving vinyl releases with Rissa. Carlos emphasizes the importance of recognizing that as an engineer, you are there to assist and support the artist's vision, rather than taking ownership of the project. He also provides tips for aspiring mix engineers, such as focusing on learning how to listen, investing in good speakers and a well-treated room, and utilizing resources like Mix with the Masters and Pensado's Place. Takeaways Carlos Ruiz has been involved in the music industry for over 20 years as an audio engineer, DJ, and label owner. His day job in the energy industry has influenced his approach to running his mix engineering business, as he applies operations skills and creativity to both. Carlos discusses the evolution of music production technology, from vinyl records to digital formats, and the use of AI in music creation. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining the human essence in music, even with advancements in technology. Carlos Ruiz started taking mixing seriously about six or seven years ago, but had been doing it for a long time before that. Creative mixing is about understanding the artist's vision and creatively extracting it from the song. Visual references, such as films and artwork, can inspire the mix. Balance is crucial in mixing, and techniques like reverbs and delays can create dimension. It's important to constantly learn and improve in mixing, and collaboration and communication are key skills to develop. Finding a balance between work, music, and personal life is a challenge, but taking breaks and engaging in physical activity can help. Take breaks and engage in physical activity to break up the monotony and prevent feeling overwhelmed. Recognize that as an engineer, your role is to assist and support the artist's vision, not take ownership of the project. Invest in good speakers and create a well-treated room to ensure accurate monitoring and improve the quality of your mixes. Train your ears by listening in a flat and accurate environment, and learn how different tools and techniques affect the mix. Utilize resources like Mix with the Masters and Pensado's Place to enhance your knowledge and skills in mix engineering.