In my 30+ years working in music publishing, I've watched too many talented artists get burned. I've seen bedroom producers lose out on sync deals because they couldn't prove ownership. I've consoled singer-songwriters who discovered their lyrics on someone else's album with no legal recourse. And I've witnessed indie bands miss out on life-changing opportunities simply because they were too intimidated to file a simple copyright form.

There's no ignoring it anymore. AI has pulled up a chair at the songwriting table. Whether that makes you excited or terrified probably depends on how you make your living in music.

After many years of consulting with independent artists, I've seen the same heartbreaking pattern repeat itself many times. Talented musicians pour their hearts into great music, upload it to Spotify, and then wonder why nobody's listening.

Thirty-eight years in Nashville. That's a lot of song pitch meetings, late-night studio sessions, and conversations that started careers. I've been there when legends were just songwriters with big dreams, watched million-dollar deals get hammered out over barbecue, and seen this scrappy music town turn into the empire it is today.

Right now, though? Everything's different. And I mean everything.

The game has completely changed, and most people don't even realize it yet. If you're an artist trying to make it today, you need to understand what's actually happening behind the scenes.

Most people think success in music comes from lightning-in-a-bottle moments—that one viral hit, lucky break, or magical connection. But here's what I've learned from watching careers flourish: sustainable success is built through consistent, intentional actions over time. Today's music landscape offers unprecedented opportunities for independent artists to build global audiences and sustainable careers.

I’ve seen incredibly talented artists leave serious money on the table. Not because their songs weren’t good enough, but because they didn’t take the time to set things up correctly. The truth is, most of the income from your song doesn’t just show up automatically. It’s collected from several different sources, and unless you know exactly where to register, what to claim, and how to track it, you might never see it.

In a world of viral videos and instant fame, it’s easy to believe that one big break is all it takes. That maybe if the right person hears your song, shares your post, or shows up at your gig—you’ll suddenly “make it.”

But let’s talk about the truth: chasing overnight success isn’t just unrealistic—it can actually hurt your progress.

Think getting discovered by a record label is still the goal?

In 2025, the path to music success looks a lot different—and for independent artists, that’s actually a good thing.

Many books have been written on the topic of becoming successful in whatever you chose to do. The best selling Self-Help book of all time is Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. I just recently re-read the book again and felt that the book has so many useful tips and lessons that are extremely applicable for every musician who wants to have a successful career.

You’re putting in the work. The music’s solid. Your Instagram looks sharp. You’ve watched the YouTube tutorials. But the results? Not matching your effort.

It’s tempting to blame the algorithm, the industry gatekeepers, or a lack of money. But let’s go deeper.

What if the biggest roadblock isn’t out there—it’s in here?

Let’s talk about the mindset shifts that can unlock your growth, your creativity, and yes—your breakthrough.

If you’re just getting started as an artist, let me tell you something upfront: you’ve picked an incredible time to launch your music career. Why? Because the power has shifted—to you.

I’ve worked in the Nashville music industry for over 38 years. I’ve been inside record label boardrooms, booked major talent for national TV shows, and helped launch artists through traditional paths. I’ve seen the highs and lows of the old-school system. And here's the truth…

The last five years have brought more change to this industry than the 30+ before it combined.

Embarking on a music career in 2025 presents both unprecedented opportunities and unique challenges. With the democratization of music distribution and the pervasive influence of social media, artists have more tools at their disposal than ever before.

Everyone dreams of the big break — the moment a song goes viral, a label comes calling, or a show changes your life. But here's the truth: big breaks aren't handed out randomly. They're built, step-by-step, through smart, consistent investments in yourself and your music career.

The first quarter of the 21st century has completely reshaped the music industry. If you’re a new artist trying to break in, you’re stepping into a game that’s fast-paced, constantly evolving, and more competitive than ever.

What if success in music wasn’t about luck — but about the actions you take today?

If you’re chasing a dream in country music, rejection can feel personal. But here’s the truth: Every country star you know has been rejected—more than once. The difference between artists who make it and those who quit? How they handle the “no.”

Ever feel like you're spinning your wheels in your music career? The difference between artists who break through and those who burn out often comes down to two things: time management and mindset.