Music Makin Cents Podcast

🚨 "DistroKid Is Overcharging You—Here’s Why LANDR Is a Better Deal!" 🚨If you're an independent artist using DistroKid in 2025, you might be paying way more than you need to. With additional fees for services like Content ID, Dolby Atmos, and more, the costs can quickly add up. But there’s a better option—LANDR Distribution Pro offers these same premium services for a flat annual fee, saving you hundreds of dollars. 🎵💰👉 ⁠https://glnk.io/5wllp/music-makin-cents⁠Use the link below for 20% OFF ANY LANDR plan, whether you just want music distribution or the Studio Pro package, which includes mastering tools, samples, and educational resources.In this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, Harkos breaks down the hidden costs of DistroKid and explains why LANDR is a smarter choice for independent artists who want to distribute their music without breaking the bank.🔹 The True Cost of Using DistroKidWhile DistroKid’s base plan starts at $22.99/year, extra services can significantly increase your yearly expenses:✅ Content ID (YouTube + TikTok) – $4.95/song/year✅ Dolby Atmos (High-Quality Audio) – $27/song✅ Store Maximizer – $7.95/year✅ Discovery Pack (Shazam & Others) – $0.99/song/yearIf you release 12 songs a year, these add-ons could cost:$60/year for Content ID$360/year for Dolby AtmosTotal: $540+/year by Year 3These costs increase every year as fees are charged annually per song—which means the more you release, the more you pay.🔹 Why LANDR Distribution Pro Is the Better ChoiceFor $45/year, LANDR Distribution Pro includes all the essential features DistroKid charges extra for—without the recurring fees:✅ Unlimited Music Releases with 100% Royalties✅ Content ID (YouTube + TikTok) – Included✅ Dolby Atmos (High-Quality Audio) – Included✅ Store Maximizer & Discovery Pack – Included✅ Leave a Legacy – Keep your music online if you stop payingBy switching to LANDR, you could save hundreds of dollars annually while still having access to advanced features and faster customer support—with responses in 2 business days.🎤 Artists Are Already Making the SwitchMany independent artists working with Harkos have already moved their music to LANDR using the easy import tool—transferring from DistroKid is fast and simple.👉 Use the link below for 20% OFF ANY LANDR plan, whether you just want music distribution or the Studio Pro package, which includes mastering tools, samples, and educational resources.https://glnk.io/5wllp/music-makin-cents📞 Need Help Growing Your Music Career?Book a FREE 1-on-1 consultation with Harkos at musicmakincentspod.com/freecall where you’ll get:✅ A Custom Marketing Strategy to grow your fanbase✅ A Content Creation Calendar for consistent promotion✅ 4 ChatGPT Scripts to generate SEO-rich titles & descriptionsStart focusing your budget on promoting your music instead of paying unnecessary fees.Key Moments: 00:00 – Why DistroKid’s hidden fees are costing you more01:26 – Breaking down the real cost of DistroKid’s add-ons02:43 – How LANDR includes premium features for less money04:16 – Why independent artists are switching to LANDR05:38 – How to save hundreds per year with LANDR Distribution Pro07:03 – Get 20% OFF LANDR—Exclusive for Music Makin Cents viewers08:57 – How to book a FREE music strategy consultation with Harkos

STOP Chasing Viral Fame! Independent artists are being LIED TO about what it takes to succeed in the music industry. In this episode of theMusic Makin Cents Podcast, hostHarkos exposes why going viral on TikTok or Instagramdoes NOT guarantee a fanbase—or a paycheck. If you’re serious about building areal music career, you need to hear this.Previous Episodes Mentioned:-Why Most Music Marketing Advice is Garbage (And What Actually Works) - https://youtu.be/kyx-AknFgPU- Why Pre-Promotion is Dead - https://youtu.be/-0Jy3W9byrgWhat You’ll Learn:Why viral clips DON’T build lasting success for independent artists.Howshort-form videos should ACTUALLY be used to grow your fanbase.Thereal money breakdown—why Instagram & TikTok pay next to nothing.YouTube vs. Spotify vs. TikTok—where you should ACTUALLY promote your music.The#1 strategy for turning strangers into loyal superfans.Key Takeaways:1️⃣ Going viraldoesn’t mean success—building a fanbase does.2️⃣ Stop wasting time chasing trends andstart creating real engagement.3️⃣YouTube is the #1 platform for music promotion & monetization.4️⃣ UseGoogle & YouTube Ads to driveREAL growth & revenue.5️⃣ Want afree strategy session? Scroll down and book a call with Harkos NOW!To cut clips, I recommend using a software called Opus. It’s easy to use and helps you get clips faster. Use my link and they’ll give you a discount. https://www.opus.pro/?via=18aa66Work With Harkos:Want real growth? Book a FREE 1-on-1 call and get a custom strategy: https://www.musicmakincentspod.com/freecallGet the Music Business System Course to build a fanbase that actually PAYS YOU: https://www.musicmakincentspod.com/fangrowtSubscribe for weekly episodes and drop your questions below—Harkosresponds to EVERY comment!Key Moments:0:22 – "The biggest lie about ‘going viral’ in music marketing"1:40 – "Why viral clips don’t equal real fan growth"2:59 – "The shocking truth about how much TikTok & Instagram REALLY pay artists"4:45 – "The best platform for real music promotion in 2025"7:12 – "How to turn short-form videos into long-term fans"10:08 – "The strategy I use with every artist I work with"15:43 – "Why YouTube & Google Ads are the most effective marketing tools"21:04 – "How to book a FREE 1-on-1 strategy call with Harkos"

Tired of falling for “get 1,000 fans in 30 days” schemes that leave you disappointed? In this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, host Harkos exposes the myths behind quick-fix fan-building strategies and shows you the REAL path to building a loyal fan base. This is the guide for independent artists who want sustainable success without sacrificing integrity. What You’ll Learn: The fan vs. follower distinction and why most "experts" don’t get it. Why short-term gimmicks like trend-jacking and hashtag spam won’t grow real fans. The truth about the fan journey: From strangers to superfans. How to use entertaining, engaging content and ads to multiply your reach. The secret to building your music business system for lasting success. Key Takeaways: How to grow 1,000 real fans in 3-6 months using the 10% Rule. Proven content strategies to attract strangers and convert them into superfans. Step-by-step: Setting up a music business system that costs less than $25/year. Work With Harkos Want personalized help? Book a FREE call to discuss your strategy and get a tailored plan for success. Prefer DIY? Check out the Music Business System Course and learn how to grow your fan base step by step. Ready to stop wasting time on fake strategies and start building real connections? Click below for free resources and exclusive insights. Links: FREE Strategy Call: https://fight4freedomprodu.wixsite.com/mmcpod/free-call Music Business System Course: https://apexmusicsystem.systeme.io/all-in-onembs Subscribe for weekly episodes and leave your questions in the comments—Harkos responds to every comment!

Are you always telling people to "Support Local Music"? Are you trying to figure out how to stop being just another local artist? The way to stop being local is very simple. This episode exposes the harsh truth behind the "support local music" mindset and why it’s holding you back as an artist in 2025. If you're an indie musician searching for actionable strategies to grow your fan base and take your career global, you're in the right place. What You'll Learn: -Why guilting people into supporting local music is a dead-end tactic. -The secret to growing a genuine fan base through real connections and killer content. -How to leverage social media, AI, and music business systems to thrive in the modern industry. -The difference between being a musical artist and a scam artist—and how to avoid the pitfalls. -Proven steps to monetize your music and live the artist lifestyle without breaking the bank. Key Takeaways for 2025: -The power of video content and why "shorts" are the future. -Why platforms like YouTube Music and Apple Music are your best allies. -How to build a complete music business system for less than $25/year. -Don’t just survive—thrive! Stop relying on outdated strategies and start creating the life you’ve always dreamed of as a musician. Ready to level up? Watch now and take the first step towards building your music empire! Resources Mentioned: All-In-One Music Business System Course: Learn how to set up your own business system for as low as $25/year! Click here: https://apexmusicsystem.systeme.io/all-in-onembs Live Music & Marketing Reviews: Join us every Wednesday at 10 PM ET on YouTube. Submit music at: www.MusicMakinCentsPod.com Subscribe for more music marketing wisdom, and leave your questions below—Harkos always replies (no fire emojis here)! 👇 #MusicMakinCentsPodcast #MusicMarketingTips #IndependentArtist #FanBaseGrowth #MusicBusinessSystem Key Moments: 0:01 – "Why 'Support Local Music' is holding you back" 2:25 – "The ONE thing that hasn’t changed about fan growth in 2025" 4:40 – "Why genuine connections matter more than ever" 10:20 – "How AI tools can boost your music marketing game" 22:00 – "The key differences between musical artists and scam artists" 34:15 – "Step-by-step guide to setting up a music business system" 43:00 – "How to monetize your passion with fan-first strategies"

Think buying a feature from a big-name artist is the shortcut to success? Think again. In this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, Harkos pulls back the curtain on the shady world of fake features, exposing why these “opportunities” are nothing but scams hurting indie artists. From fake music videos to recycled beats sold to thousands of unsuspecting artists, Harkos explains how these tactics damage your credibility, alienate fans, and waste your resources. Instead of faking it till you make it, he lays out three proven steps to grow a real audience, build lasting connections, and attract genuine collaborations. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why fake features fail to deliver the growth or cosign you’re hoping for. How to recognize and avoid scams from producers and big-name artists. The three essential steps to building a real audience: engaging content, targeted ads, and a music business system. Why a music business system (not just a website) is critical for turning followers into superfans. How to create a low-cost, fully functional system to sell your music, merch, and more. Key Moments: 00:01 - Why are fake features becoming so common in the indie music scene? 02:25 - What makes a real feature different from a fake one? 06:50 - How do big-name artists and producers profit from this scam? 12:15 - Why are real music videos a sign of legitimacy? 18:30 - What should artists focus on instead of fake features? 21:10 - How can consistent, engaging content help you grow a genuine fanbase? 27:40 - Why is a music business system essential for indie success? Stop Faking It, Start Building Real Success! Avoid the traps of fake strategies and take control of your music career. Head to Apex Music System to learn more about the All-in-One Music Business System Course. Watch a free preview module on setting up your merch store—no email or credit card required! Get started today and unlock the tools to build a fanbase, sell your music, and grow your career—all for as little as $25 a year. #IndieArtistSuccess #MusicMarketing #GrowYourFanbase #RealFeatures #MusicBusinessSystem #IndieMusicTips #FakeFeatures #StopScams #EngageYourFans #DIYMusician #ArtistMarketing #MusicPromotion #BuildYourBrand #StreamingTips #ApexMusicSystem #MusicMakingCentsPodcast #IndieArtistLife #MusicMarketingPlan #Superfans #RealArtistGrowth #EmailMarketingForMusicians #ContentCreationTips #MusicMerch #FanEngagement #NoFakeFeatures #ArtistCredibility #MusicianSuccess Listen now and stop wasting time on shortcuts that only set you back—build real success with the Music Makin Cents Podcast!

Ever heard industry experts say, “Don’t release music during November and December”? On this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, Harkos is here to debunk that 90% nonsense and show you why the holiday season is actually the perfect time for indie artists to make their mark. People are always consuming music—whether they’re shopping, cooking, or traveling—so why not be the artist they discover during these moments? Harkos dives into the strategy behind being a 10%-er, someone who stands out in the music industry by innovating and breaking the mold. With three powerful tactics—creating engaging content, running strategic ads, and mastering email communication—you’ll learn how to turn distracted holiday shoppers into dedicated superfans. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to maximize your efforts, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Previous Episodes Mentioned: https://youtu.be/H6Q8FDwgtcI Resources: Connect with Harkos: Website: www.musicmakincentspod.com Free TikTok Style Music Videos Course: www.apexmusicsystem.com Join the Apex Music System: www.apexmusicsystem.com In this episode, you will learn: Why November and December are prime opportunities for music releases. How to use the "10% rule" to innovate and stand out as an indie artist. The importance of non-salesy, engaging content on social media to attract new fans. How to run ads that actually work (and don’t waste your budget). Why email communication builds deeper connections than social media. A detailed breakdown of the fan journey and how to move strangers into superfans. Key Moments: 00:01 - Why does the industry discourage holiday music releases? 02:30 - How do you become a 10%-er in the music business? 05:50 - What kind of content should artists create to stand out? 11:45 - Why is engaging with comments crucial for building your fanbase? 18:00 - How do strategic ads amplify your reach? 24:10 - What is email direct communication, and how can it grow your fanbase? 33:30 - How can polls and engagement deepen fan loyalty? 40:00 - Why holiday distractions are actually opportunities for indie artists. #MusicMarketing #IndieArtists #GrowYourFanbase #HolidayMusicStrategy #IndependentMusician #FanEngagement #ApexMusicSystem #EmailMarketingForMusicians #SocialMediaTips #ContentStrategy #MusicIndustryTips #IndieMusicMarketing #MusicPromotion #Superfans #BrandBuilding #TikTokStyleVideos #IndependentArtistSuccess #BlackFridayForArtists #MarketingForMusicians #MusicMarketingPlan #StreamingStrategy #ArtistDevelopment #YouTubeForArtists #BuildYourBrand #EngageYourFans #ContentCreationForArtists #MusicBusinessTips #DigitalMarketingForMusicians #HolidayMusicReleases #FanLoyalty #ArtistBranding #IndieArtistGrowth #EmailCommunication #SocialMediaEngagement

Are you an indie artist thinking about joining a label? Or maybe you’re already on one and questioning if it’s the right fit. This episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast dives deep into the complexities of indie labels and why so many fail their artists. Harkos explores how labels can either uplift or limit your career, emphasizing the importance of control, budgeting, and authenticity in artist-label relationships. In this episode, Harkos uncovers three major pitfalls indie labels fall into: self-promotion over artist support, poor budgeting strategies, and the fear of artists outshining the label. He walks you through the critical steps to identify if a label has your best interests at heart or if it’s part of the “90%” that’s holding artists back. Whether you’re aiming for indie success or hoping to eventually break into a major label, this episode provides essential guidance for both artists and label heads. Previous Episodes Mentioned: Crafting Your Unique Brand as an Independent Artist Resources: Connect with Harkos: In this episode, you will learn: Why 90% of indie labels fail their artists by prioritizing self-promotion over genuine support. How poor budgeting choices can waste resources, leaving artists without a proper promotional strategy. The importance of artist branding and why control over your image is key to reaching fans. Practical tips on building brand solidarity across social media for artists. The value of budgeting smartly to allocate funds between creation and promotion effectively. How to avoid labels that have a fear of losing artists to bigger platforms and focus on growth. Key Moments: 00:00 - Why do indie labels often fail their artists? 03:12 - What’s the importance of maintaining creative control? 05:41 - How does label self-promotion affect an artist’s growth? 10:14 - Why should promotion happen on the artist’s platform? 15:46 - How does budgeting impact an artist’s reach? 20:25 - Why is an album release party a waste of resources? 30:15 - What should a label’s role be in an artist’s career growth? #MusicIndustryTips #IndieLabel #ArtistMarketing #IndependentArtist #MusicPromotion #BrandingForMusicians #LabelManagement #DIYMusicCareer #ApexMusicSystem #MusicMakinCentsPodcast #MusicMarketing #SpotifyPromotion #AlbumReleaseTips #YouTubeMusicPromotion #SocialMediaForArtists #ContentStrategy #MusicBusiness101 #MusicAdvice #GrowingYourFanbase #BuildingYourBrand #IndieMusicSuccess #BudgetingForMusicians #ArtistFirst #RealFanEngagement #BoostYourMusic #MusicMarketingStrategy #MusicDistribution #ArtistBranding #LabelVsArtist #StreamingTips #MakingItInMusic #IndieMusicGrowth #CreativeControl #IndieArtistLife #MusicBusinessSuccess #IndependentMusicMarketing #SmartMusicBudgeting #MusicIndustryInsights #NextLevelMusic #MusicianGoals #DIYMusician #MusicNetwork #IndieArtistsUnite #RealSuccessInMusic

Are you sinking time and money into Spotify playlist campaigns hoping for fan growth? It might be time to rethink that strategy. This episode of Music Makin Cents Podcast pulls back the curtain on the popular but often ineffective playlisting trend, showing independent artists why this approach rarely leads to lasting fan engagement. Discover why playlist streams may spike your numbers briefly but fail to build a loyal fanbase—and why strategic awareness campaigns might be the smarter, more sustainable route to real growth. Harkos dives into the myths surrounding Spotify playlists, detailing three key reasons why these campaigns don’t deliver the long-term results you want. Learn why paid streams are a poor metric for fan growth, how bot-driven playlists damage credibility, and why even major label-backed playlists struggle to engage listeners genuinely. Tune in as we break down the strategies behind activating the Spotify algorithm the right way and give you the tools to convert passive listeners into true, lasting fans. In this episode, you will learn: - Why Spotify playlists provide only a temporary spike in streams but fail to create loyal listeners. - The reality of bot-driven playlists and how they can damage your credibility and artist profile. - The importance of real, meaningful interactions like saves and personal playlist additions for algorithmic growth. - How strategic awareness campaigns connect you with the right audience, generating genuine engagement. - An introduction to the Apex Music System, a program built to help artists grow a real fanbase without playlist gimmicks. Resources Discover the Apex Music System for DIY and managed growth options: https://www.apexmusicsystem.com Key Moments 00:00 - What makes playlist campaigns a waste of time? 02:01 - Why don’t playlists build true fans? 06:07 - How do bots affect playlist value? 12:17 - How did a personal experience expose playlisting flaws? 18:07 - Why do major labels get away with bot streams? 24:36 - What’s a strategic awareness campaign? 27:17 - Why ditch playlists for real growth? 30:18 - How can you get genuine engagement?