🎧 Listen to the episode below:
The realities of radio for independent artists
Radio is often seen as the golden ticket for musicians, but the landscape has shifted significantly in recent years. In this episode of Mastered. The Business of Music, Logan sits down with Dani Strong, also known as D-Rawk-Tiddles, to explore whether radio promotion is the right path for independent artists.
Dani brings a unique perspective as an artist, radio promoter, and educator at Fanshawe College.
Navigating radio promotion
Dani explains the radio submission process and highlights why investing in quality production matters now more than ever. She shares insights from her experience in radio promotion, emphasizing that the reality for emerging indie artists is often different than the traditional path.
While radio can be powerful, Dani cautions that it may not always be the best investment early in a career.
Alternative paths to exposure
For independent artists, focusing on your product first—your recordings, performances, and audience—is key.
Dani encourages artists to explore alternative ways to build a following outside of traditional radio, including digital platforms, live shows, and social media.
Building relationships within the industry and understanding where your energy will have the most impact is essential.
The cost and commitment of radio
Radio promotion comes with financial and time commitments that aren’t always sustainable for indie artists. Dani highlights that understanding these realities early helps artists make smarter decisions about their career strategy.
Networking and maintaining connections can often provide similar benefits without the same level of upfront investment.
Key takeaways for artists
- Dani Strong has experience as an artist, radio promoter, and music educator.
- The radio submission process has changed and can be complex for independent artists.
- Quality production is crucial for standing out in any medium.
- Emerging artists should evaluate costs carefully before investing in radio.
- Alternative paths like live shows, social media, and digital marketing can be more effective.
- Focus on building a strong product and fanbase before pursuing radio.
- Networking and relationships remain essential in the music industry.
Know your path before committing to radio
Listen to the full episode of Mastered. The Business of Music with Dani Strong to get practical advice on whether radio is the right step for your career, and how to invest your time and energy wisely.
👉 Listen now, follow Mastered, and take control of your music career.
In country music, the Front Porch has long been a place of reflection. A place where you can look at the life you have inside that front door. A place where time almost seems to stand still, where you can get away. It’s also a place where you can go to observe the world as it passes by you. To think about your place out there beyond the driveway.
