How authenticity applies to artists at every career stage, from new independent artists to established veterans.

Episode 685: The Music Biz Weekly Podcast featured Blasko and Michael discussing two essential practices that every band should implement but often overlooks. Blasko emphasized the critical importance of authentic artistic expression, arguing that independent artists must genuinely connect with their unique experiences rather than relying on familiar topics. He explained that artists risk becoming forgettable when they don’t confidently share their authentic perspective, whether they’re writing about heartbreak or other common themes.

Michael focused on the fundamental need for ongoing fan base growth and retention, stressing that artists must actively ask followers to subscribe, follow, and engage across all platforms rather than assuming fans will find them organically.

Both discussed how authenticity applies to artists at every career stage, from new independent artists to established veterans who risk losing connection with their audience by singing about topics that no longer reflect their current reality. They also highlighted how fan metrics serve as the currency of the music business, with booking agents and industry professionals primarily evaluating artists based on their visible social media engagement and follower counts.

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Michael Brandvold is a freelance music industry consultant based in Northern California. Having launched Michael Brandvold Marketing to leverage his years of experience to provide direction to large and small clients in the areas of online & social marketing as well as e-commerce and customer acquisition and retention.

Gene Simmons of KISS first tapped Michael’s skills as a pioneering online marketing strategist to launch and manage all aspects of Kissonline.com’s multi-million dollar enterprise, including their ground-breaking VIP ticket program.

Michael has also managed the online efforts for KISS, ACCEPT, SOiL, Tantric, Killer Dwarfs, Dream Theater, Little Caesar, Narada Michael Walden, Motley Crüe, Rod Stewart, Madonna, Ozzy Osbourne, Madonna and Britney Spears to name only a few.

If you are interested in speaking with Michael about what he can do to assist with your marketing needs contact him online at

email: me (at) mikebrandvold.com

website: www.MichaelBrandvold.com