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-cents⁠ 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. 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 DistroKid While 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/year If you release 12 songs a year, these add-ons could cost: These 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 Choice For $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 paying By 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 Switch Many 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 & descriptions Start focusing your budget on promoting your music instead of paying unnecessary fees.

Independent artists, STOP wasting your time on strategies that are holding you back! Most musicians struggle to grow because they focus on the WRONG things—and it’s keeping them broke, frustrated, and invisible. In this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, Harkos exposes the 3 biggest mistakes killing your career and shows you how to actually build an engaged fanbase in 2025. 🔹 Why perfectionism is ruining your progress 🔹 The biggest trap artists fall into when trying to grow 🔹 Why outdated marketing strategies DON’T work anymore 🔹 The RIGHT way to promote your music (without getting scammed) 🔹 How to build a REAL audience and turn them into super fans Too many great artists give up too soon because they don’t see results. Don’t be one of them! Watch this episode and learn how to stop struggling and start growing today! 💡 Need a REAL strategy for your music career? 🔗 Book a FREE call with Harkos: ⁠MusicMakinCentsPod.com/freecall⁠ 🎬 Watch next: ⁠https://youtu.be/s8QtYd7rh8w⁠ 🔔 Subscribe & turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes on music marketing, branding, and independent artist success.

STOP Chasing Viral Fame! Independent artists are being LIED TO about what it takes to succeed in the music industry. In this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, host Harkos exposes why going viral on TikTok or Instagram does NOT guarantee a fanbase—or a paycheck. If you’re serious about building a real music career, you need to hear this. What You’ll Learn: Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Going viral doesn’t mean success—building a fanbase does. 2️⃣ Stop wasting time chasing trends and start creating real engagement. 3️⃣ YouTube is the #1 platform for music promotion & monetization. 4️⃣ Use Google & YouTube Ads to drive REAL growth & revenue. 5️⃣ Want a free strategy session? Scroll down and book a call with Harkos NOW! Work With Harkos: Want real growth? Book a FREE 1-on-1 call and get a custom strategy: https://www.musicmakincentspod.com/freecall Get the Music Business System Course to build a fanbase that actually PAYS YOU: https://www.musicmakincentspod.com/fangrowt Subscribe for weekly episodes and drop your questions below—Harkos responds to EVERY comment! Key Moments:

STOP Chasing Viral Fame! Independent artists are being LIED TO about what it takes to succeed in the music industry. In this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, host Harkos exposes why going viral on TikTok or Instagram does NOT guarantee a fanbase—or a paycheck. If you’re serious about building a real music career, you need to hear this. What You’ll Learn: Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Going viral doesn’t mean success—building a fanbase does. 2️⃣ Stop wasting time chasing trends and start creating real engagement. 3️⃣ YouTube is the #1 platform for music promotion & monetization. 4️⃣ Use Google & YouTube Ads to drive REAL growth & revenue. 5️⃣ Want a free strategy session? Scroll down and book a call with Harkos NOW! Work With Harkos: Want real growth? Book a FREE 1-on-1 call and get a custom strategy: https://www.musicmakincentspod.com/freecall Get the Music Business System Course to build a fanbase that actually PAYS YOU: https://www.musicmakincentspod.com/fangrowt Subscribe for weekly episodes and drop your questions below—Harkos responds to EVERY comment! Key Moments:

🚨 STOP Wasting Money on Spotify Promotion! 🚨 In this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, host Harkos exposes the biggest lies independent artists believe about Spotify and why it's sabotaging your music career. If you're serious about growing real fans and making money from your music, you NEED to hear this. 💡 What You’ll Learn: 🌟 Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Stop chasing empty Spotify streams—they don’t build real fans! 2️⃣ Use YouTube & YouTube Music to maximize earnings and visibility. 3️⃣ Create entertaining, engaging videos (not static images) to grow your audience. 4️⃣ Run smart ad campaigns on Google & YouTube for REAL results. 5️⃣ Want a free strategy session? Scroll down and book a call with Harkos NOW! 📣 Work With Harkos: 💰 Want real growth? Book a FREE 1-on-1 call with Harkos and get a custom strategy: musicmakincentspod.com/freecall 🎓 Take the Music Business System Course to build a fanbase that actually PAYS YOU: musicmakincentspod.com/fangrowth ✅ Subscribe for weekly episodes and drop your questions below—Harkos responds to EVERY comment!

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: Key Takeaways: Work With Harkos Ready to stop wasting time on fake strategies and start building real connections? Click below for free resources and exclusive insights. Links: Subscribe for weekly episodes and leave your questions in the comments—Harkos responds to every comment!

Are you hustling backwards as an independent artist? In this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, hosted by Harkos, he uncovers why spending $700+ on music video production without a solid marketing plan is sabotaging your career. Learn how to flip the script and grow your fan base while saving money! What You’ll Discover: Why blowing your budget on “industry-quality” music videos doesn’t guarantee success. The simple formula: Keep production costs low and redirect funds into strategic advertising campaigns. Game-changing DIY tips to create quality videos for less than $300. How to use YouTube, Google, and social media ads to exponentially grow your audience. Why video content is the currency of the modern music industry and how to maximize its potential. Proven Strategies for Independent Artists: Leveraging low-budget video production for massive ROI. Building an authentic fan base with lifestyle-focused content. Monetizing your music through streaming, merchandise, and insider programs. Avoiding common traps like spammy DMs and overpriced productions. Work With Harkos: Full Marketing Strategy + Ads: Get expert help managing ads and creating a growth plan for just $100/month (plus your ad budget). DIY Coaching: Learn to run your own campaigns in 2-3 sessions for $300. Stop wasting money and start seeing results! Book a FREE call with Harkos to discuss your strategy: harkos@musicmakincentspod.com Don’t forget to subscribe for weekly tips on growing your music career. Questions? Drop them below—Harkos replies to every comment!

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: 🌐 Key Takeaways for 2025: 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: Get A Music Business System Subscribe for more music marketing wisdom, and leave your questions below—Harkos always replies (no fire emojis here)! 👇

Are you sabotaging your music career with fake features, fake streams, or fake social media followers? In this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, Harkos exposes the biggest mistakes holding indie artists back and shares a proven three-step strategy to build real success in the music industry. Discover why fake strategies not only fail to create growth but can also destroy your credibility, making it impossible to gain genuine fans. Harkos explains how to stop faking it and start building a loyal fan base through consistent, engaging content, strategic ads, and a fully functioning music business system that works for you. Episode on Fake Features: https://youtu.be/ClCrpb22-kI Free Merch Store Tutorial: https://apexmusicsystem.systeme.io/c1fbd4df In this episode, you’ll learn: Key Moments: Start Building Real Success Today! Don’t let fake strategies ruin your music career. Learn how to set up your own music business system with the All-in-One Music Business System Course! Watch a free preview on how to build your merch store at ⁠Apex Music System⁠—no credit card or email required. https://apexmusicsystem.systeme.io/c1fbd4df #MusicMarketing #IndieArtistSuccess #GrowYourFanbase #StopFakeStreams #MusicBusinessSystem #ApexMusicSystem #IndependentArtists #DIYMusician #RealMusicFans #EngagingContent #SpotifyStreams #SocialMediaForMusicians #FakeFollowers #ArtistGrowth #MusicPromoTips #ContentCreation #IndieArtistLife #MusicBranding #BuildingSuperfans #MusicBusinessTips #StopFakingIt #CreateConsistentContent #RealStreams #RealFans #StrategicAds #IndependentMusicCareer #MusicMarketingStrategies #FanEngagement #MusicMakinCentsPodcast

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: Key Moments: 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!

What’s your streaming wrap-up post really doing for your career? In this episode, Harkos dives into the trend of artists sharing their yearly streaming numbers and why it’s a marketing misstep in today’s digital age. He breaks down the psychology behind social proof, explains why streaming platforms and social media are promotional—not sales—tools, and delivers a roadmap for building a true fanbase. Spoiler: It all starts with ditching vanity metrics and focusing on direct email communication, authentic branding, and a solid website strategy. From understanding algorithms to crafting an affordable website for just $25 a year, Harkos unpacks how independent artists can stop spinning their wheels and start making real connections that lead to sales, superfans, and sustainable income. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take control of your career, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you succeed as a DIY artist. Resources Connect with Harkos: ⁠www.musicmakincentspod.com⁠⁠www.musicmakincentspod.com⁠⁠www.apexmusicsystem.com⁠ In this episode, you’ll learn: Key Questions / Moments: 00:00 – Why is sharing your year-end streaming numbers a mistake? 01:09 – What does “social proof” mean, and why doesn’t it work anymore? 03:08 – Why is social media for strangers and email for fans? 05:13 – How do social media algorithms actually work? 09:15 – What’s the difference between marketing and sales platforms? 13:48 – What’s the ultimate goal of a strong artist marketing strategy? 20:04 – Why do bots, stream teams, and fake playlists backfire? 27:11 – How can giving away free downloads boost your email list? 33:12 – How can you set up a fully functioning website for $25/year? #IndieArtistTips #MusicMarketing #FanBuilding #StreamingTips #MusicBusiness101 #DIYMusician #IndependentArtist #EmailMarketingForArtists #SocialMediaStrategy #MusicPromotion2024 #SpotifyTips #AppleMusicPromotion #AffordableWebsites #BuildYourFanbase #RealFansRealIncome #MusicAlgorithms #StopFakeStreams #MusicBranding #SocialProofMyth #FanEngagement #IndieMusicPromotion #ArtistSuccess #StreamingStrategy #MakeMoneyWithMusic #MusicEntrepreneurship #MusicMarketingStrategies #SuperFans #WebsiteForArtists #EmailMarketingTips #FanJourney #StopPostingNumbers #RealConnections #MusicLifeHacks #MusicianAdvice #GrowYourMusic #DigitalMusicMarketing #RealArtistGrowth #StreamingRoyalties #AuthenticMusicPromotion #CreativeMarketingForMusicians #HowToDIYMusic

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: Resources: ⁠www.musicmakincentspod.com⁠ ⁠www.apexmusicsystem.com⁠⁠www.apexmusicsystem.com⁠ In this episode, you will learn: Key Moments: #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 Black Friday sales really worth it for indie artists? In this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, Harkos tackles the popular holiday sales season, revealing why typical sales tactics might not be right for musicians. While other marketers suggest running discounts to boost sales, Harkos shares a smarter approach—one that doesn’t rely on fans buying music directly, but instead helps build a loyal fan base primed for future engagement. Harkos breaks down his three-step holiday strategy for independent artists, focusing on effective ways to draw in new listeners, convert them to loyal fans, and maximize holiday sales without getting lost in the seasonal noise. Discover how to engage potential fans on social media, utilize email lists for true connection, and strategically plan sales that resonate with your most dedicated listeners. Previous Episodes Mentioned: Resources: www.apexmusicsystem.com In this episode, you will learn: Key Moments: #IndieArtistMarketing #MusicMarketing #IndependentMusician #FanEngagement #HolidaySales #BlackFridayForArtists #MusicPromotion #BuildYourBrand #ApexMusicSystem #GrowYourFanbase #EmailMarketingForMusicians #HolidayMerchandise #ConvertListenersToFans #StreamingStrategy #YouTubeForMusicians #MarketingTips #SpotifyPromotion #ArtistMerchandise #MusicBranding #FanGrowth #EngagementStrategy #DIYMusician #ArtistMarketingTips #SocialMediaForMusicians #MarketingForIndieArtists #MusicBusiness #IncreaseMusicSales #DigitalMarketing #EmailStrategy #BuildingLoyalFans #MusicIndustryInsights #SmartHolidaySales #MaximizeMusicSales #BoostYourBrand #FanConnection #HolidaySalesTips #MusicPromotionTips #MusicMarketingPlan #GrowAsAMusician

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: In this episode, you will learn: Key Moments: #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 promoting your music on YouTube the wrong way? Many artists unknowingly use their topic pages to promote their music, missing out on a powerful tool that could seriously amplify their reach. In this episode, Harkos breaks down why topic pages are holding you back and how switching to an official artist channel can elevate your music career. From activating YouTube’s algorithm to enhancing your branding, this episode is packed with insights on building an engaged, loyal fan base. Harkos, the host of Music Makin Cents podcast, dives deep into the benefits of official artist channels, including the ability to interact with fans, control branding, and harness YouTube's recommendation engine. By sharing his journey from running a podcast to creating the Apex Music System, Harkos explains how artists can sidestep outdated strategies and embrace a system built for real growth. Previous Episodes Mentioned: Crafting Your Unique Brand as an Independent Artist - https://youtu.be/hXxjOR99D2U Resources Connect with Harkos :Website: www.musicmakincentspod.com Submit your music for WTF Wednesday music reviews at www.musicmakincentspod.com Need hands-free marketing? Visit www.apexmusicsystem.com In this episode, you will learn: Key Moments:

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?

Tired of feeling like a pushy salesperson while trying to get your music out there? Ever wonder how you can live the musician lifestyle without compromising your authenticity or creativity? In this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, Harkos reveals the secrets to selling your music without actually selling it. It's not about high-pressure tactics or guilt trips—it’s about building genuine connections, creating value, and showcasing who you really are as an artist. Harkos walks you through the steps to cultivate superfans, monetize your work ethically, and live a life filled with music, passion, and freedom. From understanding why “stream now” and “buy now” posts don’t work, to crafting a powerful personal brand that resonates with your audience, this episode is packed with insights on creating a sustainable income from your music. Harkos also breaks down how to start building a fanbase that is willing to support you, through email marketing, live streams, and creative insider programs. You don’t need millions of followers to make a living—just 10,000 hardcore fans willing to invest in your journey. In this episode, you will learn: - The importance of creating value for your fans beyond the price they pay. - Why selling yourself is more effective than selling your music. - How to build an authentic brand that reflects who you are and what your music stands for. - Creative strategies for engaging your audience and turning followers into superfans. - The three different ways to set up a website on a budget and use it to sell your music, merch, and experiences. Resources: - Website: www.musicmakincentspod.com - Submit your music for WTF Wednesday music reviews: www.musicmakincentspod.com - Want a REAL interview? Email Harkos at musicmakincentspod@gmail.com (stipulations apply). - Hands-free marketing system: www.apexmusicsystem.com Episodes Mentioned In This Episode: -Crafting Your Unique Brand as an Independent Artist- https://youtu.be/hXxjOR99D2U - Stop Getting in Your Own Way with Content Creation- https://youtu.be/i94EuPJDnZs - Why Pre-Promotion is Dead - https://youtu.be/-0Jy3W9byrg Key Moments: 00:00 - What does selling your music without feeling like a salesperson really mean? 02:12 - How can you create value without ripping off your fans? 07:05 - How many superfans do you really need to make a living as a musician? 12:24 - What does it mean to “sell yourself” as an artist? 18:05 - Why email marketing is gold and how to do it right. 24:48 - What are the three affordable ways to set up a website and make money? 30:05 - What are the pitfalls of high-pressure sales tactics like “stream now” and “buy now”? 36:25 - How can creating engaging content help you build a fanbase without selling out?

Are you still wasting time on pre-promotion? It’s time to stop chasing outdated strategies that simply don’t work anymore. In today’s on-demand society, fans want your music now, not weeks or months from today. Harkos dives deep into why pre-promotion is dead, how it’s killing your chances of success, and what you should be doing instead. Forget pre-save links and long buildup campaigns; they’re leaving your music lost in the noise of 150,000 daily song uploads. Harkos breaks down the exact post-release strategies you need to turn strangers into Superfans and finally build a brand that makes dollars, not just cents. In this episode, you’ll learn: -Why pre-promotion is a dead-end in today’s hyper on-demand world. -The fan journey: how to move listeners from strangers to superfans. -How to stop wasting time on Spotify and focus on platforms that actually pay. - Why content creators won’t use your music if it’s not available immediately. - The real strategy behind post-release promotion and how to build a marketing plan that works. Don’t forget to join Harkos on Takeover Tuesday for live, actionable marketing advice to help you dominate your next release. Get off the hamster wheel of broken tactics and start growing your music business for real! Join Takeover Tuesday: apexmusicsystem.com Resources: Connect with Harkos: Website: www.musicmakincentspod.com Submit your music for WTF Wednesday music reviews at www.musicmakincentspod.com Want a REAL interview? Send me an email at musicmakincentspod@gmail.com to get one set up. Stipulations apply. If you want a "Hands-free" marketing system, work with me at www.apexmusicsystem.com Join Takeover Tuesday: apexmusicsystem.com Key Moments: 00:00 – Why is pre-promotion dead? 02:21 – What is hyper on-demand society and how does it affect music marketing? 07:07 – Why are pre-save links killing your fanbase growth? 09:29 – What is the fan journey from stranger to superfan? 11:11 – How to fix your paid promotion strategy and stop wasting money. 13:22 – Are you targeting the wrong audience with your ads? 18:01 – Why you’re losing superfans with weak content. 21:48 – How do streaming platforms promote music, and why aren’t you on top? 26:05 – Why you need a post-release promotional strategy. 28:09 – How user-generated content can boost your streams. 32:17 – What’s the real difference between you and a superstar artist? 34:24 – How ego is blocking your success in music marketing. 37:20 – What should you focus on for post-release promotion? 40:30 – Why consistency is key to staying relevant in the music industry. 45:18 – What is Takeover Tuesday and how can it help you? 50:09 – Why $50 a month on marketing strategy will change your career.

Feeling stuck in your music career? Are the words "marketing" and "content creation" making you cringe? You’re not alone. In this episode of the Music Makin Cents Podcast, host Harkos breaks down why so many independent artists, bands, and musicians struggle with one of the most essential parts of their success—content creation. Spoiler alert: it's not because the system is rigged, but because they’re standing in their own way. Harkos dives into the reality that creating engaging, entertaining content is the cornerstone of building a sustainable music career. From debunking myths about expensive production to showing how easy it is to use just a smartphone, he emphasizes how artists can—and must—produce content consistently. Whether it’s music videos or hobby-based content that shows off your personality, content is king, and it's the key to building a loyal fan base. If you’re sick of excuses and ready to turn your artistry into a sustainable, full-time career, this episode lays out the roadmap. Harkos introduces the Apex Music System, a complete strategy for growing your social media, streaming numbers, and sales to live the musician lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of. In this episode, you’ll learn: -Why content creation doesn’t have to be a dirty word (and why it’s essential for your music career) -How to create high-quality video content using just your phone and free editing tools -Why pre-promotion on social media can actually hurt your chances of success -The three main pillars of the Apex Music System: social media, streaming platforms, and sales -How consistent content creation is crucial to identifying and growing your fan base Resources: Join the Apex Music System: apexmusicsystem.com Submit your music for review on WTF Wednesdays: musicmakincentspod.com Follow Music Makin' Cents Podcast: www.musicmakincentspod.com Key Moments: 00:00 – Why do artists hate the word “content”? 09:53 – How can you use free tools to create high-quality content? 15:17 – What makes pre-promotion harmful? 21:11 – How does content help you build real connections with your audience? 27:17 – What is the Apex Music System, and why is it the ultimate strategy for indie artists? 35:04 – What’s the real value of consistent content creation? 46:59 – Why excuses are killing your growth as an artist 52:22 – How the Apex Music System can help you get serious about your music career Ready to stop making excuses and start building a real music career? Get weekly marketing help for just $50 per month with Takeover Tuesdays at www.apexmusicsystem.com

Are you struggling to build a fan base that genuinely connects with you and your music? In this episode of Music Makin' Cents Podcast, Harkos gets real about what it takes to stand out in the saturated music industry. Spoiler: it’s all about your brand! If you're thinking branding is just a buzzword, you’re wrong—Harkos breaks down the "3 Pillars" every indie artist needs: Who you are, What you stand for, and What your story is. From mastering these key elements to making sure your name is as unique as your sound, Harkos shares practical strategies to help you gain loyal fans. He dives into why artists need to adapt with the times, utilizing social media to express their ever-evolving identity, and why simply adding “music” to your name won’t cut it. He also emphasizes the importance of having your own website—it’s not optional if you’re serious about a long-lasting career. Whether you’re just starting or looking to rebrand, this episode is packed with advice on how to grow as an independent artist while staying true to yourself. In this episode, you'll learn: - How to solidify your brand using the three essential pillars. - The importance of having a unique name and making it consistent across platforms. - Why having a personal website is non-negotiable. - Real-world examples of artists who changed their name and still achieved massive success. - The benefits of adapting your content strategy and engaging directly with your audience. Key Resources: - Website: https://www.musicmakincentspod.com Key Moments/Questions: 00:00 - Why is branding crucial for every independent artist? 02:23 - What are the three pillars of a solid brand? 04:24 - How much do artists change in a year, and how should your brand evolve? 09:14 - Can a dramatic shift in style alienate fans? 16:20 - How can you create a content strategy that connects with your brand? 23:18 - Why should you change your artist name if it’s not unique? 27:43 - What happened when Young Jeezy changed his name? 30:07 - How did 2 Chainz transition from Tity Boi and rise to fame? 39:35 - Why is having a website non-negotiable for serious artists? 48:46 - How can you make your content engaging and relatable to your fans? #MusicMarketing #Branding #IndependentArtists #FanBase #ContentCreation #UniqueName #OnlinePresence #Website #SocialMedia #ArtistGrowth