In this heartfelt episode of
The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan, alongside co-host Brian Onrea, reflects on the life and legacy of J. Hatch, founder of iStandard, who recently passed away after a battle with cancer. J. Hatch was an instrumental figure in the independent music community, providing countless opportunities for up-and-coming producers and artists through iStandard events. From personal anecdotes about attending Hatch's beat camps to the invaluable connections forged through his platform, B. Vaughan and Brian pay tribute to a man who connected the dots for so many in the industry.
The first segment explores
Professional Standards for Music Creation. With so many artists achieving success from DIY projects, does investing in professional recording, mixing, and mastering still matter? Inspired by Muni Long's insights on industry costs, the hosts debate whether professional studios truly enhance an artist’s sound or if YouTube tutorials and affordable DIY options like Canva for logos and leased beats can be just as effective.
The second segment focuses on
Managing Relationships in Music and the dangers of blocking others from opportunities. Using a clip from the Bagfuel podcast, the episode delves into a story of infighting among songwriters working on a Destiny’s Child album and how it backfired, raising questions about the consequences of competition over collaboration. The hosts also explore the role of managers in navigating team dynamics and the long-term impact of being ‘shady’ in the industry.
In the final segment, the hosts tackle
The 360 Deal Controversy, using a story from Lupe Fiasco about being pressured into a 360 deal by Lyor Cohen. The conversation questions why 360 deals are often seen negatively, whether labels should profit from an artist’s success outside of music sales, and if alternative funding, like bank loans, might be a better route for artists looking to invest in their careers.
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