#347 - Jesse Cannon: Why There’s No Money in Music Anymore

Jesse Cannon is a music marketing expert, producer, author, and educator who helps independent artists navigate the modern music industry. He hosts Musformation and is the author of Get More Fans: The DIY Guide to the New Music Business and Processing Creativity. Jesse has worked with artists including The Cure, Animal Collective, Laufey, and Weird Al Yankovic, while also building expertise in music production, artist development, podcasting, and education. Through his work, he shares practical insights on audience growth, creative careers, music marketing, and building a sustainable path forward for independent artists.

In this episode, Michael Walker and Jesse Cannon explore how independent artists can build sustainable careers in a rapidly changing music industry, from growing a loyal fan base and fighting for fair compensation to navigating AI, music rights, and the future of human creativity.

Key Takeaways

• Build a stronger fan base: Learn why audience growth and direct relationships with fans are increasingly important for independent artists.
• Understand your rights and compensation: Discover the challenges artists face around streaming, rights management, and fair compensation—and why awareness matters.
• Protect the human side of creativity: Explore where AI can support the creative process while understanding why emotional authenticity and human connection remain essential to music.

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→ Learn more about Jesse and his work at: musicmarketingtrends.beehiiv.com

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