DROPPED

In this episode, Greg Holden and Matt Belmont introduce themselves and the podcast. They discuss some of their experiences in the music industry, including successes and setbacks. They express their frustrations with the changing landscape of the industry and their determination to adapt and find a new path forward. They also touch on the challenges of reaching and connecting with their audience in the age of streaming and short form content. Overall, the episode sets the stage for their journey of self-discovery and reinvention. Greg and Matt go on to discuss their experiences in the music industry, including their successes and setbacks. Greg talks about the massive impact of having a song featured on American Idol and both hosts discuss challenges they faced after being dropped by their record label.

In this episode, Greg and Matt discuss their transition from being part of a big, shiny record label team to navigating careers as one-man operations. They reflect on their respective journeys - Greg working every part-time job under the sun and Matt playing cover gigs and busking - before eventually finding their own breakthroughs as full-time musicians playing their own music. They share how early jobs shaped their careers and the experience of overcoming adversity to achieve personal definitions of success. The conversation also delves into the imbalance of earnings within the music industry, the challenge of sometimes being asked to work for free, and wraps up with each setting new challenges to push themselves further outside their comfort zones.  

In this special in-person episode of the podcast, recorded at Greg’s studio in Portland, we dive into the nuances of songwriting, creative collaboration, and the highs and lows of writing trips. We respond to a Q&A which leads us to discuss breaking through writer’s block, the emotional depths we traverse in sessions, and how songwriting cultures differ in Nashville, LA, and London. We also touch on the thrill of having a hit, navigating the pitfalls of plagiarism, and the crucial role of networking in the music industry. The episode wraps up with our insights on building lasting connections with fellow songwriters.

In this special shortened "Inbetweenisode" of Dropped we discuss the challenges segment of the podcast. How we almost Dropped it, some of the show feedback we've received so far, unexpected positive experiences that have already come as a result of stepping slightly out of our comfort zones to create more compelling reels, and what we hope to get from this unexpectedly popular part of the podcast!

In this episode we sit down with Rob Abelow, a seasoned music industry professional and the founder of 'Where Music's Going'. Rob’s had a fascinating career, from working at major labels to managing artists, and now mentoring them through his platform. We dive into the changing landscape of the music industry, exploring how technology like AI, web3, and NFTs is reshaping how artists connect directly with their fans. Rob shares valuable insights into navigating this digital age while staying authentic and maintaining control over one’s artistic voice. We discuss the resurgence of vinyl and the potential of music NFTs to foster deeper artist-fan relationships, contrasting these tangible formats with the limitations of digital music. We also cover the challenges of streaming and why direct, genuine connections with audiences are more crucial than ever. This conversation is all about the value of authenticity and human fan connection in an increasingly algorithmically filtered world.   More from Rob Abelow at wheremusicsgoing.com or on twitter at x.com/AbelowRob Contact us via email at droppedpod@gmail.com or on instagram at instagram.com/droppedpodcast

In this episode, we have a great conversation with Italian singer-songwriter Violetta Zironi, tracing her journey from her appearance as an 18-year-old ukulele-playing singer on X Factor Italy in 2013 to her position today as one of the most prominent artists in the Web3 music revolution - We caught up with her right in the middle of one of her most ground breaking Web3 achievements to date. Together, we discuss her path, we find out the origins of her incredible relentlessness and we compare notes on our own experiences as signed artists, dropped artists, and independent artists forging a path forward.

If you're enjoying listening to 'Dropped' please consider joining the community and aiding us in creating future episodes of the podcast - which you'll get to see early and ad free! - at https://patreon.com/droppedpodcast Thanks! - Matt & Greg In this, our 7th episode, we decided to give you all an insight into the current state of the music industry. We share some news of major label artists that have chosen to go independent - including James Blake and Julia Michaels - and we take a look at some of the frustrations they've shared in the time since. All of that, along with the usual updates on our own stories! Hope you enjoy this one, much love! -Matt & Greg More from Dropped: https://instagram.com/droppedpodcast droppedpod@gmail.com

Tis the season to compare ourselves to everyone else! But why? In this episode we discuss Spotify wrapped and what it means to not only share, but to have these often arbitrary numbers rammed down our throats year after year. Is it all bad? No. In fact, we find a lot of gratitude within this genius, but often misleading marketing campaign from our friends at Spotify. Join us for a side by side comparison of our wrapped numbers, and how we feel about the whole damn thing. Ho ho hold on tight!   If you're enjoying listening to 'Dropped' please consider joining the community and aiding us in creating future episodes of the podcast at patreon.com/droppedpodcast Thanks! - Matt & Greg   More from Dropped: instagram.com/droppedpodcast droppedpod@gmail.com  

In this episode we speak with Sacha Skarbek; the songwriter behind numerous hit songs including monster hits You're Beautiful (James Blunt) & Wrecking Ball (Miley Cyrus). In a career at the top which so far spans 20+ years Sacha has worked with artists including James Blunt, Jason Mraz, Lana Del Rey, Robbie Williams, Adele, Alec Benjamin and many many more. We discuss his life changing breakthrough with You're Beautiful, the pitfalls of success, building something bigger than yourself and his current project, guiding the next generation of hit songwriters via The Skarbek Songwriting Academy. We also catch up on our recent challenges and set an almost overwhelming new one!  --------------------------------- If you're enjoying listening to 'Dropped' please consider joining the community and aiding us in creating future episodes of the podcast at patreon.com/droppedpodcast Thanks! - Matt & Greg More from Sacha Skarbek Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SachaSkarbek/ The Skarbek Songwriting Academy: https://skarbekacademy.com/   More from Dropped: instagram.com/droppedpodcast droppedpod@gmail.com

In this finale episode, we reflect on how far we’ve come, the key lessons we’re taking away, and the ways we’ve grown while making this podcast. We discuss how our conversations - with each other and our guests - have reshaped how we approach our careers and overcome challenges. Even more significantly, we explore how the lessons we're learning from relaunching our music careers can apply to anyone navigating adversity. Thank you for being part of the DROPPED journey! We have big ambitions for the podcast and can’t wait to share what we have in store for Season 2! Much love, Greg & Matt ------------------------------------------ If you're enjoying listening to 'Dropped' please consider joining the community and aiding us in creating future episodes of the podcast at patreon.com/droppedpodcast   More from Dropped: instagram.com/droppedpodcast droppedpod@gmail.com

We’re back. Season two. Did you also think it might never happen? In this episode, we catch up after a much-needed break, talk about why YouTube banned our channel for using our own music, and unpack the burnout that came from trying to play the social media game. We cover a lot; from Greg’s bold move to release his new album without streaming, to the fundamental importance of community around music and why we’re both done chasing algorithms. We also share the cover songs we made of each other’s music, which turned out to be both emotional and a little terrifying (Spoiler: Greg's took 2 hours, Matt's took 2 months). This season, we’re doing things differently. Less clout-chasing, more connection. If you’re tired of the noise too, you’re in good company. - Matt & Greg

In this episode we talk with Grammy-winning songwriter and artist Amy Wadge. At 37, Amy was a struggling artist and songwriter, like so many of us searching for some kind of meaning. Enter fresh-faced unknown singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran. The rest as they say is history... Sheeran's 2010 EP 'Songs I Wrote With Amy' is exactly what it sounds like: songs he wrote with Amy. In 2014 the two of them co-wrote "Thinking Out Loud", a humongous worldwide hit and the subject of an 8-year plagiarism lawsuit, which was ultimately dismissed. Amy has written with many great artists including Alicia Keys, Camilla Cabello, Keith Urban, John Legend, Kylie Minogue, our very own Greg Holden, and so many more. She tells us what it was like for her in the early days, what it felt like to have a huge hit, then get sued and then bounce back. We discuss her passion for music theatre and talk about the difficulties we face in our industry today. Please enjoy this inspiring conversation with the incredible Amy Wadge. --------------------------------- If you're enjoying listening to 'Dropped' please consider joining the community and aiding us in creating future episodes of the podcast at patreon.com/droppedpodcast Thanks! - Matt & Greg   More from Amy Wadge: instagram.com/wadge1975   More from Dropped: instagram.com/droppedpodcast droppedpod@gmail.com

In this week’s episode, Greg and Matt sit down with legendary music producer TommyD, whose near-endless list of credits includes Tom Jones, Beyoncé, Catatonia, Noel Gallagher and even Right Said Fred. We trace Tommy’s rise from South London’s music shops and clubs to the global stage, including some brilliant Tom Jones anecdotes and the story of how a demo tape exchange with Right Said Fred catapulted him into the big leagues. Tommy shares the philosophies and hard-won lessons that have guided his journey through multiple careers, from hitmaker to entrepreneur to industry changemaker. We also dive into what’s next in music, touching on Web3, AI and how indie skills may just give us all the edge. Let us know your thoughts on this inspiring and wide-ranging conversation with TommyD - Head over to our Instagram or drop us an email! ------------------------------------ More from TommyD: TommyD on Instagram TommyD on X TommyD Website   More from Dropped: If you're enjoying listening to 'Dropped' please consider joining the community and aiding us in creating future episodes of the podcast at patreon.com/droppedpodcast Thanks! - Matt & Greg DROPPED on Instagram Email DROPPED

In this episode we talk to Terry Cole, a public school teacher turned indie label head, producer, artist and co-founder of Plaid Room Records, a brick and mortar record store in Loveland, OH. Terry started selling records out of his car a decade ago and now runs two successful independent record labels; Colemine Records and Karma Chief Records, as well as his popular record store. Terry gives us much insight into the inner workings of indie labels, as well as what to do (and what not to do) if you’re an artist trying to approach indie labels and record stores alike. In our opinion, he embodies authenticity and talking to him was a real treat for both of us. His approach to the music industry is refreshing and we learned so much from him. We know you will too.   DISCLAIMER: This episode contains A LOT of profanity even for us, so maybe don't show this one to your kids.    Tracklist of Terry's songs used in this episode: 1. Snowcat - Leroi Conroy 2. If I Called You - Kendra Morris 3. Dreaming - Taylor Williams   ---------------------------------   If you're enjoying listening to 'Dropped' please consider joining the community and aiding us in creating future episodes of the podcast at patreon.com/droppedpodcast Thanks! - Matt & Greg More from Terry Cole: instagram.com/leroiconroy instagram.com/plaidroomrecords instagram.com/coleminerecords   More from Dropped: instagram.com/droppedpodcast droppedpod@gmail.com

After an unplanned break, we’re back and catching up on everything from tech to timber. We dive into how the latest wave of AI music tools are already making their impact on music (and lately even inspiring Greg), and Matt shares what he’s learned building a cabin studio from the ground up - because apparently being an indie musician now means also becoming a part-time builder. Don't forget Greg’s new protest anthem ‘Off With Their Heads’ - will it get him arrested, deported, or just more shadow banned than he is already? --------------------------------- If you're enjoying listening to 'Dropped' please consider joining the community and aiding us in creating future episodes of the podcast at patreon.com/droppedpodcast More from Dropped: instagram.com/droppedpodcast droppedpod@gmail.com

After a summer of building (literally and figuratively) in the dark, seemingly non-existent real music world outside of social media, we’re back! We catch up on our breaks, swap a few stories, and ease into a conversation about one of the murkier corners of the music industry: PR 📰 This week we’re joined by Nicole Poulos, founder and CEO of Sideways Media, whose work behind the scenes has helped countless artists actually get heard. We talk about how PR has changed in the streaming and social media era, what still matters, and whether it’s even worth it for indie artists trying to do it all themselves. We might just swallow some of our words, as it hits home just how important telling your own story can be!   If you're enjoying listening to 'Dropped' please consider joining the community and aiding us in creating future episodes of the podcast at patreon.com/droppedpodcast Thanks! - Matt & Greg   More from Nicole Poulos: https://instagram.com/sidewaysmediainc https://sideways-media.com/ More from Dropped: instagram.com/droppedpodcast droppedpod@gmail.com

Greg launches our new short segment with some late night/early morning musings around creativity! Let us know what you think about hearing from us more regularly with these shorter musings between the full length episodes at droppedpod@gmail.com --------------------------------------- If you're enjoying listening to 'Dropped' please consider joining the community and aiding us in creating future episodes of the podcast at patreon.com/droppedpodcast More from Dropped: instagram.com/droppedpodcast droppedpod@gmail.com

This week on DROPPED we hung out with the brilliant Garrison Starr, Grammy-nominated songwriter, producer and artist. The conversation starts with a wide ranging catch up and many anecdotes (Her and Greg have been close friends for a long time!) before getting into the story of how she has shaped a long, meaningful career in this tough industry and how she (and we) believe that artists should stand up and speak up for the things they believe in. We hear about Garrison's early experiences of rejection in her community and how they forced her to toughen up far sooner than most artists have to; She talks openly about the impact that had on her and why it made her almost impossible to knock off course. We also learn how she is building real community now through regular Patreon livestreams which she calls her "Church of broken healing souls". Garrison is staying consistently present with her supporters and recently even fully embracing social media, reframing it to serve her goals. This conversation is a rare, grounded look at how an artist can build something sustainable through raw honesty, direct connection and a lot of stubborn resilience. Hope you enjoy this conversation with the one and only Garrison Starr - an artist that we think everyone should hear about! ---------------------------------------- If you're enjoying listening to DROPPED please consider joining the community and aiding us in creating future episodes of the podcast on Our PATREON. Thanks! - Matt & Greg 🦩🦩 More from Garrison Starr: https://instagram.com/GarrisonStarr https://www.garrisonstarr.com More from Dropped: https://instagram.com/droppedpodcast droppedpod@gmail.com

Human thoughts on AI generated music. Matt pondering what it's all for, what it all means and most of all just... why? This DROPPED notes podcast was made entirely by a human. Imagine that? Let us know what you think about hearing from us more regularly with these shorter musings between the full length episodes at droppedpod@gmail.com --------------------------------------- If you're enjoying listening to 'Dropped' please consider joining the community and aiding us in creating future episodes of the podcast at patreon.com/droppedpodcast More from Dropped: instagram.com/droppedpodcast droppedpod@gmail.com