THE WORLD IS
A STAGE.
FOR THE GREATEST INDEPENDENT ARTISTS
False alarm
False alarm - “Miracle cure all”
LISTEN: Spotify
FOLLOW: Facebook
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
We're False Alarm from Southern Ohio, and you should care because music is how I feed my cats.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
The first time I picked up a guitar, which sounds pretty cliche but I think that's true for a lot of people.
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
Quit my job.
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
Probably "into the beyond" I wrote that for a buddy of mine who passed away from a drug overdose.
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
Relatability, I try to write songs that hopefully someone might hear and relate too, whether it's like the loss of someone or just feeling trapped and stuck, I think everyone wants to have music that can relate too.
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
I think we put a little more effort into our writing process than a lot of other punk bands.
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
Probably "miracle cure all" it has a pretty catchy melody and the harmonies and people seem to like that kind of stuff, but if you don't like that kind of stuff you should still check something else out.
#punk #rock
STRANDING
STRANDING - “Hush”
LISTEN: Spotify
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
STRANDING is a progressive metal act based out of Philly, PA. Music for those who feel estranged in an increasingly artificial landscape.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
Music has been my one true calling for as long as I can remember. I've tried walking a variety of different paths in life, with fleeting interest. Music has and always will define me. - Evan I've been writing and producing music for the past 15 years - mostly for other bands. My own music always ended up being shelved. When starting Stranding with Evan - it just felt natural and special. - Elidor
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
Nothing changes. Creating art allows for a temporary escape from the daily mundane and horrors alike. It provides substance. My only wish is to share it with those who will listen. - Evan I honestly don't think about that. Stranding is an outlet. And I genuinely believe that whoever connects to it will feel the same. And that's all that matters. - Elidor
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
An unreleased song from our upcoming debut LP comes to mind. All I can currently impart is its title, "Try Not To Dwell". It holds a very special place in my heart. - Evan Hush. I feel like it encapsulates what this band is all about both musically and lyrically. - Elidor
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
I'd rather avoid imposing expectations on that front. Music is most evocative when concealed by an air of mystery. It's up to the listener to interpret it in their own way and allow their feelings to outpour naturally - unfiltered. - Evan Vulnerability. Our music is and always will be emotional and honest. - Elidor
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
Authenticity and raw emotion. Everything else is noise. - Evan Not trying to forcibly sound like anything else. - Elidor
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
Our debut singles "Branded" and "Hush" are out now. A third joins them this summer, followed by our full LP later this year. - Evan & Elidor
#metalcore #progressivemetal #alternativemetal
Guiltera
Guiltera - “Fight”
LISTEN: Spotify
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Female-fronted modern metal band from Cyprus. We are heavy music which is easy to listen to.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
50k streams of our first release of the song Ecstasy
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
Have some sleep and sell all the music equipment ;)
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
I don't have my favourites, they are all exceptional and personal, especially Far away ;)
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
I just want people to vibe with it and have a good time.
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
They are already rich and famous
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
Start with Fight. It’s just… f*cking good. That’s the reason.
#modernmetal #numetal #altmetal #metalcore #altrock
Stephanie Amora
Stephanie Amora - “Holy Spirit Lead”
LISTEN: Spotify
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Stephanie Amora is a Christian pop artist blending cinematic worship with uplifting, modern sounds. Her music encourages faith in real-life moments, creating songs people can both feel and move to.
#Christian #Gospel
Lies Burn Bright
Lies Burn Bright - “Inside My Mind”
LISTEN: Spotify
FOLLOW: YouTube, Instagram, Apple Music
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Lies Burn Bright is a modern metalcore band from Austria, consisting of the members Rebecca, Arthur, Emanuel, and Pascal. United by their passion for heavy music and honest expression, the band turns their deepest emotions into powerful and authentic songs. Through their music, Lies Burn Bright aim to give their feelings a voice — not only through expressive vocals and raw screams, but also through heavy riffs, driving drums, and melodies that resonate with listeners. Their lyrics explore a range of emotional themes, including inner conflict, breakups, and fear. By being open about these struggles, the band wants to remind people that they are not alone in these feelings. Lies Burn Bright create a space where listeners can connect, release their emotions, and shout along with the music.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
There wasn’t one big moment - it was just clear from the start. We’d all done the cover band thing before, but this time felt different. From day one, we knew we weren’t here to just play music - we wanted to create something of our own and actually reach people with it.
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
Nothing crazy - we’d just keep going. Just more songs, more shows, and pushing everything further. If anything, it would just raise the bar for what comes next.
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
Inside My Mind hits the closest. It captures a very honest snapshot of where we are right now - not just musically, but emotionally as well. The song reflects a lot of the inner chaos, thoughts, and struggles that we all relate to in different ways.
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
We want people to feel understood. Like whatever’s going on in their head - it’s not just them. If our music can make someone feel a little less alone, that’s everything.
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
We’re more than bandmates - we’re part of each other’s daily lives. We see each other constantly, spend our free time together, and built real trust over years. That changes the energy in the room and the way we create music.
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
Inside My Mind. It’s our most recent release and probably the most accurate representation of who we are right now as a band.
#metalcore #modernmetal #alternativemetal
Shiroi Karasu
Shiroi Karasu - “Insomnia”
LISTEN: Spotify
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
We’re an Italian alt-metal band formed in 2025, blending modern heaviness, cinematic electronics and strong melodic hooks. Our music is shaped by the new wave of heavy bands that made metal feel darker, more immediate and more immersive, but we’re focused on building a sound and identity of our own. We want new listeners to connect with the songs first, then with the atmosphere, visuals and emotional world behind them.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
We took music seriously when we realized we wanted to build something bigger than just a few songs. we wanted to build something real, with its own sound, identity and direction.
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
We’d probably celebrate for five minutes, then go back to work and make sure people have a real world to step into.
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
Insomnia means the most to us right now because it’s our first release and the first real step into this project. Each song has its own identity, but this one starts the thread that connects everything coming next.
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
We want people to feel pulled into something intense and real. There’s heaviness in the music, but also emotion, tension and release. More than anything, we want it to feel immersive.
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
We’re trying to build a real identity, not just release songs.
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
They should start with Insomnia, because right now it’s the entry point into our world, and the rest of the story — both musically and visually — is still unfolding.
#metalcore #alternative metal
Septa
Septa - “On (Not) Losing Hope”
LISTEN: Spotify
FOLLOW: YouTube, Instagram, BandCamp
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Septa was formed in 2010 in Odesa, Ukraine, by vocalist Eugene Tymchyk and guitarist Alexander Kostuchenko — driven by the conviction that metal music can be fierce and intelligent, brutal and romantic at the same time. After years of writing and touring, the band entered the studio with producer Matt Bayles (Norma Jean, Mastodon) to record their debut. The Lover (2013) combined post-rock, alternative metal, and post-hardcore into six songs that gathered critical acclaim and a devoted following. The follow-up, Destroyer (2014), took a darker turn — heavier and more brooding, drawing from mathcore and hardcore while expanding the band’s sonic palette. Years of extensive touring and writing led to Sounds Like Murder (2016), a one-hour collection of thirteen songs that instantly became one of the best-selling Bandcamp albums of its release month, dominated Ukrainian streaming charts, and was named Best Ukrainian Metal Album at the annual BUMA awards. Following opening shows for Stone Sour in 2019, the band regrouped around an ambitious new concept — a time-traveling Golem navigating themes of persecution, climate collapse, and human extinction. Bitten by the Serpent of the Kingdom of the Spirit (2019) is Septa’s most theatrical and intense record — a full-blown extreme metal concept album that reaches into progressive and art music territory without ever losing its restless experimental spirit. Its opening track Emet was later selected for the official in-game radio of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl (2024), introducing Septa to millions of players worldwide. When russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Septa found themselves searching for a way to make music that meant something in impossible circumstances. On (Not) Losing Hope (2026) is the result — two songs recorded during wartime, produced by Connor Sweeney (Loathe), that capture the band’s collective state of mind with raw honesty. This is what hope sounds like when it has no good reason to exist.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
Just as Gerard Way, it was 9/11 for some strange cosmic reasons
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
Feature with Dia Lipa
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
Emet, “truth” is the most adventurous and ambitious piece of music we’ve created, it has it all
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
Content
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
Obnoxious diversity
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
11th: Omen
#metalcore #progmetal #alternative #mathcore #posthadcore
Xandra Tate
Xandra Tate - “this much”
LISTEN: Spotify
FOLLOW: YouTube, Instagram, TikTok
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Xandra Tate is a seventeen-year-old aspiring Christian artist from Arizona! From a very young age, she has had a passion for writing songs and making music. It is truly a dream come true to get to share her love of Jesus through music, and she is so excited to be using the gifts He has blessed her with in this way. She wants to give all the glory to God!
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
I knew I wanted to take music seriously when songwriting went from a fun hobby to an outlet where I let my emotions out, strengthened my relationship with God, and wrestled with my faith. It became something I found refuge with God in, and my love for music and the deep connection it offers made me want to make music for the rest of my life!
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
Of course, I would be overjoyed if my music blew up, but I would be sure to stay grounded in the fact that all of the glory belongs to God. I would have such gratitude for the people who made my music theirs and for the gifts and talents I have been given. The goal is to reach people with those talents in a meaningful way, and achieving that would be a dream come true.
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
The first two songs I am releasing mean the most to me. My first release, “this much, ” is probably the most meaningful because I was so excited to write it. I was thinking about how little kids say “I love you thiiiiiis much!” with their arms stretched out, and an idea about the parallel between that and the actions of Christ popped into my mind, sparking the idea for this song. I love creating connections between things that seem unrelated because it reminds me that God’s hand is in absolutely everything.
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
I want people to feel encouraged, joyful, and secure in Christ when listening to my music. However, I also want people to feel that they can lay their weariness in the comforting embrace of Christian/worship music so that my songs can be a comfort in hard times or an extra boost in joyful times. It is my prayer that my music is relatable everywhere from small struggles to strong moments of faith!
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
In my music, I try to blend real life experiences and faith, because that is what the Christian experience is truly like. I think that sets me apart because there are often two categories of music, secular and worship. In some ways, I want to bridge the gap and stop alienating personal experiences from music about God. I think that both of these things can be compatible and comfort Christians in the fact that they are not alone in their experiences, spiritual or not!
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
I only have one song out, so I’d love if people just followed along in my journey!
#christian #indie #country #folk
Crown of Decay
Crown of Decay - “Fatal Push”
LISTEN: Spotify
FOLLOW: YouTube
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Crown of Decay emerged from the Swedish underground with roots in old-school death metal, early on laced with a blackened edge. What began as a raw and aggressive foundation has evolved into something heavier, sharper, and more deliberate. Shedding excess in favor of impact, the band channels a darker and more focused sound where groove meets brutality, and every riff carries weight and intent. Still anchored in the cold traditions of Swedish extreme metal, Crown of Decay pushes forward with a modern sense of force, precision, and atmosphere.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
I’ve taken music seriously for as long as I can remember. I picked up the guitar as a teenager, and it quickly became my escape. Since then, I’ve been playing in bands consistently, starting with my first real project, MaiM, around 2005—not to be confused with the band that carries the same name today. We were a three-piece playing death metal, with the drummer handling main vocals while I did backing vocals. That’s where I first started developing my growls. Over the years, I moved through different projects, including a metalcore band called Surviving the Charade. Eventually, I stepped away to focus on studies and a more conventional career. It was a quieter, more “normal” period—but it also reignited something. That distance made it clear that music was never just a phase. I came back with full intent, joining the black metal band Myronath, playing alongside musicians with ties to Ragnarok, Amon Amarth, and Marduk. Today, I’m active in two bands—I handle vocals in Crown of Decay and play guitar in the Swedish black metal band Wolfcross. Through it all, I’ve never let go of the guitar—it’s always been there, and it always will be.
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
If it could pay the bills, I’d give it everything—no hesitation. I’d lock the door behind me and live on the road for as long as possible. Touring, writing, recording… just fully commit to the life and see how far it can go.
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
tend to live in the moment with music—each song reflects where I am mentally and emotionally at that time. They all mean something in their own way. Right now, though, Fatal Push stands out. It feels especially relevant—it’s about rebellion against those in power and how ordinary people get thrown into the fire for financial or political gain. It captures a kind of frustration and resistance that hits close to reality.
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
Honestly, the main thing is escape. I want people to forget about everything for a while and just get lost in it—pure, uncontrollable headbanging. We write our songs with the live experience in mind first and foremost—something that hits hard, moves air, and makes people lose themselves in the moment. But at the same time, it should carry over outside the stage too—something you can blast in the car and just floor it to.
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
What sets us apart is the way we lock into that heavy, driving core while still pulling from a wide spectrum of metal. Crown of Decay started almost as a tribute to the bands that were our favorites at the time—Bloodbath, Gatecreeper, Lamb of God, Sylosis—but it’s evolved into something more focused and intentional. The chemistry between me and Markus, the founding member alongside me and guitarist, is a big part of it. He’s an absolute riff machine, and together we shape those ideas into complete songs—gluing everything together with structure, vocals, and lyrics that give it weight and identity. We’ve all been around different corners of the metal scene, and that shows. There’s a bit of everything in our sound—death metal, groove, blackened elements—but it all comes down to one goal: everything has to hit hard. No filler, no excess—just music that lands with impact.
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
Fatal Push. I mean—man, it just fucking slaps!
#groovemetal #deathmetal #melodicdeathmetal
How Independent Artists Make Money
Shout out Orthodox Straightedge XXX
1. Streaming Revenue (But With Real Expectations)
Streaming can make you money—but it’s usually not your main income source starting out.
How it works:
You earn per stream on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, etc.
The payout is small (fractions of a cent per stream)
What to focus on:
Getting on playlists (editorial + independent)
Encouraging fans to save and replay your songs
Driving traffic from TikTok/Instagram to your music
Reality check:
1,000 streams ≠ real money
100,000+ streams is where things start to matter
👉 Use streaming as a long-term asset, not your main paycheck early on.
2. Live Shows & Touring
This is one of the most powerful ways to make money and build fans.
Ways to earn:
Paid gigs at venues
Opening for bigger artists
Ticket splits
Street performances (in the right areas)
How to increase income:
Build a small local following first
Reach out to venues directly
Pair shows with merch sales (this is huge)
👉 Even small shows can turn into big income when combined with merch.
3. Merch (make it dope and limited)
Merch is where many independent artists make their first real money.
What to sell:
T-shirts, hoodies, hats
Stickers, posters
Limited edition drops
Tips:
Keep designs simple but meaningful
Tie merch to your identity or lyrics
Create scarcity (limited runs sell better)
👉 Fans don’t just want music—they want something that represents being part of your movement.
4. Content Monetization (Short-Form is King, duh)
Your content can make money—even if your music hasn’t blown up yet.
Platforms:
TikTok
Instagram
YouTube (Shorts + long-form)
Ways to earn:
Creator funds / ad revenue
Brand deals (even small ones)
Driving traffic to your music, merch, or offers
What works best:
Relatable content
Storytelling
Behind-the-scenes clips
Hooks that grab attention in the first 2 seconds
👉 Content isn’t just promotion—it’s a business tool.
5. Selling Directly to Fans (High Value, Low Volume)
Instead of chasing millions of streams, you can make money from a small, loyal audience.
Examples:
Exclusive songs or demos
Private livestreams
Fan subscriptions
Personalized content (shoutouts, custom songs)
Platforms to use:
Email lists
Community groups
Direct messaging
👉 100 true fans spending $10–$50 each is more powerful than thousands of passive listeners.
6. Sync Licensing (Getting Your Music Placed)
This is when your music is used in:
TV shows
Movies
Ads
YouTube videos
Why it’s powerful:
One placement can pay hundreds to thousands
You get exposure + income
How to get started:
Upload to sync platforms
Network with creators and editors
Create music that fits moods (instrumentals help)
👉 This is one of the most scalable income streams over time.
7. Becoming a Playlist Curator (so Underrated)
This is a very smart move that most artists overlook.
What it is:
You create and grow playlists on platforms like Spotify, then get your playlists on SubmitHub, Playlist Push, etc and make money from submissions and helping other artists:
Feature your own music
Help other artists get exposure
Potentially monetize your influence
How to do it:
Pick a niche (e.g., “chill indie pop”, “sad late night vibes”)
Consistently update your playlist
Promote it on social media
Submit it to playlist directories
Collaborate with other curators
learn how to do it:
Here is a video of me explaining exactly how to become a playlist curator:
Should you be a Playlist Curator? - Taylor Bryant
8. Collabs & Features
Working with other artists can open up new audiences and income opportunities.
Ways to earn:
Charging for features (once you have traction)
Splitting revenue on songs
Cross-promoting to each other’s fans
👉 Growth + money + exposure all in one.
9. Offering Services (Leverage Your Skills)
As an independent artist, you likely have skills others need.
Services you can offer:
Recording vocals
Songwriting
Mixing/mastering
Cover art or content creation
👉 This can become a consistent income while you build your music career.
You’ve got this! Remember, everyone who wants it bad enough will achieve it, the world cannot stop you. Set your mind to what you want and go achieve it. - Much love, Taylor Bryant
#independentartist #indieartist #musician #singer #songwriter #independent #indie
I wish you the best on your journey! If you want to be on THIS blog you can submit here! Starts at only $5! »»» SUBMIT A SONG
Much Love, Taylor Bryant
#indieoutcast #musician #independentartist #indieartist #singer
How to Build A loyal Fanbase
7 ways // How to Build a Loyal Fanbase as an Independent Artist (Not Just Listeners)
Most independent artists are chasing streams, views, and followers.
But those don’t build careers—FANS DO. (duh, right?)
A loyal fanbase is what sells out shows, buys merch, and sticks with you for years. If you’re tired of seeing numbers go up without real support behind them, this guide will show you how to build true fans step by step.
Why Most Artists Struggle to Build Real Fans
Look, it’s important to understand what’s going wrong:
They focus on going viral instead of being relatable
They post content without a clear identity
They don’t engage with their audience personally
They treat fans like numbers instead of people
They never give fans a reason to stay
The truth is simple:
👉 People don’t become fans because of your music alone—they become fans because of how you make them FEEEEEL. Make em’ feel something bro (or sis ofc).
1. Build a Clear Identity (So People Know Why to Care)
If someone finds your content or music, they should instantly understand who you are and what you stand for.
How to do this:
Define your message (what do you represent?)
Pick 2–3 core themes your content revolves around
Be consistent in your visuals, tone, and personality
Share your story and struggles, not just highlights
Example:
Instead of:
“I make music”
Be:
“I make alternative pop for people trying to figure life out”
👉 Clarity creates connection. Confusion kills it.
2. Talk With Your Audience, Not At Them
Most artists post and disappear. That’s a mistake. You are better than that and so are your fans!
Fans are built through lots of interaction.
What to do:
Reply to every comment and DM (especially early on)
Ask questions in your captions:
“What do you think about this line?”
“Should I drop this?”
Use polls, Q&As, and story interactions
Call out fans by name when possible
Why it matters:
People support what they feel connected to
A small audience that feels seen > a big audience that feels ignored
3. Show the Process (Not Just the Product)
Polished single releases are great—but they don’t build a connection by themselves.
People want to feel like they’re part of the journey.
Content ideas:
Behind-the-scenes of recording sessions
Writing unfinished songs
Explaining lyrics or meaning
Showing failures or scrapped ideas
“Day in the life” as an independent artist
Why this works:
Fans feel invested in your growth
They root for you because they’ve seen you on the grind
👉 When they watch the process, they care more about the outcome.
4. Give Fans a Reason to Stay
Getting attention is one thing—keeping it is another.
You need to create an ecosystem, not just posts.
Ways to do this:
Start an email list (offer exclusive content)
Create a community space (Discord, group chat, etc.)
Drop exclusive previews for core fans
Give early access to songs or merch
Share personal updates they won’t see anywhere else
Go to shows and hand out QR Code Scan cards of your music
Key idea:
Casual listeners consume
Loyal fans belong
👉 Your goal is to make fans feel like insiders.
5. Be Consistent (Even When It Feels Slow)
This is where most artists fail.
They post for a few weeks, don’t see results, and quit.
What consistency looks like:
Posting content 3–5 times per week (or whatever you can stick to!)
Repeating your message without overthinking it
Showing up even when engagement is low
Reality check:
Loyal fanbases are built over months and years, not days. (Millionaires think in years, Billionaires think in centuries) a.k.a be a Billionaire ;)
Most people quit right before things start working
👉 Consistency builds familiarity. Familiarity builds trust. Trust builds fans.
6. Turn Casual Listeners Into Superfans
Not everyone who hears your music will become a fan—but some will.
Your job is to identify and nurture them.
How to do that:
Pay attention to who:
Comments often
Shares your content
Messages you
Give those people extra attention:
Respond more deeply
Thank them personally
Offer exclusive access
Why this matters:
100 real fans are more valuable than 10,000 passive listeners
Superfans are the foundation of your career
7. Make Fans Feel Something (This Is Everything)
At the core of it all:
👉 People become fans because they feel understood, inspired, or connected.
Ask yourself:
Does my content make someone feel seen?
Does my music say something real?
Am I being authentic or just trying to impress?
What would you want your favorite artists to do to make you feel seen?
The truth:
Perfect content doesn’t win—real content does
People don’t remember everything you post
—but they remember how you made them feel
Final Thoughts
Building a loyal fanbase isn’t about hacks or shortcuts.
It’s about:
Showing up consistently
Being real
Connecting with people
And giving them a reason to stay
If you focus on those things, growth becomes inevitable.
Simple Action Plan (Start Today)
Post 1 piece of content showing your real process
Reply to every comment and DM you get
Ask your audience 1 genuine question
Start collecting emails or building a core group
Stay consistent for the next 30 days
If you do this right, you won’t just have listeners.
You’ll have fans who stick with you for years.
I wish you the best on your journey! If you want to be on THIS blog you can submit here! Starts at only $5! »»» SUBMIT A SONG
Much Love, Taylor Bryant
#indieoutcast #musician #independentartist #indieartist #singer
Kutie
Kutie - “Bloodmoon”
LISTEN: Spotify
FOLLOW: LinkTree
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Kutie is an electrifying alternative rock band out of Clovis, California, blending raw emotion, heavy guitar-driven sound, and hook-driven songwriting into a sound that hits both hard and wide. Fronted by powerhouse vocalist Ellie Gonzalez, backed by multi-instrumentalist Gavin Gonzalez, and driven by lead guitarist Jackson Martinez, the band delivers a dynamic mix of energy, attitude, and authenticity that’s quickly turning heads beyond their hometown. Pulling influence from bands like Paramore, My Chemical Romance, Linkin Park, and Pierce the Veil, Kutie sits at the intersection of alternative rock, pop punk, and emo—balancing melodic accessibility with an aggressive edge. Their music combines heartfelt lyrics with explosive instrumentation, creating songs that resonate just as much in headphones as they do live on stage. Since forming in 2023, Kutie has built a reputation for high-energy performances across California’s Central Valley and Los Angeles, playing notable venues and festivals including House of Blues Anaheim, The Redwood (DTLA), Universal Bar & Grill in Hollywood, the iconic Whisky a Go Go, and the legendary Viper Room. They’ve shared stages with national touring acts like Eyes Set to Kill, The Dollyrots, and Lightworker, while continuing to grow a loyal and rapidly expanding fanbase. With their debut EP already making noise, Kutie continues to build momentum with their upcoming single “Bloodmoon,” releasing April 15, marking the next chapter in their evolution and expanding their sound with even more intensity and edge. Positioned at the intersection of nostalgia and modern alternative, Kutie is emerging as a serious contender in the next wave of rock—refusing to stay in one lane and bringing a fresh but familiar energy to every stage they hit.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
as a band now we are just having fun and writing songs we want to hear
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
We would book a show with all our friends bands at a cool location and have a fun show with all our friends
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
Most of our newer unreleased songs that are not out yet are rooted in deeper emotions than our original EP.
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
Just hoping people have a something to relate to and have a good time listening.
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
Were not constricted to one genre. Many of our newer songs branch our further from our original sound and EP. We just write what were into.
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
We think Half Way or The Exit would be a good place to start. Both are heavy and rooted in our og sound.
#AltRock #PostHardcore #Shoegaze #Emo
Liminal Silence
Liminal Silence - “Ballroom for Phantoms”
LISTEN: Spotify
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Liminal Silence is a post-hardcore duo working between Chicago and Austria, building songs that sit somewhere between control and collapse. Since forming in 2022, they’ve combined atmospheric layers, orchestral elements, and heavy, melody-driven writing into a sound that feels tense and deliberate. Their music circles themes of addiction, mental strain, and repetition. The kind that’s hard to break. There’s a constant push and pull in their songs, shifting from restraint to release without warning, giving each track a sense of weight that sticks.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
It wasn’t one moment but it was realizing we could build something that actually felt different. We come from completely different backgrounds, but once we started working together, it became about more than just making music. It was about creating something meaningful that people could connect to, and that’s what made us take it seriously.
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
We’d find a way to bring it to a live setting as fast as possible. Whether that’s a livestream or getting in the same place to play a real show. After that, it’s about building something sustainable and not letting it be a one-moment spike.
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
“Bury Me Down.” It was the first track we made together. Volker sent the instrumental, Zach tracked vocals in one sitting, and it set the foundation for everything that followed. Even after writing more songs, it was the one we kept coming back to.
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
Tension and release. Our songs sit in that space where things feel like they’re building or unraveling. A lot of what we write about comes from cycles, addiction, mental strain, repetition. So the goal is for people to feel that weight, but also feel understood in it.
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
Liminal Silence was built entirely online and across time zones, through endless Discord messages, constant file sharing, and a lot of back-and-forth on every detail. That process forces everything to be intentional. We don’t write to fit a lane. Every song starts with a feeling and gets built out from there, whether that means pulling in orchestral elements, ambient layers, or pushing structure in a different direction.
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
“Stay Away.” It was our second single and the first track that really connected with people. It captures both sides of what we do, the atmosphere and the weight, and it’s where things started to grow for us.
#posthardcore #metalcore
SLEEPTALKER
SLEEPTALKER - “Fractures”
LISTEN: Spotify
FOLLOW: LinkTree
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
SLEEPTALKER is a 5-piece heavy music outfit from Tennessee, blending raw emotion, atmospheric ambience, and crushing intensity into a dynamic & progressive metalcore sound. Emerging in 2024 with the single 'LakeSideDreams,' we poured years of dedication into crafting our sound & identity. Our debut EP, 'Deathbed Confessions,' channels personal grief - most notably from our drummer Eugene Plastino's near-fatal car accident - into a powerful & moving sonic experience. The EP Features stand out collaboration track 'Illuminate(d)' with Myke Terry (Volumes, Fire From the Gods). After completing our first co-headlining tour in 2025, we released the track 'Kingdom of Glass,' produced & co-written by Periphery frontman Spencer Sotelo, and we are currently working with Sotelo on our debut album - slated to be released in 2027.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
Once we started actually learning how to do things professionally, spending money on recording, music videos, etc. We realized early on we had a real chance to make this something, so we've done all we can to level up in every aspect since.
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
If our music blew up tomorrow, we'd try to set up shows with some of our influences and favorite bands. We say all the time that connecting with people and playing live is our favorite part of being in a band, so being able to do that on a bigger scale and share it with more people would be a dream come true.
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
The song that means the most to us would be the song Deathbed. Our drummer Eugene got into a near-fatal accident a few days before Thanksgiving and was in a coma with a broken back and neck. We were unsure if he'd even be able to walk ever again, let alone drum. Once he recovered, we wrote that song and video about the whole thing, so it's a deeply personal song to us.
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
It depends on the song really. We mostly write pissed off or sad music. So giving people something that they can relate to and makes them feel something is usually the goal. Either letting them know their rage is justified or that they aren't alone is their misery. Music is an outlet for all of us, so we try to be that for others.
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
I think we just try to do things right. We don't try to emulate other bands, but we see what works and what doesn't by our peers and we try to iterate. We're quick learners, passionate, all multi-talented to areas of the band outside of the music, so I think that's partially what sets us apart. We also don't have other bands or artists in mind when writing music - we don't follow trends or try to bandwagon, so I think being authentic to ourselves and influences is important.
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
We would say listen to Deathbed and go from there. That was the first song we wrote where we thought "yeah, this is what SLEEPTALKER sounds like." It has super heavy parts, groove, melody, ambience, and super personal lyrics. But we always try to never write the same thing twice, so going through what we've released and what we're working on right now,, you'll never really know what to truly expect from us next!
#metalcore #djent #alternativerock #rock
Haine
Haine - “Contaminated”
FOLLOW: YouTube , Official Website
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Haine is a deathcore band from Malta pushing beyond genre conventions with a sound that blends crushing grooves, precision-driven breakdowns and melodic depth. Since 2017, they’ve built a reputation for delivering intensity with purpose, while balancing technical weight with emotional narrative. Their debut releases and 2021 self-titled EP established them on the international radar, earning recognition across the global deathcore scene. In 2025, Haine raised the bar with their full-length album Fertile Void, a concept-driven record exploring self-discovery and transformation, featuring collaborations with Ben Duerr (Shadow of Intent) and Andreas Bjulver (Cabal). For listeners looking for more than just heaviness, Haine offers a deliberate, evolving sound that combines aggression with atmosphere, precision with identity. Contaminated is the first new release in 2026 with more singles being released throughout the year.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
Malta didn’t really have deathcore when we started, so it was less of a “moment” and more of a realization that if we wanted that sound to exist here, we had to build it ourselves. Once things started connecting outside the island, it stopped feeling like the early stages of the band and more like something we had a responsibility to push properly while still enjoying ourselves.
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
Probably panic for about five minutes, then get straight back to work! Going viral is definitely cool, but it also puts a target on your back since people are waiting to see if you can follow it up or disappear. So we’d focus on making sure the next release hits even harder and the live show levels up fast.
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
“Blood Moon” is a big one for us. It’s basically the closest we’ve come to capturing our live energy in a recorded track. The structure, the pacing, the intensity, it all feels like controlled chaos in the best way. At the same time, “Contaminated” shows where we’re heading now with a more refined sound, more deliberate and a step forward in how we write and shape our sound.
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
Clarity through intensity. Not just heaviness for the sake of it, but something that forces reflection. Like confronting something uncomfortable and coming out sharper on the other side. If it leaves you thinking, not just headbanging, we’ve done it right.
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
We’re not trying to out-heavy everyone or chase whatever trend is blowing up this week. We’re focused on making songs that actually stick. There’s a lot of bands that can write breakdowns; not all of them can make you remember the track after it ends. We put just as much effort into structure, dynamics and identity as we do into sounding aggressive… and we’re doing it from a place that didn’t even have a deathcore scene to begin with. No blueprint, no shortcuts.
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
“Contaminated.” It’s the clearest snapshot of where we are right now. That is: more refined, more deliberate, but still hitting hard. It shows the direction we’re moving in and 2026 is going to expand on that with a run of new singles, each with its own attitude but all rooted in the same Haine sound. If you get “Contaminated,” you’ll understand where we’re headed.
#deathcore #deathmetal
Think About It
think about it - ‘I Couldn’t Keep You Human
LISTEN: Spotify
FOLLOW: YouTube
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Think About It creates dark, intense music filled with raw emotion and crushing atmosphere. “Couldn’t Keep You Human” explores transformation, pain, and the slow loss of humanity.
#Metal #AlternativeMetal #DarkMetal
Death Do Us Part
death do us part - ‘Mercy’
LISTEN: Spotify
FOLLOW: LinkTree
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
We are a 5 piece modern metalcore band from central Florida. We are a band that is all about having fun and putting on a cinematic experience for our listeners on and off the stage.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
I’ll always remember that exact moment! I was at my first local show when I lived in Connecticut that my best friends uncle took us to. The raw energy, crowd going crazy and intensity the band was putting out was connecting with my soul. Once we left it was then I knew what I wanted to do with my life!
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
Book a free show and invite everyone that helped us get there!
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
Mercy means a lot to us all because we all have been wanting to blend genres of music including pop, modern metalcore and old school metalcore,. Mercy is the closest we feel we have too hitting that mark spot on!
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
We have decided to dive into a few topics that are heavy on the mind to embody the Death Do Us Part name including heart break and suicidal thoughts. Most recently Mercy is about the negative effects that hook up culture could have on a persons mind. We want the listener to connect and feel the song on a personal level.
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
What we plan to do to set ourselves apart is to give the audience an experience live and for each song to tell a story through playing the song live.
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
Mercy! Always a fun listen and great to jump around to and have fun!
#ModernMetalcore #metalcore
Fake Majesty
FAKE MAJESTY - ‘Ease the Pain ft. Denis Stoff’
LISTEN: Spotify
FOLLOW: Instagram
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Modern Rock/Metal band from Istanbul, Turkey.
INTERVIEW:
1. “What moment made you realize you wanted to take music seriously?”
We realized it when music stopped feeling like just something we enjoyed and started becoming our way of expressing who we are. The more we played, wrote, and spent time in the studio, the more we understood that this wasn’t just a hobby for us. it was something we wanted to build and push as far as we could. 🤘
2. “Say, your music blew up tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?”
Honestly, We’d go straight back to the studio. Because if the music blew up, that just means more people are listening and that gives us even more reason to push ourselves. We’re always chasing the next level, always trying to make something better and higher quality than the last thing we did. For us, success wouldn’t be the finish line, it would just be the start of doing things even bigger and better.
3. “What’s a song you’ve made that means the most to you—and why?”
We’d say two songs. The first one is “Ease The Pain”, it captures all that anger, mood swings, and inner conflict. The second one is our upcoming song “Yağmur Damlaları” , we really love the sense of longing and emotional exhaustion in it. They almost feel like two opposite songs standing against each other.
4. “What emotion or mindset do you want people to feel when they hear your music?”
We want them to feel powerful. Like whatever they’re carrying inside " anger, frustration, pain, or even exhaustion " can turn into energy instead of something that holds them down. Our music is about facing those emotions head-on and transforming them into something loud, honest, and alive.
5. “What separates you from every other artist in your lane right now?”
We are not trying to fit into a scene. We just make the music that feels honest to us, and that honesty is something people can hear immediately. Unlike most people, we started this journey with a clear vision and a real goal. We want to create the highest-quality music with the best people around us, and do it the right way. We’re aiming beyond the limits people try to put on us, all the way to the top.
BONUS. “Say someone just became a fan of you—what 1 song should they listen to first and why?”
So far we’ve only released our first song, and our second one is coming out very soon. But one thing we believe we do really well is creating a connection that makes you want to hear more. When you listen to one of our songs, you’ll get curious about the rest. We try to deliver both the emotional bond and the story behind the music. Honestly, no matter where you start, you’ll probably end up wanting to listen to all of them. “Ease The Pain” was the first shot that lit the fuse, and “Yağmur Damlaları” is the second step that keeps that fire burning. 🤘
#rock #metalcore #posthardcore
Inception of Fall
Inception of Fall - ‘Elegy of an Empyrean II: The Unalloyed’
LISTEN: Spotify
FOLLOW: Instagram, Bandcamp
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
We are an ambitious tech death band from the Czech Republic, one of a kind in this region if you will. This is song from our latest EP, and new listeners should care because we are about to release our first full-length, which is full of fire and epic vibes.
#deathmetal #techdeath #progressivedeathmetal #technicaldeathmetal