Facebook copyright issues and the rules 

As a dj here ar SSR i'm fed up with facebook always muting the live streams. It would simple enough for them, like Mixcloud to get a license.

For those unfamiliar with the constaints here they are.

 

Facebook has a copyright policy that prohibits the use of copyrighted content without permission from the copyright owner. This includes music, videos, images, and other creative works. If you livestream content that violates Facebook's copyright policy, your livestream may be muted, blocked, or deleted. In some cases, you may also receive a copyright strike, which could lead to the termination of your account.

Here are some things to avoid if you want to avoid copyright issues on Facebook Live:

  • Do not use copyrighted music without permission.
  • Do not use copyrighted videos or images without permission.
  • Do not stream live performances or plays without permission from the copyright owner.
  • Be aware of the fair use doctrine, which allows you to use copyrighted content without permission in some limited circumstances.

If you are unsure whether or not you have permission to use certain content, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid using it. You can also contact the copyright owner to request permission.

Here are some things that can happen if your Facebook Live stream is flagged for copyright infringement:

  • Your livestream may be muted.
  • Your livestream may be blocked.
  • Your livestream may be deleted.
  • You may receive a copyright strike.
  • Your account may be terminated.

If your livestream is flagged for copyright infringement, you will receive a notification from Facebook. You will have the opportunity to dispute the claim or remove the infringing content. If you dispute the claim, Facebook will review it and make a decision.

It is important to be aware of Facebook's copyright policy and to avoid using copyrighted content without permission. By following these guidelines, you can help to ensure that your Facebook Live streams are compliant with copyright law.

Here are some additional tips for avoiding copyright issues on Facebook Live:

  • Use original content whenever possible.
  • If you must use copyrighted content, make sure you have permission from the copyright owner.
  • Be aware of the fair use doctrine.
  • Keep track of the content you use in your livestreams.
  • Respond promptly to copyright claims.

By following these tips, you can help to avoid copyright issues and keep your Facebook Live streams safe.

Are we buying too many Vst plugins? 

Yes, I think we are buying too many VST plugins. There are a lot of great plugins out there, and it's easy to get caught up in the hype and buy more than we need. But the truth is, most of us don't need that many plugins to make great music.

There are a few reasons why we might buy too many plugins. One reason is FOMO (fear of missing out). We see all these great plugins being released, and we don't want to be left behind. Another reason is that we're constantly looking for the next "secret sauce" that will make our music sound better. But the reality is, there is no magic plugin that will instantly make our music sound professional.

The best way to avoid buying too many plugins is to be honest with ourselves about what we really need. If we're just starting out, we probably don't need a lot of plugins. A few basic plugins, like a compressor, EQ, and reverb, will be enough to get us started. As we get more experienced, we can start to add more plugins to our collection, but we should still be selective and only buy plugins that we know we'll use.

Here are a few tips for avoiding buying too many VST plugins:

  • Do your research. Don't just buy a plugin because it looks cool or has good reviews. Read the reviews carefully and make sure the plugin is right for you.
  • Start with the basics. Don't try to buy every plugin under the sun. Start with a few basic plugins and learn how to use them well.
  • Be patient. There's no need to rush out and buy every new plugin that comes out. The best plugins are the ones that have stood the test of time.
  • Rent or borrow plugins before you buy them. Many plugin developers offer free trials or rental programs. This is a great way to try out a plugin before you commit to buying it.

It's also important to remember that plugins are not the only thing that matters when it comes to making great music. We also need to focus on our skills as musicians and producers. The more we practice and learn, the better our music will sound, regardless of the plugins we use.

Tiktok unfair pay to artists! 


There is some criticism that TikTok pays artists unfairly. The main reasons for this criticism are:

  • The amount of money artists earn from TikTok royalties is very low. According to some estimates, artists earn only $0.03 per video that uses their music. This means that an artist would need to have their song used in 1,000 videos in order to earn $30.
  • The way that TikTok calculates royalties is unfair. TikTok does not pay artists based on the number of times their song is played, but rather on the number of videos that use their music. This means that an artist could have their song played thousands of times in a single video, but they would only earn royalties for one video.
  • TikTok does not have a clear way for artists to track their royalties. Artists often have to contact TikTok directly in order to get information about how much money they have earned from royalties. This can be a time-consuming and frustrating process.

In response to these criticisms, TikTok has said that it is working to improve the way that it pays artists. The company has said that it is considering paying artists based on the number of times their song is played, and that it is working to make it easier for artists to track their royalties.

However, some artists and music industry professionals are still not satisfied with TikTok's response. They argue that the company should pay artists more money, and that it should make it easier for artists to track their royalties.

Only time will tell whether TikTok will make changes to its royalty payment system. However, the criticism that TikTok pays artists unfairly is likely to continue until the company takes steps to address these concerns.

Ways you can support independent artists 


Here are some ways to support independent artists:

  • Listen to their music. This is the most basic way to support an artist, and it's easy to do. You can listen to their music on streaming platforms, buy their albums or singles, or even just play their music on repeat.
  • Buy their merchandise. This is another great way to support an artist, and it's a way to show your love for their work. You can buy t-shirts, posters, stickers, or anything else that the artist is selling.
  • Attend their live shows. This is one of the best ways to support an independent artist. When you attend a live show, you're not just supporting the artist financially, you're also helping to spread the word about their music.
  • Share their music on social media. This is a great way to help an artist get exposure. When you share their music on social media, you're putting their work in front of a wider audience.
  • Leave positive reviews. When you listen to an independent artist's music, take a few minutes to leave a positive review on a streaming platform or social media. This will help other people discover their music.
  • Donate to their Patreon or Kickstarter. If an independent artist has a Patreon or Kickstarter page, you can donate to their cause. This will help them fund their music career and create new content.

Even if you can't afford to buy an artist's music or merchandise, there are still ways you can support them. By listening to their music, sharing their work on social media, and leaving positive reviews, you can help them get exposure and build a following.

Here are some additional tips for supporting independent artists:

  • Become a fan. Follow the artist on social media, subscribe to their email list, and attend their live shows. The more engaged you are with an artist, the more likely you are to support them financially.
  • Be patient. It takes time for independent artists to build a following and make a living from their music. Be patient and continue to support them, even if they're not as popular as you'd like them to be.
  • Be kind. Independent artists are often working long hours and putting a lot of effort into their music. Be kind to them and let them know that you appreciate their work.

Will Atmos produced music be the only format of the future? 

It is unlikely that streaming sites will only use Atmos produced music in the future.

Dolby Atmos is a relatively new technology, and it is not yet widely adopted by consumers. In addition, Atmos requires special hardware to experience the full immersive effect. As a result, many people are still listening to music in stereo.

However, there are a number of reasons why Atmos could become more popular in the future. First, the technology is constantly improving, and it is becoming more affordable. Second, more and more devices are being released that support Atmos, such as smartphones, TVs, and soundbars. Third, streaming services are starting to offer Atmos content, which makes it easier for people to experience the format.

If Atmos does become more popular, it is possible that streaming sites will eventually switch to only offering Atmos produced music. However, it is also possible that they will continue to offer both stereo and Atmos music, so that people can choose the format that they prefer.

Here are some of the benefits of Atmos produced music:

  • Immersive sound: Atmos music creates a more immersive listening experience by surrounding the listener with sound. This can make the music feel more lifelike and engaging.
  • Enhanced clarity: Atmos music can provide enhanced clarity and detail, which can make the music sound more exciting and dynamic.
  • New creative possibilities: Atmos music opens up new creative possibilities for artists and producers. They can place sounds anywhere in the sound field, which can create a more engaging and immersive listening experience.

Overall, Atmos produced music is a new and exciting development that has the potential to change the way we listen to music. It is still too early to say whether Atmos will become the standard format for music streaming, but it is certainly worth keeping an eye on.

Finish those tracks! 

Finishing your tracks can be a daunting task, but it's important to remember that it's not always about perfection. Sometimes, the best way to finish a track is to just get it done. Here are a few tips to help you finish your tracks:

  1. Start with a strong idea. The first step to finishing a track is to have a strong idea for what you want it to sound like. This could be a melody, a chord progression, or even just a feeling. Once you have a strong idea, you can start to build the track around it.
  2. Don't be afraid to experiment. Once you have a basic structure for your track, don't be afraid to experiment with different sounds and effects. This is the time to try new things and see what works. Don't be afraid to make mistakes, either. Mistakes can often lead to some of the most interesting and creative results.
  3. Take breaks. It's important to take breaks when you're working on a track. This will help you to clear your head and come back to the project with fresh ears. Sometimes, the best ideas come when you're not even thinking about the track.
  4. Don't give up. Finishing a track can be tough, but it's important to not give up. If you're feeling stuck, take a break and come back to it later. Sometimes, all you need is a fresh perspective.

Here are a few additional tips that may help you finish your tracks:

  • Set deadlines for yourself. This will help you to stay on track and avoid getting bogged down in the details.
  • Get feedback from others. Ask friends, family, or other musicians to listen to your tracks and give you feedback. This can help you to identify areas that need improvement.
  • Don't be afraid to get help from professionals. If you're struggling to finish a track, don't be afraid to get help from a professional producer or engineer. They can help you to polish your tracks and make them sound their best.

Finishing your tracks can be a challenge, but it's also a rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finishing your tracks and releasing your music to the world.

Get those mixes loud! 

The Clip-to-Zero (CTZ) method is a mixing technique that involves using clippers on all of your tracks to achieve maximum loudness. Clippers are audio effects that limit the amplitude of a signal, preventing it from exceeding a certain threshold. When used correctly, clippers can add punch and excitement to a mix, while also helping to increase its overall loudness.

The CTZ method is relatively simple to implement. First, you will need to insert a clipper on each of your tracks. The settings for the clipper will vary depending on the track, but you will generally want to set the threshold to a point where the track is just starting to clip. Once all of your tracks have clippers inserted, you can begin to mix.

As you are mixing, keep an eye on the levels of your tracks. If any of the tracks are clipping, you will need to reduce the gain on that track. It is important to avoid clipping, as it can introduce unwanted distortion into your mix.

Once you are happy with the overall balance of your mix, you can begin to add compression and limiting. Compression and limiting will help to even out the dynamics of your mix and increase its overall loudness.

The CTZ method is a powerful technique that can be used to achieve maximum loudness in your mixes. However, it is important to use it with caution. Too much clipping can introduce unwanted distortion into your mix, so it is important to find a balance between loudness and clarity.

Here are some tips for using the CTZ method effectively:

  • Use high-quality clippers. Cheap clippers can introduce unwanted distortion into your mix.
  • Use light compression and limiting. Too much compression and limiting can make your mix sound harsh and overprocessed.
  • Experiment with different settings. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to the CTZ method. Experiment with different settings until you find what works best for your mix.
  • Use your ears. The best way to judge the effectiveness of the CTZ method is to listen to your mix. If your mix sounds too harsh or overprocessed, back off on the clipping and compression.

The CTZ method is a powerful tool that can be used to achieve maximum loudness in your mixes. However, it is important to use it with caution and to listen to your mix carefully to ensure that it sounds good.

Benefits of Music with exercise 

Apart from being a music producer and label owner I'm also a qualified fitness instructor with 15 years of Mauy Thai combat experience.

Music and exercise are hugely beneficial.

Overall, listening to music while exercising can be a great way to improve your motivation, mood, stress levels, endurance, energy levels, and performance. If you're looking for a way to make your workouts more enjoyable and effective, try listening to some upbeat music next time you hit the gym or go for a run.

Here are some additional tips for getting the most out of listening to music while exercising:

  • Choose music that you enjoy and that gets you pumped up.
  • Create a playlist that is the right length for your workout.
  • Listen to music at a volume that is comfortable for you.
  • Experiment with different types of music to see what works best for you.
  • Don't be afraid to sing along!
  • Increased motivation: Music can help you stay motivated during your workout by providing a distraction from the pain and fatigue. It can also help you push yourself harder and longer.
  • Improved mood: Music can improve your mood and make you feel more positive, which can lead to a more enjoyable workout.
  • Reduced stress: Music can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can make it easier to focus on your workout.
  • Increased endurance: Music can help you to improve your endurance by helping you to maintain a consistent pace during your workout.
  • Increased energy: Music can help to increase your energy levels, which can make it easier to get started and stay motivated during your workout.
  • Improved performance: Music can help to improve your performance by helping you to focus and concentrate on your workout.

So there you have it, get your musc playing loud and pumping. Tracks we recommend for exercising would be  Heatwave 6, A Machine, Relax, Rave Good bye to name but a few. Download them from us here at Sundance Studio Recordings

For fitness and martial art skills do give our friends a look at Tring Martial Arts

https://tringmartialarts.com

Are we running out of musical ideas? 

No, we are not running out of musical ideas. Music is a creative art form, and there are infinite possibilities for new ideas and sounds. While some argue that many genres and styles of music have already been explored, new artists and musicians continue to emerge with unique perspectives and fresh approaches to music.

Moreover, advancements in technology have opened up new avenues for creativity in music production, such as sampling, electronic music production, and artificial intelligence-generated music. These technologies offer endless possibilities for experimentation and innovation in music.

Additionally, music is not just about creating new sounds and styles. It is also about interpreting and reinventing existing music, building on the traditions of the past while adding new twists and interpretations. Many musicians draw inspiration from previous generations of artists, and there is always room for reinterpretation and adaptation.

In conclusion, music is a constantly evolving art form, and the possibilities for new ideas and sounds are endless. While some may argue that certain genres or styles have already been explored, new artists and technologies will continue to drive the evolution of music for years to come.

Streaming Platforms rob independant artists. 

Spotify and the major streaming platforms rob independent artists!
Are you aware that Spotify and all the other major streaming services rob independent artists and pay them virtually nothing for their music?
Yet the streaming platforms make all the money!
Here’s my example and how much I’ve made.
53k streams, globally, and a grand total of £12.57! That’s £0.0002 for each stream. 
That’s the kind of payment I get for all the hard work. 
Does this seem right to you?
If you worked on something for weeks, 12 hour shifts, invested thousands, would you be happy with that sort of income?
These streaming platform’s use our music for their own end but never pay us fairly. We are pressured into believing we must use their platforms if we want to stand a chance of being heard. Playing on peoples vulnerabilties and making them feel out of the loop if we don't. And so we are exploited.
If you’re Jon Bon Jovi, Madonna or Beyonce, then sure, you'll get a decent sum for the millions of streams of your music. But for the average hard working producer, we get literally peanuts. 
Does £0.0002 sound a fair deal each time an artist’s track is played or used on a streaming platform? So who makes all the money!
Spotify is currently worth a market cap of $24 billion USD, 
TikTok $59 billion USD
Instagram $33.4 billion USD
Youtube music $180 billion USD
So there you have it. 
My music is streamed on these platforms on the global market, but they don't pay me, or other independant artists, anything like the fair pay we shoulds get!
So, in this dog eat dog music streaming world please support the artist direct and show your support for the hours and work we put into our art. Please try and get the music direct from us rather than streaming. 
That way the artist can put some food on the table.
It’s time for us artists all to stop giving our art away to these capital money making streaming machines and release our own music on our own download shops.  
Then you can buy it direct from the artist and give a little something back and show your appreciation.
When you see an artist directly offering their art to you, please consider the information you have about how we are used and offer your support direct to us. 
For just something like 99p a track it won’t break anyone’s bank, but with enough direct sales the artist can get fair deal, which we don’t get with the majors. 
If artists start to do this and restrict their music for streaming, then it becomes even more special and has more value. 
From now on,  apart from the record labels I’m with, I will be offering a lot of my music direct for purchase download only. 
These sites de-value my work. 
My art and music is worth far more than £0.0002 value they put on it!