What does it really take to build power in the music industry?

In this episode of The Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner sits down with renowned entertainment attorney, activist, author, and artist advocate Dina LaPolt for a candid conversation about the evolving music business and what artists need to know to protect their careers.

From her unconventional journey as a musician-turned-lawyer to helping shape landmark legislation like the Music Modernization Act, Dina shares the experiences that made her one of the most influential voices in entertainment law. Together, Sarah and Dina discuss artist ownership, negotiating leverage, catalog sales, streaming royalties, the rise of artificial intelligence, and why business education is one of the most valuable investments any artist can make.

Whether you're an independent artist, manager, songwriter, or music industry professional, this episode offers practical insights on building a sustainable career and maintaining control of your creative future.

You'll also hear Dina's perspective on why artists should focus on creating great art before chasing deals, how to recognize when it's time to partner with a label, and what the next generation of creators needs to know about protecting their rights in an AI-driven world.

If you're serious about understanding the business behind the music, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Watch the full episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/DSB7inGE08A

Topics Included:

Music industry attorney Dina LaPolt, artist rights, music business education, AI in the music industry, artificial intelligence and copyright law, artist ownership, music publishing, songwriter royalties, streaming royalties, Music Modernization Act (MMA), Music Licensing Collective (MLC), mechanical royalties, music copyright law, intellectual property rights, No Fakes Act, AI voice cloning, artist advocacy, independent artist success, record label deals, music industry contracts, entertainment law, music business strategy, catalog sales, music catalog acquisitions, artist leverage, negotiating record deals, music industry trends, creator rights, songwriter compensation, independent music careers, artist development, music management, women in the music industry, building a sustainable music career, protecting your music rights, music industry leadership, future of the music business, digital streaming, music licensing, entrepreneurship for artists, music industry news and insights.

In this episode of Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner sits down with artist manager and branding expert Leigh Holt to break down what it really takes to build a sustainable career in today’s music industry. From artist management and tour chaos to leadership, team building, and execution over perfection, this conversation is packed with real-world insights for independent artists, managers, and music entrepreneurs.

Leigh shares hard-earned lessons from working with major artists, navigating live events, and surviving industry challenges like COVID—covering topics like how to grow a loyal team, why your word is your currency, and how indie artists can succeed without waiting on a record label. If you’re building a career in music, scaling your brand, or trying to stand out in the independent music scene, this episode delivers actionable strategies on leadership, communication, and long-term success in the music business.

Learn the essential business steps independent artists need to build a successful music career, collect royalties, and avoid common music industry mistakes.

The Live Show Formula: Moments That Move Tickets & Merch

What separates a good live performance from a show that builds lifelong fans?

In this episode of Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner sits down with live music producer Amy Wolter of Tom Jackson Productions to break down the psychology behind unforgettable concerts. From stage presence and authority to setlist strategy and audience connection, this conversation unpacks how artists can design intentional “moments” that increase ticket sales, boost merch revenue, and turn casual listeners into loyal fans.

You’ll learn:

• Why the first 30 seconds on stage matter more than you think
• How to structure a setlist that takes audiences on a journey
• The small changes (like eye contact) that dramatically improve engagement
• Why live performance drives 90–95% of artist income
• How confidence, preparation, and stage authority impact your brand

If you're an independent artist, band, or music industry professional looking to grow through touring and live shows, this episode gives you practical, actionable strategies you can implement immediately.

Because in today’s music industry, streams introduce you — but your live show builds the business.

In this episode of Business Side of Music, host Sarah Fleshner breaks down 5 moves artists should make to start the year strong—from a business-first perspective.

This episode kicks off a new monthly series focused on clarity, strategy, and momentum for independent artists and music professionals. Sarah shares practical insights on defining your business identity, owning your data, understanding where your income really comes from, and learning how to think like a CEO.

You’ll also walk away with 5 actionable steps you can take right now to clean up your digital presence, strengthen one revenue stream, and set focused goals for the year ahead.

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Inside the Modern Music Industry: Lessons from Legendary Manager Scott Welch — The Business Side of Music Podcast