Episode #57 Modern Day Minstrel featuring Leo Disanto

Leo Disanto isn’t just a musician—he’s a storyteller at heart, a true artist with an unquenchable thirst for adventure. Hailing from the rolling hills of Central Pennsylvania, Leo’s journey has taken him far beyond the confines of his hometown. From the icy expanse of the Alaskan Tundra to the ancient monasteries nestled in the heights of the Himalayas, Leo has roamed the world, finding inspiration in the places few people venture. And in between, he’s crisscrossed the United States, seeking out the stories that music can tell, and the stories that only music can make you feel.

But what really sets Leo apart is not just the places he’s been, or the incredible experiences he’s had—it’s his way of connecting with people. He’s not just a performer, but a visionary, an entertainer whose spirit transcends the stage. Whether it’s a backyard jam session, a front porch gathering, or an impromptu set in a parking lot, Leo has a rare ability to make every space feel like a place of deep connection. Music lovers are drawn to him wherever he goes, and it’s easy to see why. Leo has a gift for making music not just something you hear, but something you live.

I often think of him as a modern-day minstrel, or a new-age troubadour, a wandering poet whose songs carry the weight of the world on their back, yet somehow feel light enough to dance to. There’s a richness to his words—both in their depth and in their simplicity—and an honesty that makes every song feel like it was written just for you.

In my conversation with Leo, we explored more than just what music can do for you; we delved into what performingmusic can do for others. What drives him to tell stories through song? How did he cultivate such an expansive vocabulary and a method of word selection that feels effortless but also profound? We chatted about what it’s like to play his music in other countries, and he even shared a little about the gear that brings his songs to life. We touched on his creative process, how he knows when a song is ready to be recorded, and what it’s like to share old songs alongside the new ones. And of course, we talked about his upcoming album, To Fly So Low, set to drop on Valentine’s Day 2025—a collection of songs that promises to be every bit as rich, heartfelt, and adventurous as the man himself.

This conversation was one of those that sticks with you, that lingers long after the last word has been spoken. I hope you find it as enjoyable and inspiring as I did.

And hey—if you’ve got ideas for guests I should feature on the podcast, I’d love to hear them! Drop me a line at solomusicianpodcast@gmail.com and let’s make it happen.

Episode #56 The Secret To Growth

Watch on YouTube at https://www.YouTube.com/DaveGatesMusic

In this powerful motivational podcast, discover how perseverance is the key to achieving your goals, no matter the challenges you face. Learn how to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success and unlock your true potential. With real-life examples and inspiring insights, this podcast will remind you that every setback is simply an opportunity to become a better version of yourself.

Whether you're chasing personal, professional, or fitness goals, perseverance is the secret to turning dreams into reality. Listen now to fuel your motivation and stay focused on your journey—because the only way to fail is to give up!

🔑 Key Takeaways:

  • How to stay motivated during tough times

  • Turning failures into growth opportunities

  • The importance of resilience in goal achievement

  • How to maintain focus and determination

#Motivation #Perseverance #AchieveYourGoals #OvercomeChallenges #SuccessMindset #NeverGiveUp #StayFocused #PersonalGrowth #GrowthMindset #FailureToSuccess

Episode #55 Q&A: Covers vs. Originals, Post-COVID Music Scene, Gigs, Setlists & More!

In this episode of the Solo Musician Podcast, we tackle some of the most common questions submitted from our listeners! Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned performer, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable tips for navigating the solo music scene.

🎶 Topics Covered:

  • Covers vs. Originals: Should you focus on performing covers or original music as a solo artist? And how do you make that decision?

  • Advice for New Musicians: Tips for those just beginning their journey as a solo act, including practical advice for building confidence and crafting your setlist.

  • Post-COVID Music Scene: What’s the current state of the music industry after the pandemic? How has the solo artist's role evolved, and what does it mean for live performances and the business side of things?

  • Early Morning & Holiday Gigs: How to stay energized and prepared for early gigs, especially around the holidays when demand is high.

  • Setlists & Requests: Do you even need a setlist for solo performances? Or do you primarily handle song requests from the audience without missing a beat?

Whether you're looking to improve your live performance, book more gigs, or refine your approach to music creation, this episode is packed with expert advice and practical tips. Join us as we dive deep into the challenges and rewards of being a solo musician in today’s music scene.

👉 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more tips and discussions on navigating the world of solo music!

#SoloMusician #MusicAdvice #LiveMusic #CoverSongs #OriginalMusic #MusicIndustry #SoloArtist #GigTips #PostCovidMusic #SetlistTips #MusicCareers #HolidayGigs

Episode #54 BMI, ASCAP, SESAC Explained

In this episode, we explore the critical role that Performing Rights Organizations (PROs) like BMI, ASCAP, and SESAC play in the music industry. Whether you're a musician, songwriter, or venue owner, understanding these organizations is key to navigating copyright, royalties, and legal music usage.

🎶 What You'll Learn:

What are PROs?: Understand the difference between BMI, ASCAP, and SESAC — three major PROs in the U.S. that help protect music creators’ rights and ensure they get paid when their music is publicly performed.

BMI (Broadcast Music Inc.): A for-profit organization with over 1.4 million affiliates, representing artists like Miley Cyrus and Eminem.

ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers): A nonprofit with over 1 million members, including stars like Billie Eilish and Beyoncé.

SESAC: An invitation-only, for-profit PRO representing artists like Bob Dylan and Ariana Grande.

How PROs Work: Learn how these organizations help creators by tracking public performances of their music, managing licenses, and distributing royalties. Discover how they simplify the licensing process for venues and businesses using music.

How PROs Benefit Musicians: Find out how PROs offer a steady income source, protect creators' rights, and ensure fair royalty payouts. Despite challenges in royalty distribution, PROs play a pivotal role in supporting songwriters and composers, especially in the streaming era.

What PROs Offer Venues: If you run a venue or business that plays music, you’ll want to know how PROs help you legally comply with copyright laws, access a huge music catalog, and avoid the risks of non-compliance (fines, lawsuits, reputation damage).

Real Talk About Royalties: While many musicians don’t live off their royalties, songwriters still benefit the most from PROs. As the backbone of the music industry, they need support more than ever with the decline of physical sales and the rise of streaming.

🔑 Why it Matters: Whether you’re an artist, venue, or music lover, understanding how music licensing works through PROs is crucial for keeping the music business fair and sustainable. Support live music and compensate creators for their work!

#MusicIndustry #BMI #ASCAP #SESAC #PerformingRights #Royalties #MusicLicensing #MusicRights #Songwriters #MusicBusiness #HowPROsWork #VenueLicensing #LiveMusicSupport #MusicCreators #MusicRoyalties

Episode #53 "Who even wrote these questions" featuring the Colin Alvarez Band

This week's guest was the ENTIRE Colin Alvarez Band.

If you're tired of the same tired, recycled, and unoriginal band interviews you may hear on other platforms, you'll be happy to know we turned to the listeners for questions to ask the band, and holy cheese balls did you deliver!! Sit down with Colin, Sam, and ANOTHER Colin aka "Deuce", while we tackle such hard hitting topics as:

* Would you rather fight ONE horse-sized duck or ONE HUNDRED duck-sized horses?

* What's one thing people know about you that they probably wish they didn't?

* Why do you hate Morgan Wallen?

* For 1 MILLION dollars, which bandmate would you kill?

* Why are musicians so fragile

We also discuss hair care, hairnets, and the pursuit of happiness. Thanks for watching/listening and PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE hit the like and subscribe button so I can go LIVE on YOUTUBE at some point in my lifetime.

2024 Year-In-Review

In this special VIDEO episode of Thursday Thoughts, I dive into my 2024 Year-In-Review. You can check out the video on my YouTube Channel at https://www.YouTube.com/DaveGatesMusic.

I outline 9 observations from 2024, and 9 goals for 2025, including:

2024:

1. The best decision I made

2. If I could travel back in time to 2023, what would I tell myself?

3. The best way I used my time this year

4. My biggest waste of time this year

5. Something I regret doing in 2024

6. The Biggest A-HA moment I had this year

7. Three things in 2024 that brought me Joy

8. What I'm most grateful for

9. Who I'd like to thank for their support

2025:

1. My word for the year

2. What I'm most excited about

3. What experiences/people I'd like to manifest

4. What I will say YES to

5. What I will say NO to

6. What I'm devoted to creating

7. My TOP THREE intentions

8. Who I need to become to reach my goals

9. What gifts I will share

Do you have your own list? Share it with me in the comments!!