Episode #64 Be A Better Hypocrite

In a world that values consistency and staying true to your beliefs, the idea of being a hypocrite might sound strange—or even wrong. But what if I told you that being a hypocrite could actually be a powerful tool for personal growth and progress? In this episode, we explore how embracing moments of contradiction can lead to transformation, new perspectives, and a deeper understanding of ourselves. Learn how to use your contradictions as stepping stones to success and self-improvement. Ready to rethink what it means to be a hypocrite? Listen now and unlock the unexpected benefits of change!

#PersonalGrowth #SelfImprovement #Hypocrisy #LifeProgress #ChangeIsGood

Episode #63 On the Road with Cobrette Bardole: Guitarist, Tour Manager, and the Life Behind the Music

In this episode, we sit down with Cobrette Bardole, a powerhouse guitarist for Sink In and I Set My Friends On Fire, and the tour manager/front-of-house engineer for If Not For Me. Cobrette takes us behind the scenes of life on the road—balancing the highs of playing to packed houses and sharing original music with the hustle of managing a tour. From early mornings to late-night shows, we dive into what a typical day looks like both as a musician and a tour manager. Plus, Cobrette shares insights into the importance of performing rights organizations, and so much more. Whether you're a fan of the bands or just curious about life in the music industry, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about music, touring, and the dedication that goes into making it all happen.

Episode #62 Increase Your Engagement on Facebook

Are you struggling to get engagement on Facebook, even with thousands of followers? It’s not just the algorithm— it's possible your content might be the real problem! In this episode, we dive deep into understanding what sells and what flops on Facebook, and what you can do to improve your engagement.

Learn why Facebook’s organic reach is as low as 1.41%, and discover how to make your posts stand out by focusing on what your audience really wants: interactive, relatable content. Get actionable tips on creating engaging posts, asking for feedback, and making content that people will actually respond to. Stop worrying about the algorithm and start creating content that connects!

Whether you're a musician, a small business owner, or just someone looking to improve their social media presence, this epsiode will help you optimize your Facebook strategy for better results.

👉 Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more creative tips!

#facebookengagment #socialmediastrategy #contentcreation #facebookalgorithm #socialmediamarketing #creatortips #engagementhacks #facebookgrowth

Episode #61 Brandon Valentine: Executive Director of the CPMHOF

Visit my Youtube Channel at https://www.YouTube.com/@SoloMusicDave for the video to this episode.

In this episode of the podcast, I had a chance to chat with Brandon Valentine. Brandon is the founder and executive director of the Central Pennsylvania Music Hall of Fame. Brandon shed light on the Hall of Fame's short and long-term goals, how it supports local musicians, and the impact of their youth programs. He also provides clarity on the Central Pennsylvania Music Awards, answering some tough questions about the evaluation process and what it takes to be recognized. Whether you're a musician, fan of local music, or just curious about the arts scene in Central Pennsylvania, this conversation offers a deep dive into the heart of the local music community. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube to stay up to date on future releases and guest episodes!

Episode #60 Why I HATE Taylor Guitars – $600 Martin vs. $2000 Taylor: Shocking Comparison!

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/hiD5Ps9cAN4

Ever wondered if Taylor Guitars really live up to the hype? As a professional gigging musician, I decided to put them to the ultimate test in a side-by-side comparison with a $600 Martin guitar. In this episode, I’m revealing everything you need to know about Taylor’s craftsmanship, materials, and specs—plus the surprising reasons why I can’t stand them! 😤

In this detailed breakdown, you'll see how the $2,000 Taylor stacks up against a much more affordable Martin, and trust me—there are some shocking discoveries! From build quality to tonewoods and even playability, I dug deep into the specs to reveal the truth about what you’re really paying for.

If you’re considering investing in a Taylor, or if you’re just curious about what sets it apart from other brands, you won’t want to miss this! Get ready to learn things about Taylor guitars that will completely change your perspective. 🎸🔥

🔍 Listen to discover: • The hidden truth about Taylor’s materials 🧐 • What makes their build quality different from other premium brands • Why a $600 Martin could be a better choice than a $2,000 Taylor • My personal experience as a pro musician on stage

Trust me, this is a comparison that will make you rethink everything you know about Taylor guitars. Stick around till the end for the shocking conclusion! 👀

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you don’t miss future guitar breakdowns! 🔔

#TaylorGuitars #MartinGuitar #GuitarComparison #GuitarReview #ProMusician #GuitarGear #GuitarTone #TaylorVsMartin #MusicGear #GuitarSpecs #TaylorHate

Episode #59 How Frank Persico Grew His YouTube Channel From 300 to 30K+

In this episode of the podcast, host Dave Gates sits down with Frank Persico, a NYC-based solo musician and YouTuber. Frank shares his incredible journey of growing his YouTube channel from just 300 to over 30,000 subscribers! He discusses the challenges and rewards of being a solo musician, the do’s and don’ts of YouTube growth, and the most important strategies for expanding your channel. They dive deep into what it’s like being a musician in NYC, Frank’s passion for helping other solo artists, and what he enjoys most about being a YouTube personality.

Plus, they cover a variety of topics, including how to stay motivated, engage with your audience, and turn your passion for music into a successful online presence.

If you're a solo musician or aspiring YouTuber, this episode is packed with valuable tips and insights that can help you on your journey!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more content on music, YouTube growth, and musician tips!

#FrankPersico #SoloMusician #YouTubeGrowth #NYCMusician #MusicTips #YouTubeForMusicians #DaveGatesPodcast #ContentCreation #MusicJourney

Episode #58 10 TIPS for enhancing your Open Mic experience

WATCH THE VIDEO AT: https://youtu.be/vvJ6yH46JK8

Are you nervous about your first music open mic or looking to improve your performance? In this episode, I’m sharing my Top 10 Tips for Attending a Music Open Mic, covering everything from how to prepare to what to do (and what not to do) to ensure you have an unforgettable experience!

Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a newbie, these tips will help you boost your confidence, connect with other musicians, and make the most of your open mic performance. Learn how to pick the right songs, handle performance anxiety, engage with the crowd, and avoid common mistakes that can derail your experience.

💡 What’s inside:

  • How to prepare and practice for an open mic

  • Do's and don'ts of performing at an open mic

  • Tips for engaging the audience and networking with other artists

  • How to handle nerves and stage fright like a pro

    Don’t miss out on these essential tips that will help you stand out and enjoy your open mic experience!

    🔔 Subscribe for more music tips, performance advice, and open mic hacks!

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!!

Episode #51 "Solo Skills Pay The Bills" featuring Marshall Stone

This week I sit down with an absolute phenom of a local musician, Marshall Stone. Marshall is an award-winning solo acoustic musician as well as the lead singer of the band LODI. He performs over 200 gigs annually at venues all over PA, MD, and WV. Marshall’s vocal range and guitar abilities wow audiences and keep them coming back for more, making him one of the most successful AND in-demand artists in our area. In this episode, we discuss what Marshall does to stand out in a sea of live performers, including:

  • The formation of LODI

  • The difference between band performance and solo

  • Booking advice

  • The importance of taking requests

  • Being willing to take risks and learn new things

  • Pushing through difficulties

  • The importance of being genuinely you

  • The future for Marshall

Thursday Thoughts 12.26.2024

SHOWS THIS WEEKEND:

  • FRIDAY 12/27 - Carlisle Moose Lodge ~ Carlisle, PA 7-10PM

  • SATURDAY 12/28 - Antietam Brewing Company ~ Hagerstown, MD 6-9PM

My Thursday Thoughts this week are about the wisdom in the book “Skip the line” by James Altucher, the 10,000 hour rule, how practice is best served focused, and the need for reflection and improvement.

https://www.amazon.com/Skip-Line-Experiments-Surprising-Reaching-ebook/dp/B08BLLF3RD

Episode #50 "Rock Mill Industries" featuring Logan Summey

This week I had the pleasure of sitting down with Logan Summey. Logan is the owner of Rock Mill Industries in Mechanicsburg, PA. Rock Mill is a musician’s paradise, incorporating a tattoo studio, recording studio, live stream studio, practice room, and an embroidery and screen printing & DTF space. This is a must listen for entrepreneurs and anyone looking to take a leap into business ownership.

Logan and I talked about a BUNCH of things, including:

  • His vision with Rock Mill

  • His love of all things audio

  • Engineering Live sound vs. Recording

  • The creative process in-studio

  • Owning a small business

  • Persevering through difficulties

Thanks for listening!!

Thursday Thoughts 12.19.2024

SHOWS THIS WEEKEND:

  • THURSDAY 12/19 - Middletown Hunters & Anglers Club ~ Middletown, PA 7-10pm

  • FRIDAY 12/20 - Lebanon Valley Brewing Company ~ Lebanon, PA 5:30-8:30pm

  • SATURDAY 12/21 - Balla Cloiche Vineyards ~ Stewartstown, PA 7-10pm

My Thursday Thoughts this week are about

  1. 2025 Booking changes

  2. Not pretending to be anyone other than me

  3. Being okay with turning things down

  4. My history with the CPMHOF

Episode #49 "Buffalo Lessons" featuring Chris Auxt

This week’s guest is Chris Auxt. Chris has been in and around the music scene in Central Pennsylvania for decades. Chris currently provides some slick pickin’ and gritty vocals in the powerhouse acoustic duo Hank The Buffalo (with previous guest Stephen Robert). He’s also now offering GUITAR LESSONS at his studio space in Lemoyne, PA. Chris and I talked about a ton of topics, including:

  • His start in music

  • His years as a guitar instructor

  • Tips for learning songs

  • How the room can dictate your playing style

  • Tips for learning how to solo

  • His live performance gear & in depth pedalboard analysis

  • Hank the Buffalo

  • Central Pennsylvania Music Awards

  • His newest venture into teaching guitar

Thanks for listening, and be sure to reach out to Chris to schedule a lesson and follow Hank the Buffalo on all the things!!

https://www.facebook.com/hankthebuffalo