The Ranch with Randie O'Neil Ft. Phil Kranz Ep. 33

Introduction:

Randie O'Neil opens the episode with inspiring words for anyone embarking on their path in the music industry. Highlighting why it is crucial to follow one's heart, Randie sets the stage by announcing a very special episode focusing on the intricacies and changes in the music industry from the perspective of an experienced DJ, Phil Kranz, from Chattanooga.

Phil Kranz's Journey in the Music Industry:

Phil Kranz shares his lifelong passion for music which began at the tender age of six. A fond memory includes his first record store visit and buying his first record, "Walk Right In" by the Rooftop Singers. His early interaction with the music business continued into college, where he worked on the school radio station and newspaper despite having a degree in journalism and advertising.

Upon leaving college, Phil explored various newspapers before transitioning back to radio. He recounts the trade-off between radio and financial stability, stating the crucial decision between radio or eating. Over the years, Phil worked with different radio stations, both top 40 and specialized genres, to cultivate his love for music.

Changing Landscape of Radio:

Phil reminisces about the diverse programming of radio stations in the 60s and early 70s, where genres were blended, making radio a rich tapestry of varied music styles. He discusses the shift from AM to FM radio due to quality and range, and how MTV further revolutionized music by making it a visual medium rather than strictly audio.

Emphasizing the continued importance of radio for independent artists, Phil notes the profound impact of internet radio, helping indie artists gain exposure that was previously dominated by major labels.

Phil's Songwriting Experience:

In a unique detour from his usual role, Phil shares his experience as a songwriter with his song, "Messing with My Mind." He narrates the real-life emotional whirlwind that led to the creation of the track and shares insights into the recording process with Donnie Hammond.

Quality of Modern Music:

Phil believes the quality of music today remains as good, if not better, than before. What has changed is the economics of making music, with costs for recording, production, and promotion weighing heavily on artists. Despite the economic challenges, the passion for music continues to drive artists to produce quality works.

Advice to Indie Artists:

Phil advises indie artists to pursue music out of passion rather than the pursuit of fame and fortune. He emphasizes the importance of resilience in the face of rejection and the necessity to avoid predatory practices like pay-to-play schemes. The key takeaway is to appreciate the art of making music, focusing on personal satisfaction and artistic integrity.

Conclusion:

Randie O'Neil thanks Phil Kranz for his insights and acknowledges the interactive nature of the episode produced by Blast Music 247, emphasizing it as a valuable resource for independent artists looking to showcase their talent. The episode concludes with an invitation to check out more on "The Ranch."

Keywords

Keywords:

Indie artists
Radio industry
Phil Kranz
Music production
Internet radio
Songwriting
Broadcast history
FM/AM radio
Passion for music
Digital music trends

FAQ

FAQ:

What inspired Phil Kranz to get into the music industry?
- Phil’s passion for music started when he was six years old, experiencing his first record store, and buying his first record.
How has the radio industry changed over the years?
- The radio industry has evolved from AM to FM, embraced MTV and visual music, and now sees a significant shift towards internet radio.
Why is internet radio significant for indie artists?
- Internet radio provides exposure for indie artists, offering a platform that was previously dominated by major labels and terrestrial radio.
What was Phil Kranz's experience in songwriting?
- Phil wrote a song titled "Messing with My Mind" inspired by a personal story. It was eventually recorded and produced by Donnie Hammond.
What advice does Phil Kranz offer to indie artists?
- Phil advises indie artists to pursue music out of passion, remain resilient despite rejections, and avoid pay-to-play schemes.
Are FM radio stations still important for indie artists?
- While they provide exposure, FM radio stations are less significant today compared to internet radio due to the latter’s broader and more targeted reach.
How does Phil Kranz view the role of DJs in promoting indie music?
- He believes DJs should support indie artists by playing their music and giving them a platform to be heard, emphasizing the importance of passion in music.
What are some challenges indie artists face today?
- Indie artists face financial challenges in music production, predatory practices like pay-to-play, and the need to produce high-quality, radio-ready tracks.