Explore every episode of the podcast Taking Care of Your Music Business

In today’s music industry, talent alone isn’t enough. To truly succeed, creators need more than a mic—they need a map. Join Prophet, Co-Founder, President & CEO of the Black Music Action Coalition and CEO of 50/50 Music Group and Tammy Hurt, Entertainment Executive, Entrepreneur, and Drummer, in conversation with Jamie Dominguez, National Director of Industry Relations at The MLC, live from Atlanta, to unpack what it really takes to succeed in music—protecting your rights, maximizing your royalties, and building a lasting, sustainable career. 

Whether you’re a songwriter, producer, or music professional, there’s valuable insight here to help you navigate your journey and take your career to the next level.

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

As the music industry continues to evolve, understanding how royalties flow has never been more critical. This episode brings together experts from The MLC and SoundExchange, live from Mondo.NYC, to break down today’s key royalty streams for songwriters, artists, and rightsholders. 

From digital audio mechanicals and performance royalties to neighboring rights and unclaimed income, you’ll gain insights into how royalties are generated, matched, and paid—and what professionals and creatives alike can do to ensure no money is left on the table. 

Whether you’re a music creator or work in management, publishing, label operations, or other parts of the industry, this conversation will help you better support your clients and navigate the increasingly complex world of music royalties. 

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

Join The MLC’s Head of Educational Partnerships, Serona Elton, as she breaks down all the ways creators get paid in the digital world. Serona shares the journey of how The MLC was created to simplify the complexities of music royalties for rightsholders, ensuring that every creator is paid for their work. Learn how mechanical royalties are generated, and explore why accurate metadata is vital to getting paid. Whether you’re a songwriter, publisher, or music industry professional, this episode is packed with must-know information to help you navigate the ever-evolving music rights landscape. 

Topics Covered and Timestamps

• [00:00:29] Introduction to the Guest
  Serona Elton introduces her role at The MLC, career, and background.
• [00:01:06] Serona's Professional Journey
  • How her interest in the music industry began.
  • Her education at the University of Miami.
  • Career milestones at leading record labels and her transition to The MLC in 2020.
• [00:04:01] What is The MLC?
  • The purpose and mission of The Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC).
  • Its role in administering mechanical licenses and ensuring accurate, timely royalty payments.
• [00:06:00] Leading Educational Initiatives
  • Serona's efforts to create educational resources for professors and students, including webinars and public speaking engagements.
• [00:07:24] Why Was The MLC Created?
  • A look into the Music Modernization Act and the shift to blanket licensing for streaming services.
  • The MLC's critical role in transitioning to this improved licensing model.
• [00:13:02] The MLC vs. PROs
  • Understanding the difference between The MLC and Performance Rights Organizations (PROs).
  • How royalty collection and distribution differ between these entities.
• [00:15:38] Why Songwriters Need to Join The MLC
  • Who should join The MLC?
  • A step-by-step guide for self-administered songwriters looking to benefit.
• [00:22:30] When Will You Receive Royalties?
  • An explanation of the 75-day period for royalty payments and how it works.
• [00:27:16] Educational Resources Available
  • Tools available on the The MLC website and YouTube channel.
  • Details on the educator toolkit and student ambassador program.
• [00:31:07] How to Start With The MLC
  • Steps to join The MLC and ensure all royalties are collected, including registering songs and setting up banking details.
  • Using The MLC's advanced matching tool to maximize earnings.

Resources Mentioned:

• The MLC Website: themlc.com
• The MLC YouTube Channel: MLC YouTube
• Educator Toolkit: Available on The MLC website for integrating music business concepts into educational programs.

Key Highlights

• Learn how The MLC simplifies music licensing for streaming platforms and ensures fairness for songwriters and publishers.
• Understand the importance of metadata in music royalties and its role in the digital age.
• Actionable advice for songwriters striving to secure their rightful earnings.

 Visit themlc.com to learn more about joining The MLC, accessing educational resources, and ensuring you receive the royalties you deserve. Don't forget to check out our YouTube channel for tutorials and webinars.

Never miss an episode! Subscribe now for more valuable conversations with leading experts in the music industry.

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

What does it really take to turn your music into a sustainable career in today’s streaming world? In this episode of Taking Care of Your Music Business, host Ben Parker sits down with award-winning songwriter Sacha Skarbek and The MLC’s Jamie Dominguez to explore the business side of music creation.

From adopting a CEO mindset to understanding that music is both art and business, this episode dives into the strategies, community support, and transparency needed to thrive. Learn how The MLC helps songwriters collect streaming mechanical royalties and why diversifying your revenue streams is key to long-term success.

This conversation offers practical insights on balancing creativity with business smarts—and guidance on registering with The MLC to make sure you’re collecting everything you’ve earned.

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

Legendary songwriter, producer, and mentor Rico Love sits down with The MLC’s Jamie Dominguez on this episode of Taking Care of Your Music Business to share the lessons behind his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to industry icon.

Rico reflects on pivotal career moments, from breakthrough collaborations to navigating different creative environments, and shares strategies for understanding your rights and collecting royalties. He also explores the power of community and mentorship through his work with the We Love Music conference and as co-chair of the Black Music Collective.

 Whether you’re an emerging songwriter or a seasoned creator, this conversation delivers practical advice on persistence, integrity, and thriving in today’s music business. Learn how understanding the system—including streaming royalties and innovative platforms—can help maximize your revenue streams and build a lasting career.

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

Join songwriter Anthony Smith as he takes us through his journey in the music industry, revealing how he balances songwriting with managing the business side. In this episode, Anthony discusses the realities of the songwriting business, offering tips on how songwriters can effectively manage their money, protect their intellectual property, and maximize earnings. He also explains the important role that organizations like The MLC play in ensuring that creators get paid for every use of their work. Tune in for a mix of personal stories, industry insights, and practical tips that will inspire music creators at all stages of their careers. 

Topics Covered and Timestamps

• [00:00:43] Introduction to Anthony Smith
  • Anthony’s background as a songwriter and notable hits like “Tomorrow” and “What About Now.”
  • His inspiring career path and early challenges.
• [00:01:11] Early Career and Financial Realities
  • Anthony discusses his first publishing deal and initial financial struggles.
  • Importance of understanding finances in the music business.
• [00:02:56] Musical Influences
  • Anthony reflects on his upbringing in Birmingham, Alabama, and his love for music.
  • Transition from trumpet player to songwriter.
• [00:05:34] Breakthrough at Muscle Shoals
  • The bold move that earned Anthony his first break by posing as an arranger.
  • Moving to Nashville and breaking into the industry.
• [00:09:13] Writing Country Music Hits
  • Transitioning from pop and R&B to country music.
  • How co-writing helped shape his career and create commercially successful songs.
• [00:16:35] Crafting "What About Now"
  • Behind-the-scenes insights into writing and producing the chart-topping hit for Lone Star.
• [00:22:30] Financial Advice for Songwriters
  • Practical tips on managing finances, seeking professional advice, and planning for the future.
  • Why understanding royalties and contracts is essential for long-term success.
• [00:27:16] Building a Sustainable Career
  • Anthony shares tips on networking, continuous learning, and adapting to industry trends.
• [00:51:04] The Role of The MLC
  • How The MLC ensures songwriters receive accurate royalties.
  • Why organizations like The MLC are essential for transparency and support in the industry.

Resources Mentioned:

• The MLC Website: themlc.com
• Anthony Smith’s Music: Follow Anthony on social media for updates on his latest projects: https://www.instagram.com/anthonylsmithmusic

Key Highlights

• Anthony’s transformation from a trumpet player in Alabama to a chart-topping songwriter.
• Valuable financial advice for songwriters, including the importance of hiring a financial advisor.
• Behind-the-scenes look at how hit songs like "What About Now" were created.
• The positive impact of The MLC in supporting songwriters and ensuring fair royalty distribution.

Visit themlc.com to learn how The MLC can help you manage your royalties. Follow Anthony Smith on social media to stay updated on his latest projects.

Subscribe today for more compelling stories and industry-changing insights!

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

Join songwriter Kent Blazy as he shares the keys to building a long and successful career in music. In this episode, Kent shares how he navigates the business side of songwriting, including the importance of royalties and music publishing, and shares his journey from learning guitar at 16 to writing iconic songs and collaborating with stars like Garth Brooks, Faith Hill, and Trisha Yearwood. He also offers practical advice for songwriters on staying inspired, honing their craft, and managing the business side of their careers, and highlights how organizations like The MLC play a role in helping songwriters collect all that they are owed. 

Topics Covered and Timestamps

• [00:01:00] Meet Kent Blasey
  • Overview of Kent's career, including Nashville Songwriter Hall of Fame induction and writing hits like "If Tomorrow Never Comes" and "Gettin You Home (The Black Dress Song)."
• [00:03:12] The Early Days
  • How learning to play guitar at 16 and leading a band by 18 shaped Kent's career.
  • Lessons learned from managing both the creative and business aspects of music.
• [00:06:15] Moving to Nashville
  • Kent’s transition to Nashville in 1980 and his breakout success with "Headed for a Heartache" by Gary Morris within a year and a half.
• [00:09:30] Demo Singers Before Stardom
  • Stories of working with demo singers like Faith Hill, Martina McBride, Joe Diffie, and Randy Travis before they became household names.
• [00:13:45] Creating a Classic with Garth Brooks
  • How Garth approached Kent to be a demo singer, sparking their collaboration on "If Tomorrow Never Comes," Garth's first number one hit.
  • Kent’s instrumental role in introducing Garth Brooks to Trisha Yearwood.
• [00:23:10] Songwriting as a Lifelong Craft
  • Kent’s focus on always being prepared for inspiration, using notebooks and voice memos to capture ideas.
  • Advice for aspiring songwriters on staying true to their craft and always looking for new creativity.
• [00:29:00] The Business Side of Songwriting
  • Kent’s thoughts on balancing the creative and financial aspects of a music career.
  • How The MLC plays a vital role in ensuring songwriters get paid for their work.

Resources Mentioned

• Visit The MLC Website: themlc.com
• Explore Kent Blazyy’s music and accomplishments for more inspiration: https://www.kentblazy.com

Key Highlights

• Kent’s storied career, from moving to Nashville to creating timeless hits.
• Behind-the-scenes stories of writing hits like "If Tomorrow Never Comes" and "Getting You Home."
• Practical advice on nurturing creativity and managing the business side of music.
• The importance of organizations like The MLC in supporting the songwriting community.

Discover how The MLC is helping songwriters manage their royalties by visiting themlc.com. 

Subscribe now for more behind-the-scenes stories and expert advice from the heart of the music business!

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

In this episode, Tony Alexander, industry expert and co-founder of Made in Memphis Entertainment (MIME), brings his years of experience in music publishing and record labels to the table in this in-depth conversation on labels, royalties, and revenue streams. Tony breaks down the different ways music creators can earn money, from record deals to royalties, and how understanding the fine print of contracts can make all the difference. Tony also dives into the importance of artist education through Adaptive Music, a platform dedicated to teaching music creators the business skills they need to thrive. From workshops and tools to practical advice on building teams and mastering industry knowledge, listeners can learn how to build sustainable careers while staying true to their creative vision.

Topics Covered and Timestamps

• [00:00:00] Introduction to the Podcast
  • Host welcomes listeners and introduces the podcast’s focus on supporting music creators.
• [00:00:19] Introduction to Tony Alexander
  • Tony’s background and partnership with Hall of Fame songwriter David Porter to co-found MIME.
  • His vision for empowering artists and transforming the music industry.
• [00:00:42] Founding Made in Memphis Entertainment
  • MIME's origins and its mission to retain and support talent in Memphis.
• [00:01:58] Supporting Local Talent
  • How MIME helps artists build careers by offering infrastructure and expanding to cities like Atlanta.
• [00:05:09] MIME's Services and Facilities
  • Description of MIME’s state-of-the-art spaces and its artist support services.
• [00:07:53] Unique Business Model
  • MIME’s revenue-sharing structure allowing artists to retain ownership of masters and publishing rights.
• [00:10:12] Alternatives to Traditional Deals
  • How MIME provides alternatives to traditional 360 deals. 
• [00:15:38] Launching Adaptive Music
  • Adaptive Music’s role in educating artists on managing careers and industry basics.
• [00:22:30] Educating Artists
  • Tools and workshops offered by Adaptive Music to fill knowledge gaps.
• [00:27:16] Advice for Aspiring Artists
  • Tony’s guidance on building teams, mastering industry knowledge, and staying true to creative vision.

Key Highlights

• Tony’s inspiring career shift from patent attorney to music industry leader.
• MIME’s artist-friendly model focusing on talent empowerment and fair revenue-sharing.
• Adaptive Music’s educational initiatives to teach business management to artists.
• Advice for navigating the music industry and building a sustainable career.

Visit https://www.mimecorp.com/ for more on MIME's work and follow Adaptive Music on Instagram at @adaptivemusic_. 

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

Jamie Dominguez, National Director of Industry Relations at The MLC, shares her passion for empowering creators and improving the music rights landscape. From her early days starting out to becoming a driving force in the industry, Jamie shares her career evolution, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, resilience, and understanding the business side of music.

In this episode, Jamie discusses how The MLC helps songwriters, publishers, and music creators through education, transparency, and accessibility. She dives into The MLC’s mission of ensuring that every creator is paid for their work accurately and on time. Jamie also highlights how The MLC’s resources help songwriters navigate the complexities of music rights and royalties management, ensuring they receive all the royalties they are entitled to.

Topics Covered and Timestamps

• [00:00:00] Introduction to Jamie Dominguez
  • Jamie’s background in the music industry and her initial steps into the business.
• [00:05:00] Career Evolution
  • Jamie shares her career milestones, from starting out in smaller roles to becoming a key player in the industry.
  • The importance of adaptability and resilience in a competitive field.
• [00:10:30] Navigating the Business Side
  • Insights into the lesser-known elements of the music industry.
  • Tips on understanding contracts, royalties, and streaming revenue.
• [00:15:45] Supporting Creators
  • Jamie talks about her efforts to mentor upcoming creators and provide them with tools to thrive.
• [00:20:00] Advice for Aspiring Artists
  • Practical advice on breaking into the music industry.
  • The value of networking, building a team, and staying focused on personal goals.
• [00:27:30] The Importance of Technology and Innovation
  • Jamie discusses how technology is reshaping the music landscape.
  • How musicians can leverage digital tools for distribution and marketing.
• [00:33:15] Overcoming Challenges
  • Reflections on the obstacles Jamie faced and how she turned them into stepping stones for success.
  • Encouragement for those facing similar hurdles to stay persistent and motivated.
• [00:39:00] Resources and Industry Insights
  • Discussion on collaborations with organizations like The Mechanical Licensing Collective (The MLC) to ensure artists are fairly compensated.
  • Advice on using available industry resources to grow and sustain a music career.

Resources Mentioned

• The MLC Website: themlc.com

Key Highlights

• Jamie’s inspiring career trajectory and her impact on the music industry.
• Actionable advice on navigating the business and financial aspects of a music career.
• Insights into the evolving role of technology in music distribution and artist promotion.
• The significance of organizations like The MLC in supporting artist rights and ensuring transparency in royalty collections.

Learn about The MLC and its role in safeguarding songwriter rights by visiting themlc.com. 

Subscribe today for more expert advice and inspiring stories!

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

In this episode, songwriter Phillip White shares his journey from small-town Rogersville, Alabama, to becoming an award-winning songwriter in Nashville. He discusses the challenges and strategies for building a sustainable career in the music industry and shares insights on songwriting, royalty collection, and navigating the intricacies of music publishing. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the business side of music and discusses how The MLC plays a crucial role in helping songwriters get paid their royalties accurately and on time. 

Topics Covered and Timestamps

• [00:00:00] Introduction to Phillip White
  • Phillip’s roots in Rogersville, Alabama. 
  • The impact of small-town life on his career.
• [00:02:06] Musical Beginnings and Influences
  • Discover how Muscle Shoals’ iconic music scene shaped Phillip’s career.
  • Meeting his mentor and distant cousin, a turning point in his musical path.
• [00:05:34] Transition to Nashville (1993)
  • The challenges of moving to Nashville and his early days writing songs.
  • Memorable first encounters with future stars like Blake Shelton and Joe Nichols.
• [00:07:18] First Publishing Deal and Early Career Stories
  • Signing his first deal in 1994 and pitching songs as a song plugger.
  • The story behind his first cut and the unpredictable nature of the industry.
• [00:10:00] Financial Lessons for Songwriters
  • Why understanding taxes and income management is crucial for songwriters.
  • Candid advice on navigating financial hurdles in the music business.
• [00:14:00] Writing "I'm Moving On"
  • The emotional story behind his ACM Song of the Year-winning hit.
  • How the song found its way to Rascal Flatts and its lasting impact on listeners.
• [00:19:28] Music as a Timeless Legacy
  • Phillip’s reflections on songwriting as a way to leave behind something eternal.
  • Stories of how his songs have touched the lives of fans worldwide.
• [00:27:14] Adaptation and Resilience
  • Insights into overcoming difficult periods in his career.
  • Learning the importance of perseverance in Nashville’s competitive music scene.
• [00:29:16] The Role of The MLC
  • How The MLC ensures songwriters collect royalties from streaming services.
  • Phillip shares his appreciation for the organization’s work in an evolving industry.

Resources Mentioned

• Phillip White’s Music: Explore his albums, including the "Moving On Sessions." 
• The MLC Website: themlc.com

Key Highlights

• Phillip’s inspiring story of determination, from Rogersville to Nashville.
• Meeting mentors like Spooner Oldham and the Muscle Shoals connection.
• The creation of "I'm Moving On" and its profound emotional impact on listeners.
• Practical advice for aspiring songwriters, including financial tips and business insights.
• The critical role of organizations like The MLC in supporting today’s music creators.

Learn how The MLC can help songwriters secure their royalties by visiting themlc.com. Follow Phillip on social media: https://www.instagram.com/phillipwhitemusic

Subscribe today for more stories and insights from the heart of the music industry!

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

In this episode, songwriter Jenn Schott joins us for an in-depth conversation about surviving and thriving in the music industry, both as a creative and as a business professional. Jenn shares her personal journey of writing hit songs, navigating the business complexities of the industry, and managing her career as a songwriter in an ever-changing industry. She offers practical advice for aspiring songwriters, emphasizing the value of co-writing and flexibility, and the importance of developing strong relationships in the industry. Plus, Jenn discusses how organizations like The MLC are helping songwriters collect the royalties they deserve. 

Topics Covered and Timestamps

• [00:00:00] Introduction to Jenn Schott
  • Host introduces Jenn Schott, her background growing up in Pittsburgh, Kansas, and her impressive songwriting career.
• [00:03:15] Musical Upbringing
  • Insights into Jenn's musically enriched family, including her father's role as a woodwinds teacher, her mother’s skills as a flutist, and her grandfather’s contribution as a violinist with the CBS Orchestra in New York.
  • Starting her songwriting on piano in seventh grade and early contest experiences.
• [00:06:45] First Steps into Nashville
  • Jenn's move to Nashville in 1997 with a journalism degree, her first job as a receptionist at a music publishing company, and her early industry experiences.
• [00:11:20] Breaking Into Songwriting
  • Signing her first publishing deal three years after the move and landing her first song cut two years later.
  • The significance of persistence and staying prepared with ideas.
• [00:16:10] Writing for Major Artists
  • Stories behind writing hits like "7,500 OBO", "Better Than You Left Me", and "Fill it in the Morning" for renowned artists like Tim McGraw and Rascal Flatts.
  • The role of collaboration and relationships in creating successful songs.
• [00:22:30] Advice for Aspiring Songwriters
  • Why co-writing is vital to the Nashville scene and Jenn’s tips for capturing creative ideas.
  • Encouragement to stay determined and flexible in pursuing a songwriting career.

Resources Mentioned

• Explore Jenn Schott’s Songs: Listen to her hits including "7,500 OBO" by Tim McGraw.
• The MLC Website: Discover how The Mechanical Licensing Collective supports songwriters at themlc.com.

Key Highlights

• Jenn’s transition from Pittsburgh, Kansas, to the heart of the music industry in Nashville.
• Her stories of working her way up from receptionist to becoming a successful full-time songwriter.
• Practical advice for aspiring songwriters, from developing ideas to managing the business side of their careers.

To learn more about how The MLC helps songwriters secure royalties, visit themlc.com. Be sure to check out Jenn Schott’s impressive catalog of songs and discover what makes her a standout talent in the Nashville music scene: https://jennschott.com

Subscribe today for expert advice from the music industry’s finest!

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

A little holiday spirit in the summer sets the perfect mood for real talk about the music business. In this festive episode of Taking Care of Your Music Business, Jamie Dominguez of The MLC celebrates "Christmas in July" at Nashville's beloved Santa's Pub with two remarkable guests. Grammy-nominated songwriter Shane Stevens has penned hits for Carrie Underwood, Lady A, Selena Gomez, Walker Hayes, Meghan Trainor, and Ariana Grande, and co-wrote a song that went viral on TikTok before earning seven-times Platinum certification. He's joined by Tekitha Washington — artist, creative entrepreneur, and co-creator of the genre-bending mother-daughter act O.N.E The Duo — who is celebrated for her soulful voice and work with Wu-Tang Clan. After being signed to Epic Records, she went on to build her career as her own executive, protecting her artistic vision.

Shane, Tekitha, and Jamie unpack the realities of building a sustainable, authentic career. They break down the different types of publishing deals — co-publishing, full publishing, and administration — the role of performing rights organizations (PROs) like ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC, and why split sheets and catalog ownership matter more than you might think. They also get honest about protecting your mental health and creative energy against the pressure of the "9-to-5" songwriting grind. Tune in for practical advice to help you take care of your music business.

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

Real independence in music starts with owning what you create. In this episode of Taking Care of Your Music Business, Jamie Dominguez of The MLC sits down with Dawn Richard —visionary artist, entrepreneur, songwriter, and multi-hyphenate creative. Dawn rose through Danity Kane and Dirty Money before building an acclaimed independent career, with sync placements ranging from Adult Swim to FIFA and Madden, an admin deal with Kobalt, and a seat on the Recording Academy's New York board. Recorded live at NOLA Music Con in New Orleans, this conversation digs into rights, royalties, and resilience — and what it really takes to be your own CEO. 

Dawn shares the hard lessons that shaped her path, from signing contracts to negotiating for her own masters and fighting for fair splits. She and Jamie explore why diversifying your revenue streams matters, how the right IPI numbers and accurate metadata can unlock real opportunities, and how The MLC works to collect the streaming mechanical royalties you've earned.  

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

Where creativity meets commerce, the most powerful careers in music are built. In this episode of Taking Care of Your Music Business, Jamie Dominguez of The MLC sits down with Shannon Sanders — three-time Grammy winner, three-time Emmy winner, and Dove Award winner, who serves as Executive Director of Creative at BMI's Nashville office. With more than 25 years across soul, R&B, gospel, and roots music, and collaborations with John Legend, Chris Stapleton, and many more, Shannon brings a rare dual perspective as both a celebrated creator and a music executive.  

Shannon and Jamie dig into what it really means to think like a business owner while staying true to your craft, why understanding your rights and royalties is essential, and how BMI often serves as a creator's first relationship in the industry. They also tackle AI's growing impact on ownership and intellectual property—and why claiming your work and keeping your metadata accurate matters more than ever. Whether you're a songwriter, performer, or producer, you'll come away with practical wisdom to protect your work and build a lasting career. Listen now. 

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

Owning your work is where real, lasting wealth in music begins. In this episode of Taking Care of Your Music Business, The MLC’s Jamie Dominguez sits down with Grammy-winning, multi-platinum producer Jerry "Wonda" Duplessis — the creative force behind The Fugees' The Score, Shakira's "Hips Don't Lie," Santana's "Maria Maria," Whitney Houston's "My Love Is Your Love," and countless other global hits. Recorded live from SXSW in Austin, this conversation digs into the business behind the beats, including how Jerry bought back and now owns 100% of his catalog, and why he refuses to sell. 

Jerry shares the hard-earned lessons that shaped his career, from understanding publishing and royalties early to the importance of owning your masters, building a legacy, and marketing yourself as an artist. Whether you're a songwriter, producer, or music professional, you'll walk away with practical insights to help you protect what you create and build a career that lasts. Tune in and take notes. 

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here. 

Understanding where your royalties come from is the first step to making sure you collect every dollar you've earned. In this episode of Taking Care of Your Music Business, The MLC’s Jamie Dominguez sits down with Andrew Wetzel — musician, label owner of Oxide Records, music publisher, artist manager, and co-founder of the pioneering band Attack! Attack!. This conversation breaks down the science of streaming royalties and demystifies how your music actually gets paid. 

Andrew and Jamie unpack the "Holy Trinity" of royalty payments — your PRO, The MLC, and SoundExchange — and clear up the crucial difference between mechanical and performance royalties. They explain why having a publishing entity doesn't mean you're collecting your mechanicals, why IPI numbers and accurate metadata matter, and how to track your splits from day one. Whether you're a songwriter, performer, or independent creator, you'll walk away with practical steps to clean up your data and collect everything you're owed.  

Watch all our full episodes on YouTube here and learn more about The MLC and our mission to ensure songwriters and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and download services in the U.S. accurately and on time here.