#001 - Independent Artists Spotlight

Welcome to Rhythm & News, the weekly show that shines a spotlight on the independent artists shaping the future of music. Broadcasting from Cleveland, Ohio—the home of rock and roll—we connect listeners across America and around the world with outstanding new music from emerging and independent talent.

Each week, we feature five new songs from artists who are creating, recording, and releasing music outside the traditional major-label system. These are the songwriters, musicians, producers, and performers building their careers one release at a time and finding new ways to connect with audiences through their creativity and passion.

In between the music, we'll bring you stories from the independent music community, updates on artists making moves in the industry, and insights into the trends and opportunities shaping today's music landscape. Whether you're an artist, music fan, producer, manager, promoter, or simply someone who loves discovering new music before everyone else, this show is for you.

And if you're an independent artist with music you'd like us to hear, we'd love the opportunity to review it. CLE Radio is always accepting submissions from artists, record labels, managers, promoters, and music professionals looking for airplay consideration. Visit CLEradio.com to learn more about the submission process and how your music could be featured on a future edition of Rhythm & News.

Now turn it up, discover your next favorite artist, and let's get started with this week's Independent Spotlight on Rhythm & News.

Join Us Online:

Website: https://cleradio.com

X: CLE Radio 🎙️ (@cleradiolive) / X

YouTube: CLE Radio - YouTube

Transcript

SPEAKER_00 0:00

Welcome to Rhythm and News, the weekly show that shines a spotlight on the independent artists shaping the future of music. Broadcasting from Cleveland, Ohio, the home of rock and roll. We connect listeners across America and around the world with outstanding new music from emerging and independent talent. Each week we feature five new songs from artists who are creating, recording, and releasing music outside the traditional major label system. These are the songwriters, musicians, producers, and performers building their careers one release at a time, and finding new ways to connect with audiences through their creativity and passion. In between the music, we'll bring you stories from the independent music community, updates on artists making moves in the industry, and insights into the trends and opportunities shaping today's music landscape. Whether you're an artist, music fan, producer, manager, promoter, or simply someone who loves discovering new music before everyone else, this show is for you. And if you're an independent artist with music you'd like us to hear, we'd love the opportunity to review it. CLE Radio is always accepting submissions from artists, record labels, managers, promoters, and music professionals looking for airplay consideration. Visit CLE radio.com to learn more about the submission process and how your music could be featured on a future edition of Rhythm and News. Now let's get to our first featured song of the week. Turn it up and enjoy this new release from an independent artist making their mark on the music world.

SPEAKER_03 1:59

Lunch boxes open, barely getting by. Emails piling up before the morning ends. One to crying while the other needs a friend. Coffee goes cold on the kitchen counter. You smile through the chaos, like it's all alright. But you haven't really slept in weeks at night. Every voice says slow down. Look at the world keeps in faster. Tryna hold it all together. Run it on three body. How you feel behind every day? Just breathe. Like this time you can actually breathe. And every little breakdown gets pushed aside. Cause everybody else still needs your top. An entire heart on the four guess what this feels like. How do you pull an empty stall?

SPEAKER_00 4:48

One of the biggest stories in the independent music world this week involves a growing effort to give independent artists more influence when it comes to how they are compensated in the digital age. For years, many independent musicians have argued that streaming platforms have transformed the way people consume music, but not necessarily the way artists earn a living. While streaming has made it possible for an artist in a home studio to reach listeners around the world, many creators say the financial rewards often don't match the amount of work that goes into producing and promoting music. That conversation took another step forward recently as lawmakers and music industry advocates discussed proposals that could give independent musicians greater collective bargaining power. Supporters believe independent artists should have more opportunities to negotiate issues involving streaming compensation, licensing, and the growing use of artificial intelligence in music-related technologies. The discussion highlights a larger question facing today's music industry. How can artists be fairly compensated in a world where music is available instantly and globally? Independent musicians have become an increasingly important part of the music ecosystem, releasing thousands of new songs every week and often developing dedicated fan bases without the backing of major record labels. Where the changes ultimately occur remains to be seen. But the conversation itself reflects the growing influence of independent artists and the recognition that creators deserve a meaningful voice in shaping the future of the music business and speaking of independent artists making their voices heard. Let's get back to the music with another outstanding new release featured this week on Rhythm and News.

SPEAKER_01 6:53

Like they disappear, I never speak. You see light when you look my way. You hold tight like you're not afraid. I pull back when the closeness stays. If I say forever, I say it slow, like a flame in cold wind. Trying not to go, go, go. I could promise you the moon, but the moon still leaves. I could promise I won't change, but that scares me. I could give you every part that I haven't lost yet. But I'm scared if you hold my heart, you'll feel the damage. And I swear I love you more than I say. But sometimes love feels fragile. My thoughts are in circles late at night. Turning small fears into flashing lights. You call me calm when the room spins fast. I'm just good at hiding cracks. You see someone worth holding onto. Every time you say my name, I wanna believe I can change. Maybe love's not perfect words. Maybe love just stay in her. Still reaching out through all the noise. Still tryna make it joy. Boy, boy. I could promise you the stars, but the stars burn out. I could promise I'll stay strong, but I still have doubts. I can handle all I am. I'm broken pieces, too. And hope somehow you'll understand why I fear losing you. And I swear I love you. Then when I hide, then when the darkest parts, don't let me decide. Don't let me decide. No big promises, no perfect lines, just your hand holding mine.

SPEAKER_00 9:35

One of the most encouraging trends for independent artists continues to be the growth of sync licensing, the placement of music in television shows, movies, commercials, video games, and online content. Not long ago, landing a song in a major television series or national advertising campaign was often seen as an opportunity reserved for artists with major label support. Today that's changing. Music supervisors are increasingly searching for fresh, authentic music from independent artists who can bring something unique to a project. For many musicians, a successful sync placement can provide more than just revenue. It can introduce their music to thousands or even millions of potential new listeners. A song featured during a key scene in a television show, streaming series or film can spark a wave of interest that leads to increased streaming numbers, social media engagement, and new fans around the world. The growth of streaming video platforms has also created more opportunities than ever before. With new shows, films, documentaries, and digital content being produced at a rapid pace, the demand for quality music continues to expand. That's opening doors for independent artists across virtually every genre. Many artists now consider sync licensing an important part of their overall career strategy, alongside streaming, live performances, merchandise sales, and fan membership. It's another example of how independent musicians are finding creative ways to build sustainable careers in today's music industry. And now it's time to hear another artist creating music that deserves your attention.

SPEAKER_03 11:38

You already know, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. Cruise control on the 405, palm trees lean in the breeze. Chrome glitch when the sunlight hit, low ride or glide with ease. Windows down, let ocean there mix with the sound from the street. City lights when the night falls, every story gets cold. Hustle, hustle hard in the daytime. Celebrate when it's dark. Every move got intention. Every verse leave a mark on Kelly nights, we rise slow. Let's go survive, we let it roll. From the hills to the coastline, no. Feel that I want to baseline flow. Kelly days, go to sky. Sunset fade down, fly. Keep it smooth, keep it alive. Don't never die. Studio lit relied on. Graph like in the zone. It'll place like a heartbeat. Everything built from the zone. Plastic feel, but the future sound. Clean it, no disguise. Every box got purpose in it. Every night, 35. Full of our dreams in the rear view. Who goes inside? From the block, put the skyline. Into the vision of life. Nobody's on the temple. Who does breathe? Mean patience, let the sound just like Happy nice, we ride slow. Let's go survive, let it go. From the hills to the coastline flow. Feel that when the baseline flows. Keep it smoke, keep it by side with them. Just motion, pushing air. Keep coasting, flow, low, slow, flow, fill. Every day, keep it open, open, open, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go, go. Back seat with a front seat vision. Everything sink, city built up on ambition. Every movement, people think from the corners to the coastline. Stories like it inside. Every beat like a memory. Every time I go around. Stay true to the feeling. Let it ride, let it grow. West Coast in the bloodstream. That's the cold that we know. Sun don't stop, stop, stop, down. Let it ride.

SPEAKER_00 14:39

One of the most significant developments in music over the past decade has been the rise of the do-it-yourself artist. More musicians than ever are building successful careers independently, proving that talent, determination, and a strong connection with fans can go a long way. Today's independent artists have access to tools that previous generations could only dream about. Affordable recording technology, digital distribution platforms, social media, and direct-to-fan communication have made it possible for artists to create, release, and promote music from virtually anywhere in the world. But success as an independent artist isn't just about making great music. Many artists are also acting as their own marketers, content creators, business managers, and brand builders in their developing communities around their music, engaging directly with fans, and creating experiences that go far beyond a single song or an album release. Industry observers continue to note that artists who build genuine relationships with their audiences often have an advantage. Fans want to feel connected to the music they love, and independent artists are uniquely positioned to provide that personal connection. Whether through live streams, social media updates, exclusive content, or live performances, many are creating loyal fan bases that continue to grow over time. The result is a music industry that is more diverse, more accessible, and more open to new voices than ever before. Independent artists are no longer waiting for opportunities, they're creating them. And that's exactly what the artist you're about to hear is doing.

SPEAKER_03 16:47

Still I run getting up Every warning hits my mind. Every red flag passing by I can see it clear as day. Still I let you pull me in. Every promise comes undone. Every night we come on glue. I tell myself this is the end. Then I'm right back to with you. I'm addicted to the death.

SPEAKER_04 17:52

I feel even letting the know the truth. I go running back to you.

SPEAKER_03 18:37

Every piece of self-control never seems to be in love. I don't recognize myself. When I'm caught inside you gay. I know, I know. But I still want it every night. I don't want the heartbreak, but I chase the height. Every time it fades away, I need a little try. Too far, too deep, no way. When I'm in your space to the device, the device got you behind. Oh, I know the truth. Every time I try to break it, I go running back to you.

SPEAKER_00 21:12

It's getting people to discover it. With thousands of new songs being released every day across streaming platforms, standing out has become one of the most competitive parts of building a music career. The good news is that music fans have never had more ways to find new artists. Streaming playlists, social media platforms, podcasts, online radio stations, music blogs, and video sharing sites all create opportunities for musicians to connect with listeners. The challenge is cutting through the noise and reaching the right audience. Many independent artists are finding success by focusing on consistency rather than overnight results. Instead of chasing viral moments, they're building audiences one listener at a time through regular releasing. Engaging content, live performances, and authentic interactions with fans. It's a slower path, but often a more sustainable one. Music discovery has also become increasingly global, and artists can release a song today and find listeners not only in their hometown, but across the country and around the world. That kind of reach was almost impossible just a generation ago. While competition continues to grow, so do the opportunities. Every day music fans are searching for their next favourite artist, and independent musicians are proving that great songs can still find an audience regardless of budget, label affiliation, or industry connections. Speaking of discovery, it's time for another artist who's working hard to reach new listeners and build a growing fan base.

SPEAKER_03 23:21

Small town mirrors, small town rules. Told me who I had to be. Every wood spot, every step. I played the part I wore the mask. Smile like it wasn't off. But every night I felt the truth pushing through the dust. I was fitting in the background. Now I'm stepping in the girl. I was on a beast. I've done sweet Everything I couldn't be. I was born to be seen. Left them sitting by the door. The rest and didn't look back. Like I never done before. They just let you blow. And for the first time in my life, I don't feel alone. No more hiding in the sight. I'm done keeping it on the cover. I was on the PC. Not just shadows on the screen. Yeah, everything is who I am. Breaking out of where I've been I've done a living Everything couldn't be done that I'm still I was on this talk, I'm not turning out, it's all long, play a small I'm not smallin' down, beast out turning to the sound. It's about the beast on the screen. I've done a living Everything couldn't be so let it show the BC.

SPEAKER_04 26:57

I was born on the BC.

SPEAKER_00 27:24

That brings us to the end of another edition of Rhythm and News Independent Spotlight. We hope you've enjoyed discovering some outstanding new music and learning more about the trends shaping today's independent music community. Every week, independent artists around the world are proving that great music can come from anywhere. They're writing songs, recording albums, building audiences, and creating opportunities through talent, hard work, and determination. While the music industry continues to evolve, one thing remains constant. Listeners are always searching for great songs and authentic artists who have something meaningful to say. This week we've explored some of the biggest topics affecting independent musicians from artist compensation and music discovery to sync licensing opportunities, DIY career growth, and the ability to reach global audiences. These stories remind us that independent music is not just surviving, it's thriving. Most importantly, we've had the opportunity to share five talented artists and their music with listeners across America and beyond. We encourage you to continue supporting independent music by following artists who enjoy sharing their songs, attending live performances, and helping new voices find new audiences. If you're an artist, band manager, promoter, or record label representative with new music you'd like us to consider for a future edition of the programme, visit CLE radio.com and submit your latest release for airplay consideration. Until next time, thanks for listening. From Cleveland, Ohio, the home of rock and roll. This has been Rhythm and News.