There’s really no limit to the possibilities. And arrogance is the only thing in the way. Look, you may be the most popular country band in the state, but what does that really mean? Wouldn’t it mean more if your state was known for great country music? I think you’ll agree that it means a lot more to be even on the bottom rung in a place with Texas’ reputation than it does to be on the top rung in any other regional market.

Artist/Radio Relationship
Artists and radio need to meet in the middle somewhere. Here’s a reality check for independent country artists: Radio is annoyed to shit by you and your relatives’ constant calls to play your song. And here’s a reality check for radio: If you guys would throw us a god damn bone once in a while, we wouldn’t always be on your ass. We’re both in this industry, so why don’t we work together? For a regional music market to work, the fans have to be exposed to the music. It’s plain and simple. And the best way to expose them to the music is to mix it in with the regular radio play list. For the most part, indy artists don’t want a freakin’ royalty check. They want a NAME check. They want their song to be sandwiched between Kenny Chesney’s latest hit and a classic from Alabama. They just want to be heard. But as artists, we need to understand the station’s position as well. They are responsible to their advertisers and listeners. And just because your grandma wants to hear your latest song, that don’t make it good. HONESTLY assess your music. If what you are about to send does not stand head and shoulders with or above what’s currently on the radio, don’t send it. Don’t waste their time. Why should they play a half-assed song by an artist nobody knows? You have to give them a reason to play your stuff. And it better be good. So focus on your VERY best material.

In Texas, not only do the regional artists get regular airplay, but they even have a Texas music chart where regional artists chart their latest singles. I realize that some stations are owned by the evil conglomerate drones like Clear Channel, and their hands are tied. But every station could all be doing something to help their local bands and expose their listeners to some great local music. Maybe it is a weekly 1 hr. program on the local scene, or maybe it is a daily featured song from a local artist. But damnit, do something! We’re more than willing to work with you! Indy artists, focus your attention more on independently owned stations. They typically have more freedom with their play lists.