The Skaggs Letter
Musician and Touring Burnout: Understanding the Struggle and Finding Recovery
The life of a touring musician can seem glamorous from the outside — bright lights, cheering crowds, and the thrill of performing. However, behind the scenes, the relentless demands of touring often lead to burnout, a state of physical, mental, and emotional...
Streaming vs. Physical Media: The Evolution of Music Consumption and Artist Income
The music industry has transformed dramatically over the past two decades, with streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube dominating consumption. In 2023, streaming accounted for 84% of U.S. recorded music revenue, totaling $14.4 billion, while...
Navigating the Saturated Landscape of Digital Tools for Musicians
The music industry has undergone a seismic shift in the past two decades, propelled by the rise of digital platforms that promise to empower independent musicians. From distribution to marketing, licensing to fan engagement, a plethora of tools has emerged, each...
The Impact of Being an Opening Act as an Emerging Artist: Opportunities, Challenges, and Strategies
In the dynamic and highly competitive music industry, emerging artists face significant barriers to gaining visibility and building a sustainable career. One of the most sought-after opportunities for these artists is securing a slot as an opening act for a larger,...
Comprehensive Wealth Building for Musicians Through Long-Term Investing
(Disclaimer: Jon Skaggs is not a financial advisor and may hold some of the investments listed in this article but stresses the risks of investing are at the discretion of the investor to risks you are willing to accept) We operate in a dynamic industry where income...
Touring in 2025: A Mixed Outlook for the Live Music Industry
The live music industry in 2025 is navigating a complex landscape marked by robust demand, economic pressures, and evolving consumer behaviors. Drawing from insights provided by Hypebot, MIDiA Research, and Digital Music News, this article explores the state of...
Music
Ambient One – Listen
Etesian Drift – Ambient One is the first release from this ambient artist. It elicits ethereal calm and visions of pastel colors that will give the listener a view of another world.
Light Year Volume One – Listen
Savage Gears – Light Year Volume One is a Trailer Music inspired concept album by Jon Skaggs. It utilizes a hybrid blend of electronica and orchestral that creates a moody and impactful soundscape.
Cloud Dive – Listen
Artist: Art of Exist, Jon Skaggs Record Label: Pinions Music Distributor: Catapult Distribution Release Date: September 16, 2022 Publisher(s): Pinions Music/Pinions Creative Music (BMI) - Spiritual Raise Music (BMI) Songwriter: Jon Erin Skaggs (BMI) Licensing and...
Run Through The Night (With You) – Listen
Artist: Art of Exist, Jon Skaggs Record Label: Pinions Music Distributor: Catapult Distribution Release Date: May 20, 2020 Publisher(s): Pinions Music/Pinions Creative Music (BMI) - Spiritual Raise Music (BMI) Songwriter: Jon Erin Skaggs (BMI) Licensing and Clearance...
No Sleep Till Monday – Listen
Artist: Art of Exist, Jon Skaggs Record Label: Pinions Music Distributor: Catapult Distribution Release Date: October 27, 2023 Publisher(s): Pinions Music/Pinions Creative Music (BMI) - Spiritual Raise Music (BMI) Songwriter: Jon Erin Skaggs (BMI) Licensing and...
The Last Survivors – Listen
Artist: Art of Exist, Jon Skaggs Record Label: Pinions Music Distributor: Catapult Distribution Release Date: February 7, 2025 Publisher: Pinions Music/Pinions Creative Music (BMI) Songwriter: Jon Erin Skaggs (BMI) Licensing and Clearance Contact: Jon Skaggs ...
Books
New Photobook “The Vagabond Heart”
Detailing in photos the many travels with various artists and musicians from around the globe. Jon Skaggs depicts his life on the road of over 20 years of travel and music.
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