Indie, Over 50 Interview Series - Artists, Producers and Music Industry Players - inspire and inform
By Indie, Over 50
From the Billboard Charts to the Peak of Meek: Producer Michael Fogarty
Season 2: Episode 8
What does it take to move from writing Billboard-charting hits to embracing what Michael Fogarty describes as the power of remaining meek?
In this episode of the Indie Over 50 series, we explore a lifetime of lessons in professional music production and the essential philosophy of "serving the song."Broadcasting from his studio in Japan, Michael joins John Huggart to share stories from his professional debut at 13, his time touring with Fleetwood Mac’ co-founder Jeremy Spencer and explains why the best producers focus on lifting the artist up rather than feeding their own ego.
We dive into the technical and emotional challenges of recording, including the difficult moment when a producer realizes a song is actually better than the performance.In this video, we explore:Lifes Musical Journey: From Tennessee to Alabama during the social upheavals of civl rights and Vietnam warThe Billboard Standard: The story of writing and recording a chart topping hit.Serving the Song: How to tell when a track needs a different voice or player to reach its full potential.Remaining Meek: Why humility is a producer’s greatest asset in the studio.Fleetwood Mac Legacy: Lessons learned on the road with co-founders Jeremy Spencer, and in the studio with Mick Fleetwood.Finding "new soul" and staying creative across decades and continents.Contact Michael via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.fogarty.75491 Olivia Dean https://www.oliviadeano.com/ Richie Havens http://www.richiehavens.com/Cool Breeze https://open.spotify.com/track/3YVTmWQvPWVSktD0DhtSYQ?si=df77c461f4fd4365 I Dont Belong Here - produced by Michael for me :) https://youtu.be/t8Ow8SVqb8Y
www.indieover50.com
"Don't Give Up" A story of a new Indie life, new label and a million streams
Season 2: Episode 7 Indie, Over 50 Interview SeriesReinventing yourself as a musician is possible at any age, and Darryl Scotti is living proof.
In this episode of the Indie Over 50 series, John Huggart sits down with the founder of Big Yard Nation to discuss his transition from the California business world to a thriving musical community in Cave Creek, Arizona.Darryl shares the philosophy behind his label, his commitment to high-end production, and how collaborating with younger talent has revitalized his own creative process. We also get a deep dive into his track "State of Mind" and the upcoming a cappella reimagining of the song.In this video, you’ll learn:The Big Yard Nation Vision: How Darryl built a label that focuses on community and collaboration.Production Excellence: Why Darryl believes in investing in quality, regardless of the "ROI."Finding Your Scene: How a change of location can spark new musical opportunities.The Power of Resilience: Darryl’s "no-quit" attitude and his advice for artists facing their own challenges.YouTube: @BigYardNation Website: https://bigyardnation.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4FKPTZotGinVRRRehiYQhe?si=RlXPrE_NSoaqx7SOj_I2Rg
Why Meta Matters for Indie Artists Over 50 with Jon Anderson
Season 2: Episode 6 Indie, Over 50 Interview SeriesMarketing original music can feel like a full-time job on top of the songwriting itself.
In this episode of the Indie Over 50 series, John Huggart sits down with Jon Anderson, the founder of Two Story Media, @twostorymediamusic to demystify the world of Meta advertising on Facebook and Instagram, and playlisting.Jon shares his insights on how independent artists can use targeted ads to find their "tribe" and why data-driven marketing is essential for any artist releasing music in 2026. We also discuss the mental side of the industry, including why the only way to truly "lose" the game is to stop playing.In this video, you’ll learn:Meta Ads 101: Why Facebook and Instagram ads are often more effective than traditional playlisting.The "Two Story" Philosophy: How Jon balances being an artist with running a successful marketing agency.Consistency over Virality: Why steady, long-term growth is the secret to a lasting music career.Practical Advice: Simple steps you can take today to improve your music's reach.About Jon Anderson & Two Story Media:Jon Anderson is a singer-songwriter and the owner of Two Story Media, an agency dedicated to helping musicians promote and share their music through modern digital strategies.Jon has an artist profile - Jon Henry Artist Profile: https://jonhenry.us/
www.indieover50.com
From Redgum to StoneHutt: Verity Sanders on Music and Activism - Indie Over 50 Interview
Season 2: Episode 5 Indie, Over 50 Interview Series
In this episode of the Indie Over 50 interview series, host John Huggart sits down with the legendary Verity Sanders (originally Verity Truman).
As a founding member of the iconic Australian folk-rock band Redgum, Verity played a pivotal role in shaping the political and musical landscape of the 1980s, including the release of the era-defining anthem "I Was Only 19." Verity shares her journey from absorbing influences from the early days of the British blues movement to her current work with her band, StoneHutt. We dive deep into the evolution of protest music, the importance of live performance, community radio, and how she balanced a 30-year career in environmental science with her passion for performance. Key Highlights:The Redgum Legacy: Behind the scenes of "I Was Only 19" and its impact on the Royal Commission and veteran support. Modern Inspiration: Why Verity believes some of the most interesting music today is coming from young Indigenous artists and the "Tiny Desk" movement. Career & Vocation: How Verity transitioned from the stage to a career in climate change policy and back to the studio. Advice for Musicians Over 50: Why finding your "tribe" and managing expectations is the secret to enjoying music later in life.Connect with the music of Verity Sanders, Redgum & StoneHutt:https://stonehutt.au/ @StoneHutt https://open.spotify.com/artist/5jJ5T7fhutIQvfHWJf5W3H?si=C42zu8LXSQ2cIuQOihhdqA @Redgum https://open.spotify.com/artist/2FBQIV8BJF5SrvXpziFE2M?si=4_lHGJaET9uabVESHjKuWg
www.indieover50.com
Talent is Timeless: Inside the Global Movement for Songwriters Over 50 with Saskia Griffiths-Moore
Season 2: Episode 4 Indie, Over 50 Interview Series"If Not Now. When?" In this episode of Indie Over 50, John Huggart sits down with the remarkable Saskia Griffiths-Moore, founder and CEO of Talent is Timeless. Talent is Timeless offers a songwriting competition and community for songwriters over 50 years old. Saskia shares her cinematic journey—from quitting her job and living in a camper van to busk for a living, to landing a major US record deal via a chance interaction on Facebook Live. Saskia pulls back the curtain on the "uncreative" side of music—the spreadsheets and persistence required to build a career—and explains why she walked away from a "princess in a tower" record deal to create a community for 30,000+ songwriters worldwide.In this episode, we discuss:The High Stakes of Busking: Learning to perform when you "busk or go hungry."Creative "Flying": A Hitchhiker’s Guide approach to melody and songwriting.Surface Area for Luck: How exposing your work publicly creates opportunities.The "Talent is Timeless" Story: How a pandemic project became a global force.The Reality of Songwriting Contests: Integrity, judging, and the value of professional feedback.The Ultimate Goal: Why "having fun" is the most important metric for any artist.Connect with Saskia and the Community:Talent is Timeless: https://www.talentistimeless.com @talentistimeless Saskia’s Music: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2rOaCc70hBpUHWNlxe5Q43?si=CM8OE4dgSzKoQP5hehEC4g @SaskiaGriffithsMoore
www.indieover50.com
Create, Record, Release; Repeat: The Pete Johns Blueprint for Indie Artists over 50
Season 2: Episode 3 Indie, Over 50 Interview Series
In this episode of the Indie, Over 50 Interview Series, John Huggart sits down with YouTube powerhouse Pete Johns (Studio Live Today).
Pete has built a massive community by proving that you don't need a $10,000 studio or a major label to get your songs heard—you just need a process.
We dive into the "Pete Johns Blueprint": Create, Record, Release; Repeat.
Whether you are a "weekend warrior" returning to your craft or a late-bloomer picking up an instrument for the first time, this conversation is a roadmap for navigating the modern music industry as an artist over 50.
In this interview, we cover:
The "Holy Trinity" of Gear: Why you only need 3 items to start a pro-quality home studio for under $400.
The Gear Trap: Why upgrading your equipment too early can actually hold your music back.
Algorithm Truths: Why "Vanity Metrics" (like buying views) can massacre your channel’s health.
Human-to-Human Connection: How to build a loyal audience by simply being yourself.
Your Music Live: How you can get your original songs featured on Pete’s global platform.
Connect with Pete Johns: @PeteJohnsStudioLiveToday 🔗 Submit Your Music: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc3ohvHnvF3KGMFk_T3OlM50lMcj5LcFdzF4I5SWQGhfhWTzA/viewform 🛠️ Pete’s Gear Guide: https://studiolivetoday.wordpress.com/gear/ Pete Johns Music: https://songwhip.com/pete-johns
Reduction in Force: Trading Corporate Control for Creative Risk - What's Next for Mike Mills?
Season 2: Episode 2 Indie, Over 50 Interview Series
What happens when you walk away from a successful corporate career and finally give music your full attention?
In this episode John Huggart speaks with Mike Mills, the artist behind Reduction in Force — a former tech General Counsel who traded boardrooms for guitars, deadlines for creativity, and certainty for meaning.
Mike shares:
His journey from lifelong “bedroom musician” to releasing music in his 50s
Why “second act” is the wrong way to think about creative reinventionHow producers, collaborators, and video storytelling elevated his work
A brutally honest take on Spotify, algorithms, labels, and paid promotion
Why over-50 artists have a hidden superpower most younger artists don’t
This is a candid, thoughtful conversation about why we make music, what it costs emotionally and financially to share it, and how to stay grounded in a system that often feels broken.
If you’re releasing music later in life — or thinking about it — this episode will resonate.https://www.reduction-in-force.com/ @ReductioninForce-e9i New Release: "Images of Heaven" Cover - https://open.spotify.com/track/7wWi0KIPFie9Y1hsKfLXal?si=918e6a1c427044a0
www.indieover50.com
What does a Publicist do? PR Advice and music gems from Stuart Coupe, Aus Music icon
Season 2: Episode 1 Indie, Over 50 Interview Series
What does a publicist actually do? And do Indie artists over 50 really need one?
In this episode of Indie, Over 50, John Huggart sits down with Stuart Coupe — one of Australia’s most respected music journalists, band managers, promoters, label founders, broadcasters, authors, and now one of the country’s most in-demand music publicists.
Stuart has lived through the modern era of the music industry — interviewing and rubbing shoulders with Dylan, Jagger, Bono, Springstein, managing Australian Icons Paul Kelly and the Hoodoo Gurus, and brings a refreshingly honest perspective on what really matters for independent artists today.
We talk about:
🎵 Why there has never been a better time to be a music fa
📻 How publicity actually works (and what it can’t promise)
⚠️ The red flags to watch for when hiring a publicist
📈 Why Spotify playlists aren’t the holy grail many think they are
🧠 Managing expectations, confidence, and creativity as an artist over 50
🌍 The power of word-of-mouth over algorithms
🎸 Incredible stories from Stuart’s career with artists like Paul Kelly, Bruce Springsteen, U2, Bob Dylan, and more
If you’re an independent artist releasing music later in life — or thinking about PR, promotion, or just trying to make sense of today’s music landscape — this conversation will give you clarity, reassurance, and perspective.
Stuart Coupe: https://www.facebook.com/stuart.coupe/ And a Wiki page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuart_Coupe
www.indieover50.com
"I turned down The Attractions": Sliding door moments in life, music and career with Gavin Davies
What do you do when you’re 17, offered a shot with members of Elvis Costello’s The Attractions, and also halfway through an electronics qualification? Gavin Davies chose life, family and a career—then found his way back to music, on his own terms.In this Indie Over 50 interview, Gavin moves from clarinet kid to drum prodigy (his teacher: “I’ve taught you all I know—go get in a band”), through early metal gigs and progressive studio experiments, to live recording at Ronnie Scott’s (on DAT!), and ultimately one-take vocal sessions at Abbey Road. Along the way: anxiety, a business built (and rebuilt), collaborations with top players, and a late-career shift to YouTube—stepping out from behind the kit to share his songs, voice, guitar and production.HighlightsThe near-miss with Elvis Costellos, The Attractions and why he said noBuilding an electronics/IT career—then circling back to musicRecording 13 songs in two days at Abbey Road, many in single takesWorking with Chris Garfield (Paul Carrack’s guitarist) and drummer Ian Palmer (nephew of Carl Palmer)Honest advice for Indie Over 50 artists: market your music, collaborate, and don’t expect the money to lead—let the music lead🎧 Discover Gavin’s originals and covers @gavindaviesmusic https://open.spotify.com/artist/2kStwZTJvedgus8vaGqOt5?si=N2kSpJUeTpmuHsJxOEVVsw http://www.gavindavies.co.uk/
Harsh Truths About Getting Heard Today – with A&R Mgr Chris Long
Ever wonder what it really takes to get your music heard?In this episode of Indie, Over 50, I sit down with Chris Long — former A&R rep, band manager, promoter, and journalist. Chris’s career has taken him from discovering bands in smoky clubs to managing Crossfade, whose debut single Cold became the most-played rock song in America in 2005.🎸 In this candid interview, Chris shares:What A&R really looks for in a band or songThe highs and lows of breaking a #1 act on Columbia RecordsWhy algorithms, streaming, and AI have made today’s music industry so noisyThe truth about Spotify, playlists, and why promotion is non-negotiableStraight-talking advice for Indie artists over 50: how to stay creative, promote smart, and keep writingChris still listens to 20+ hours of new music every week and is passionate about finding the next great song. His message: it’s never too late to write your best work — but you need to put it in front of people.Contact and find out more about Chris at: https://chrislongmgmt.com/ Checkout his playlist - songs you need to hear: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4qGDXkq2R6rIinoA99qLZF?si=4WMG8PxUQy2yCSJRcQEVhQ One of his chart topping bands - Crossfade https://open.spotify.com/artist/4IR8ZkpbyyKrqsIzchF3NB?si=IT78BOgYS_mJuy8Tun0sYw 👇 Watch now for an unfiltered look at the music industry past and present, and what it means for independent musicians today.🎸 Join the Indie Over 50 Community!👉 Subscribe for more insights on thriving as an independent songwriter over 50 years old!👍 Like & Comment:👇 SHARE YOUR MUSIC! 👇If you’re an Indie Over 50 musician with songs on Spotify or YouTube, post your links in the comments or submit to IndieOver50@icloud.com for our Indie Over 50 Playlists consideration.📌 Featured Playlists::Indie Rock Vibeshttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oF8gdEVmANx8sToxAzyFO?si=4QFfx2TERCihuvAJMqBE_Q Easy Listening: Singer Songwriters, Chill, Folkhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2S4xBhMog24LhEpc4cRMAg?si=Ac4DsuZOTFOrHRCHXZrzMQ Rock, Blues & Metalhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2xb5j1RHdOGVbaq4gxmihy?si=455506f64391417bCountryhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/4u5JDSQmMkyM87KLLbLapX?si=39c62c568ef04827Songs I would love on the radiohttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/4dcpOwmKTb7cGL1RkG4duL?si=b5e804ed950e402aMy artist profile is Project Reverb, check out my Spotify releases here:https://open.spotify.com/artist/6n4YD688eIl2zixhEMaUlA?si=05NY0cBLSdCzZAephWBMYQ
No such thing as bad publicity? - An interview with Collette Mclafferty
What happens when the media brands you “too old and too ugly” to sing?In this episode of Indie, Over 50, I talk with Collette McLafferty — a professional singer, songwriter, and indie artist whose career has included record deals, touring, session work… and a surreal $10 million lawsuit that went viral for all the wrong reasons.🎵 In this candid interview, you’ll hear:Collette’s early inspirations and love of PrinceStories from her band days, including landing a record deal and navigating ageism at just 27What it was like to jam all night with Jeff BuckleyHow a frivolous lawsuit and tabloid headlines nearly derailed her careerThe resilience, advocacy, and self-acceptance that followed — and why she proudly creates new music at 51This is a powerful conversation about surviving bad publicity, rejecting ageism, and rediscovering joy in making music.👇 Watch to the end for Collette’s advice to indie artists over 50, plus her shout-outs to fellow musicians keeping the flame alive.All the links:Collette McLafferty: @collettemclafferty2614 Lunacy: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/collettemclafferty/lunacy edibleRed, Hey Ya https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxlMBHXI9rw Press: NY Observer https://observer.com/2014/06/pnk-cover-band-singer-sued-for-not-being-hot-enough/ FIndlaw https://www.findlaw.com/legalblogs/legally-weird/pink-cover-band-ruined-by-bad-ugly-singer-10m-lawsuit-claims/ Time: https://time.com/2849305/man-sues-pink-cover-artist-for-not-being-sexy-enough/ NY Post: https://nypost.com/2014/06/09/10-million-suit-bids-to-boot-mediocre-singer-from-pink-tribute-act/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Confessions-Ugly-Singer-Collette-McLafferty/dp/1912587009 Tracy Bonham https://www.tracybonham.com/Rita De Los Angeles https://open.spotify.com/artist/1mmq6rbc3eVp4DKHiDZjcX?si=sL3NzB30TSOrsmSC_75dvQ @RitadeLosAngeles Dina Fanai https://www.dinafanai.com/new-index DJ Disciple https://www.youtube.com/c/djdisciple🎸 Join the Indie Over 50 Community!👉 Subscribe for more insights on thriving as an independent songwriter over 50 years old!👍 Like & Comment:👇 SHARE YOUR MUSIC! 👇If you’re an Indie Over 50 musician with songs on Spotify or YouTube, post your links in the comments or submit to IndieOver50@icloud.com for our Indie Over 50 Playlists consideration.📌 Featured Playlists::Indie Rock Vibeshttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oF8gdEVmANx8sToxAzyFO?si=4QFfx2TERCihuvAJMqBE_Q Easy Listening: Singer Songwriters, Chill, Folkhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2S4xBhMog24LhEpc4cRMAg?si=Ac4DsuZOTFOrHRCHXZrzMQ Rock, Blues & Metalhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2xb5j1RHdOGVbaq4gxmihy?si=455506f64391417bCountryhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/4u5JDSQmMkyM87KLLbLapX?si=39c62c568ef04827Songs I would love on the radiohttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/4dcpOwmKTb7cGL1RkG4duL?si=b5e804ed950e402aMy artist profile is Project Reverb, check out my Spotify releases here:https://open.spotify.com/artist/6n4YD688eIl2zixhEMaUlA?si=05NY0cBLSdCzZAephWBMYQ
I launched a label with AI artists - an interview with Terence Chang
Yes AI can really help you create music—even if you can’t sing, play, or read notes. But can you create a label, artists and an income?In this episode of Indie Over 50, I sit down with Terence Chang, a former IT entrepreneur turned AI-driven indie artist, who has already built a record label with two AI artists—generating thousands of monthly Spotify listeners and hundreds of thousands of streams.🎵 What you’ll discover in this interview:* Why Terence embraced AI as his creative partner in music production* How he turned an “expensive hobby” into a professional record label* The pros, cons, and controversies of AI in music for indie artists* How Meta ads and Spotify’s algorithm helped him grow his audience* Why it’s never too late to follow your passion—especially over 50This is an interesting story for independent musicians, songwriters, and over 50 creatives who might feel shut out by traditional music skills, but still have something important to share. And for all musicians coming to grips with the emergence, threats and opportunities of AI.Terences AI Artists:Sky Ling - https://open.spotify.com/artist/11bu41oRkFV9dL16TtdqBa?si=hsENVpgVSneUTLIfW9xyzg Sam Yu - https://open.spotify.com/artist/2DIc9epiK8UeTC9qavX4NN?si=rzSMzKrpSoKaXPHY6UYnsg 🎸 Join the Indie Over 50 Community!👉 Subscribe for more insights on thriving as an independent songwriter over 50 years old!👍 Like & Comment:👇 SHARE YOUR MUSIC! 👇If you’re an Indie Over 50 musician with songs on Spotify or YouTube, post your links in the comments or submit to IndieOver50@icloud.com for our Indie Over 50 Playlists consideration.📌 Featured Playlists::Indie Rock Vibeshttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oF8gdEVmANx8sToxAzyFO?si=4QFfx2TERCihuvAJMqBE_Q Easy Listening: Singer Songwriters, Chill, Folkhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2S4xBhMog24LhEpc4cRMAg?si=Ac4DsuZOTFOrHRCHXZrzMQ Rock, Blues & Metalhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2xb5j1RHdOGVbaq4gxmihy?si=455506f64391417bCountryhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/4u5JDSQmMkyM87KLLbLapX?si=39c62c568ef04827Songs I would love on the radiohttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/4dcpOwmKTb7cGL1RkG4duL?si=b5e804ed950e402aMy artist profile is Project Reverb, check out my Spotify releases here:https://open.spotify.com/artist/6n4YD688eIl2zixhEMaUlA?si=05NY0cBLSdCzZAephWBMYQ
Adventures in Pop - an interview with Simon Jacobs - an Over 50 year old independent Music artist that has achieved millions of Spotify Streams and built a lrage YouTube channel
Adventures in Pop with Simon Jacobs – How One Indie Over 50 Artist Built a Music + YouTube EmpireWhat do you get when you mix over 2 million Spotify streams, 190,000 YouTube subscribers, and a love for quirky, heartfelt pop? You get Simon Jacobs—this week’s guest on Indie, Over 50.Simon shares his unexpected journey from his first love of 10CC in the '70s… to teenage piano angst… to musical theatre and home recording… to becoming an “accidental YouTuber” with an ever-growing global audience.🎙 In this episode:Simon’s musical journey (from Rufus Wainwright to Rihanna)How stem-splitting and AI revived his older songsCollaborating across generationsWhy Taxi, playlists, and algorithms are a minefieldAnd the mindset that helps him (and all of us) keep goingWhether you're new to releasing music or deep into your 8th album, Simon’s story is a reminder that you’re never too old to start something new—and take it seriously.👇 Know an Indie Over 50 artist doing great things? Drop their music below or reach out via contact details to be featured on our playlist.🎧 Check out Simon Jacobs' music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/1RbBs3F64c0YfKTd96nS7q?si=K28PptsXRg2fseLM04wDbg 📺 Adventures in Pop YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2d13dsJv0i5LOlvp7zBbzA We also mention the following:Rufus Wainright - https://open.spotify.com/artist/2PfBzriIMRsCXPDtSy9vg8?si=hArjEJxMS1Ck09qi_manyw Frank Ocean - https://open.spotify.com/artist/2h93pZq0e7k5yf4dywlkpM?si=RYBvWsubTzeccVms_VwgwA Rothman and jacobs - https://open.spotify.com/artist/5OScyJ3DK4Kqy6JtcuZaug?si=g_KDXXxCS8Gm5vtUa-qRJA Goldhawk Foxes - https://open.spotify.com/artist/2dlEf8J9qVrC6sLECfZ096?si=oBqlmiIWSPeHkgfYUWEBQA Taxi sync music platform: https://www.taxi.com/ 🎸 Join the Indie Over 50 Community!👉 Subscribe for more insights on thriving as an independent songwriter over 50 years old!👍 Like & Comment:👇 SHARE YOUR MUSIC! 👇If you’re an Indie Over 50 musician with songs on Spotify or YouTube, post your links in the comments or submit to IndieOver50@icloud.com for our Indie Over 50 Playlists consideration.📌 Featured Playlists::Indie Rock Vibeshttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oF8gdEVmANx8sToxAzyFO?si=4QFfx2TERCihuvAJMqBE_Q Easy Listening: Singer Songwriters, Chill, Folkhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2S4xBhMog24LhEpc4cRMAg?si=Ac4DsuZOTFOrHRCHXZrzMQ Rock, Blues & Metalhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2xb5j1RHdOGVbaq4gxmihy?si=455506f64391417bCountryhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/4u5JDSQmMkyM87KLLbLapX?si=39c62c568ef04827Songs I would love on the radiohttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/4dcpOwmKTb7cGL1RkG4duL?si=b5e804ed950e402aMy artist profile is Project Reverb, check out my Spotify releases here:https://open.spotify.com/artist/6n4YD688eIl2zixhEMaUlA?si=05NY0cBLSdCzZAephWBMYQ
From Caligula to Kismet – Ash Rothschild on Indie Music and Rock Star Reflections
Ash Rothschild rose to Alternative Chart success and then broad commercial fame in the '90s as the frontman of Australian electronic rock band Caligula. School dropout at 15, signed to a record company at 18, climbing the alternative charts and indie radio and TV stations like Triple J and ABC Rage, and then emerging into the mainstream with appearances on Hey Hey its Saturday TV, 2MMM and on the cover of Teen Magazines!In this Indie, Over 50 interview with John Huggart, he reflects on life throught that jourbey, after the spotlight — from music career reinvention to rediscovering joy in music, family, and collaboration through his current project Kismet.Ash opens up about how his perspective on success has evolved, the importance of creative freedom, and the power of staying grounded while still chasing passion. Whether you’re a musician over 50, a fan of Caligula, or someone navigating your next chapter, this conversation offers honesty, heart, and a rock star’s wisdom with zero ego.🎵 Links to Ash’s latest music and projects are in the description below.Artist Profile Caligula: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7uDaD88sCNy8PKNQzdVXdo?si=qHBxY3YdR_CvME_8K-vlzQ Artist Profile: Panic Syndrome: https://open.spotify.com/artist/23MXJY25pxYqBi0hSm28lP?si=k_SLV5cOTQOcmk7HcOj-vg Favourite Indie and 21st Century Artist: Johnny Hunter - https://open.spotify.com/artist/4TvM3UVvqDRG51RaUeK5Qo?si=w-FUjw-TRAWDDnE7v7kKOA Big Music: https://www.bigmusic.com.au/ 🎸 Join the Indie Over 50 Community!👉 Subscribe for more insights on thriving as an independent songwriter over 50 years old!👍 Like & Comment:👇 SHARE YOUR MUSIC! 👇If you’re an Indie Over 50 musician with songs on Spotify or YouTube, post your links in the comments or submit to IndieOver50@icloud.com for our Indie Over 50 Playlists consideration.📌 Featured Playlists::Indie Rock Vibeshttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oF8gdEVmANx8sToxAzyFO?si=4QFfx2TERCihuvAJMqBE_Q Easy Listening: Singer Songwriters, Chill, Folkhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2S4xBhMog24LhEpc4cRMAg?si=Ac4DsuZOTFOrHRCHXZrzMQ Rock, Blues & Metalhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2xb5j1RHdOGVbaq4gxmihy?si=455506f64391417bCountryhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/4u5JDSQmMkyM87KLLbLapX?si=39c62c568ef04827Songs I would love on the radiohttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/4dcpOwmKTb7cGL1RkG4duL?si=b5e804ed950e402aMy artist profile is Project Reverb, check out my Spotify releases here:https://open.spotify.com/artist/6n4YD688eIl2zixhEMaUlA?si=05NY0cBLSdCzZAephWBMYQ
I Wasn’t Thinking – But the Song That Followed Changed Everything - Juan Carlos Hernandez
At 60+, Juan Carlos Hernandez launched a music career with no band, no label—and no excuses. In this Indie, Over 50 interview with John Huggart, Juan Carlos Hernandez shares how he turned retirement into opportunity, using songwriting as therapy, founding his own label Old Guy Music, and leveraging AI as his personal assistant, publicist, and productivity tool.He opens up about his recovery journey, the power of collaboration, and the emotional story behind his track “I Wasn’t Thinking”—a song co-written with his wife and lifelong friend that became a turning point in his catalogue.Juan’s insights on genre identity, Spotify promotion, SubmitHub feedback, and building confidence as a late bloomer will inspire any independent artist wondering: Is it too late?Spoiler: It’s not. 🎧Meet Juan Carlos Hernandez @user-juancarloshernandez Artist Profile: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7agrlJjYJ8ffKT8UeVMug2?si=72sFXt1jQ6GKLeKpCKrdig https://www.instagram.com/jchernandez164/ Favourite Indie and 21st Century Artist: @hellswelles I wasnt thinking: https://youtu.be/q_z-f9j2wQ8?si=RQEhXUo9VTOy91_2 High Top Tennis Shoes: https://youtu.be/kPqWzEYf2Ps?si=--DpJzG_dC3jVS0N We mention Submithub: https://www.submithub.com/ Indie Over 50 - AI video: https://youtu.be/iw5sHIXBK_E 🎸 Join the Indie Over 50 Community!👉 Subscribe for more insights on thriving as an independent songwriter over 50 years old!👍 Like & Comment:👇 SHARE YOUR MUSIC! 👇If you’re an Indie Over 50 musician with songs on Spotify or YouTube, post your links in the comments or submit to IndieOver50@icloud.com for our Indie Over 50 Playlists consideration.📌 Featured Playlists::Indie Rock Vibeshttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oF8gdEVmANx8sToxAzyFO?si=4QFfx2TERCihuvAJMqBE_Q Easy Listening: Singer Songwriters, Chill, Folkhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2S4xBhMog24LhEpc4cRMAg?si=Ac4DsuZOTFOrHRCHXZrzMQ Rock, Blues & Metalhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2xb5j1RHdOGVbaq4gxmihy?si=455506f64391417bCountryhttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/4u5JDSQmMkyM87KLLbLapX?si=39c62c568ef04827Songs I would love on the radiohttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/4dcpOwmKTb7cGL1RkG4duL?si=b5e804ed950e402aMy artist profile is Project Reverb, check out my Spotify releases here:https://open.spotify.com/artist/6n4YD688eIl2zixhEMaUlA?si=05NY0cBLSdCzZAephWBMYQ
Create a Better Version of Yourself – Marc Schuster’s Indie Over 50 Journey
🎙️ Marc Schuster’s Creative Life After 50 – Music, Writing, Radio & MoreMarc Schuster is an indie artist, blogger, teacher, and now radio program director who proves that your creative journey doesn’t end at 50 — it expands. In this Indie Over 50 interview with John Huggart, Marc shares how he wove music into a full-time teaching career, turned blogging into a network of indie artist collaborations, and built a thriving radio show from a single tweet.He talks about his band Del Cobras, solo music projects, and the evolution of his blog Abominations. Marc reflects on the role of AI in education and creativity, the importance of meaningful connection, and how community—not numbers—can transform your music career.Whether you’re just starting or reigniting your musical path, Marc’s story offers inspiration, honesty, and a roadmap for staying creatively alive over 50.👇 Links to Marc’s music, blog, and radio show below.Blog: https://marcschuster.com/blog/ Radio Station: https://live365.com/station/AMS-Radio-a15527 Contact form for submitting music or requesting an interview: https://marcschuster.com/contact/ DelCobras: https://linktr.ee/delcobras Solo Project: https://marcschuster.bandcamp.com/Inspiring Indie, Over 50 artists for Marc:Dino DiMuro: https://dinodimuro1.bandcamp.com/ LaLaLettes: https://lalalettes.bandcamp.com/ Marcs favorite 21st Centure Artist @theshins