In this episode of Music Industry Experts, host Brendan Jeannetti sits down with Dan Melnick, General Manager of Bandcamp to talk about what makes Bandcamp such a valuable tool for independent artists, how the platform stands out in today’s streaming-heavy landscape, and the state of the music industry in 2025.

Dan shares honest insight into how artists can take more control over their careers, and why connection, care, and community still matter more than ever.

They discuss:
- Dan’s start in the music industry, from building websites for his band to presenting jazz legends in Chicago
- How Bandcamp’s artist-first model empowers musicians and reshapes how music is bought and sold
- The value of purchasing music in 2025 and how Bandcamp fosters stronger artist-to-fan relationships
- The origins and impact of Bandcamp Fridays, a recurring event where Bandcamp waives its revenue share so artists keep 100% of sales on those days
- The evolving role of short-form content and how artists can stay authentic while marketing their work
- Where AI can enhance music creation—and where artists should be cautious

Learn more about BandCamp

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Music Industry Experts is a podcast from Music You’re Missing, hosted by Brendan Jeannetti. In addition to the podcast, Music You’re Missing operates as a full-service creative agency offering artist management, artist development, talent buying, content creation, and branded activations. Learn more at www.musicyouremissing.org.