Join us for a series of virtual educational sessions designed specifically for artists and professionals working within the music ecosystem. More Than Meets the DIY is a monthly virtual series that takes a broad view of the ever-evolving music landscape, and dives deep into the practical knowledge and skills needed to navigate the industry.
Next Session: Marketing Part 1– Designed to Last: The Intentional Artist’s Mindset
Date & Time: September 2, 2025 5PM - 6PM PST
More Than Meets the DIY: Designed to Last: The Intentional Artist’s MindsetÂ
What does it take to build an artistic career that stands the test of time? Join artist Oblé Reed and manager Ryker as they unpack the mindset and strategies essential for artists committed to creating with purpose and longevity. This session offers a holistic approach to artistry, encouraging participants to develop intentional habits and thoughtful decision-making practices that sustain creativity and career growth in an ever-changing music industry. Attendees will gain valuable insights and actionable tools to foster resilience, authenticity, and lasting impact in their artistic journeys.
ABOUT RYKER
Ryker is an artist manager based out of the Pacific Northwest. She spent 6 years as a talent buyer and multi-faceted manager to a wide range of artists in genres spanning from rock to indie pop. She has developed multiple educational workshops and panels, hosted networking nights and music showcases, and even curated a handful of music festivals. As her management company directINFLUX began to form, the roster took a shift towards Hip-Hop. Being a queer black female, Ryker has always had to fight for a place at the table. This has given her a spirit of resilience, which shaped the cornerstones of her foundation. Ryker looks to be the levitator of the art and culture around her. Working primarily with up-and-coming talent, Ryker focuses on identifying the why, constructing the brand story, audience building, and developing the mindset of the artist. She stands out with her individualized marketing strategies that maximize progress and drive growth within the artists and brands she works with. Ryker has assembled a dynamic and diverse team that aims to be disruptive not only in the PNW, but in the industry as a whole.
ABOUT OBLÉ REED:Â
Born and based in Seattle, Washington, Oblé Reed is a 24 year old mixed-race Alternative Hip Hop artist who has found himself in a lane of his own. Coming off of the re- lease of his debut project "LINDENAVE!, which has amassed over 7 million streams and earned the #1 album of 2023 in the Seattle Times. You will find nothing but praise from articles written in Billboard, Earmilk, Fashionably Early, Seattle Times, Respect My Region, and many more, all hailing his ability to allow his authentic self to shine through the music. Oblé continues to pack out shows in Seattle as well as playing cities all over the west coast such as Denver, Oakland, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and more. Oble has shaped his sound to fit the young world changer he aspires to be. With the intentionality in which he lives, there's no doubt that there will be a lasting impact of his art.
APRIL 1, 2025
The Evolving Role of the Record Label
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Whether you're self-releasing, signed to a label, or somewhere in between, understanding the role of the label—and how artists thrive within or outside of them—can be career-defining.
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Click Here To Watch The Webinar
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MAY 6, 2025
Financial Wellness
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Join us for an empowering webinar that bridges the gap between creativity and financial confidence.
Whether you're an artist, producer, songwriter, or behind the scenes, this session will explore how to manage your money, navigate the unique financial challenges of the music industry, and more!Â
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JUNE 3, 2025
Sync Licensing
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Join us for an insightful webinar that bridges the gap between music and media. Whether you're an artist, producer, songwriter, or working behind the scenes, this session will cover the essentials of securing sync placements and more.Â
July 1, 2025
Tour Support
Touring is more than just playing shows—it’s managing logistics, finances, staying organized, and taking care of yourself along the way. Whether you’re booking your first tour or looking to level up, this session covers the real-world tools and strategies artists need to tour smarter and more sustainably. We’ll dig into booking, budgeting, routing, travel, and staying healthy on the road. Hear from musicians and industry professionals who’ve been there—sharing what works, what doesn’t, and how to make touring sustainable.
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August 5, 2025
Amplifying Change
What does it take to turn grassroots ideas into tangible policy outcomes? This panel brings together musicians and industry leaders for an insightful conversation about organizing, advocacy, and the strategic efforts that drive meaningful wins for the creative sector. The conversation will kick off with topline findings from the Washington Music Census, presented by the Washington Music Nightlife Association (WANMA), alongside key data from the National Music Venue Association's (NIVA) State of Live economic research study, grounding the conversation in the realities facing today’s music ecosystem. From there, panelists will walk through case studies that highlight how policy gets made, the critical importance of community and stakeholder engagement, and the role of legislative champions in advancing music-friendly reforms. Attendees will leave with insights to help actively drive change and participate in building a stronger, more sustainable future for local music.
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Upcoming Dates
September 2, 2025: Marketing pt. 1
October 7, 2025: Marketing pt. 2
November 4, 2025: Mental Health
