In Part 2 of this Backstage Money conversation, Jason K Powers continues his discussion with Stevie Rachelle, lead singer of Tuff and founder of Metal Sludge, diving deeper into how musicians actually survive financially over the long haul.

Stevie breaks down the real economics of touring internationally, why getting in front of people often matters more than upfront guarantees, and how merchandise has become a critical revenue stream for working bands. He shares practical insight into selling directly to fans, building relationships at the merch table, and making the most of every opportunity on the road.

The conversation also explores Stevie’s long-running DIY approach through RLS Records, including self-releasing music, manufacturing physical product, distributing to independent record stores, and adapting as formats shifted from CDs to vinyl to streaming and back again. Stevie explains why physical product still matters, how collectors think, and why artists who treat music like a business give themselves a better chance at longevity.

This episode is essential listening for independent musicians, touring artists, and anyone looking to understand the real money mechanics behind a sustainable music career.

This is Part 2 of a two-part conversation. Part 1 focuses on Stevie’s early journey, mindset, and the risks required to get started.

Backstage Money is real-world finance for musicians, where music and money collide through honest conversations with artists and industry professionals who are living it.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/StevieTuff

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100050872071674

Metal Sludge

Website: https://metalsludge.tv/

Tuff

Official website: https://tuffcds.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StevieRachelle

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backstagemoney

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/backstagemoney

Get the free ebook, A Musician’s Guide to Infinite Banking, at

https://1024wealth.com/music

In this episode of Backstage Money, Jason K Powers sits down with Stevie Rachelle, lead singer of the band Tuff and founder of Metal Sludge, for a wide-ranging conversation about taking risks, betting on yourself, and doing whatever it takes to make a music career happen.

Stevie shares the early chapters of his story, from leaving home with little more than belief and determination to landing major opportunities in the Los Angeles music scene. He talks candidly about mindset, sacrifice, and why waiting for permission is often the fastest way to never get started.

This first part focuses on the decisions, risks, and mentality required to chase a career in music, long before record deals, MTV, or industry recognition entered the picture. Stevie offers perspective that is especially relevant for musicians at the beginning or middle of their journey who are wondering whether to play it safe or go all in.

This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation. Part 2 dives deeper into the business side of music, including touring, merchandise, money realities, and long-term survival in the industry.

Backstage Money is real-world finance for musicians, where music and money collide through honest conversations with artists and industry professionals who are living it.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/StevieTuff

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100050872071674

Metal Sludge

Website: https://metalsludge.tv/

Tuff

Official website: https://tuffcds.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StevieRachelle

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backstagemoney

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/backstagemoney

Get the free ebook, A Musician’s Guide to Infinite Banking, at

https://1024wealth.com/music

In this episode of Backstage Money, Jason K Powers sits down with Jack McCarthy, entrepreneur, touring veteran, and co-founder of IndieX at Indepreneur, the agency helping artists build sustainable, direct-to-fan revenue.

Jack shares his journey from touring guitarist and guitar tech to building one of the leading artist-focused e-commerce and marketing teams in the industry. He breaks down why so many musicians stay stuck in feast-or-famine income cycles and how treating your music like a real business can change everything.

The conversation dives deep into direct-to-fan sales, owning your data, e-commerce strategy, touring versus streaming income, and why artists need systems they can control. Jack explains how artists of all sizes can stabilize revenue, better serve their fans, and build long-term sustainability instead of relying solely on platforms and algorithms they do not own.

This episode is a must-listen for independent musicians, touring artists, managers, and anyone serious about building a music career that lasts.

Backstage Money is real-world finance for musicians, where music and money collide through honest conversations with artists and industry professionals who are living it.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indepreneur

Indepreneur Site: https://indepreneur.io

IndieX Site: https://indepreneur.io/about-indiex

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backstagemoney

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/backstagemoney

Get the free ebook, A Musician’s Guide to Infinite Banking, at

https://1024wealth.com/music