This conversation opens the door to a side of music we don’t often talk about: the business beneath the art. Lauren Tafoya, also known as Laquela, has created a powerful framework for helping artists turn their message into something sustainable. She’s not chasing trends or teaching you how to game the algorithm. Instead, she’s focused on real structure, long-term strategy, and helping musicians build businesses that reflect who they are. If you’re tired of relying on streams, gigs, and wishful thinking, this episode might be the blueprint you’ve been looking for.

We Chat About:

• Why chasing streams and exposure won’t build a sustainable career
• How Lauren’s 7-level challenge system walks artists through starting a business
• What most musicians don’t know about business credit and how it can change everything
• Creating a self-sustaining ecosystem between your business and your music
• The emotional barriers that stop artists from embracing self-promotion
• How underserved communities are kept out of vital business knowledge
• Why Lauren believes the major label dream isn’t for most artists

About Lauren Tafoya:

Lauren Tafoya is a book publisher, business strategist, and founder of a unique platform that helps musical artists turn their message into a business. She teaches creatives how to build aligned, income-generating brands by connecting the heart of their music to real-world industries. With a sharp eye for strategy and a deep respect for artistic purpose, Lauren equips artists with the tools, structure, and mindset to thrive beyond the stage.

Connect with Lauren:

Sign up for her Level 1 Challenge: https://nas.io/buildamusicbiz/challenges/level-1-music-business-idea-challenge

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@iamlaquela

Connect with Julian:

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

In this episode, I get into it with Brooklyn-based artist Tony Oso; someone who’s built his music career from the ground up without chasing trends or compromising his sound. From working in music tech by day to playing late-night shows, Tony’s journey is a testament to trusting your instincts and letting the art lead. We talk about the path that led him to full-time musicianship, the values that keep him grounded, and why he believes music should feel like a good meal. Whether you’re growing your audience or just trying to create something honest, Tony’s story will speak to you.

We Chat About:

• His transition from behind-the-scenes music tech to front-stage artistry
• How working in customer support shaped his empathy as an artist
• Developing a genre-fluid sound and learning to follow his instincts
• Why music “should feel like a good meal”
• Touring nationally while building grassroots momentum
• Balancing real life with the dream of being a full-time musician
• His advice for artists feeling lost or behind

About Tony Oso:

Tony Oso is a Florida music artist with a mission to inspire and uplift through songs born from his experiences with love, pain, mental health struggles, and personal loss. Drawing from his own journey, Tony crafts music that resonates deeply, offering both solace and motivation to those facing life’s challenges. He’s shaping a new genre by blending the emotive vocals of 80s new wave with the raw energy of 70s classic rock, infused with a modern alternative twist. His sound evokes bands like Talking Heads, The Who, and The Killers—creating something fresh yet familiar for multiple generations of rock lovers.

After enduring debilitating spinal conditions in 2019, Tony transformed his pain into a powerful creative force. His music is a testament to resilience, encouraging listeners to persevere through even the hardest seasons. Originally from Melbourne, Florida—a city known for engineering—Tony brings that same precision and dedication to his work. He’s shared the stage with acts like Sister Hazel and The Goo Goo Dolls, competed on America’s Got Talent, and surpassed 100,000 streams across platforms. His voice and message are more vital than ever.

Connect with Tony:

Website: https://tonyosomusic.com

Store: https://tonyosomusic.com/store

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

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@tonyosomusic?xmt=AQGzQ1XdQVs1qnYOW5krTSIlOL2vXNIJlGTmFjq9JNETkek

Connect with Julian:

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book:

Shameika Rhymes wears many hats, but every one of them comes with heart. In this episode, I sit down with the award-winning journalist, producer, and creator behind Check the Rhymes TV, Solebration, and the Ladies Edition podcast. We talk about how her storytelling roots began in television news, how she built lasting relationships with icons like Ananda Lewis and Will Downing, and what it really takes to run multiple media platforms as a team of one. From going viral to growing tired, Shameika shares what keeps her grounded in the work—and in her love of music.

We Chat About:

• The origins of Check the Rhymes TV and how a pandemic birthed a platform
• Her storytelling magic: from BET carpets to booking Barry Sanders
• Why Solebration bridges the gap between health, soul, and celebration
• How she builds rapport with guests and honors their vulnerability
• Her deep love for Michael Jackson, H-Town, Prince, and the Jacksons
• Why music always finds a way into every season of her life

About Shameika Rhymes:

Shameika Rhymes is an award-winning journalist, producer, and host based in North Carolina. A storyteller at heart, she’s the founder of Check the Rhymes TV, Solebration on BlackDoctor.org, and the Ladies Edition podcast. Known for her charisma, connection, and curiosity, she’s interviewed cultural icons across music, TV, and wellness—including Ananda Lewis, Ernie Hudson, and Method Man’s kids—often from behind the camera with just a mic and a dream. Whether she’s spotlighting public health or pop culture, Shameika leads with empathy, hustle, and a whole lot of heart.

Connect with Shameika:

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

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@mofochronicles?xmt=AQGzQ1XdQVs1qnYOW5krTSIlOL2vXNIJlGTmFjq9JNETkek

Connect with Julian:

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL