Mitxoda Weekly #16: Shattered Dreams and Indie Resilience

Song of the Week : Emerald Groove by Ghost of Rucker (released on May 05, 2024).

Hello Dear Friend!

Welcome to Mitxoda Weekly #16! This week’s edition is about rediscovering balance, embracing collaboration, and challenging the systems we tolerate in the indie music world. With my latest collaboration, Shattered Dreams, featuring the heartfelt words of Kymskreations, we delve into the magic of artistic synergy. Plus, Nadine de Macedo kicks off a brand-new segment spotlighting indie gems, and Outback Dude shares profound thoughts on music as a universal language. So glad to welcome you today! 😃 

Au menu, this week:

Table of Contents

• Mitxoda News: Shattered Dreams, My New Collab

• Long Read: Taking a Break to Find the Rhythm Again

• Playlist of the Week: Indie Resilience, Songs for …

• Nadine's Indie Treasures: Worthington's Law

• Quick Indie News

• Until Next Week: Music, an Unspoken Dialogue

• Let’s Keep the Music Flowing

Mitxoda News: Shattered Dreams, My New Collab

Artistic collaboration creates powerful connections. A few months ago, I discovered Kym, the talent behind Kymskreations, through a Facebook post featuring her acrylic paint pours. For her, this art form is deeply therapeutic, encapsulated in her motto: "Happy Pouring with Love – Kymskreations."

Our connection grew through mutual respect for creativity. She admired my French music, and soon shared a poem that inspired our collaboration.

We are now finalizing "Shattered Dreams". Composing music for her heartfelt lyrics has been a privilege, reflecting the trust and synergy in our partnership. Though initially envisioned in French, the song may take that form in the future. This project highlights how blending visual and musical arts creates narratives that deeply ring.

Kym’s story and openness have made this collaboration special. I’m excited to share "Shattered Dreams" very soon and celebrate this beautiful connection.

Long Read: Taking a Break to Find the Rhythm Again

I took a break. During a few days, I unplugged. No gigs. No release schedules. No endless scroll through streams of "advice" posts on how to hack the algorithm. Just me, a notebook, and the raw, unfiltered thoughts of what it means to be an indie artist today.

And here’s what hit me…

The One-Person Circus

Being an indie musician feels like running a one-person circus. You’re the performer, the promoter, the manager, the distributor, the designer, the legal, the weekly content writer, the creator (not to forget, right?) and sometimes the tech support for your own website (that I stil don’t have, by the time!). It’s exhausting. It’s exhilarating. And let’s be honest, it’s unsustainable on a long-term approach.

Stress doesn’t come from the passion for creating music. It comes from what we tolerate, the invisible burdens we carry because "that’s just how it is."

The Systems We Tolerate

Some of us tolerate systems that reward bots and scammers over honest creators. We pay PR firms or playlist brokers who promise exposure but deliver empty streams and no connection.

We watch as the same "promote your song" DMs flood our inboxes, preying on our hope, making us doubt whether we’re doing enough.

Others blame these scammers entirely, with reason!!! They’re loud, they’re persistent, and they thrive in the chaos of the indie world. But are they the whole story?

It’s simple. I block/ban/report these scams all day long. Please do the same, it’s a mess.

The Hard Truth

The truth is harder to swallow. We, too, are part of the cycle.

Most of the time, we tolerate systems that prioritize quantity over quality, rush releases, and demand perfection from ourselves while neglecting the essence of why we started: to connect through music.

When did we lose the courage to pause? To admit that some battles, like beating the algorithm or chasing empty metrics, aren’t worth fighting alone?

My Reset

Last year, I decided to stop tolerating:

• The pressure to release music faster than it feels ready.

• The guilt of stepping back when I needed time to think.

• The idea that I’m competing with every other artist in the indie space.

Instead, I leaned into community; real people, not bots or numbers. Platforms like Bandcamp could become a place where each listener feels real, and each purchase feels more like a conversation, not a transaction. (even if it’s always nice to get a little money out of it 😁)

I let go of chasing trends and focused on what mattered to me: creating music with meaning and giving it the time it deserved.

I just received a warning from DistroKid/Spotify about unauthorized artificial streams. After following the whole TimTMmusic situation, I’m starting to think I’ll face similar issues, even though I haven’t done anything wrong.

What should I do? Spend more time trying to “prove” I’m clean because of external, uncontrollable bots? Or focus on creating music and promoting it on Bandcamp, where I could avoid the hassle altogether?

An Invitation

This week, I invite you to do the same. Take a moment to unplug. To rethink what you’re tolerating and whether it’s moving you closer to your creative purpose, or pulling you away.

Because here’s the secret: we’re not meant to compete alone.

We’re stronger when we lean on each other, call out the scams and the stress, and rediscover the joy of making music for the right reasons.

I’m gonna shout it out loud, because I need it…

Because screw the idea that we’re all in this alone. Indie music isn’t a solo competition; it’s a rebellion against the noise, and we’re at our best when we’ve got each other’s backs. Sharing playlists, playing gigs together, shouting out each other’s work, this is how we fight back. It’s not about playing by Mark, Elon or Daniel’s rules; it’s about building something real, something they can’t fake or control.

The joy of creating comes when you stop trying to please the system and start making music that actually means something. When you find your people, other artists who get the grind, who cheer you on, who want to know you, this is why you picked up that guitar or hit that mic in the first place. Together, we’re louder, stronger, and unstoppable. Let’s make music that flips the script.

Outback Dude added some interesting thoughts on the profound connection music creates, emphasizing that while artists often work in solitude, they are never truly alone. He writes, "When I listen to a song, it’s as if the artist is sitting across from me, sharing a piece of their soul." This universal language of music bridges gaps and fosters a shared experience between creators and listeners, forming a dialogue between hearts and minds. He notes, "Even in solitude, there’s a shared understanding among artists... participating in the same universal conversation." For indie artists, this connection fuels creativity and serves as a reminder that their work matters, even when it feels like no one is listening. Outback Dude encourages creators to keep expressing and sharing their voices, as "someone out there is listening, and your music, your art, your words—they matter."

Thanks Dude, I really appreciate your words!

Your Turn

So let’s start 2025 with one question:
What are you no longer willing to tolerate?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Write me back or join the discussion in this week’s Mitxoda Weekly.

Playlist of the Week: Indie Resilience, Songs for the Journey by Mitxoda

Nadine's Indie Treasures: Worthington's Law

Kicking off 2025 with humor and noise, Worthington's Law is a punk rock band that brings hilarity and creativity to the indie scene. With songs about ant adventures and aliens invading Christmas, Nick and Scotty deliver an energetic, witty take on punk rock.

Standout tracks include "I Wanna Be an Ant," "I Stole Joey Ramon's Jacket," and "Respect the Schweppes." Their YouTube channel complements their music with equally entertaining videos, making them a must-hear and must-watch. Dive into their world of funny, high-energy nonsense for a guaranteed good time!

Continue the discussion here!

💬 Introducing "Nadine’s Indie Treasures," a brand-new chapter where indie curator Nadine de Macedo handpicks and spotlights exceptional artists, giving you a front-row seat to their creativity and charm. Thank you Nadine for starting this new chapter here with us!

Quick Indie News

Only watchasays know watchasay. So, are you a watchasay too? Watchasay!… ask Histheory about this or find out his latest collab with Drew Nold and Shannon Darcy! Insomnia, Out Jan 10, 2025 😉

• Purpose Of The Machine by The Primary Phase Principle - (Canada) - 2024/02/02. This central track from Echoes Of The Mechatronic Age imagines a future where humanity is dependent on a massive mechanical machine. Influenced by Tangerine Dream, it offers a rich, immersive experience. This album is a journey through time and sound. Discover the vision behind the music.

• Forever Autumn by JSPeters - Pop (Australia) - 22 August 2024. Taken from the award-winning War of the Worlds. This single showcases JSPeters' timeless talent. Add this catchy tune to your playlist! 

• Don't ARgue by The Fods - Rock (UK / USA) - 20 September 2024. A 7-song project revisiting their 90s roots with incredible indie talent from both sides of the Atlantic. This album is full of vibrant tracks. Turn up the volume and feel the energy! 

• Reckless Tonight by Riot City Rhythm - Rock (USA) - 27 September 2024. A vintage rock song with a modern feel, Reckless Tonight captures Riot City Rhythm’s raw energy. This EP is a burst of vibrant vibes. Turn up the volume and feel the energy! 

• Torture Colombe (Démo) by Torture Colombe - Rock/Garage (Canada) - 13 October 2024. A 7-title album not to miss! Listen to it now.

• Inner Court by Redprint - Rock (Netherlands) - 17 October 2024. A powerful ballad with a unique Redprint twist, showcasing their signature sound. This single is a standout in its style. Feel the depth of this ballad! 

• Amerika by Psycholand - Metal (United States) - 12 November 2024. Psycholand’s rendition of Rammstein's Amerika offers a fierce and fresh take on this iconic track. This single is a standout in its style.

• Movie by The Heyokas - Alternative (Austria) - 15 November 2024. Movie will keep you dancing with its groovy beats and uplifting vibe. This single is a standout in its style. Explore the unique soundscape!

• White Phosphorus by Cloud Blood - Metal (USA) - 22 November 2024. An anti-Zionist song with intense energy and sharp musicality. This single delivers a bold message through powerful riffs.

• Governed With Fear by NEMESIS - Metal (US) - 30 November 2024. Explosive with razor-sharp musicianship, this single unapologetically comments on societal ills. A powerful follow-up from their debut album False Reality.  

• Devil's Due by AudioCide - Rock (United States of America) - 12 December 2024. A hard rock track about paying the devil his due, featuring dynamic rhythms and unforgettable hooks. Check it out here!

• Otha Side Oppz by Saber Tooth - Hip-Hop/Rap (United States) - 14 December 2024. A bold anthem about overcoming odds and living your best life, infused with Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, and Jujutsu Kaisen references. Check that crazy video now! 

• The War by Jack’s Revenge - Rock (USA) - 14 December 2024. A dynamic single that declares "All’s fair in love and war" with a gripping, guitar-forward sound and a unique voice… Check it out now.

• Empty Whiskey Bottles by DEAD HIGHWAYMEN - Rock (UK) - 24 December 2024. Melodic punk rock at its finest, this is the second single from their debut album Posthumous. Check it out here!

• Winstead’s Tonight (Ballisticals Parody Video) by Changing Methods (30 December 2024) is just awesome, these Energy and Fun are mindblowing!

After some catching up from 2024, here we are with fresh tracks for 2025!

• Figurehead by Dead Sex Puppets - Alternative (New Zealand) - 01 January 2025. With a raw, unapologetic style, this single delivers utterly haunting vibes. A Messenger of Gooooood!

• Grudge Holdin' Hardass by El Dolor - USA - 01 January 2025. An uptempo, rockabilly-inspired love song brimming with energy. Discover this one-of-a-kind track!

• RUN (For Your Life) by Electric BlindFold - Electronic/Dance (Germany) - 02 January 2025. This electrifying single will keep you on edge with its vibrant beats. Let the beats move your soul!

• Broken Dreams Could Never Stop Me by Luminary Of Spheres - House Music (United States) - 02 January 2025. Dance dance dance! Video here!

• Hurt by Eddie Keller, from original Nine Inch Nails song, but inspired. by Johnny Cash’s version! Check out the video here!

• Broken Clock by Mike Stollen - Rock (Portugal) - 03 January 2025. A poignant rock ballad exploring nostalgia and longing for lost love, blending heartfelt lyrics with dynamic melodies. Take a moment and feel the emotions! Check it out here!

• Can’t Stop Me by Jay El Dee - Pop (United States) - 03 January 2025. Another great track coming from Wisconsin! 

• Prophecy's Will by The Obsidian Resurrection - Metal (United States) - 06 January 2025. A symphonic death metal masterpiece, this track harks back to thrashy grooves and orchestral elements. Listen now!

• As Darkness Falls by The Obsidian Resurrection - Metal (United States) - 06 January 2025. A journey into death metal and thrash roots, infused with symphonic black metal styling. Listen now!

• Devil's Advocate (A Sorry Sort) by Jaelyn - Metal (United States) - 07 January 2025. A bold and electrifying punk track that dives into unapologetic truths. This single challenges listeners with gritty riffs and haunting vocals. Brace yourself for an intense experience! Check it out here!

• A Barstool and Me by Wayne W. Hacker - Folk (United States) - 08 January 2025. A simple yet heartfelt acoustic tune that feels like an in-the-moment performance by a passionate songwriter. Discover this one-of-a-kind track!

• Don’t Let Me Notice by The Flying Beets - Rock (United States) - 08 January 2025. Their latest track also shines on Youtube!

• Keep On by Jay Steppa and Alchemorph - Dance (UK) - 08 January 2025. A dance track with very strong message to never give up on your dreams! Listen on Soundcloud now!

• Shine One Me by The Ruins - Rock (United States) - 09 January 2025. This 80s-inspired ballad captures the bittersweet essence of losing a childhood friend to tragedy. Listen now.

• Flowers Of The New Dawn, album by The Sanctity Of Crowns - Instrumental (Scotland) - 10 January 2025. Every Friday starting today a new video will be released, make sure you sub his channel!

• The Critch Cratch Tracks Volume 1 by Andy Carr - Pop Rock (North Wales) - 12 January 2025. A brand new version of their EP is out soon. Presave here!

• Bleed For Me by Shallow Signals - Metal (United States) - 17 January 2025. A heavy, emotionally charged single that captures the raw energy of metal. Brace yourself for an intense experience! Presave here!

• The Walk by Histheory revisited by Elirah’s Cross - Progressive Heavy Metal (USA) - 17 January 2025. Presave it now!

• 26 Songs by Taylor D - Pop Rock (Ireland) - 31 January 2025. A pop infused track - that’s all I got for now! Presave now! 

• A new World Premiere is coming soon with Choir of Bones by Outta-My Head on February 14, 2025. Join the event here!!

• Storm-Kingdom will release The Savage Garden EP on Jan 13, stay tuned!!

• And sometimes soon, Another Day in Paradise by Luddites will pop up too!

If you'd like to introduce your latest release, just click here to submit all the details. I’d love to hear about it! 😇 Submit your track here.

What I read lately

• Stuff to read about AI art 

• Questions (and answers) about R-and-D

• Not kidding, the Belgian Flemish TV Broadcast (VRT) would like to create a Flemish Spotify. No kidding (in Dutch, here)

Until Next Week: Music, an Unspoken Dialogue

Music is more than sound; it’s an unspoken dialogue, a shared heartbeat between creator and listener. The indie path invites us to embrace both the chaos and the quiet, to pause, to question, and to rediscover the essence of why we create.

In the stillness, we find clarity. In the connection, we find meaning. And in the act of letting go, of tolerances, of illusions, of the need to rush, we create space for something deeper, something timeless.

Perhaps the greatest rebellion is not against systems or algorithms, but against forgetting ourselves. So, what will you hold onto this year? And what will you finally set free?

Until next time,
Let the music speak,
Let the silence guide,
Mitxoda

What’s Next for Mitxoda?

Lots of exciting releases are coming up! Mark your calendars for these dates and presave now: 

• Patience, no release date yet

• Undressed will be released later in 2025

• Shattered Dreams, my latest collab with Kymskreations to be released soon

• And all the other collabs coming in! I am blessed!!

Stay tuned, awesome things are coming!

Let’s Keep the Music Flowing

Thank you for being a part of the Mitxoda journey. Remember, this newsletter is for you, our indie community. Every idea, every shout-out, every track I feature, it's all inspired by you. Let’s keep the indie spirit alive together!

See you next week,

Stay Safe,
Stay Yourself,
Mitxoda