In this powerful episode of The Indie Unplugged Podcast, we sit down with Travis Hall—a genre-defying artist blending opera, gospel, and R&B with raw emotion and spiritual depth. Travis opens up about his early musical influences, how he fuses classical training with soulful vocals, and what it means to stay authentic in an industry chasing trends.

We explore his struggles, faith, and mission to tell stories that uplift and challenge. Travis shares real gems for independent artists on creative ownership, navigating labels, and the importance of keeping God at the center of your work. Whether you're a music lover or a creator on the rise, this conversation is for you.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this powerful episode of The Indie Unplugged, B. Vaughan sits down with the unstoppable Monique Nikkole—a Grammy-nominated singer, entrepreneur, former detective sergeant, and true queen of reinvention. From her early roots in Brooklyn to her breakout success with “Red Bottoms & Lingerie,” Monique shares her journey of overcoming stage fright, surviving artist management struggles, building her music empire, and finding her voice in activism through her hit single “Queen of the Hustle.”

They dive into everything: her take on the BET Awards, the AI artist debate surrounding Timbaland’s “TaTa,” the reality of being an indie artist wearing multiple hats, and the discipline it takes to maintain her personal health, brand, and mission. Monique also talks about receiving the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, launching her upcoming EP Enigmatic, and why staying grounded in your truth as an artist matters more than ever.

This isn’t just an interview—it’s a blueprint for every independent artist chasing purpose over popularity.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this inspiring episode of The Indie Unplugged, host B. Vaughan sits down with Madeline Jackson, a rising force in the Atlanta music scene and Director of Events Programming at Rival Entertainment (Center Stage, The Loft, and Vinyl). Madeline shares her journey from growing up in small-town Georgia with a deep love for music to becoming a key player in curating some of the city’s most vibrant live experiences. She opens up about her early career pivots, the importance of internships, and how a pivotal moment at Kanye West’s Donda listening party helped realign her purpose.

Throughout the conversation, Madeline reflects on the power of manifestation, the impact of parental support, and the lessons she’s learned on both the creative and business sides of the industry. She also offers thoughtful insights into the future of live music, including how technology and AI might enhance — but never replace — the irreplaceable connection of in-person performance. Whether you're a future music executive or a creative chasing your path, this episode is filled with practical advice, personal reflection, and industry wisdom.

Thanks for reading! This post is public so feel free to share it.

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.