CVLTURE

About CVLTURE

CVLTURE is a new series exploring the realities of modern music culture hosted by Solardo's Mark Foster and Virus Syndicate's Nika D. Hosted by two globally established artists from different corners of music, the new long-form series launches on 1 July across YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music. Created for audiences who want more than promotional interviews and surface-level music content, CVLTURE is designed to open up honest discussion around the realities of today's music industry - from touring, streaming and artist branding to record label politics, audience growth and long-term career survival. The series offers a rare cross-genre perspective on how modern music culture is evolving in real time. Drawing from their own experience across electronic music, rap, bass, global touring and entertainment business, Mark Foster and Nika D bring first-hand insight into the systems, pressures and opportunities shaping artists' careers today. At a time when streaming has transformed how music is distributed, scenes have become increasingly global and genre boundaries continue to blur, CVLTURE aims to examine what that means in practice for the people building careers inside the industry. Mark Foster, one half of globally successful electronic duo Solardo, brings more than 20 years of industry experience, over 467 million streams worldwide, a fanbase of more than 1.1 million followers, and first-hand experience operating at the highest level of international electronic music. Joining him is Nika D, founding member of Virus Syndicate, a globally respected artist and entrepreneur whose career spans more than 100 million streams, international touring, artist development, label relationships and wider work across entertainment and media. Together, they bring two distinct musical perspectives into one conversation - one rooted in house music and global club culture, the other in rap, bass and underground crossover - creating a format built not on performance, but on perspective. Rather than repeating the same artist talking points or promotional narratives, CVLTURE is focused on the side of music culture audiences rarely hear discussed openly: how careers are really built, how industries move behind the scenes, and how music continues to shape wider shifts in culture, identity and business.

Publisher

CVLTURE

Category

arts · music · music

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

29 Jun 2026

Latest episode

28 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

11 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   28 Oct 2026

   Jammer on Lord of the Mics, Wiley, Skepta & the Origins of Grime | CVLTURE Episode 10

   In the tenth episode of CVLTURE, Jammer joins Nik (Virus Syndicate) and Mark (Solardo) on CVLTURE for a proper deep dive into the history of grime, Lord of the Mics and the stories behind some of the UK's biggest clashes. From the early days filming in his basement to Wiley vs Kano, Skepta vs Devilman and the infamous P Money and Ghetts clash that never happened, Jammer gets into how it all started, the money behind the DVDs and what really went on behind the scenes. They also get into who actually invented grime, how the scene has changed, the move into house and electronic music, and why artists need to take more control of their music, their money and their communities. Plus, could Lord of the Mics make a comeback? In this episode: How Lord of the Mics started in Jammer's basement The early days of grime and the DVD era Wiley vs Kano and Skepta vs Devilman How Lord of the Mics became a commercial success The financial problems that nearly ended Lord of the Mics Could Lord of the Mics make a comeback? Why P Money vs Ghetts never happened The £10,000 offer that led to a very awkward situation The story behind P Money vs Big H Who really invented grime? Jammer's relationship with Wiley and Dizzee Rascal How grime influenced UK music culture Why grime keeps disappearing and coming back The importance of community and collaboration How streaming has changed the music business Giving fans ownership through music royalties Why artists need to build beyond streaming For the CVLTURE. By the CVLTURE. Jammer on Lord of the Mics, Wiley, Skepta & the Origins of Grime | CVLTURE Episode 10 00:00 The Future of Music Beyond Streaming 02:48 Giving Fans a Share of Music Royalties 06:32 Why Community Matters in Music 11:08 The Origins of Lord of the Mics 15:26 How Lord of the Mics Became a Success 18:20 The Financial Disaster That Nearly Ended It 19:24 Is Lord of the Mics Coming Back? 20:05 The Original Basement and Museum Exhibition 21:24 The Business Behind Grime Clashes 23:29 The £10,000 Ghetts Clash Story 27:22 The Real Tension Behind Grime Clashes 29:19 What Happened to Big H? 30:59 Who Really Invented Grime? #CVLTURE #Jammer #Grime Follow CVLTURE: https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tv (https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tv) https://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tv (mailto:https://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tv) https://www.facebook.com/CVLTURE.TV (https://www.facebook.com/CVLTURE.TV) Available on all podcast platforms: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg (https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg) Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121) Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture (https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture)

2. 

   14 Oct 2026

   MistaJam On Ed Sheeran, David Guetta & Creating Capital Dance | CVLTURE Episode 9

   In the ninth episode of CVLTURE, Mark Foster (Solardo) and Nik "Nika D" Nagarkar (Virus Syndicate, Bad Medic Records & EY3 Media) are joined by legendary DJ, producer and radio presenter MistaJam to discuss his journey through the music industry, the power of radio, the politics behind the scenes and the artists he's helped break along the way. From playing his first professional gig at Manchester's iconic Haçienda aged just 14 to giving Ed Sheeran his first national radio play and helping Tinie Tempah's Pass Out take off, MistaJam shares stories from over two decades at the heart of UK music. The conversation explores why he left BBC Radio 1, how he pitched the idea for Capital Dance, the changing influence of radio in the age of TikTok, and whether it's harder than ever for new artists to break through. They also discuss AI's impact on creativity, working with David Guetta, the egos and politics of the industry, and MistaJam's personal journey from 40 stone to the best shape of his life. For the CVLTURE. By the CVLTURE. In this episode: MistaJam's first DJ gig at The Haçienda aged 14 Working a day job while building his radio career Giving Ed Sheeran his first national radio play How Tinie Tempah's Pass Out became a hit The politics behind radio playlists Why MistaJam left BBC Radio 1 How he came up with the idea for Capital Dance Has TikTok replaced radio for breaking new artists? Why major labels spend thousands promoting music Can AI-generated music ever have real soul? Working with David Guetta and the story behind their collaboration David Guetta's work ethic and support for upcoming DJs Ego, success and relationships in the music industry MistaJam's personal journey from 40 stone Why money and success can't be your only motivation His predictions for the future of dance music For the CVLTURE. By the CVLTURE. MistaJam On Ed Sheeran, David Guetta & Creating Capital Dance | CVLTURE Episode 9 00:00 Cold Open 00:58 Welcome to CVLTURE 01:35 Introducing MistaJam 02:11 MistaJam's First DJ Gig at The Haçienda Aged 14 04:11 His Early Career at BBC Radio 1Xtra 08:34 Giving Ed Sheeran His First National Radio Play 11:51 How Tinie Tempah's Pass Out Became a Hit 14:02 The Politics Behind Radio Playlists 17:20 Why MistaJam Left BBC Radio 1 19:19 How He Created Capital Dance 22:17 How Hard Is It to Get Your Music on Radio? 24:42 Has TikTok Replaced Radio? 26:21 Is Social Media Becoming Pay-to-Play? 28:11 Can New Artists Still Blow Up Organically? 30:27 Is AI Taking the Soul Out of Music? 35:13 How MistaJam Ended Up Working With David Guetta 38:15 Mark's Private Jet Story With David Guetta 40:11 Does Success Change People in the Music Industry? 43:18 MistaJam's Weight Loss and Mental Health Journey 47:01 Finding Purpose Beyond Money and Success 53:12 Quick-Fire Music Questions 57:03 The Importance of Reload Culture 01:01:05 Where Is Dance Music Heading Next? 01:06:27 Outro #CVLTURE #MusicIndustry #Podcast Follow CVLTURE: https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tv (https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tv) https://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tv (mailto:https://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tv) https://www.facebook.com/CVLTURE.TV (https://www.facebook.com/CVLTURE.TV) Available on all podcast platforms: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg (https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg) Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121) Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture (https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture)

3. 

   12 Aug 2026

   What Really Happens When DJs Go On Tour? | CVLTURE Episode 8

   In the eighth episode of CVLTURE, Mark Foster (Solardo) and Nik "Nika D" Nagarkar (Virus Syndicate, Bad Medic Records & EY3 Media) swap music industry talk for one of their most chaotic episodes yet, sharing some of their wildest travel, airport and flight stories from years of touring. The conversation starts with Mark nearly being deboarded over a cabin bag and quickly spirals into airline arguments, missed flights, airport security, getting searched in Texas, bizarre passengers and the time they blagged their way onto another flight after crashing a rental car in LA. For the CVLTURE. By the CVLTURE. In this episode: Mark nearly gets deboarded over his cabin bag Why budget airlines cause so much chaos Ranking the best and worst airlines Nik getting searched in Texas Missing flights while on tour The LA car crash story How they blagged a free replacement flight The wildest passengers they’ve ever seen The strangest viral plane story they’ve come across How are we not banned from flying? For the CVLTURE. By the CVLTURE. What Really Happens When DJs Go On Tour? | CVLTURE Episode 8 00:00 Cold Open 00:42 Intro 01:04 Mark’s Nightmare Journey to Canada 03:40 Mark Gets Deboarded 06:31 Airline Horror Stories 10:51 Ranking the Budget Airlines 12:39 Could Mark End Up on a No-Fly List? 13:25 Airport Security Horror Stories 15:14 The LAX Car Crash Story 17:38 How They Got a Free Flight Home 18:01 Mark’s Wildest Plane Story 20:53 Does Dressing Smart Get You Upgraded? 22:35 The Viral “Not Real” Plane Story 24:29 How Did This Become an Episode About Flights? 24:45 Outro #CVLTURE #MusicIndustry #Podcast Follow CVLTURE: https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tv https://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tv https://www.facebook.com/CVLTURE.TV Available on all podcast platforms: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121 Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture

4. 

   5 Aug 2026

   Is Cancel Culture Completely Out Of Control? | CVLTURE Episode 7

   In the sixth episode of CVLTURE, Mark Foster (Solardo) and Nik "Nika D" Nagarkar (Virus Syndicate, Bad Medic Records & EY3 Media) discuss one of the biggest problems facing artists today: cancel culture, fake news and online misinformation. The conversation covers how careers can be destroyed by rumours, how social media amplifies misinformation, whether AI will make fake content impossible to spot, the realities of dealing with newspapers and paparazzi, and why negativity spreads so quickly online. For the CVLTURE. By the CVLTURE. In this episode: Cancel culture in music Fake news & misinformation Social media outrage Press & paparazzi stories AI generated content Twitter/X toxicity Online trolls & keyboard warriors Freedom of speech online Protecting your reputation as an artist Can someone really be cancelled without evidence? For the CVLTURE. By the CVLTURE. Is Cancel Culture Completely Out Of Control? | CVLTURE Episode 7 00:00 Introduction 01:12 What Is Cancel Culture? 03:48 Can You Be Cancelled Without Evidence? 07:16 The Truth About Newspaper Headlines 11:42 Mark's COVID Cancellation Story 15:36 Why Social Media Loves Outrage 19:54 Keyboard Warriors & Online Hate 24:18 Fake News Travels Faster Than The Truth 28:31 AI, Deepfakes & The Future Of Misinformation 32:47 Can You Trust Anything You See Online? 36:58 Paparazzi, Celebrities & Manufactured Stories 42:14 Why Twitter (X) Became So Toxic 46:35 Should There Be Limits On Free Speech? 50:28 Protecting Your Reputation Online 54:10 Final Thoughts: Is Cancel Culture Out Of Control? #CVLTURE #MusicIndustry #Podcast Follow CVLTURE: https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tv https://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tv https://www.facebook.com/CVLTURE.TV Available on all podcast platforms: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121 Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture

5. 

   29 Jul 2026

   The Dark Side of Success in the Music Industry | CVLTURE Episode 6

   Success looks amazing from the outside... but nobody talks about what happens behind the scenes. In Episode 6 of CVLTURE, Mark Foster (Solardo) & Nik "Nika D" Nagarkar (Virus Syndicate) have an honest conversation about the mental side of the music industry. From rejection and burnout to addiction, social media pressure and the emotional highs and lows of touring, they share the parts of the job most people never see. The conversation also explores why so many talented artists quit, how success can affect your mindset, and why finding balance might be the hardest part of building a long-term career. No PR answers. No media training. Just honest conversations from two people who have lived it. For the CVLTURE. By the CVLTURE. In this episode: - The emotional highs and lows of life as a touring artist - Why rejection is part of every music career - Burnout, addiction and after-party culture - The importance of belief, resilience and mindset - Why social media has changed what it means to be an artist The Dark Side of Success in the Music Industry | CVLTURE Episode 6 00:00 Intro 00:33 How The Music Industry Affects You 03:30 Rejection & The Reality Of Success 06:30 Living A Double Life As A DJ 12:30 Drugs, After Parties & Burnout 17:45 Finding Balance In Music 18:40 Addiction & Mental Health 27:30 Why Most Artists Quit 33:00 Manifestation & Self Belief 40:15 Cup Of Joy: Creativity Under Pressure 45:10 The Biggest Pressure Facing Artists Today 47:55 Outro #CVLTURE #MusicIndustry #Podcast Follow CVLTURE: https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tv https://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tv https://www.facebook.com/CVLTURE.TV Available on all podcast platforms: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121 Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture

6. 

   22 Jul 2026

   Is AI About to Destroy the Music Industry? | CVLTURE Episode 5

   In the fifth episode of CVLTURE, Mark Foster (Solardo) & Nik "Nika D" Nagarkar (Virus Syndicate) tackle one of the biggest debates facing the creative industry today: artificial intelligence. They discuss how AI is already changing music production, songwriting and record deals, why major labels are becoming increasingly concerned, and whether AI is helping independent artists or threatening the future of creativity itself. From ChatGPT analysing contracts and AI-generated vocals to Spotify fraud, fake streams and cloned voices, they explore where the technology is heading and what it means for the next generation of musicians. No PR answers. No industry clichés. Just two artists with decades of experience talking honestly about the industry, the culture and what it really takes to survive in modern music. For the CVLTURE. By the CVLTURE. In this episode: Can AI actually replace musicians, producers and songwriters? Why ChatGPT could save artists thousands of pounds on music contracts. The truth about AI-generated music, cloned voices and fake Spotify streams. Why major record labels are becoming increasingly worried about AI. Where AI becomes a useful creative tool... and where it crosses the line. Is AI About to Destroy the Music Industry? | CVLTURE Episode 5 00:00 Cold Open 00:50 AI in Music: Opportunity or Threat? 01:21 Should Artists Use ChatGPT for Record Contracts? 04:27 Why Major Labels Don't Want You Using AI 08:00 The Music Industry Is the Las Vegas of Business 11:42 Why Music Catalogues Are Worth Billions 14:23 Why Major Labels Are Scared of AI 15:35 AI Voice Cloning Is Already Here 17:22 Who Owns AI Music? 19:18 AI Songs vs Human Creativity 20:20 Will AI Replace Creative Jobs? 23:18 Can Podcasts Be AI-Proof? 24:54 Is AI Becoming Too Powerful? 25:39 Spotify's Fight Against AI Music 27:00 Could AI Scam Spotify? 31:10 Is AI a Tool or Is It Cheating? 32:50 Should AI Write Your Lyrics? 34:18 Can AI Replace Sample Packs? 35:00 Where Do We Draw the Line? #CVLTURE #MusicIndustry #Podcast Follow CVLTURE: https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tv (https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tv) https://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tv (https://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tv) https://www.facebook.com/CVLTURE.TV Available on all podcast platforms: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg (https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg) Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121) Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture (https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture)

7. 

   15 Jul 2026

   Do Major Record Labels Still Control the Music Industry? | CVLTURE Episode 4

   In the fourth episode of CVLTURE, Mark Foster (Solardo) and Nik 'Nika D' Nagarkar (Virus Syndicate) dive into the world of major record labels, artist contracts and music industry power. They explore whether major labels still control culture, why artists sign away their masters, what 360 deals really mean, and whether independent artists have more opportunities than ever before. From Spotify playlists and marketing budgets to Taylor Swift, Michael Jackson, Tupac and some of the biggest music industry conspiracy theories, they unpack the realities of who holds the power behind modern music. No PR answers. No industry clichés. Just two artists with decades of experience talking honestly about the industry, the culture and what it really takes to survive in modern music. For the CVLTURE by the CVLTURE. In this episode: Why artists sign major record deals and what they give up in return. The truth about masters, publishing, 360 deals and who really owns your music. Whether major record labels still control music, culture and commercial success. How Taylor Swift reclaimed her catalogue and why artist ownership matters. The biggest music industry conspiracy theories surrounding Michael Jackson, Tupac and the major labels. Do Major Record Labels Still Control the Music Industry? | CVLTURE Episode 4 00:00 Cold Open 00:45 Do Major Labels Still Control Culture? 02:02 Do Major Labels Get Better Spotify Playlists? 04:18 Why Independent Labels Are Winning 06:07 How Major Labels "Upstream" Artists 08:04 Why Your Masters Own You 11:06 Taylor Swift vs Scooter Braun Explained 12:25 What Are Masters? 14:27 What Is a 360 Record Deal? 17:04 Why Artists Lose Creative Control 18:06 The Truth About A&R 19:18 Why Nobody Knows What Makes a Hit Song 21:13 Are Labels Manufacturing Viral Artists? 25:27 Do Major Labels Control Culture? 29:52 The History of Major Record Labels 31:52 Illuminati Symbolism in Music Explained 34:30 Music Industry Conspiracy Theories 34:48 Why Are So Many Music Icons Gone? 37:33 Michael Jackson vs Sony Records 42:07 Tupac, Record Labels & Power #CVLTURE #MusicIndustry #Podcast Follow CVLTURE: https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tv https://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tv https://www.facebook.com/CVLTURE.TV Available on all podcast platforms: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121 Amazon Music - https://music.amazon. (https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture)co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture (https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture)

8. 

   8 Jul 2026

   How To Make Money From Music | CVLTURE Episode 3

   Can artists actually make a living from Spotify? In the third episode of CVLTURE, Mark Foster (Solardo) and Nik 'Nika D' Nagarkar (Virus Syndicate) tackle one of the biggest debates in modern music. They break down how artists really make money in 2026, what Spotify actually pays, why millions of streams still aren't enough to earn a living, and how record deals, touring and the wider music business shape an artist's career. From streaming economics and major record deals to AI-generated music, piracy and the future of artist income, they unpack the realities of building a sustainable career in an industry that's constantly changing. No PR answers. No industry clichés. Just two artists with decades of experience talking honestly about the industry, the culture and what it really takes to survive in modern music. For the CVLTURE by the CVLTURE. In this episode: How many Spotify streams artists really need to earn a living. Why streaming alone isn't enough to build a sustainable career in music. The truth about Spotify royalties, major record deals and where artists actually make their money. How AI-generated music is changing the future of streaming and the music industry. Whether Spotify is helping or hurting the next generation of artists. How To Make Money From Music? | CVLTURE Episode 3 00:46 Can You Get Rich From Streaming? 00:52 How Many Spotify Streams Equal Minimum Wage? 02:13 Why You Can Never Escape a Major Label Deal 05:20 Where Artists Really Make Their Money 08:21 Did Spotify Save the Music Industry? 08:42 LimeWire, Piracy & Computer Viruses 09:43 Should Artists Boycott Spotify? 10:39 How Much Spotify Pays Artists 12:27 One Penny Per Stream 15:06 Spotify vs CDs 19:30 Is Music Still Worth It for Grassroots Artists? 20:28 Are Artists Complaining Too Much About Spotify? 21:27 Are There Better Alternatives to Spotify? 23:37 Why the Music Industry Has Such a Bad Reputation 26:55 Nik Got Rejected From McDonald's 27:27 Is Spotify Good for New Artists? 29:17 SoundCloud's Fan-Powered Royalties Explained 32:06 Can You Fake Spotify Streams? 33:11 Is AI Taking Over Spotify? 34:37 How Should New Artists Release Music? 36:51 Why Record Labels Still Matter 38:29 Major Labels, Conspiracy Theories & What's Next #CVLTURE #MusicIndustry #Podcast Follow CVLTURE: https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tv https://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tv https://www.facebook.com/CVLTURE.TV Available on all podcast platforms: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121 Amazon Music - https://music.amazon. (https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture)co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture (https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture)

9. 

   1 Jul 2026

   We Got Robbed, Scammed & Stranded but Still Played the Show | CVLTURE Episode 2

   Getting scammed by promoters, nightmare gigs, dodgy hotels, tour disasters and the absolute madness that comes with making a living in music... this episode has it all. Mark Foster and Nik “Nika D” Nagarkar share some of the funniest stories from their careers, while getting into the reality of life behind the scenes. From the highs to the horror stories, they talk about the people, the politics and the pressure that comes with trying to build a career in an industry that never stops moving. No PR answers. No industry clichés. Just two artists with decades of experience talking honestly about the wins, the losses, the madness and what it really takes to survive in modern music. For the CVLTURE by the CVLTURE. In this episode: • Why artists have to release music faster than ever to stay relevant in today's music industry. • The truth about artist management, music managers and what separates the good from the bad. • How much money touring artists really make and the hidden costs of life on the road. • Hilarious tour stories, from missing flights and pretending to be Tinie Tempah to getting robbed, scammed and stranded. • What it's really like building a long term career in the music industry, with honest advice from two artists who've lived it. We Got Robbed, Scammed & Stranded but Still Played the Show | CVLTURE Episode 2 00:00 Cold Open 01:53 Why Successful Artists Move So Fast 02:15 How Often Should Artists Release Music? 03:04 Do Musicians Still Listen to Music? 05:29 The Real Sacrifices of a Music Career 10:02 What Does a Music Manager Actually Do? 11:40 Why So Many Music Managers Fail Artists 15:07 How Much Money Do Touring Artists Make? 19:00 Why Good Music Videographers Are Hard to Find 22:35 Can You Lie on Your CV and Get the Job? 27:31 Funniest Tour Story Ever 28:16 We Missed Our Flight in Las Vegas 29:47 Pretending to Be Tinie Tempah 32:23 Biggest Regrets in the Music Industry 34:43 The Best Live Show We've Ever Played 36:27 The Truth About Tour Life 39:36 Have We Ever Missed a Show? 41:31 We Got Robbed, Scammed & Stranded in Prague 45:16 Our Worst Tour Injuries #CVLTURE #MusicIndustry #Podcast Follow CVLTURE: https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tvhttps://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tvhttps://www.facebook.com/CVLTURE.TV Available on all podcast platforms: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121 Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture

10. 

    1 Jul 2026

    ⁠Is Music Even Important Anymore? | CVLTURE Episode 1

    Is music even important anymore? In the first episode of CVLTURE, Mark Foster (Solardo) and Nik 'Nika D' Nagarkar (Virus Syndicate) dive into the biggest questions facing the music industry today. They explore how streaming, social media and the creator economy have completely changed the game, why artists are under more pressure than ever to create content, and whether great music is still enough to build a career. From TikTok algorithms and record labels to branding, touring and audience growth, they unpack the realities of navigating an industry that's evolving faster than ever. No PR answers. No industry clichés. Just two artists with decades of experience talking honestly about the industry, the culture and what it really takes to survive in modern music. For the CVLTURE by the CVLTURE. In this episode: - Is music even important anymore or has social media become more important than talent? - Why artists now need content, personal branding and marketing skills before they even release a song. - How TikTok, Spotify and the algorithm are changing the way music is made, discovered and consumed. - Why viral moments, memes and internet fame can outperform years of making music. - Are streaming platforms and algorithms killing creativity in the modern music industry? Why Musicians Are Forced to Become Content Creators | CVLTURE Episode 1 00:00 Cold Open 00:29 Welcome to CVLTURE 00:48 Is Music Even Important Anymore? 01:56 Why Every Artist Is Now a Content Creator 04:00 Has Talent Become Less Important Than Social Media? 04:33 The Ibiza Final Boss Phenomenon Explained 11:40 How TikTok Changed the Music Industry Forever 14:40 Do TikTok Views Really Increase Spotify Streams? 16:13 What Is "200 View Jail"? 18:16 Does Resetting Your Instagram Actually Work? 18:41 Burner Accounts & Fake Fan Pages Explained 22:07 Are Artists Really Using Their Grannies for TikTok? 23:44 Has TikTok Killed Creativity? 26:29 Can Great Music Still Break Through? 28:55 Why Spotify Is Changing How Music Is Made 30:15 Why Songs Are Getting Shorter 33:43 How We Made Our Biggest Streaming Record 36:14 Are Algorithms Killing Creativity? 39:06 How Fred again.. Changed Dance Music 40:19 Is Spotify Controlling Modern Music? #CVLTURE #MusicIndustry #Podcast Follow CVLTURE: https://www.instagram.com/cvlture.tv https://www.tiktok.com/@cvlture.tv https://www.facebook.com/CVLTURE.TV Available on all podcast platforms: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/033GOSsjKRqVkYADg6TCw9?si=dyKmWj2dRgyPYh470PUuCg Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cvlture/id6785525121 Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/edca6046-9b72-4771-9397-e0f3cfc64847/cvlture

11. 

    29 Jun 2026

    This is CVLTURE

    Trailer

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.