Skip To Main Content
Jonah Holliday on Muck Rack

Jonah Holliday

As seen in: Medium, IMR
Covers:  Emerging Artists & Bands, Album & EP Reviews, Interviews, Festivals & Concerts, Indie Music Scene,Analysis of Genres and Subgenres, Tips & Advice for Musicians, Music Industry News
IMR Indie reviews, news, releases, singles and vid’s. Don’t let it be said that we’re trying to be especially special, just honest and somewhat available.

Interview

Have you ever used a typewriter?

Yes, indeed! Although I didn't have a typewriter of my own, I did have the opportunity to use one thanks to my mother, who owned one. I distinctly remember the process of replacing the ribbon and inks to keep it functional. While I was quite young at the time and didn't develop a strong attachment to it, those memories still linger, adding a touch of nostalgia to my journey with writing technology.

How is social media changing news?

Overall, social media is reshaping the news landscape by democratizing information, accelerating the spread of news, and transforming the way audiences engage with current events. However, it also presents new challenges and ethical considerations that journalists and news organizations must navigate in order to maintain trust and credibility in an increasingly complex media environment.

Who's your favorite fictional journalist?

William Miller from "Almost Famous" is the ultimate cool kid for any music lover. He's like the nerdy, awkward, and lovable version of all of us who've ever dreamed of hanging out backstage with our favorite bands. His journey from wide-eyed fanboy to confident journalist is like a rock 'n' roll coming-of-age story that we can't help but root for. Plus, who wouldn't want to tour with a band, party like a rockstar, and still manage to write killer articles along the way? William's adventures are the stuff of dreams for any aspiring music journalist, and that's why he's an all-time favorite!

What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?

Oh, definitely

What tools and software do you use to do your job?

I use word processing software like Microsoft Word or Google Docs for drafting and editing articles. For more specialized writing needs, I also utilize writing enhancement tools like Grammarly to ensure clarity and professionalism in my content.To organize and manage my writing projects, I use content management systems (CMS) like WordPress or Medium. These platforms allow me to publish articles, schedule posts, and maintain an online portfolio of my work.Social media plays a crucial role in promoting my articles and engaging with readers. I utilize social media management tools such as Hootsuite or Buffer to schedule posts, track engagement metrics, and interact with followers across multiple platforms.

What's your favorite social network?

Ha ha, I can't say that here.

Who do you wish followed you?

Honestly, I would like to simply build a community of music lovers that want to promote new music and support unsigned artists.

Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?

While I didn't work for a high school newspaper, I found my passion for writing about music later on, much like you did. After my time as a musician, I realized that my love for music could still be channeled into something meaningful through writing. Just like you, I discovered a new outlet for my passion and embarked on a journey to share the stories and sounds of the music world with others. It's never too late to pursue your passions and find new ways to express yourself creatively!

What story are you most proud of writing or working on?

Over the past few years, I've had the opportunity to work on a wide range of articles covering diverse topics within the indie music scene. From artist interviews and album reviews to trend analyses and event coverage, each piece has been a labor of love. However, the project I'm most proud of is the creation and development of independentmusic.reviews.Independentmusic.reviews is more than just a platform for sharing articles; it's a community-driven hub dedicated to celebrating independent artists and their music. Through this site, I've been able to amplify the voices of emerging talent, connect with fellow music enthusiasts, and contribute to the vibrant indie music scene in a meaningful way.Whether it's shining a spotlight on up-and-coming artists, sharing insightful critiques, or fostering discussion and engagement among readers, independentmusic.reviews has become a labor of love and a source of pride for me. It's a testament to the power of independent journalism and the passion of music lovers everywhere.

What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?

Aspiring music journalists should prioritize honing their writing skills and staying informed about industry trends. Regular practice, feedback, and staying up-to-date with music news are essential. Additionally, building relationships within the music industry, embracing multimedia tools, and seeking out diverse perspectives can enrich one's journalism career. By focusing on these key areas, aspiring music journalists can pave the way for a fulfilling and impactful career in music journalism.

When's the best time to pitch you?

The best time to pitch me would be during regular working hours, ideally mid-morning or early afternoon. I tend to be most productive and receptive to pitches during these times, as I'm typically in the groove of writing and researching. However, feel free to reach out anytime, and I'll do my best to get back to you promptly. Remember, a well-timed and personalized pitch is always appreciated!

What's the worst pitch you ever got?

As an indie music writer, I've received a fair share of pitches, but one that stands out as particularly ill-suited was from a public relations firm representing a mainstream pop artist who had just released a bubblegum pop single. The pitch touted the artist's chart-topping potential and highlighted their glamorous lifestyle, completely overlooking the fact that my focus is on indie music and emerging talent.Not only was the pitch completely off-target for my audience and interests, but it also lacked any personalization or acknowledgment of the type of content I typically cover. It felt like a generic blast sent to countless writers without any consideration for relevance or fit.While I appreciate the effort that goes into pitching artists and their work, this particular pitch served as a reminder of the importance of understanding a writer's niche and audience before reaching out. It's essential for PR professionals to tailor their pitches accordingly to increase the likelihood of a positive response and meaningful coverage.

What's your favorite drink?

Coffee

What's the most common misperception about your beat?

One of the most common misperceptions about my beat, indie music journalism, is that it only covers obscure or niche artists with limited mainstream appeal. While it's true that indie music journalism often highlights emerging and independent artists who may not receive widespread recognition, it's important to recognize that indie music encompasses a wide range of genres and styles. From indie rock and folk to electronic and experimental, indie music is a diverse and vibrant landscape that attracts artists and fans from all walks of life.Additionally, there's a misconception that indie music journalism is solely focused on criticizing mainstream or commercial music. In reality, indie music journalists are passionate about celebrating creativity and innovation in all forms of music, whether it's produced by independent artists or major labels. Indie music journalism is about championing authenticity, supporting artists who push boundaries, and uncovering hidden gems within the music scene.Overall, indie music journalism is a dynamic and inclusive field that offers a platform for diverse voices and perspectives. It's not just about the music; it's about the stories behind the music and the communities that it brings together.

Would you like to take the Muck Rack Interview? Create a Muck Rack profile.