#you're just making spotify richer

[nyasialiveshere]

Did nct ever make sense financially:

But I want to explain why though

Nct was started as a group with infinite members. The goal was to have a male akb48

That being said the financial success of akb48 depended on the members doing various activities OUTSIDE of the group with an emphasis on practical safe and relatively inexpensive projects= consistent returns on investment.

Also the group's success depended on the group being well, actually successful.

S.m's marketing strategy is the opposite. The group is successful just by virtue of existing, they will get million invested in them regardless.

The group at least was thought of since the early 2010s when most of their members join. We know the group did not have a name and was simply a large collection of male trainee's. The group was basically a basket to keep their trainee's inside of. Don't worry if you do not make it into xyz group you can go to Nct.

Johnny was originally going to be a member of exo and was later placed in Nct, not the first round but in a later unit nct U.

It's actually very odd the thought and financial process of nct. Because unlike with akb48 it was not the direct intention to have the members do other projects and have seperate careers. It is the method of s.m to have people in groups for a majority of their career and then they can do other things. Unless you are lucky.

Also akb48 built up over time. It is a very old group, whereas nct gained lots of members quickly and the direction wasn't always decided or clear.

Like Akb48, Nct or SRB14 had a more direct and connected with the public image. They were not exo who were meant to be distant to create intrigue. They all had a pretty nice and approachable personality.

"AKB48 was founded as "idols you can meet".[4]Japanese idols are entertainers/performers who appeal directly to fans for support. Close interactions between fans and idols allow idols to cultivate and maintain loyal fan followings."

You won't remember Exo having a group youtube channel with weekly vlogs or having so many varieties even though they were a smaller group. Each group has a specialized team and marketing style.

AKB48 like nct had specialized teams as well

"According to former member Misaki Iwasa, each team has its own theme. Team A represents freedom; Team B is idol-like, with cute costumes, and Team K has a strong, powerful image"

AKB48 was very successful and had their own theater which would cut down on costs. The concepts were also more down to earth, they are more a performance troupe than an idol group. The focus is on entertaining the fans

Nct being a boy group inside of the kpop industry had a lot of competition and also they didn't have much of a pull besides having lots of members. They still had to travel and book venues and sellout stadiums to break even. Because boy bands are made to impress and show out. Of course lots of money is spent on expensive music videos, hotels, lots of staff, appearances at awards shows, top fashion for each member. Which is fine for a small group, but when the members keep growing and growing every year eventually getting into double digits; almost half the size of AKB48 in almost 1/3rd the amount of time, how is that sustainable?

It's not.

Simply put the more employees a company gains the more they spend paying their employees. If NCT is a company and the staff and members are the employees, then almost every year their costs increased. Even when they had good years, it was offset by the fact that their money would be paying for another unit. This is why s.m ent went so long without any other groups. And when they finally made a new group they took members already in NCT.

Add in the fact that there are some artists getting paid and sitting on the bench. They cannot afford to add them into a project or promote them. They can only bet on people they know will bring in money.

If they had brand new people that would be adding more and more people to the payroll, which at this point they likely can't afford. They would need a new project with already existing employees and have them double their workload--since they are the main ones bringing in money anyway, recycle in-house music and producers, and garner outside forces investing money on this dumpster fire to create something that would be profitable for the company. Send them to America so you can rack up the prices on tickets and merch cause Koreans sure won't go for this.

And...........that's how you get super m

okay now I'm done.

Also one more thing, the artists are not making money off the music, they make money other ways.

Spotify also takes a lot from the artists

Please, please stop streaming (too much music fries your brain) and bulk buying(is awful for the environment). The music industry has been dead, these artists are literal slaves. Good day.

[violentdelightsandviolentends]

Lessons in Love.

Bucky didn't believe in love at first sight. Then he met you.

Pairing - Bucky Barnes x female reader

Warnings - None

Word Count - 3615

Author's Note - hello gorgeous people, hope you're all doing well. writing this has made my heart so full, and I hope it makes you feel the same. requests are always open and more than encouraged!! currently working on a stunning jake seresin request that's just so lovely. i'm SO open to more jake requests, but also any marvel, top gun maverick, criminal minds, narcos and any others you have in mind!! just send them over, and I'll see what I can do. as always, so much love x

Masterlist. Requests.

“No way. How is that even possible?”

You look at the bewildered man in front of you and can’t help but smile.

“It’ll play anything you want it to. Anything in the world. Just ask it!” you encourage, beaming grin still plastered on your face.

“Alexa,” he says tentatively, “play Marvin Gaye.”

The first notes of Trouble Man begin to sound through your apartment, and his eyes light up. He’s looking at you like you’ve discovered something completely revolutionary.

You laugh – a real, genuine, delighted sound that flows through Bucky like a beam of light, illuminates his bones, makes his heart beat that little bit faster.

Grabbing your notebook, you delicately place a check next to Number 26 – voice-controlled devices. Number 27 is air fryers. Number 28 is Bluetooth. Number 29 is kindles and e-readers. Number 30 is Doordash. You’ve already checked off Spotify, and ATMs, and Google, and online banking, amongst many others. A list of things to better integrate Bucky into the 21st Century. A list of things to make him feel less like a man out of time. A list of things that allow you to spend all the time with him that you can.

A warm hand on your left hip and a cold one on your right pull you back into reality.

“Dance with me.” he murmurs. “Let me teach you something, for once.”

Before you can process his words, he’s gliding across the kitchen with you in his arms. Trouble Man isn’t playing anymore, instead replaced with something slower, richer. Bucky hasn’t taken his eyes off you, not even for a second. He’s watching your every move, every expression, every twitch of your lips. Reading you like a book.

You bring your hands to rest around his neck, and he relaxes into you. He’s leading, swaying you gently, occasionally twirling you like a ballerina in a music box. Perfectly effortless. He’s good at this.

The sun is setting, casting a warm orange hue across the kitchen. The light is reflecting onto your hair, making you glow, giving you a halo. Angelic, he thinks. My guardian angel.

You close the space between your bodies, wrapping your arms around his middle. Resting your head on his chest, he prays you can’t hear how his heart is working overtime. You shut your eyes, and breathe him in. He smells faintly like the Bakery, like sugar and coffee and cinnamon. The place that started it all.

　            ⋆ 　　 .  ✵　 ⋆ 　　 .  ✵ 　 ⋆ 　　 .  ✵ 　 ⋆ 　　 .  ✵ 

When Bucky first moved into his apartment, he’d noticed the Bakery down the street immediately. The smell of cake and coffee drifted out of the lilac colored door, enticing him in. He resisted the urge, and told himself that he’d go inside tomorrow.

The next day, he stood outside of the red brick building, and read the menu on the noticeboard carefully. Then he reread it. And then read it again. Since when was coffee so complicated? And don’t even get him started on cake. He swore there was only a few types back in the forties. Now, there was at least fifty different kinds on this menu alone. He was overwhelmed. He thought he’d be able to walk into this Bakery, get some coffee, maybe something sweet, and leave content. Instead, he's stood on the sidewalk on the verge of a panic attack. Tomorrow, he thinks to himself. I’ll go in tomorrow.

Tomorrow never comes. Every day, he takes a walk, and purposely passes the building that he longs to go into. But somehow, he can never find the courage. He knows he’ll just look like an idiot if he walks in. He’ll look lost, and out of place, and everyone will laugh and mutter. Look, they’ll jeer, The Winter Soldier can’t even order a coffee.

And so, he spares himself the pain. Lets his feet carry him past, only slowing down slightly when he passes the lilac door. Every day for three months, he takes the same route. Willing himself to go in, to find the courage. It’s just coffee, he tells himself. Get a grip.

Until, one day, you decided to change his life, unknowingly. Or maybe knowingly. He’s still not sure.

He takes his usual path, and just as he gets to the lilac door – you’re there. Stood, waiting, soft smile on your face. Bucky panics, and wills his feet to move faster, to take him away from this inevitably awkward situation. You stop him before he can make a run for it.

“Hi.”

Oh. You’re talking to him. You’re staring into his soul with no judgment, or fear, or trepidation. You’re staring into his soul with gentleness. Kindness. Friendship. He’s terrified.

“Uh – hi.” He rubs the back of his neck. Nervous habit.

“So, uh, I hope this isn’t weird, or anything. But, I’ve been watching you walk past every day for like three months, and, well…” you trail off. Now you look nervous. “Actually, I haven’t really thought this far ahead. I just see you, and I wanted to… invite you in, I guess? Not that you need an invite, of course not, we’re open to everyone, but… you always look like you’re going to come in, and then you never do. And I’ve been telling myself for months that I should properly invite you in, but now I’m realising this is, uh, really weird. And I’m sorry.”

You still have that gentle smile on your face, but it’s more tentative now. A dusting of pink is making its way onto your cheeks, and Bucky thinks it might be his new favourite color.

It’s now that he really starts to take you in. Your hair is blowing slightly in the breeze, and the sleeves of your sweater are pulled down over your wrists, to try and keep the New York chill at bay. You have bright, inquisitive eyes – eyes that contain hope, love, laughter. You make him feel almost peaceful. No one makes him feel like that. Damn.

You’ve stepped closer to him now, to get out of the way of the customers making their way through the door. You smell like sugar, and coffee, and optimism. He wants to breathe you in, let you settle in his lungs. A comfortable warmth spreads through his chest.

He decides to take a gamble and bear his truth to you. He’s not sure why, but he trusts you. He doesn’t trust anyone, these days. But he trusts you.

“Can I be honest with you?”, he asks, looking at you expectantly. You’re almost expecting him to laugh in your face at the absurdity of it all. You nod anyway, signalling for him to continue.

“I’ve been trying to work up the courage to come in. But every time I try, I just, uh-” he stutters, and you can tell that his mind is screaming at him, sounding alarm bells, begging him to stop with all this sudden vulnerability.

“It’s overwhelming, right?” you ask, cutting him off. Saving him. Guardian angel.

You see the relief in his body at your question. His fists unclench, the tension leaves his shoulders. He smiles bashfully. Half grateful, half embarrassed. You get it.

“Yeah,” he chuckles. You giggle, and he’s convinced that the melodious sound will circle around in his mind forever, like the Earth orbiting the Sun.

You fiddle with the strings of your mint green apron, and look at him. You’re gazing at him so earnestly that he’s worried he might spontaneously combust.

“Are you busy tonight?” you ask suddenly, and he feels so dizzy he’s concerned momentarily that he’s going to pass out.

“Uh, no. I���m not,” he replies, managing to force the words out of his mouth.

“We close at 6, so meet me here at 7.”

You still have that sparkle in your eye. He couldn’t say no to you if he tried.

“Why?” he queries. He’d be lying if he said he wasn’t absolutely petrified at the turn the conversation has taken.

“I want to show you around. Maybe make you a coffee, introduce you to some of my favourite things. You won’t believe how good my raspberry and white chocolate cookies are. They’re best sellers for a reason,” you beam at him.

Beaming. He wonders how he’s lived his whole life without your light illuminating his universe. Anywhere he goes without you is going to feel so dark, he thinks. How did I ever live like this?

He manages to pull himself together to smile back at you. His first genuine grin in God knows how long. He’s forgotten what joy feels like, and he’s almost drunk on it now.

He agrees to your plan, and you turn on your heel, about to make your way back inside.

“Wait!” he yells, louder than intended. “What’s your name?”

Your lips turn up into a smirk, mischief seeping out of your pores.

“Come back at 7 and find out.” You wink at him, and he has to take a few deep breaths in order to stay conscious. With that, you leave him alone on the sidewalk, where he’s silently thanking the universe for dropping you in his lap. Finally, he thinks. The cosmic punishment is over.

He does come back at 7. In fact, he’s stood outside waiting at 6:45. He can see you mopping the floor, singing as you go. His supersoldier hearing allows him to listen to your voice, even from this far away. He’s never been more grateful for the thing he used to call a curse. He’d be cursed every damn day if it meant he got to listen to you like this.

At 6:58, you appear at the lilac door, beckoning him to follow you inside. He knows that stepping over that threshold is going to change him fundamentally. He can’t wait.

Upon entering, he’s hit with the smell of cinnamon, sugar, coffee, and you. A beautiful mix of all three. Without a second thought, he reaches out with his right hand, and gently brushes some flour from your cheekbone.

“Bucky,” he murmurs.

You can’t tear your eyes away from him. Lips slightly parted, chest heaving, it takes you a minute to register that he spoke.

“What?” you ask, dazed by the handsome stranger with the steel blue eyes.

“My name,” he speaks softly. “It’s Bucky.”

You smile knowingly, and take a deep breath. It’s overwhelming, meeting someone that you know is going to be in your life forever. You’re both feeling the same, neither of you sure just quite what to do.

You grab his left hand, sighing quietly in relief at the feeling the cool metal against your heated skin. Leading him gently, he lets you guide him through the front of the store, until you stop behind the counter. He’s convinced he’d let you lead him anywhere, as long as he gets to feel your skin, soft and warm, on his. Grounding. Comforting. Easy.

“What kind of milk do you like?” you ask, fingers still intertwined with his.

“There’s more than one kind of milk?”

Bucky looks so disorientated, that you want to kiss the confused expression off his face. You chuckle softly, and the sound bounces off the metal in the room, twinkling around him.

“We have cows’ milk, oat milk, almond milk and soy milk.” You take one look at him, and decide to change course. “Let’s start with something less complex, actually. Any allergies I should know about?”

He shakes his head, mischievous grin beginning to form on his handsome face. There he is, you think. He’s with me.

“I’m going to make you a latte. It’s milky, and not too strong or too sweet. I think you’ll like it.”

She thinks I’ll like it, he muses. And he trusts you - whether it be with his life, or just a cup of coffee.

You reluctantly let go of his hand, and begin to flit around, gathering everything you need. Bucky leans back against the counter and watches carefully. He watches the way you bite your lip when you measure out the milk. He watches the way the steam from the coffee machine blows your hair back from your face gently. He watches the way you’re trying to make everything perfect. He can’t remember the last time someone paid attention to him like this. His mind is telling him to sprint in the opposite direction, to excuse himself and never come back. He’s terrified. But he stays. I deserve this, he thinks. I deserve something good.

You pull him from his thoughts by handing him the mug of warm coffee. He takes it from you carefully, and, without breaking eye contact, takes a sip. He smiles, really smiles. That’s all the validation you needed.

“Let me show you where we bake everything,” you say quietly, as if you’re afraid to burst this bubble of warmth and trust you’ve created. You’re scared he’s going to bolt if you give him the chance. So, you don’t. You take his hand once more, and guide him through to the kitchen.

“Have you done much baking in your life, Bucky?”

No, he thinks. But I will. I’ll bake everyday for the rest of my life if it means you’ll love me. If you’ll make me coffee and smile at me like that.

Instead, he answers cautiously.

“Not really. I’d like to, though.” He adds that last part bashfully. You smile back at him earnestly.

“Well then you’re in the right place,” you wink. He has the overwhelming urge to drop to his knees. To pray at your altar. To worship you like an angel sent down just for him. He’s surprised he’s still stood on two feet.

Before he can even register what’s happening, you’re beginning to create a mixture for your infamous cookies. You direct him to stir, while you add meticulously measured ingredients into the bowl.

“Put those arms to good use,” you’d smirked, and a blush had risen up to his cheeks almost instantly.

You click the radio on, and a soft, jazzy melody begins to drift through the room. You’re humming quietly, gliding around the kitchen, and he decides that this is it for him. You’re it for him. He could watch you do this every day and die a happy man.

Cookies baking in the oven, you jump up to sit on one of the counters. Bucky moves to stand in between your legs, still being careful to keep his distance ever so slightly. He knows if he touches you, he won’t ever want to let go.

“This wasn’t as scary as I thought it was going to be,” he confesses.

“What, me?” you tease.

“No. Coffee. And cookies,” he chuckles.

“Are there lots of things that you haven’t done because you find them scary?” you ask genuinely. You want to know him. All of him. Fears, wants, quirks. All of it.

“Yeah, actually. The world is so different now. I don’t really know where to start. It’s all terrifying, honestly,” he laughs. You laugh with him, but you know there’s truth to his words. You want to wrap your arms around him. He may be 6 foot tall and made of solid muscle and vibranium, but you want to protect him.

“Why don’t we do it together?”

A pause. He’s confused again.

“Do what together?”

“All of it. The learning. I’ll help you. Everything is less scary if you do it with someone else.”

It’s now that he’s convinced he’s dreaming. You can’t be real. Why would you be here, offering him everything, after all that he’s done? He has to remind himself. I deserve this. I deserve something good.

You can sense his trepidation, so you keep talking.

“Why don’t we make a list? You write down the things you want to learn about. I’ll write down other things I think you should know. You’ll be an expert on the 21st Century before long, Buck.”

Buck. The nickname sounds like a gift coming from your lips.

“Okay. Yeah. Are you sure you don’t mind?”

The anxiety is coming off him in waves. He’s panicking. You grab a hold of both of his hands, and place one on each of your legs, just above your knees. He steps in closer, and takes a breath. You’re warm, and you’re soft, and you’re love personified. He’s okay.

“Of course I don’t mind. I’m excited!” you assure him. Then, quieter, “It means I get to spend more time with you.”

He aims a beaming, megawatt smile in your direction. He feels as if his nerve endings are alight. You’ve awoken something in him. He’d forgotten what it was like to feel like this. To feel alive.

You reach over and grab your notebook. In it, you simply write his name, followed by a love heart. Then, underneath, you begin to list everything you can think of that you want to teach him. You hand the list to him, and he adds his own requests. Between you, you manage to write 50 different lessons.

“Perfect. We’ll start with number one, and work our way down. Are you busy tomorrow evening?”

He chuckles at your eagerness, but secretly, he can’t wait. He knows he’ll be counting down the hours until he can see you again.

“Nope, I’m not. You are my only priority, sweetheart.”

The term of endearment seeps into your skin, settles in your ribcage. You’re convinced it’ll warm you up from the inside out. If he keeps calling you sweetheart in that Brooklyn drawl of his, you’ll never be cold again.

　            ⋆ 　　 .  ✵　 ⋆ 　　 .  ✵ 　 ⋆ 　　 .  ✵ 　 ⋆ 　　 .  ✵ 

You’re not sure if you’ve been swaying in your kitchen with Bucky to Marvin Gaye for 2 minutes or 2 hours. You’re comfortably settled into him, as if the space in his arms was made especially for you. Maybe it was.

Bucky’s voice breaks through the solitude.

“You know, I’ve created my own list,” he murmurs against the top of your hair, where he’s resting his head.

You pull back, still in his arms, to look at him carefully.

“Oh yeah?”

“Yeah. Read it, and tell me what you think.”

He untangles himself from you and crosses the room, to retrieve his leather-bound notebook. He returns, and places it carefully in your awaiting hands.

You flick open the cover to reveal the first page. You recognise his handwriting instantly. It’s spiralling, and imperfect, but so Bucky. At the top of the page, you spot the title – your name, with a love heart next to it. Exactly the same as you’d done for him when you’d originally created your list together.

Underneath your name, only one thing is written.

I love you.

You look up at him, to see him watching you, holding his breath. Neither of you know what to say. You know what you want to say. You want to tell him that you hope the list never ends, so you always have an excuse to spend time with him. You want to tell him that you watched him walk past the door of the Bakery every day for 3 months because you thought he was the most beautiful person you’d ever seen. You want to tell him that every time he looks at you, you feel as if you’re going to pass out. You want to tell him that you can recognise him anywhere, by touch or smell alone. Instead, you say,

“You do?”

That genuine, million dollar smile is back, etched on his face. He’s glowing, light radiating from his bones.

“Yes. I do. I think I’ve loved you ever since I saw you waiting for me on the doorstep of the Bakery that day.”

You think you might be floating. Levitating above ground, fuelled by love. You laugh.

“That’s the exact moment I fell in love with you.”

He laughs with you, then. You could get drunk off the sound.

“I didn’t think love at first sight was a real thing. I thought I was going crazy,” he confesses.

He’s convinced that the two of you have discovered something, invented it even. Because he doesn’t understand. If love feels like this, so all encompassing, so consuming – how does anyone live? Every moment of every day, Bucky thinks of you. How does anyone go to work? How does anyone ever feel sad, or angry, when love like this exists?

You drop the notebook and cross the room to him. He closes the gap, and throws his arms around you, spinning you in circles, laughing with joy. He sets you back on your feet, and tilts your chin up, so you’re looking into his steel blue eyes. You could drown in the ocean of his irises if he let you.

He leans down, and presses his lips to yours. He’s giving you all of the love, the joy, the laughter – everything good that he has ever felt, because of you – through his kiss. Your knees go weak, and he holds you up by your waist, his strong arms encircling your frame. He tastes like coffee, and sugar, and promises. You’ll never want to taste anything else.

Eventually, you break away for air. You gaze up at him, and he sees sunshine in your eyes. He’s not sure what he did to earn a love like this. You seem to sense his doubts creeping in, because you say, in the most assured voice he’s ever heard –

“No one has ever loved anyone as much as I love you.”

I deserve this, he thinks. I deserve something good.

[musicvalla]

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Release a Song on Spotify

Releasing a song on Spotify is an exciting milestone for any artist. It opens the door to millions of potential listeners and establishes your presence on one of the world's most popular music streaming platforms. This guide will walk you through the steps to release your music on Spotify while incorporating tips for leveraging tools like YouTube ki ID, exploring songwriting techniques, and optimizing the use of dual stereo speakers in production.

Step 1: Finalize Your Song

Before releasing your track, ensure it’s polished and ready for public consumption. If you're wondering how to begin songwriting, the process often starts with identifying your song’s core message. Whether you're inspired by personal experiences or external themes, craft lyrics and melodies that resonate. Use tools like a journal or songwriting apps to refine your ideas.

Once your song is written, record it in high quality. A good recording setup, including dual stereo speakers, ensures your mix sounds professional and balanced. Stereo sound creates a richer listening experience, essential for attracting Spotify listeners. Test your track on different sound systems to ensure it translates well everywhere.

Step 2: Choose a Distributor

Unlike platforms like YouTube, where you might only need a YouTube ki ID to upload your content, Spotify requires you to go through a music distributor. These distributors act as intermediaries, ensuring your music is properly formatted and meets Spotify's guidelines. Some popular distributors include:

DistroKid

TuneCore

CD Baby

These platforms help you upload your music, enter song details, and distribute your tracks to multiple streaming platforms, including Spotify.

Step 3: Prepare Your Metadata and Artwork

Metadata is crucial when releasing music. It includes details like your song’s title, artist name, and genre. Just as a YouTube ki ID helps viewers find your channel, well-optimized metadata ensures your song is easily discoverable on Spotify. Use descriptive and engaging titles and consider adding credits for producers, writers, or collaborators.

Next, focus on your album artwork. The cover is the first thing listeners see, so make it visually appealing. A good design can convey the emotion and tone of your music, enticing potential listeners to click play.

Step 4: Set a Release Date

Timing matters when releasing music. Choose a release date that gives you enough time to promote your song. Many distributors recommend uploading your track at least two weeks before the planned release date. This allows Spotify to process your submission and helps you pitch your track for playlist consideration.

Step 5: Promote Your Song Before Release

Promotion is key to building anticipation for your release. Start by announcing your song on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. If you have a YouTube ki ID, consider creating a teaser video or sharing behind-the-scenes clips of the recording process.

Another great way to promote your song is through storytelling. Share insights about how you started writing the song—whether it began as a melody hummed in the shower or lyrics scribbled in a notebook. Personal stories create a deeper connection with your audience.

Step 6: Release Your Song on Spotify

Once your release date arrives, your track will go live on Spotify. Use Spotify for Artists to track its performance. This platform provides valuable analytics, including the number of streams, listener demographics, and playlist additions.

Step 7: Market Your Song Post-Release

Promotion doesn’t stop once your song is live. Use platforms like YouTube to create lyric videos or acoustic versions of your track. A strong YouTube ki ID presence complements your Spotify profile, giving fans more ways to engage with your music.

Consider creating Spotify playlists featuring your song alongside similar tracks. This not only increases exposure but also enhances your credibility as an artist.

Integrating Creativity with Technology

Whether you’re working on how to begin songwriting or figuring out how to release a song on Spotify, technology plays a pivotal role. From using high-quality dual stereo speakers to refine your mix to leveraging platforms like Spotify and YouTube, the right tools can amplify your music's reach.

The process of how to start writing a song often intertwines with technological tools. For example, dual stereo speakers allow you to hear intricate details in your music, helping you perfect every note. Similarly, using your YouTube ki ID to upload snippets of your songwriting journey builds anticipation for your Spotify release.

Conclusion

Releasing a song on Spotify is a rewarding experience that requires preparation, strategy, and creativity. By combining elements like a compelling story, high-quality production (powered by dual stereo speakers), and effective use of platforms like YouTube, you can maximize your track’s impact.

Whether you’re learning how to begin songwriting or already preparing to release your masterpiece, each step in the journey is a learning opportunity. Embrace the process, and let your music resonate with listeners worldwide.

[caalvin]

My sweetie patootie, G.

As I sit here with phone in hand, with tumblr, spotify and bnw photo of yours, I find myself overwhelmed with a rush of emotions, all leading back to you. It's a feeling of pure adoration, a warmth that spreads through my chest every time I think of you.

You're not just adorable (though that goofy grin and asbun aneh never fails to make me melt), you're this incredible man who amazes me every single day. Really.

Everything about you is undeniable. The way you do something passionately fills me with such awe. You pour your heart and soul into everything you do, and it shows. But what truly sets you apart is your unwavering patience. You have this incredible ability to stay calm and collected, even when things get tough. It's a quality I cherish deeply, and it inspires me to be a better person myself.

Speaking of which, you are, without a doubt, one of the most genuinely good people I know. You see the best in everyone and fight for what you believe in. It makes me incredibly proud to stand by your side.

And that pride, my love, knows no bounds. Seeing how hard you've worked to get where you are today fills me with so much admiration. You never give up, you push yourself further, and you constantly strive to be the best version of yourself.

Thank you for being you, thank you for holding my hand through thick and thin, and for always believing in me. You are the sunshine in my day, the little princess *coughs* I always wanted to spoil, the mommy to baby Calvin, the strength in my moments of weakness, and the love of my life.

With all my love, C.

[chaos-deimos-et-eris]

I dont know a bunch, but I do pick up a bit now that my sister's moved out and asking for similar advice from the adults in the family.

Main one is budgeting. Figure out how much you currently have, how much u get per week, and how much you're spending and where. Take a month or two of regular spending to get your base numbers. Taylor Budgets has a good video explaining how to do a budget and also uses a cash stuffing method, which is basically money out of ur bank account and thats it. thats your spending money for that area, which makes it harder to overspend, then if youre just using your card for everything

Figure out if u have any subscriptions you forgot to cancel or for some reason just realized you're not using and get rid of those first.

See if you're over spending somewhere. I'm not taking about the nice shirt your spent a little extra on last month or that slightly more expensive almond milk you buy because you're severely lactose intolerance but the store brand tastes like crap damn it, I'm talking about you going to the mall every weekend to just browse and it turns out you've been walking out of hot topic every week with a new pair of socks. You need groceries every week. You do not need new socks every week.

See if you can make entertainment less expensive. Go to the library. the books are free, they usually have ac and sometimes have other things for lending, like video games, sewing machines and basic tools. Do you live with someone? see if they're willing to set up the communal tv with their Netflix account. use your sibling's Spotify account. cry when they kick you off for ruining their favorite marker back when u were four. my local movie theater sells tickets for 6.50 vs amc's 25. Curse the gods when you prick urself while darning your favorite pair of socks. beat bread dough for an hour. circle square pieces of fabric as you figure out how you want your quilt's arrangement (some people buy quilting fabric for their quilts. i cut up old clothes and use thread and a needle). decide whether or not the artist of the 1000 piece puzzle u bought deserves a slow death by your hand while trying to figure out the pieces' placement by the size of the snowflakes they painted. I can assure you there are cheaper ways out of boredom if u go out to look for them

thrifting!!! buying second hand is a great way to save money. if you live in a poorer neighborhood with no thrift store or a store that has no good things (low quality materials, things are stretched out, thin, patched badly, not your size ) and you have access to a train station, go to richer cities. I got a 3 dollar irish linen button down that actually fits. they were selling hardcovers and crystal glassware for 2 dollars. they have no idea what they're selling and all the rich people want to feel good by donating their unwanted things to these stores instead of throwing them out. take advantage

Want older/fancier things? estate sales. someone died. someone else wants to sell the house fast but doesn't want to pay to trash everything. sometimes you get old clothes, furniture, and movies. sometimes someone is desperate to get rid of heavy leather-bound books and their grandfather's collection of swords. usually things are cheap because the people selling want things gone more then they want to make a profit. estatesale.net is a good place to start looking to see if there are any around around your area. Colleges on move out day are great to get things for free

You can sell things!!! Used but still in good condition clothes can go to places like thread up. They sell second clothing and give you part of the cut. their second hand clothing isn't the cheapest, but percentage wise can save you a lot of money, especially on brand names. and you can send them stuff for free. for undergarments knickey is the best I've found. they recycle the fabric into insulation, and give u store credit. their stuff is ridiculously expensive, only for women and u have to pay shipping but what I've gotten so far from them is good quality and honestly better then nothing.

some places you regularly shop at have online websites and apps. look at them before buying something, but only check once you're already done inside the shop and ready to go pay. they usually have coupons and deals, so check quickly to make sure if they apply to anything in your cart before getting on the check out line. use coupons as a way to help you save money on what you're already going to buy, not to see if anything is on sale.

Finally for insurance, can't really help you. I'm convinced no one really knows what the fuck is going on. BUT ask around to see if a friend you have used to work in the industry and is willing to help out. The best video I've found is from Brian David Gilbert, who doesn't usually do videos like this but apparently already did the research while getting new insurance so might as well.

If I get better info I'll be sure to update. Good luck!!!

I'm looking to learn about financial literacy, does anyone have any pointers or suggestions on folks to get my information from?

There's a mega sea of info out there, but I would like to learn from people who aren't assholes or just total capitalists. Just :) nice people doing what they need to to survive In capitalism, who Wouldn't exploit me at the drop of a dime if they could. It's okay if that doesn't exist yet, but if it does I'd love to avoid having to comb through a million shitass "entrepreneurs" looking to be as rich as possible no matter what I just wanna learn how to live here

[idol-trickster]

🎶✨when u get this u have to put 5 songs u actually listen to, publish. then, send this ask to 10 of your favorite followers (non-negotiable, positivity is cool) 🎶✨

@billyholztisch

OOC: I would have loved to answer this IC, but deciding what Trickster/Ji-Woon would listen to takes tons of headcanon space in my brain, which would take too long to think about to properly reply.

But since I got two of these I'll double the song amount and give you 10, straight from my Spotify most listened to! (I promise not to make duplicate artists' spots, so I'll list the "Top Song" and mention others from them.)

Zico - Freak This has been in my top songs for 3 months (since it was released) It overthrew Any Song, which was reigning supreme last year! She's a Baby is also one I adore a lot, Balloon & Being Left always hurt my heart (Dean's vocals are fantastic), and not to mention Anti is such a strong statement song.

2. Block B - Her This song, choreography, video, and aesthetic make me happy! Very Good is my gateway song to BB, but I've listened to Her more often recently. Their sub-group stuff Bastarz's whole I'm a Mess album is super sexy, and it's a treat anytime I get to hear P.O.'s vocals!

3. Enhyphen - Drunk-Dazed Sexy, Hype, and Catchy! It was great to see the performance in person, and one of my favs right next to Fever and One in a Billion!

4. DPR Ian - No Bluberries DPR as a duo is so talented and they work hard to self-produce! Though this song mostly DPR Ian is one of my favs for the tone. Scaredy Cat comes in right next to this one, but honestly, all their songs are REALLY my style. (They have a nice Indie sound)

5. Kai - Peaches "Pretty girl you're like peaches~" It's such a lovely song and I love the soft sound. It always gets quickly stuck in my head if I listen, and Kai's concept seemed so cute. I always remember how happy he seemed to have released this song, and that he wanted a fantasy feel.

6. Wonho - Ain't about you King is conquering the English vocals, and with such a sultry and good duet, they really balance out the song. The beat reminds me of being trendy and as if it belongs in Dislyte!

7. PRETTYMUCH, CNCO - Me Necessita The boy band sound with Spanish lyrics and a reggaeton beat made this a big hit on my playlist. I love it so much! Their other song Would You Mind is so fun and has such an 80s-90s sound it makes it a fun listen!

8. Salem Ilse, TXT, Alan Walker - PS5 I'm a console gamer, so this song was relatable! The vocals are gorgeous and the beat's so catchy, I end up humming this song a lot.

9. Vaundy - Tokyo Flash This just has such a great sound. It's very indie sounding and has a great melody to lyric composition. Everything compliments so well.

10. Phoenix - If I Ever Feel Better Honestly, this song always makes me sentimental and grateful. I'm putting it here because I think everyone needs to hear this at least once. No matter how hard things get, and how un-ending it feels, it's always nice to have a positive outlook; sometimes when it doesn't feel like you're reaching any goals, something as nice as spending time with someone you cherish and having a good time is what we should look forward to, to enjoy our lives. It's a reminder to not forget the love and support we receive, and look forward to good days! Maybe to be kinder and take things easier on ourselves and make our happiness an important goal. (But other than that, I really adore Lisztomania from them too)

--- PS. As a bonus song, I adore "Sixpence None The Richer - Kiss Me (Japanese Version)"; it's hit my no.2 spot on Spotify, it's so classic! (and I discovered the Japanese cover from Tokyo Vice)

[essercipertuttienonperse]

I CAN'T DEAL WITH YALL !!!! you really think Spotify is spending all that time and money on data collection to show YOU a little slide show at the end of the year ?????? just bc they care so much about you??? it's A COMPANY! companies care about PROFITS, that's why they do anything, and they get that profit from data collection through 1) manipulating your experience with them to adjust to the info they gathered about you so that you don't stop using the app (btw the whole "data collection will make your experience better, we're doing it for you!" campaign is how we got into this mess in the first place!!!!) and 2) by selling the data to companies so that they can sell you shit that the algorithm figured out you'd like and in the end both Spotify and the other companies get richer and you're still too busy looking at your dumb sideshow to notice.

THIS IS LITERALLY FROM A SPOTIFY EXECUTIVE HIMSELF!! they are literally TELLING YOU how they use your data!!! (this opens an even bigger discussion about how in this way they control not only what people are buying but also who they're listening to and by working with music labels they can basically control who becomes successful/who people will listen to therefore who they/the current culture will be influenced by which has potentially much bigger and deeper consequences but that's a conversation for another day)

anyways, no data collection is harmless and no data collection is done without the purpose of selling it/using it to get more money out of you.

if you really read stuff like that and you think that there's nothing wrong with it I really don't know what to tell you

here's a good (imo) article about it that also has some suggestions on how to limit their access to your data if anyone is interested

me