Hinder’s Marshal Dutton Talks Music Industry Challenges, New Album at Barnato Lounge
For more than 20 years, Marshal Dutton, lead singer of the rock band Hinder, has navigated the evolving music industry. Known for multi-platinum hits, Hinder has faced both triumphs and challenges. Before their performance at Barnato Lounge in Omaha, Nebraska, Dutton discussed the hurdles modern artists face, Hinder’s upcoming album, and his unexpected journey in music.
An Unplanned Path to Rock Stardom
Dutton’s music career began serendipitously. “I formed a band called Faktion, and we landed a record deal,” he said. “I kind of stumbled into the music industry.” His transition to Hinder followed a similar pattern, starting as a producer for the band before becoming its frontman.
Navigating a Shifting Music Landscape
Dutton has witnessed seismic changes in the music industry, from declining record sales to the rise of streaming platforms and social media. “For new bands trying to build a fan base, it’s much harder now,” he said. “There’s an overwhelming amount of content out there.”
The democratization of music production, enabled by accessible creation tools, has been a double-edged sword. While it lowers barriers for aspiring artists, it oversaturates the market, making it difficult to stand out. “To stay relevant, you need to release music constantly and promote yourself relentlessly,” Dutton noted.
The Power of Live Performances
Hinder’s enduring fan base, built on early successes and dynamic live shows, sets them apart. “We love performing live,” Dutton said. “It’s the foundation of who we are. Hinder’s fortunate to have a loyal following.” However, he expressed concern about audiences experiencing concerts through phone screens rather than in the moment. “No YouTube video can capture the energy of a live rock show with a crowd,” he said.
Skepticism Toward AI in Music
On the topic of AI-assisted music creation, Dutton remains traditional. “I’m old-school. We learned instruments, spent years perfecting our craft, and recorded ourselves,” he said. While he acknowledges the appeal of AI tools for younger artists, he prefers the authenticity of traditional methods. “There’s something special about mastering music the hard way,” he added.
Hinder’s Long-Awaited New Album
Fans eagerly await Hinder’s first album since 2017. “We’re nearly done with the record,” Dutton revealed. “We’ll record one more song, then mix and master it. Hopefully, it’ll be out by mid-summer.” Delays, including a management change and the COVID-19 pandemic, pushed back the release, but Dutton is confident. “I know we said that last year, but it’s happening this time,” he insisted.
Advice for Aspiring Musicians
Dutton offered candid advice for those dreaming of a music career: “The industry is brutal. It’s an uphill battle, and you won’t make much money at first. You have to be willing to sacrifice and stay resilient.” Despite the challenges, his passion for music remains unwavering.
Looking Ahead
With a new album on the horizon and a dedicated fan base, Hinder is poised to continue their legacy. Dutton’s optimism and commitment to authentic rock music ensure the band will keep rocking, one live show and song at a time.
