the vt is a creative renaissance.
Stop competing with algorithms. Start collaborating with artists.
We are building a movement similar to the flowering of arts and culture during the 1960s, transforming music and humanity for generations to come.
When making covers was cool
In the 1960s, artists from all genres covered each other's music, experimenting with styles and sounds. One of the eras biggest stars, Jimi Hendrix, was incredibly humble and would jam with anyone.
Making covers of each other's songs helped elevate a new generation of songwriters. It brought people together during a time when it seemed like the world was falling apart.
The world needs that energy again today.
The vt's cover collab project: an indie music masterclass
We are bringing back the "culture of cool" around covers. This isn't about over-produced studio tracks; it's about organic practice.
* Listen Deeply: Tune into the vt’s current featured artist.
* Create Freely: Find a riff or lyric that resonates.
* Record Simply: Capture a live practice or a raw take.
* Level Up: Treat this as an ear-training masterclass to become a better collaborator.
The algorithm is the problem. Collaboration is the solution.
95% of music on streaming platforms goes unheard.
With 100,000 new songs released every week, the "release and pray" strategy is failing indie artists. Algorithms force listeners into comfort zones and isolate musicians.
At the vt, we use a collaboration-centric approach. By making the Cover Contest part of your routine, you gain exposure to new audiences and connect with peers, rather than fighting for a fraction of a cent per stream.
Testimonials
"I was skeptical at first... Now I totally get it. I don't waste time with social media and streaming... Making covers is much more fun and I can see why it's a better use of my time."
— Rich Schwegerl, Jazz Prodigy & Early vt Feature
"I really enjoyed making the cover, mainly because it's a great song and it was nice doing my bit to support such a great record."
- Kevin Kraft (The Van Goghs, Zu Zu's Petals, The Riflebirds of Portland), vt member and IONS research participant
"Indeed it was an excellent learning lesson and I'm on a steep learning curve right now.
When you told me about the cover, I had barely gathered the skills to do it, including picking out the melody by ear - I had been practicing doing that for a few months! I look forward to learning and improving and participating. Nothing like getting the first one out of the box! Look forward to hearing more music!"
- Katherine Koyanagi, Koyanagi Law, a boutique indie music law firm
Ready to find your sound and level up your skills?
Don't release your next album into the void. Join a community that listens.