A Field Guide for Going Slow | Making Music That Lasts Beyond the Algorithms

In today’s episode of Ten Year Town, Troy takes a step back from the noise of marketing hacks and algorithm tricks to talk about something deeper: the art itself. Making music can feel like pulling the lever on a slot machine: the lights flash, it feels like progress, but often it leaves you right where you started.

This episode, A Field Guide for Going Slow, explores what it means to create work that lasts and why slowing down might be the key to fulfillment in a fast-paced industry. Drawing from conversations with artists like Steven Wilson Jr. and inspired by voices like Charles Bukowski and Tom Petty, Troy shares a framework for building a career rooted in authenticity rather than quick wins.

If you’re looking for wisdom on how to make art that sustains, beyond the algorithms, this one’s for you.

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Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

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This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.