In this episode of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast, I chat with Danny Bigland — guitarist, bandleader, and founder of the Musicians Community / DepsApp, a UK-wide network that connects musicians to paid work opportunities through WhatsApp. What started as a simple solution for finding dep musicians for his own band has grown into a nationwide community of over 1,000 players, helping musicians collectively earn more than £250,000 in paid gigs all without ads, commissions, or outside funding. Danny shares how he built everything organically through SEO, word-of-mouth, and genuine connection, turning a personal project into a purpose-driven movement. He opens up about balancing his creative ventures with a full-time job, hiring a team to support the community, and keeping the focus on helping others first — not profit. We dive deep into: How DepsApp became one of the UK’s largest musician networks Using SEO and social proof to grow a business without spending on ads The importance of authenticity and slow, steady growth Why giving back to your peers builds trust, loyalty, and good karma How helping others can open unexpected doors for your own success This episode is a reminder that good things happen when you focus on value over money, community over competition, and the belief that what you give will come back to you. Whether you’re a working musician, a creative freelancer, or building your own project from scratch, this is a powerful conversation about purpose, generosity, and sustainable growth in the modern music world.   Connect with Danny @db16lnd @depsapp www.depsapp.com @peakspeakerhireltd www.peakspeakerhire.co.uk   This episode is brought to you by Acoustic Backs And Tracks, your go-to source for premium acoustic backing tracks that sound and feel like the real deal. Whether you’re performing at weddings, recording content, or just practising at home, it’s like having a professional band right there with you. Their tracks are recorded by top session musicians, with real instruments and real emotion - no lifeless MIDI here! Need something custom? They’ve got you covered. From key changes and mashups to exclusive tracks made just for you. Plus, their customer support is fast, friendly, and actually understands musicians. No task is too big for them! And here’s the best part - listeners of The Full-Time Function Musician Podcast get 10% off on their first order. Just head to www.acousticbacksandtracks.com and use the code FUNCTION10 at checkout.   @acousticbacksandtracks   Boost Your Bookings: 7 Essential Marketing Strategies for Function Musicians Get Your Free Guide Here - www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk/marketingguide   @thefulltimefunctionmusician   feedback@thefulltimefunctionmusician.co.uk   www.infocusrecordingcompany.co.uk @infocusrecordingco