How a Mastering Engineer Works With (and Without) AI

This week on the New Music Business podcast, Ari sits down with Daniel Rowland, a rare combination of audio engineer, producer, tech executive, and educator. The music he’s worked on has amassed over 15 billion streams, earning Emmy and Oscar wins, Grammy nominations, and multiple platinum certifications. His credits span an eclectic range of artists and projects, including Nina Simone, Nine Inch Nails, Thundercat, Star Wars, Pixar, and John Wick. Beyond the studio, Daniel serves as VP of Strategy and Partnerships at LANDR Audio and a longtime professor at MTSU, where he champions ethical, AI-driven tools that empower creators.

In this episode, Ari and Daniel explore the ever-evolving intersection of music, technology, and creativity. They dive deep into the art and science of mastering for different formats, the rise of AI in music production, and how to maintain authenticity in an increasingly automated world. Daniel also shares his personal journey from musician to educator and innovator, offering invaluable insights for artists navigating the future of sound and creation.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowlanddaniel

https://www.landr.com/

00:00 – Mixing vs. Mastering & the Role of AI in Quality Control

02:30 – Introducing Daniel Rowland & His Career Overview

06:45 – Daniel’s Journey from Musician to Engineer & Educator

09:45 – Dolby Atmos & Spatial Audio: Fad or Future?

19:00 – What Mastering Really Is (and Isn’t)

26:00 – The “Curmudgeon” Era of Mastering Engineers

29:00 – Loudness, LUFS, and the Streaming Revolution

36:45 – The Vinyl Comeback: Problems and Pitfalls

47:45 – Automated Mastering & LANDR’s Evolution

54:00 – The Future of AI and Creativity in Music

Edited and mixed by Ari Davids

Music by Brassroots District

Produced by the team at Ari’s Take

Order the THIRD EDITION of How to Make It in the New Music Business: https://book.aristake.com

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