Autism, butt rock, starting a business & more (Finn Mckenty on The Akiva Abstract)
Dec 18, 2023
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Finn McKenty, a savvy music industry interviewer and content creator, dives deep into the evolution of alternative music and the challenges of navigating neurodivergence. He shares personal insights on autism and its impact on business dynamics. The conversation shifts to marketing strategies and the importance of audience engagement, tracing his transition from graphic design to business. They also tackle the rise of 'butt rock,' the role of artificial intelligence in creativity, and the value of adaptability in a rapidly changing world.
The speaker highlights the unique strengths of neurodivergence, particularly autism, emphasizing how different cognitive approaches can provide valuable insights in various systems.
The podcast discusses the evolution of music consumption, noting a shift towards songs as background audio influenced by platforms like TikTok, impacting artist engagement.
Emphasizing the intertwining of music and business, the speaker encourages musicians to embrace marketing and collaborations to thrive in the modern industry.
Deep dives
The Value of Data Protection
Data is often likened to gold by hackers, as it has significant monetary value in the black market. Protecting one's personal information is crucial, with tools like McAfee offering robust defenses against various cyber threats, including suspicious texts and phishing emails. The incorporation of an AI-powered scam detector enhances security by identifying potential threats in real-time. Furthermore, McAfee's secure VPN allows users to browse the internet safely and anonymously, reinforcing the importance of comprehensive online protection.
Growing Up in the Seattle Hardcore Scene
The speaker shares their experiences growing up in Snohomish, Washington, adjacent to Seattle, during the 1990s hardcore music scene. Influenced by bands like Undertow, they felt a sense of belonging in the hardcore genre, even when the Seattle music scene was primarily dominated by grunge, which they were unable to access due to age restrictions. They also had a passion for thrash metal bands, reflecting a diverse range of musical interests despite the limitations in their local scene. Their journey highlights the challenges faced by underground music genres in gaining recognition during that era.
Neurodivergence and Pattern Recognition
The discussion touches on neurodivergence, particularly autism, and its impact on how individuals perceive and interact with the world. The speaker reflects on their experiences of feeling different and how pattern recognition shapes their understanding of various systems in life, whether in music or business. They describe how their unique cognitive approach allows them to see connections and anticipate outcomes quickly, a strength that can sometimes be misunderstood or undervalued by others. This perspective underscores the importance of identifying and embracing one's differences as potential advantages.
Evolving Music Consumption Trends
The podcast explores the changing nature of music consumption, particularly influenced by platforms like TikTok, where music is often used as background audio rather than the focal point of engagement. This shift indicates that songs may gain popularity through specific excerpts that can be tied to trends or viral moments rather than through traditional album sales. The speaker notes that this trend runs alongside the increasing importance of an artist’s personality and social media presence over the music itself, influencing how they connect with their fanbase. This evolution signifies a potential future where music serves more as a soundtrack for visual content than as standalone artistry.
The Intersection of Music and Business
The speaker emphasizes the interconnectedness of music and business, advocating for musicians to embrace elements of marketing and branding while fostering their artistry. By collaborating with those who possess strengths in different areas, such as social media and promotion, artists can navigate the contemporary music landscape more effectively. They suggest that success often involves not just talent but also strategic partnerships and the ability to engage audiences on multiple platforms. This highlights the necessity for musicians to adapt and evolve in a rapidly changing industry landscape to maintain relevance and growth.
