Music Tectonics

Christopher White, an associate professor of music theory at UMass Amherst, dives into the exciting intersection of AI and music creation. He discusses whether AI redefines music or if music shapes AI, particularly highlighting the concept of 'AI slop' and its impact on authentic creators. The conversation covers intellectual property issues, the changing landscape of streaming platforms, and the role of music theory in enhancing AI-generated creativity. White also reflects on how AI might transform listener experiences and emotional engagement with music.

What makes an artist-brand partnership meaningful, beyond a simple shoutout on social media? Today I talk with Dave Godowsky, a musician who’s also worked the other side of the street – in Artist Relations, A&R and with brands that musicians know and love. We talk about how brands can foster authentic artist relationships, the value of word-of-mouth marketing, and how artist feedback can be best used in product development. Dave also shares his experience of partnering with artists like Jacob Collier and Alicia Keys. It’s a really fun conversation   Shoutouts mentioned:  Jacob Collier Audience Choir- Native InstrumentsNative Instruments + Alicia Keys Orchid Synth- Kevin Parker Ink Audio Ribbons App Life App - XLN Audio   The Music Tectonics podcast goes beneath the surface of the music industry to explore how technology is changing the way business gets done. Visit musictectonics.com to find shownotes and a transcript for this episode, and find us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Let us know what you think!    Get Dmitri’s Rock Paper Scanner newsletter.

We are rewinding and playing back some of our favorite guests during the month of August and today we have our own Chief Creative Officer from way back when he was the creative force at Artiphon. Adam McHeffey, CMO of Artiphon, joins us to talk about the state of musical instrument innovation. Instruments like the Orba put music creation at the fingertips of hobbyists, allowing them to focus on enjoyment and self-expression rather than traditional album releases. We discuss the fusion of music and social media, and the new generation of creators redefining the art form. Lines between listening and playing are blurring, (see Ocean Eyes remix on Logic Pro X) pointing to a future where music engagement is akin to gaming, providing endless possibilities for interactivity and connection.   Shoutouts mentioned in episode: seids_ imsethdrums socialrepose   The Music Tectonics podcast goes beneath the surface of the music industry to explore how technology is changing the way business gets done. Visit musictectonics.com to find shownotes and a transcript for this episode, and find us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Let us know what you think!    Get Dmitri’s Rock Paper Scanner newsletter.  

We are rewinding and playing back some of our favorite guests during the month of August. Join Dmitri and Tracy Maddux the former CEO, of AVL Digital and CD Baby as they talk through the fundamentals of what it takes to really start up. We promise that by the end of this episode, you'll have a clear understanding of the critical decisions that shape the future of your business. Whether you intend to sell your company or nurture it as a long-term venture, Tracy's wisdom on capitalization, leveraging personal funds versus investors, and recognizing your strengths and weaknesses will set you on the right path. And if you’re already deep in the weeds with your company – there is still great advice to be learned from these two industry experts.   Tracy Maddux   Artes Management The Music Tectonics podcast goes beneath the surface of the music industry to explore how technology is changing the way business gets done. Visit musictectonics.com to find shownotes and a transcript for this episode, and find us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Let us know what you think!

We are rewinding and playing back some of our favorite guests during the month of August. Today we have a great conversation with the CEO and co-founder of LyricFind. Listen in to find out how Darryl got his first investor, and what Microsoft, childhood bedrooms, outdated websites, and roller coasters have to do with anything. The Music Tectonics podcast goes beneath the surface of the music industry to explore how technology is changing the way business gets done. Visit musictectonics.com to find shownotes and a transcript for this episode, and find us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Let us know what you think!

Tatiana Cirisano, an Analyst at MIDiA Research, dives into the great bifurcation of the music industry, debating the ‘play’ versus ‘listen’ perspectives. She highlights how younger audiences crave interactive experiences, pushing artists to adapt to survive. The conversation unveils challenges in monetization strategies on social media and streaming platforms that hinder genuine artist-fan connections. Cirisano also examines how live music is evolving in this streaming era, stressing the need for deeper engagement and sustainable practices.

Join the Music Tectonics team for the June Seismic Activity with special guest Andrew Kahn, Managing Partner of Yamaha Music Innovation Fund. Hear Andrews best practices for pitching him (or not) at a conference, and what he feels is the most important aspect of any pitch deck. Hint: It's not a great power point. We also hear queries specific to founders in attendance. Among them are questions about funding AI startups, is it possible to compete with Ticketmaster, and what about this innovative new musical instrument? Really great insight from the heart of the funding world.    The News! The most important chart in music right now?   Getting AI companies to agree to licensing deals with copyright owners is “not doable” and “China’s not doing it”, rambles Trump   Live Music News: GigSalad, Lightroom, new boards @ MVT, LIVE   The Death of the Middle-Class Musician   The Music Tectonics podcast goes beneath the surface of the music industry to explore how technology is changing the way business gets done. Visit musictectonics.com to find shownotes and a transcript for this episode, and find us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Let us know what you think!    Get Dmitri’s Rock Paper Scanner newsletter.  

Mike Gubman, co-founder of Chartist, dives into the fascinating fusion of music and gaming. He explores creative collaborations, like Michael Bublé and NLE Choppa's appearances in Fortnite, highlighting how these partnerships engage fans in new ways. Gubman shares insights on evolving music streaming dynamics, including SiriusXM's ad-supported tier, and discusses the rise of concert ticket prices. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of music integration in gaming for reaching diverse audiences and enhancing player experience.

Join Randy Nichols, artist manager and CEO of Force Media Management, as he dives deep into the murky waters of ticketing strategies and scalping. He shares wild tales from scalper chat rooms and even infiltrated a Ticket Scalpers Convention! The conversation also tackles the illusion of the 'super fan' and the evolving landscape of live music, emphasizing the need for transparency and innovative tools to benefit both artists and audiences. Plus, discover how data and technology are reshaping merchandise management and fan engagement.

Cullen Hendrix, a Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics and former touring musician, dives into the impact of tariffs on musical instruments. He discusses how rising tariffs on Chinese imports could hinder the next generation of musicians and disrupt the used instrument market. Hendrix also explores the broader cultural ramifications of these policies, challenging the narrative of American manufacturing. The conversation reveals the intricate relationship between trade, music accessibility, and the future of American music culture.