
Music Tectonics
The Music Tectonics podcast goes beneath the surface of the music industry to explore how technology is changing the way business gets done. The podcast includes news roundups, interviews, and more. Our host is Dmitri Vietze, CEO of PR firm rock paper scissors.
Latest episodes

Apr 2, 2025 • 36min
From Plugins to Community: DAWn Audio's Evolution
Mandy Ortiz, Chief Strategy Officer at DAWn Audio, and Diego Pinzone, CEO of DAWn Audio, discuss their transition from a collaboration plugin to a gamified platform for music creators. They highlight the importance of community in music production, sharing insights on engaging aspiring artists through events and challenges. The duo emphasizes the role of innovation in connecting musicians while fostering supportive networks. Their vision redefines how artists collaborate and gain recognition in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Mar 26, 2025 • 36min
Bootstrapping Success: GigSalad's Journey
Mark Steiner, Co-Founder and CEO of GigSalad joins Dmitri from the streets of SXSW to talk about the journey from working at his kitchen table to successful scale-up. We also hear a PR Strategy on what to do with questions you just don’t want to answer. But first, Tristra and Jade dish the latest news headlines. News Headlines Discussed: Porn on Spotify Is Infiltrating Top Podcast Charts How Does Gen Z Listen to Podcasts? Jayden Daniels’ growth with VR simulation has Commanders embracing mind games Sports Music Licensing Company ClicknClear Inks Deal with Warner Chappell Music Meta Quest's Mixed Reality Piano App Gets a Major Update 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.

Mar 19, 2025 • 25min
Shaking Up Music Consumption with the Cinema
Evan Saxon, former President of International Distribution at Abramorama, shares how cinema amplifies artists' reach and revenue. He discusses strategic partnerships between music and film, showcasing successful projects with Pearl Jam and Melanie Martinez. Listeners learn how theaters can boost music marketing through communal experiences, and explore innovative strategies in the attention economy that enhance audience engagement and promote unique events. Saxon emphasizes the untapped potential for collaboration between artists and the film industry.

Mar 12, 2025 • 39min
From Vinyl Revivals to Glocalization: An Economic Perspective with Will Page
Will Page, author of 'Pivot' and former chief economist at Spotify, digs into the booming global music market now worth $45.5 billion. He discusses the rise of music exports, especially from Mexico and Colombia, and the thrilling comeback of vinyl records. Page also highlights the shift to CRM systems for artists directly engaging with fans. Additionally, he explores how YouTube is winning in emerging markets through social integration, while cautioning that Trump’s tariffs could hit musical instrument manufacturers hard.

Mar 5, 2025 • 26min
Exploring Music Streaming's Future with Tuned Global
Today Dmitri speaks with Con Raso of Tuned Global, about the evolving landscape of music streaming. They talk about profitability and innovation opportunities, and Con shares thoughts on making music more social, advancing curation and discovery through AI, and the role of personalization in listening experiences. Social Radio Punchline Connect 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.

Feb 26, 2025 • 37min
Clara Venice Wants You To Make Music Too
Today, we talk with theremin virtuoso Clara Venice who discusses her musical and visual aesthetic, her journey within the music industry, and her mission to make music technology more colorful, inclusive, and above all – more pink! Dmitri and Tristra also cover the latest industry news, including Spotify's new music pro service and (even more) research on social media's impact on younger users. Clara Venice 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.

Feb 19, 2025 • 52min
Creativity in a Post AI World
Dmitri is joined by Cathy Hackl, leading tech futurist, to discuss oh so many topics. Including: spatial computing, immersive web, AI's impact on human cognition, the ongoing development of augmented reality, the importance of creativity in the age of AI, and of course, the lunar food science industry. This week's Startup Session is Ever.FM, who is introducing some pretty revolutionary ideas on dynamic audio formats. Cathy Hackl Ever.FM 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.

Feb 12, 2025 • 1h 4min
How I Sold It
Today Dmitri discusses the ins and outs of selling a business, with guests who have been there, done that. Paul Anthony Troiano (Rumblefish; sold to CESAC) and Jeff Ponchick (Repost Network; sold to SoundCloud) share their experiences about the acquisition process, including valuation conversations and competitive bids as well as advice on the emotional challenges and the importance of focusing on the business’s core mission rather than building to sell. Shoutouts from the ep: Magic Box Paradigm Riff Raff Rock Paper Scanner Music from: Cast of Characters Ivy Bakes LNDÖ Ghost Beatz 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, X, and Instagram. Let us know what you think!

Feb 5, 2025 • 56min
Independence and Merlin
There is a new format today. We’ve added three recurring segments – Rock Paper Scanner, Startup Sessions, and Strategies Techniques & Hacks with a Publicist. Plus, our regular long(er) interview with an innovator in the music tech space. It’s an abundance of content from a variety of thinkers and do-ers. Dmitri and Tristra discuss Spotify's $10 billion payout, the rise of ethical AI solutions, and bids to purchase TikTok. Dmitri's interview with Jeremy Sirota, CEO of Merlin, touches on their efforts to support independent music through strategic partnerships and innovative thinking amidst industry consolidation. We hear from the startup Incantio, and also learn a strategic tip when reaching out to journalists for PR. Shoutouts from the ep: Merlin Jeremy Sirota Linked In Canva A2IM Impala Music Mood Machine Book Incantio Startup Sessions Contact Us Music from: Cast of Characters Ivy Bakes LNDÖ Ghost Beatz 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.

Jan 29, 2025 • 30min
Investing in the Growth of Musical Instruments with Yamaha
Scott Sugino, President and CEO of Yamaha Music Innovations, discusses a new corporate venture capital fund designed to support artists and enhance audience engagement. He explores how Yamaha is evolving from a traditional manufacturer to a holistic music solution provider. Jade Prieboy shares insights from CES, highlighting groundbreaking innovations in music tech and unique networking opportunities. Together, they examine the challenges young artists face in today's landscape and the crucial role established companies play in nurturing a thriving musical community.