

Sound Connections
Amplitude Ventures
This is the intricate world of music entrepreneurship.Hosted by Jakob Wredstrøm from Amplitude Ventures, this podcast offers listeners a unique blend of insightful interviews, industry expertise, and behind-the-scenes stories from the global music landscape. From the challenges of breaking into the industry to the nuances of music tech innovations, each episode is a journey into the lives of music professionals, founders, artists, and innovators. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an industry veteran, or just a music enthusiast, "Sound Connections" provides a fresh perspective on the ever-evolving world of music. Listen and connect with the sounds and stories that shape the industry.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 3, 2024 • 44min
#039: EXPERT: Dani Deahl: The Future of Music at BandLab Technologies
In this episode of Sound Connections, host Jakob Wredstrøm sits down with Dani Deahl, Head of Communications at BandLab, to discuss the platform's impressive growth and its transformative impact on the music industry. Discover how BandLab is empowering a new generation of music creators around the world by breaking down traditional production barriers and fostering a vibrant global community. Dani shares insights into the innovative features that set BandLab apart and explores the future of music creation in an increasingly digital landscape.Highlights:BandLab's journey to reaching 100 million users and its influence on the global music scene.Insights into how BandLab promotes creativity and teamwork across various demographics.The role of AI in creating new opportunities for musicians and the ethical considerations involved.Dani Deahl shares her unique career path from DJ to a leading voice in music tech.

Mar 26, 2024 • 52min
#038: EXIT: Hazel Savage: Building Musiio and the Path to SoundCloud
Experience the inspiring journey of Hazel Savage, co-founder of Musiio, in this compelling episode of the Sound Connections podcast. Host Jakob Wredstrøm delves into how Hazel navigated the intricate music tech landscape, steering her AI-driven startup to a successful acquisition by SoundCloud. Gain firsthand insights into the challenges of fundraising, the strategic decisions that attracted Musiio’s initial clients, and the vital role of leadership in driving sales.Highlights: Founding Musiio: The inception and development of a music tech pioneer. Overcoming industry obstacles: Dealing with investor skepticism and market challenges. The journey to acquisition: How SoundCloud became a key player in Musiio's story. Empowering the music tech landscape: Hazel's vision for the future of AI in music.

Mar 23, 2024 • 4min
BandLab's Milestone: 100 Million Users
In this episode of Sound Connections Podcast, join Jake, our AI co-host, as we explore the revolutionary world of BandLab and its recent milestone of surpassing 100 million users. Discover how BandLab, since its launch in 2015, has become a beacon for musicians globally by democratizing music creation with its array of free, innovative tools. We delve into BandLab's philosophy of making music creation accessible to all, and how its digital audio workstation, virtual instruments, and collaborative features are reshaping the music industry landscape. Hear the story of d4vd and his song "Romantic Homicide," a BandLab success that transitioned from a digital creation to a viral hit, illustrating the platform's transformative impact. This episode highlights not just BandLab's significant achievements but also points towards the future of entrepreneurship in the music industry, marked by digitalization, democratization, and a focus on community and collaboration. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the evolving dynamics of music production and distribution, and how platforms like BandLab are paving the way for a new era of music industry entrepreneurs.

Mar 21, 2024 • 30min
#037: SØRVEIV: Sania Haq: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) in the Music Industry
Join host Jakob Wredstrøm for a meaningful conversation with Sania Haq, a leading advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the music industry. This episode delves into the challenges and opportunities of integrating DEI principles into the music scene. Sania shares her journey from her research role at AudienceNet to founding Brighter Stereotypes, highlighting efforts to enhance diversity within music. Explore the evolving global music markets and understand why elevating South Asian artists is crucial for mainstream recognition. Gain valuable perspectives on building a more inclusive and dynamic music landscape.Highlights: The progression of DEI in the music industry Sania's perspectives on the representation of South Asian artistsNew trends in global music markets

Mar 18, 2024 • 43min
#36: EXIT: Agnes Chung: The Story of Musicube's AI Metadata Mastery & Songtradr Acquisition
Peek into the evolution of a cutting-edge music search platform as co-founder Agnes Chung delves into Musicube’s origins and its groundbreaking AI-driven capabilities. Gain insights into the startup’s recent acquisition by Songtradr, and follow Agnes’ own path from musicology to entrepreneurship. This episode reveals the hurdles faced, the wins celebrated, and a forward-thinking approach that’s redefining how we find and engage with music.Highlights: The vision of Musicube: Enhancing music discovery through AI. Overcoming challenges in the music industry. The unexpected path to acquisition by Songtradr. Maintaining team integrity and vision post-acquisition.

Mar 15, 2024 • 3min
Spotify's $4.5 Billion Indie Milestone
In this episode of Sound Connections, we delve into Spotify's groundbreaking announcement: independent artists and labels earned $4.5 billion in 2023, making up half of the platform's total payouts. Explore the implications of this significant shift towards the democratization of music distribution, the explosive growth of the indie sector, and the opportunities this presents for entrepreneurs in the music industry. Join Jake, an AI co-presenter, for an insightful analysis of Spotify's impact on global recorded music revenue and what this means for the future of music creation and consumption.

Mar 14, 2024 • 45min
#035: SØRVEIV: Pål Bråtelund: Collaborative Models in the Music Industry
Discover how fresh alliances are transforming the music business in this conversation with Pål Bråtelund. Hear firsthand how smaller enterprises can thrive through strategic teamwork rather than following the conventional acquisition route. From rethinking old business models to forging innovative collaborations in music tech, this episode offers a forward-looking perspective on creating sustainable success in a rapidly shifting landscape.Highlights:The transition from conventional music industry frameworks to collaborative models.Exploring collaboration as a strong alternative to acquisitions. Insights into the potential of blockchain and tokenization in royalty distribution.The importance of partnerships in encouraging innovation and growth in music tech.

Mar 12, 2024 • 5min
Introducing JKBX - A New Chapter In Music Investments
In this episode of Sound Connections, we introduce an exciting innovation in the music industry: JKBX. Join Jake, your AI co-host, as we dive into how this groundbreaking music investment platform is redefining opportunities for songwriters, recording artists, and investors. With support from industry giants like Spotify and Red Light Management, JKBX offers a unique way for fans to invest in song royalties, democratizing an asset class once reserved for the elite. Discover how this SEC-approved platform merges passion with investment, allowing you to support your favorite artists while potentially earning from their success.

Mar 7, 2024 • 25min
#034: SØRVEIV: Sørveiv's Vision for Music and Tech Synergy
Join us in an episode filled with fresh insights from the Sørveiv Music Industry Conference. With hosts Hannah and Lena, we examine how this distinctive festival connects music and technology in Norway. Discover the energetic interaction of live shows and tech advancements that are transforming the music industry.Highlights: The special collaboration at Sørveiv, merging live music and tech conversations. Challenges and possibilities for tech companies in the music domain. Supporting emerging artists and building connections within the music business.

Mar 5, 2024 • 57min
#033: EXPERT: Michael Pelczynski: The Future of Fandom in a Digital Age
Let's understand how digital platforms are reshaping music fandom in this in-depth talk with music tech expert Mike Pelczynski. Uncover how user-centric models influence artists and fans, learn about the complex world of licensing and royalties, and see how fandom drives real change in the industry. With insights drawn from major labels to forward-thinking streaming services, this episode highlights a new era of connection and opportunity for everyone involved in music.Highlights: The evolution of music fandom in the digital era. Mike Pelczynski's impactful journey in the music industry. Strategic insights into user-centric models and their implications. Understanding the complexities of licensing and royalties in music tech.


