Sound Connections

Uncover the inspiring story of Scott Cohen, co-founder of The Orchard, in this engaging episode of *Sound Connections*. A true pioneer in music technology, Scott shares his journey from humble beginnings to revolutionizing the industry with the creation of the first digital distribution company. Discover the challenges he faced, the breakthroughs that defined his career—like playing a pivotal role in the iTunes launch—and his transition to Chief Innovation Officer at Warner. Gain valuable insights into his drive for innovation and the profound impact of his work on music rights investment and the industry at large.Highlights:Scott Cohen's journey from financial challenges to a successful exit with The Orchard.The role of vision in predicting technological impacts on the music industry.Overcoming obstacles in scaling a groundbreaking digital distribution company.Scott's transition to Warner and his ongoing influence in music rights investment.

Learn about the intersection of AI, ethics, and music innovation with Dr. Martin Clancy, a leading expert and member of the IEEE Global AI Ethics Committee. This episode delves into how AI is reshaping the music industry, from creative possibilities to ethical dilemmas and financial implications. Dr. Clancy shares his journey in music, the foundation of his groundbreaking research, and his vision for the future of music creation in an increasingly AI-driven world.Highlights: The evolution of AI ethics in the music industry. Dr. Martin Clancy's insights on generative AI and its implications. The financial landscape of the music industry amidst AI advancements. Philosophical and practical discussions on AI ethics.

Discover the fascinating intersection of music, technology, and storytelling in this episode featuring Dmitri Vietze, founder of Rock Paper Scissors. Dive into the challenges and triumphs shaping the modern music industry, as Dmitri shares his journey in building a thriving PR firm and fostering innovation in music tech. From the rise of startups to opportunities for artists and entrepreneurs, this conversation unveils how music tech continues to transform the creative landscape.Highlights: Storytelling in the music tech industry. Overcoming challenges and finding opportunities in music innovation. Supporting artists and tech startups through strategic communication.

In this episode, Philipp Grefer, the founder of WISE, takes us behind the scenes of a groundbreaking platform that bridges music, technology, and creativity. Learn how WISE has evolved from its roots in China to becoming a hub for innovation and collaboration in Berlin. Discover the platform's impact on fostering thought leadership and its role in shaping the intersection of creative industries and technology. A must-listen for anyone curious about the future of music and innovation.Highlights: The growth of WISE from a pioneering idea to a global platform. Connecting cultural and technological gaps between China and the West. Exploring forward-thinking themes like AI and its impact on creativity. Insight into WISE's annual themes and innovative approaches.

Alex Brees, founder of un:hurd, shares his journey from a tech background to redefining music marketing. This episode unpacks how un:hurd uses data-driven strategies to empower artists, offering innovative tools to amplify their reach and impact. Gain insights into the future of music promotion and the role technology plays in helping artists thrive in an ever-evolving industry.Highlights: Changing the music marketing industry with un:hurd. Developing a tech-focused platform for independent and major label artists. New methods for artist empowerment and community building. The startup journey of un:hurd to a global service.

Explore the innovative world of music technology with Karl Richter, the founder of Disco in a detailed discussion about how Disco is redefining music sharing and discovery for music supervisors. Karl provides an inside look into the development of a B2B SaaS platform tailored to the unique challenges of the music tech industry. He shares his strategies for fostering creativity and driving innovation to ensure Disco's growth and success. This episode offers practical insights into building a sustainable startup and addresses the real-world problems Disco aims to solve within the music supervision landscape.Highlights: Building Disco from the start: A tale of determination and creativity. The blend of music and technology: How Disco is leading the change. Equipping music supervisors with advanced tools and solutions. The impact of creativity in establishing sustainable music tech companies.

In this episode of Sound Connections, co-host AI Jake takes us through the substantial deal between rock icons KISS and Pophouse Entertainment, where KISS sold their song catalog, brand, and intellectual property for $300 million. This significant agreement includes their famous face paint designs, shares of master recordings, and publishing rights, marking a notable shift in the music industry's landscape.We explore what Pophouse's acquisition means for the future of KISS's music and brand. The episode discusses Pophouse's intention to leverage technology to enhance and perpetuate KISS's legacy, drawing parallels with their successful ABBA Voyage project. This strategy indicates a new era where technology ensures the longevity of artists' impacts, blending historical music influence with modern digital experiences.

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.

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.

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.