

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

Jul 23, 2024 • 1h 1min
#065: Founder: Marzio F Schena: Investing in Melody: The A-Note Music Story
What does it take to thrive in this evolving marketplace of music investment?Marzio, a leading figure at A-Note Music, shares how the platform is revolutionizing music investment by creating unique opportunities for investors and rights holders. In this episode, he delves into the challenges and successes of bridging finance and music through innovative solutions.Highlights:● Creating a marketplace for music rights: Marzio shares the journey and vision.● Adapting to market challenges: How A-Note responds to industry changes and investor demands.● The future of music as an investment: Opportunities for growth and innovation.

Jul 20, 2024 • 3min
AI Jake Analysis: Key Insights from the 2024 Luminate Midyear Music Report
Welcome to Sound Connections! I'm AI Jake, your guide to music trends and insights. Today, we explore the Luminate Midyear Music Report for 2024, highlighting the growth of streaming and indie artists' success. We'll also discuss the demand for vinyl, the impact of live music on streaming, and the role of short-form videos.We also look at the global context of audio streaming and evolving consumer preferences. Learn about the rise of niche genres and the impact of sustainability on music purchases. As the industry evolves, integrating diverse content and experiences is key. This is AI Jake, signing off from Sound Connections. Until next time, keep listening and stay connected!

Jul 16, 2024 • 51min
#064: EXPERT: Rosanna Connolly: Mastering Impactful Storytelling in the Music Industry
Rosanna Connolly, founder of Morena Coms and a veteran in music industry PR, shares her journey from the Brit School to roles at Universal Music and Apple Music. In this episode, she discusses her unique approach to empowering artists and entrepreneurs through impactful storytelling. Get to know why defining a strong 'why' is essential for building a successful brand and how storytelling can transform the way artists connect with their audience. This conversation is packed with valuable insights for anyone in the music and entertainment world.Highlights: Rosanna's career path and the founding of Morena Coms. The importance of storytelling and a strong 'why' in the music industry. Overcoming challenges in PR and building a brand that resonates. Insights into the role of PR, earned media, and strategic storytelling. The changing landscape of the music industry with technology and AI.

Jul 13, 2024 • 3min
Blackstone's Bold Move: $1.5 Billion Acquisition of Hipgnosis
Today, we explore Blackstone’s $1.5 billion acquisition of Hipgnosis Songs Fund, a deal consolidating over 40,000 songs into Blackstone's expansive portfolio. This acquisition highlights the increasing trend of private equity firms investing in music catalogs, driven by the steady revenue streams from streaming services. With a diverse catalog featuring hits from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Justin Timberlake, and Shakira, the enterprise value of Hipgnosis's assets now stands at approximately $2.2 billion, showcasing the lucrative potential of music asset management.

Jul 9, 2024 • 59min
#063: EXPERT: Dr. Kobi Abayomi: The Future of Music Creation: AI's Role in the Industry #aiinmusic
Generative AI is transforming music creation, revolutionizing production, creativity, and copyright. In this episode, Dr. Kobi Abayomi explores its implications for the music industry and its potential to shape the future for creators, offering key insights into the intersection of technology and artistry.Highlights:Examining AI's influence on music creation and industry changes.Understanding the intersection of technology and artistry.Addressing the challenges and opportunities AI presents to musicians and creators.

Jul 6, 2024 • 3min
HYBE's Virtual Pop Group SYNDI8: Pioneering AI in Music with Unprecedented Realism
Welcome to another exciting episode of Sound Connections! I’m your host, AI Jake, here to guide you through the latest groundbreaking developments in music and technology. In this episode, we explore the revolutionary debut of HYBE's AI-powered virtual pop group, SYNDI8.

Jul 2, 2024 • 57min
#062: FOUNDER: Mansoor Rahimat Khan: From Sitar to Startup: Building Beatoven.ai #generativeai
AI-driven music platforms like Beethoven.ai are revolutionizing how music is created and experienced. In this episode, co-founder and CEO Mansoor Rahimat Khan discusses how the platform combines advanced technology with a deep appreciation for musical heritage. From his roots in a family of renowned sitar musicians to leading an innovative music tech company, Mansoor shares his journey, the challenges of growing a startup, and his vision for the future of music creation in a tech-driven world.Highlights:The development of Beethoven.ai in the AI music arena.Connecting traditional Indian music with contemporary technology.Overcoming industry hurdles and building a long-lasting music tech business.Considering the ethical aspects of AI in music creation.

Jun 29, 2024 • 4min
Ethics in AI Music: Navigating Legal Battles and Sustainable Practices
Welcome to the Sound Connections Podcast! In this episode, AI Jake dives into the legal battles between major record labels and AI music companies Suno and Udio, accused by the RIAA of mass copyright infringement. These lawsuits could set significant precedents for AI's role in the music industry. We also explore ethical AI practices with Mansoor Rahimat Khan, CEO of Beatoven.ai, who emphasizes fair compensation and proper usage rights for artists.Additionally, we revisit insights from AI ethics expert Martin Clancy on the AI-OK trust mark, designed to uphold ethical standards in AI-generated music. Join us as we discuss the importance of integrating ethical considerations into AI development to protect artists' rights and ensure a balanced ecosystem in the evolving music landscape.

Jun 25, 2024 • 59min
#061: ARTIST: Sharmin Sultana Sumi: From Chirkutt's Front Lady to a Bangladeshi marketing CEO
Patrick Ermlich, a music industry expert with 24 years of experience, joins the conversation to share his insights on artist growth, creativity, and entrepreneurship. In this episode, he offers a fresh perspective on guiding artists through personal and professional development while navigating the complexities of the music business. Packed with actionable advice for both emerging and seasoned artists, this discussion explores what it takes to achieve lasting success in an ever-evolving music landscape.Highlights:Grasping the dual role of artists as creative entrepreneurs.The role of financial knowledge and strategic thinking in an artist's career.Creating a supportive network for artists' success.Facing the challenges of today's music industry and the changing role of technology.

Jun 22, 2024 • 3min
Ariana Grande Joins Weverse: Expanding Global Fan Engagement with HYBE's Superfan Platform
In this exciting episode of Sound Connections, we delve into the latest buzz in the music world: Ariana Grande joining the superfan platform Weverse, owned by entertainment giant HYBE. Known for its K-pop roots and interactive features, Weverse is expanding its reach by welcoming international superstar Ariana Grande. We explore how this move aligns with Grande's ongoing business relationship with HYBE America, led by CEO Scooter Braun, and her new management under Brandon Creed. Discover how Grande's presence on Weverse, a platform boasting over 10 million monthly active users and machine translation in 15 languages, promises to enhance fan engagement globally.


