353 The Only Opinion That Matters – Pete Ganbarg on What Independent Artists (and A&R) Get Wrong

After nearly 16 years at Atlantic Records (the last six as President of A&R) Pete Ganbarg has a clearer view than almost anyone of what separates artists who break through from artists who don't. In this conversation, he shares what that view looks like in 2026, when the barrier to entry for releasing music has collapsed and the bar for being heard has never been higher. Pete unpacks the working principles behind a career that includes A&R credits on Santana's Supernatural, the Hamilton cast album, and Twenty One Pilots, plus publishing credits on Miley Cyrus's "Flowers" and Alex Warren's "Ordinary." But the substance of this conversation isn't the credit list — it's what he's learned to listen for, what he tells his students at Berklee and NYU, and what he wishes more independent artists understood about the work. Topics covered in this conversation include: the "megaphone" mindset behind major-label promotion, the hard math of who makes it and who doesn't, the only opinion that matters in music, A&R'ing yourself when no executive will, and more. Pete Ganbarg is CEO of Pure Tone Music and host of Rock School Podcast. Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers. Learn how you can offer your support at UnstarvingMusician.com/CrowdSponsor This episode was brought to you by Podcast Startup. Ready to launch your podcast or take it to the next level? Podcast Startup gives you the frameworks, systems, and insider knowledge to build a show that actually grows your audience and serves your goals. Whether you're just getting started or looking to improve your existing podcast, you'll get actionable strategies on equipment selection, content planning, audience building, and sustainable production workflows—without the overwhelm. Learn more at UnstarvingMusician.com/PodcastStartup. Join podcasters who are building shows that last. Resources The Unstarving Musician's Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process. More Resources for musicians Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support! For show notes and episode a list of past episodes, please visit UnstarvingMusician.com. Stay in touch! @RobonzoDrummer on  Instagram @UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube