Sound Connections

Streaming changed music, but it did not solve the business problem for most independent artists.In this episode of Sound Connections, we welcome Thierry Ascarez, Chief Business Officer at Winamp, to discuss how the company is reimagining its role in the music industry after nearly three decades of history.From its origins as the iconic MP3 player that helped define the early internet music era, Winamp is now building a platform designed to help artists monetize, manage, and control their careers beyond streaming. Thierry walks through the company’s journey across audio streaming, radio technology, advertising, acquisitions, public markets, and the decision to return Winamp to the center of the group’s strategy.Together, Jakob and Thierry explore why independent artists increasingly need to think like entrepreneurs, how direct fan relationships can create new revenue, and why owning data, websites, and monetization tools matters in today’s music economy.The episode also takes a candid look at music tech as a difficult but necessary space to build in. Thierry reflects on patience, resilience, investor expectations, and the belief that meaningful innovation in music still needs people willing to stay the course.Tune in for insight into the future of artist tools, music business infrastructure, and the next chapter of Winamp. If you want to learn more about Winamp, visit here: www.winamp.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/winamp/https://www.facebook.com/Winamphttps://www.instagram.com/winampforcreators/Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

Most music platforms are built for listeners. This one is built for creators.In this episode of Sound Connections, Jakob Wredstrøm sits down with John Lister, Head of Community at Rap Fame, to explore how a global rap platform is reshaping music creation, discovery, and artist communities.From recording directly on a phone to joining crews, entering competitions, and exchanging real-time feedback, Rap Fame turns music creation into a shared process. Artists don’t just upload music; they grow through each other.What we cover in this episode:How peer feedback influences modern music creationWhy artist-to-artist communities drive deeper engagementThe role of competitions and recognition in creator growthHow platforms like Rap Fame support independent artistsAt its core, this conversation explores a shift: when artists support, challenge, and learn from each other, entirely new paths for growth, monetization, and creativity begin to emerge.If you're building in music, working on a creator platform, or thinking about the future of music technology, this episode offers a grounded look at what’s actually working today.Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.If you want to learn more about Rap Fame visit:Website: https://www.raptech.co/Linkedin: / rap-tech-studios-ltd-rap-fame-appInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rapfame_app...Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rapfame_app?_...

What does it take to build a music streaming service around culture, access, and long-term value?In this episode of Sound Connections, we sit down with Faraan Irfan, Founder and CEO of Saarey Music, to unpack how he’s solving one of music’s biggest access problems.Saarey is a streaming platform dedicated to South Asian classical music, built on exclusive rights, deep cultural metadata, and a business model that challenges traditional streaming economics. With strong engagement and global users, the platform is proving that underserved genres can become powerful digital businesses.Faraan shares his journey from personal frustration as a listener to building a company that works directly with artists, preserves rare recordings, and creates meaningful access for a global audience.A grounded, honest conversation on building in music tech beyond the mainstream.If you want to learn more about Saarey music: Socials: Saarey website: https://www.saareymusic.comSaarey LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saarey/Saarey Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saareymusicSaarey Insta: https://www.instagram.com/saareymusic

Freddie Moross, founder of Myndstream, joins Sound Connections to unpack the growing role of functional music in wellness, hospitality, and care environments.This conversation explores how intentional audio can shape experiences inside spas, hotels, and treatment spaces, and why music should be treated as infrastructure rather than background noise. Freddie explains how soundtracks can guide guest journeys, influence emotional outcomes, and help wellness spaces create more meaningful environments.We also discuss the economics behind the global wellness industry and why wellness-focused consumers represent one of the fastest growing and most engaged segments in hospitality.Along the way, Freddie shares lessons from building a music technology startup in a niche category, including the advantages of starting with owned assets, the challenges of licensing and distribution, and what it takes to scale a focused product in a complex industry.Now live on Sound Connections Podcast.[Links in bio]Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

Mark Bamford joins Sound Connections for an open discussion on startup building, video monetization, and the hard truth about innovating in music. As the founder of Viktrs, Mark is working on a new model for video that aims to unlock more value from every view by focusing on engagement, discovery, and data rather than the traditional advertising-driven approach used by major platforms.Mark unpacks his path from a career in construction, consulting, and strategy into the world of founders and music technology. He reflects on what surprised him most about entering the music space, why innovation often struggles inside established systems, and how founders are forced to make difficult choices when a meaningful vision meets a difficult market.This episode dives into the economics of music startups, the limits of pure storytelling when fundraising, and the importance of reaching tangible results with as little capital as possible. Mark also shares why Viktrs has expanded into non-music categories such as food and politics while keeping music as a long-term mission, using those adjacent markets to build leverage, revenue, and proof before coming back stronger.For anyone working at the intersection of technology, media, and culture, this episode brings a sharp and honest perspective.Watch the full episode on your preferred podcast platforms![Links in bio]If you want to know more about Viktrs visit: https://viktrs.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

Rob Abelow, product leader at OpenStage, joins Sound Connections to go deep into the infrastructure behind fan relationships and why they are becoming central to music growth.This conversation breaks down how today’s ecosystem fragments fan data across multiple platforms, limiting visibility and control for artists. Rob shares how bringing that data together into unified fan profiles changes how artists engage, monetize, and build long-term value.We also discuss the shift away from algorithm-first growth toward a model that starts with core fans and expands outward, and how ticketing, premium experiences, and direct communication play a role in that evolution.Finally, we get into the realities behind the industry, from bot-driven ecosystems and distorted metrics to why many superfan strategies fall short, and what it actually takes to build something that lasts.Now live on Sound Connections Podcast.Subscribe now!If you want to learn more about OpenStage visit: https://openstage.live/Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

Join us for a grounded conversation with Jan Willem, Co-Founder of Momants and the strategic mind behind Paylogic. Jan Willem reflects on Paylogic’s journey as a fintech pioneer which provided a white-label ticketing solution that let event organizers sell directly to their own audience. This technology famously scaled to handle massive peaks for global events like Tomorrowland. We explore his "horror story" exit, a grueling five-year marathon through corporate instability before the company’s final sale to Vivendi.The conversation centers on his transition from a "non-music guy" to a seasoned investor and initiator of The Chorus at Amsterdam Dance Event, where he mentors the next generation of entrepreneurs. Jan Willem explains why he believes today’s AI-driven landscape finally allows startups to challenge legacy players and rebuild what's broken from the ground up.Don't miss this honest conversation about starting a company, surviving a tough exit, and finding the spark to go again. Subscribe now!

We welcome Christian Ringstad Schultz, CEO and co-founder of the Norwegian music tech company Masterchannel – delivering industry-grade audio mastering.With a team of just two and a half people, Masterchannel has reached a million-dollar revenue run rate while mastering nearly 100,000 songs every month.In this episode, Christian shares how proprietary AI, white-label partnerships, and disciplined cost control have shaped a sustainable company in an industry where most struggle to survive.We explore the economics of staying small, building trust over time, and creating long-term advantage in a competitive AI-driven market.Listen in and join the conversation.

Join us as we dive into the dark side of the music industry with Andrew Batey and Morgan Hayduk, Co-Founders and Co-CEOs of Beatdapp.Their company, the leader in fraud detection and trust solutions, is tackling industrial-scale money laundering in music. Discover how fraudsters exploit streaming platforms, manipulate royalties, and launder millions, threatening the core of the industry. Andrew and Morgan share their bold vision of a trust and safety operating system that could reshape the music ecosystem.Tune in for a deep dive into how fraud is evolving and what needs to change.Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

The music industry doesn't need another revolution; it needs a thoughtful evolution.Björn Lindvall, CEO and Co-founder of Music Infra,  joins the podcast to explain why “blue box” tech fixes often fail and why lasting change depends on deeper infrastructure.Drawing from his finance background and co‑founding Hipgnosis, Lindvall dissects the challenges of digital licensing, outdated CWR (Common Works Registration) file standards, and mechanical rights. He shares how Music Infra is building scalable systems to cut inefficiencies and ensure rights holders and songwriters are paid fairly and on time. This is a grounded look at persistence, trust, and the long‑term vision required to solve music’s most intractable problems.Join us!

From niche record label to Apple Music Classical  Simon Eder shares the journey of building Primephonic, a specialized music tech startup acquired by Apple.We discuss the complexities of classical music streaming, from solving metadata challenges to navigating the shift from physical CDs to digital Hi-Res audio. Simon offers a grounded perspective on startup exits, investor relations, and the reality of life after acquisition. It is a quiet reflection on what it truly takes to innovate within the music industry and why understanding master rights is essential for any modern music entrepreneur.Listen now and subscribe for more conversations on innovation in music and technology.Know more about Primephonic: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primephonic/__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr00:00 Welcome and Intro00:53 Founder Background and Transition02:51 Digitalizing a Classical Label04:50 High Quality Audio Formats08:36 Building the Primephonic Brand14:53 Solving Classical Metadata Challenges21:18 Streaming Payout Models Explained28:27 In-House Tech Team Growth32:57 Apple Music Classical Acquisition45:56 Reflections on Entrepreneurial Life

Let's go behind the scenes of live music digitalization in this special Sound Connections session from the ESNS 2026 Conference.We examine the "red ocean" of ticketing with guests Mike van Gaasbeek of Stager and Yannick Corbeau of CM.com, understanding how innovative platforms are easing the heavy daily tasks of event promoters by integrating ticketing, marketing, and payments into a single workflow. The discussion distills why modern ticketing must serve as a continuous marketing strategy to keep fans engaged long after the show ends. We also tackle the difficult reality of being a founder in a space defined by small margins and high competition, offering a roadmap for future innovation.Join the conversation on ticketing innovation and rethink how you engage your audience.Visit Stager: https://stager.co/en/Visit CM.com: https://www.cm.com/About ENSN Conference 2026: https://esns.nl/en/__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr00:00 Welcome and context05:28 One platform approach09:38 Ticketing as marketing strategy13:00 Promoter economics and margins17:02 Market consolidation trends23:05 Ticketing and cash flow28:17 Brand focus and challenges34:12 Funding models and longevity41:25 Regulation and audience trust55:39 Music beyond capital

It's a new year and for our first episode, we welcome Dr. Gigi Johnson in this special partnership with BIME for a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities of music discovery today.From her decades at UCLA to her current work at Rethink Next, Gigi brings a unique perspective on how AI is reshaping creation, curation, and fandom. The conversation distills the flood of new tracks, the rise of AI‑generated music, and the algorithms that decide what listeners encounter. Jakob and Gigi reflect on transparency, personalization, and the need for human connection in saturated digital streams.This episode offers clarity and inspiration for artists navigating discovery in a noisy, algorithm‑driven world.Listen in to explore the nuances of discovery, fandom, and AI in music.Learn more about ReThink Next: https://rethinknext.com/The event took place from 29th to 31st October, 2025: https://bime.org/__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

In this value-packed episode of Sound Connections, host Jakob Wredstrøm sits down with Jesse Flores, Head of Artist and Label Partnerships at Intercept Music, to explore what it really takes to succeed as an independent artist today.If you're producing your own music, wondering how to grow a fanbase, or struggling to market your releases,  this is your blueprint. From choosing the right music distributor to understanding how paid ads, DSPs, and Spotify algorithms actually work, Jesse shares hard-earned insights that empower indie artists to take control of their careers.We cover:How to choose the right distributorWhy creative control mattersWhat $1,000 can do for your musicSmart ways to grow without a labelWhat makes indie artists succeed todayWhether you're a bedroom producer, emerging artist, or music entrepreneur, this episode will change how you think about launching and scaling your music in today’s digital landscape.Follow us NOW and learn tips on how to take ownership – creatively, financially, and strategically.

Streaming isn’t enough. If you're an artist or manager looking to grow real revenue, this episode breaks down how to use merch, email, and digital sales to build a profitable artist business.Jakob Wredstrøm talks with Jack McCarthy, co-founder of Indiepreneur and co-host of the Creative Juice podcast, about the missing revenue stream most artists ignore: direct-to-consumer e-commerce. With actionable steps, mindset shifts, and proven strategies, this episode will help you rethink how you earn from your art.Perfect for:- Independent artists- Artist managers- Music entrepreneurs- Music-tech founders- Digital marketers in musicAbout Indiepreneur: https://indepreneur.io/__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

Veteran catalog expert and CEO of Dynamite Songs, Alan Wallis joins Jakob to break down the real mechanics behind IP rights, music catalog sales, sync revenue, valuations, private equity, and long-term music investing.He shares how he built Mojo Music, acquired classic catalogs, sold to Concord, and now runs Dynamite Songs. Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:- Catalog valuation & deal red flags- Sync as a revenue driver- Streaming growth and catalog stability- Why songwriters decide to sell- How investors price risk and return- What the next decade of catalog buying looks likeA must-watch for anyone exploring the intersection of music, finance, publishing, and IP ownership.Learn more about Dynamite Songs: https://www.dynamite-songs.com/

Tom Höglund, a key figure from the founding team of Epidemic Sound, breaks down how they built a unicorn by disrupting the century-old music licensing industry.From his early days as a lawyer to creating an alternative model that pays musicians upfront and offers a 50-50 split , Tom shares the controversial journey. Discover the audacious vision to make music licensing simple and global for content creators on platforms like YouTube, challenging the traditional Performing Rights Organizations (PROs). Hear the grind, the early struggles, and the international mindset that fueled this Swedish success story.Know more about Epidemic Sound: https://www.epidemicsound.com/__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

Discover how Alex Braga built an AI 'Instrument' a decade ago — not to replace musicians, but to rediscover what makes us human.In this episode of the Sound Connections Podcast, Alex Braga, award-winning artist, performer, and creator of the A-Mint AI instrument, joins Jakob Wredstrøm to unpack the philosophy and ethics behind AI in art. From the meaning of human creativity to the illusion of machine consciousness, Alex breaks down what separates creation from generation — and why intention still defines everything.🎧 In this conversation:- Why AI-made music often lacks meaning — and what “meaning” really is- How algorithms mirror our cultural biases- The ethics of data scraping and AI training- Why we must learn to use technology without losing ourselves- Why “We Are Technology” — and what that means for the future of creativityAlex doesn’t see technology as the enemy — but as a mirror reflecting how conscious (or unconscious) we are in how we use it.This is a partnership episode with Music Tech Europe Academy: https://www.musictecheuropeacademy.eu/Find out more about A-Mint AI here: https://www.alexbraga.me/a-i__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

Who are the people behind the music that shapes how we listen?In this episode of Sound Connections, host Jakob Wredstrøm sits down with Overtone Studios CEO Niklas Brantberg, who shares how Epidemic Sound and his label built a new music economy for creators, one where focus playlists turn into real income. Jakob and Niklas unpack the business of mood music, the shift from faceless tracks to artist identity, and the impact of AI in music production.Perfect for music entrepreneurs, producers, and founders seeking inspiration on creating sustainable careers in today’s music tech landscape.Find out more about Overtone Studios here: https://www.overtone-studios.com/__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

Can finance make the music industry fairer?In this episode, Lior Tibon, CEO and Co-founder of Duetti, shares with host Jakob Wredstrøm how he’s building a platform that lets artists turn their catalogs into opportunity. From Tidal to Duetti, Lior’s journey blends financial innovation with deep respect for creators. Hear how technology, transparency, and smarter capital are shaping a new path for music ownership and catalog investment. This episode offers rare insight for music founders, investors, and creators redefining what it means to own music.Listen for lessons in creative business growth.Find out more about Duetti here: https://www.duetti.co/__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

Can AI and infrastructure finally make the music industry scalable?In this episode, Ben Mendoza, CEO and Co-Founder of Beatchain, joins host Jakob Wredstrøm to reveal how AI-driven infrastructure, data analytics, and localization are redefining the future of music entrepreneurship.Learn how Beatchain’s innovative arena model helps independent artists grow careers sustainably, how automation fixes music distribution and discovery, and why building long-term systems, not quick wins, matters for global creators.Tune in NOW for practical insights on scaling success in the music tech and creator economy revolution.Find out more about Beatchain here: https://www.beatchain.com/__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

What does it really mean to own your audience in today’s music industry?In this special partnership episode, host Jakob Wredstrøm joins Taj from The Sound of Startups and Lauriane Saint-Denis, a business developer connecting culture, innovation, and people in music tech to unpack how audience development, fan data, and music tech innovation are reshaping live events.Together they explore why ticketing platforms hold so much power, how festivals can build real fan relationships, and what artists can do to reclaim connection. Perfect for music entrepreneurs, promoters, and artist managers seeking smarter ways to grow.__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

If you’ve ever wondered how merch works behind the scenes?Seamus Menihane, CEO and co-founder of Armada, one of the fastest-growing merch companies in the music industry. From being a touring drummer to leading a 170-person team, he shares his journey of turning a DIY screen-printing hustle into a full-scale merch powerhouse.Armada supports artists in building real, profitable brands through merchandise, ensures tour merch remains a top revenue stream, and gives independent model artists more creative and financial control than traditional major label deals. This is a proper breakdown of the economics of merch, the merger that formed Armada, and why staying focused on your core strengths is key to long-term success in the music biz.Visit Armada: https://www.poweredbyarmada.com/__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

For over two decades, the music industry has struggled to answer three deceptively simple questions:What do we own? Where is it? Are we making money from it?Edward Ginis, co-founder of OpenPlay and Proto Hologram, shares how OpenPlay evolved from a bold internal project at Concord into an industry-standard platform, breaking down decades of data dysfunction and giving rights holders real control over their IP. From building enterprise tech in a slow-moving industry to parenting four kids while launching a second startup (Proto) in the middle of a pandemic, Edward brings an unfiltered look at the personal and professional highs and lows of entrepreneurship.This is for music professionals, technologists, and founders navigating complexity, scale and real life.Know more about OpenPlay: https://openplay.co/__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

How do musicians break through in today’s noisy creator economy?In this episode with Vishal Ramakrishnan, co-founder of Round music marketing technology, to explore the future of music promotion and digital marketing for artists.Vishal shares how he went from failed film composer to building a data-driven music marketing platform, the tension between authenticity vs. AI-generated content, and why micro-influencers often outperform celebrities. His mindset of solving real problems step by step reveals powerful lessons for artists and labels.Visit the website here; https://thisisround.com/__________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

What does it really take to turn a viral moment into a lasting music career?Head of US Marketing at 1RPM and a music industry veteran with over 20 years of experience has played pivotal roles in the rise of artists like Shawn Mendes, Elton John, and Nick Jonas, and she shares candidly what it really takes to build artist brands that last.Jenna breaks down real-world case studies, including the marketing behind Shawn Mendes' early success, how to make the most of breakout moments, and why understanding the artist’s story—and the fan’s mindset—is essential in crafting campaigns that resonate. The rise of TikTok, the power of YouTube, or why branding and consistency matter more than ever, Jenna’s insights are both strategic and deeply human.For artists, managers, or anyone in the business of building music careers, this episode is packed with lessons in authenticity, adaptability, and the power of the team behind the artist.Learn about ONErpm: https://onerpm.com/__________________________________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

Reflecting back to Wallifornia Music Tech Conference 2025 July, in this fiery and data-driven conversation, Jakob and Taj challenge the illusions around music tech investment. They talked about why most music startups face poor exits, why B2C music apps struggle, and why B2B infrastructure solutions hold more promise. Drawing on Taj’s tech startup experience and Jakob’s music industry research, this honest conversation offers founders, investors, and innovators key insights into the future of music technology funding.Explore Wallifornia: https://walliforniamusictech.com/___________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

It takes just one person to believe in the vision you are building. Using that mindset, Mag Rodriguez, the founder & CEO of EVEN, has been able to create a platform that helps artists sell music to fans before it hits streaming services. He shares his journey from managing artists straight out of high school to leading music initiatives at a venture fund, and finally launching EVEN to make the industry more equitable for creators.Exploring the future of fandom, why EVEN focuses on nurturing tight-knit communities instead of chasing scale, and how the platform’s pay-what-you-want model and global-first approach are changing the way artists monetize were shared in this episode.Mag also opens up about leadership, resisting early acquisition offers, and why impact—not just profit—drives his vision.Explore the platform here: https://get.even.biz/__________________________________________________________________________________________________Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

Fiverr is one of the multi-national online marketplaces for freelance services and in this episode with Adam Fine, Head of Music and Audio, we had an eye-opening conversation on how remote collaboration and AI are transforming the music industry.Topics such as the evolving landscape of music production, how AI tools like Suno are streamlining workflows and opening new creative possibilities, are discussed by both parties but even as technology accelerates, both agree on one thing: the irreplaceable value of human creativity. From the future of personalized, AI-generated tracks to Fiverr’s evolving role in supporting next-gen music services, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into what’s next for music creators and the art-tech balance shaping tomorrow’s music industry.__________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

In another episode with Rebecca Brook, she breaks down what’s really happening with Suno, Udio, and the major labels—who’s suing whom, why startups trying to “do the right thing” feel betrayed, and why the current legal landscape is making things murkier, not clearer. The conversation pulls no punches and tackles hard truths: Are the legal systems built to protect music creators? Are artists being replaced or just drowned out? Is anyone truly safe if training models on commercial music becomes normalized?Part commentary, part therapy session, and an essential listen for anyone trying to understand where music is headed—and what might be lost if we get it wrong.__________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

Strings, tours and faith.Legendary guitarist tells his story from rejection to global tours and AI innovation. The mindset and evolution of Ryan Roxie, the longtime guitarist for Alice Cooper and a true rock industry survivor shares a brutally honest and inspiring look at life on and off stage.As we explore the darker truths of the music industry through Roxie's eyes — from near-misses with record deals to understanding the harsh economics behind being a hired gun, Ryan opens up about ego in bands, the persistence needed to survive in rock, and how innovation — including AI and his own virtual avatar — has helped him creatively promote music in a saturated digital world.Beyond the glam, we explore the entrepreneurial side of being a working musician, the discipline behind longevity, and why Roxie is more focused than ever on giving back by teaching others to pick up the guitar and embrace the hustle.Check out this episode with AI Roxie; https://youtu.be/smRtM6F5ASE?si=0hExlTjT_lo3aN4F__________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

Can Physical Music Make a Comeback? Jennifer Sullivan, CMO and President of North America at KiTbetter discusses how KIT albums—a hybrid physical-digital format originating in K-pop—are transforming music monetization in the West. With insights on artist sustainability, fandom-driven commerce, and cultural shifts in music ownership, this episode explores how tangible fan engagement could reshape the indie artist economy.The conversation covers shifts in fan behavior, the comeback of tangible music ownership, and the economic challenges facing touring and independent musicians. Jennifer also shares how KiTbetter keeps production costs low and margins high, making it a viable revenue path for emerging artists.We unpack the cultural differences between East and West in fan behaviors, the undervalued power of ownership and community, and how artists today can reclaim financial independence. From the economics of independent touring to the psychology behind music collectibles, this conversation is a masterclass in where the music industry could be headed if it dares to evolve.Learn more here; https://www.kitbetter.com/en__________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

LyricFind CEO, Darryl Ballantyne, discusses the company's $1 billion antitrust lawsuit against Musixmatch and its parent company, TPG Growth. The lawsuit alleges that Musixmatch's exclusive licensing deal with Warner Chappell Music has created a monopoly in the lyrics licensing market, forcing digital service providers like Spotify and iHeartRadio to source lyrics solely from Musixmatch, often at higher costs. In this episode, Darryl emphasizes the broader implications of such monopolistic practices on independent artists, publishers, and the overall health of the music industry.Explore LyricFind here; https://www.lyricfind.com/Learn more about the lawsuit here; https://www.linkedin.com/posts/lyricfind-inc-_why-weve-sued-musixmatch-and-the-private-activity-7303121877567184896-UYpS?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&rcm=ACoAAC7GsG4B3q6TQjXTo4t2PQ2fbFO7PbDPCtA__________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

Concluding the 3-day music tech conference 2025 at Belgium, we share one of our partnership episodes with Rachel Young as she shares her expert lens on how artists, founders, and music companies can leverage digital platforms to build sustainable careers.Taking lessons from her pivotal work launching and developing TikTok’s music distribution service, SoundOn, and reflecting on how TikTok reshaped music discovery, monetization, and community building, she debunks common myths about content creation to practical strategies for nurturing fandom and generating revenue.Now helping music tech founders, record labels and investors make smarter product & commercial decisions, Rachel offers clear, actionable insights that connect the dots between creative output, technology, and audience behavior. Explore Wallifornia: https://walliforniamusictech.com/___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

From his academic roots and work at AI Music to launching RoEx, Dr. David Ronan, founder and CEO, shares how his AI-powered platform is transforming music production by lowering the technical barriers in mixing and mastering. A rare look at the intersection of machine learning and musical expression to the emotional nuances of mixing, he tell us why assistive AI is the future of creative workflows in audio.He holds a PhD in Electronic Engineering and Computer Science from Queen Mary University of London, where his research focused on intelligent audio production tools, including fully autonomous multitrack mixing systems. His expertise spans digital signal processing, machine learning, and software engineering, with previous roles at Native Instruments, Northrop Grumman, and Sonardyne International.Passionate about the intersection of creativity and technology, Dr. David is committed to empowering music creators and redefining the future of audio production.Explore RoEx here; https://www.roexaudio.com/___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

It is more than a design. We are looking into the evolving importance of brand in music tech, how storytelling and authentic connection drive loyalty, and offering practical advice for founders who want to shape identity, visually and verbally.All these are discussed with Erik Herrström, the creative director in Vienna who has worked with top-tier brands like Nike, Spotify, and Google and then, launched STUDIO HERRSTRÖM, an agency committed to shaping brand identities that resonate deeply in music tech and beyond.Learn more about the agency: https://www.studioherrstrom.com/___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

For our next partnership episode, we have Collette Tibbetts, founder of Joker Deck, for a no‑fluff look at why music tech investing demands wild card thinking.Collette blends her experience as a songwriter and investor to explain why traditional VC frameworks often fall short in the music space—and how her angel syndicate, Joker Deck, is flipping the script. Drawing from industry nuance, lived artistic insight, and behavioral economics, she argues for smaller checks, deeper support, and an entirely new way to frame value.___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

With over 20 releases, a Netflix series soundtrack, and chairing Denmark’s top songwriting organizations, Danish musician and advocate dives deep into the challenges of sustaining a music career in an industry where streaming pays fractions and social media demands pay-to-play tactics.Find out how Anna Lidell's startup, SLEEVE, enables musicians to build direct, monetizable relationships with their fans—bypassing traditional gatekeepers and finally giving artists ownership of their audience. Building with a lean team to generate more income from a handful of superfans than from Spotify streams, Anna reflects on the broken music revenue system and explains the power of community, authentic storytelling, and owning your audience using timing, trust, and a craving for authenticity.Explore the platform; https://sleeve.fm/sleeve-for-artists/___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

How does a song become a multi-million dollar asset? With a career that began in talent and label management at M.E.R. Group—home to EDM icon Alan Walker—Yonas brings a unique, full-stack perspective on what gives music lasting value. Now leading operations at one of the most sophisticated music investment funds in the U.S., he reveals the internal mechanics behind valuing music catalogs, why evergreens matter, and how his team builds a generational portfolio from both legacy artists and active creators.All this and more as we sit with Yonas Aregai, Chief of Staff at Gold State Music, to explore the fast-evolving world of music rights acquisition.Learn more about Gold State Music; https://goldstate.com/___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

With roots in building digital experiences for artists like Childish Gambino and SZA, Megh and Chuka co-founded  Symphony — an all-in-one marketing platform tailored for creators. In this episode, they share their journey from agency life to launching a scalable SaaS solution that simplifies marketing, data, and fan engagement for a new generation of artists. From LA grind to AI-driven global impact, this is a candid look into the future of music tech.Learn more about Symphony here; https://beta.symphonyos.co/homepage___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

PARTNERSHIP WITH WALLIFORNIA 2025We explore the evolution of music discovery alongside Aurélien Hérault, Chief Innovation Officer at Deezer. From early editorial playlists to today’s AI-powered recommendation engines, Aurélien explains why Deezer labels—and withholds promotion of—100 % AI-generated tracks, how it detects fraudulent streaming activity, and the metrics that guide “lean-back” versus “discovery” modes. You are about to listen to a clear, behind-the-scenes look at the technology and ethical choices shaping what you hear next.Explore Deezer here; www.deezer.comAbout the 9th edition of the Wallifornia Music + Tech Summit in July 2025;https://walliforniamusictech.com/___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

Let's explore the journey of Tom Allen, CTO of Downtown Music Group and founder of Curve. Tom shares how he went from an independent-label intern to building a bootstrapped music-data platform that earned its acquisition. You’ll hear his insights on blending deep technical know-how with customer-driven iteration, and how he fosters a people-first culture across global engineering teams, the value of staying close to the user, and why being “leaderful” matters more than just leading. A masterclass in music techLearn about Curve: https://www.curveforcreators.com/about-curveLearn about Downtown Music: https://downtownmusic.com/___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

In a world where billions of songs compete for attention, one company is ensuring every creator gets paid what they’re owed. Hans Peter Roth shares how he transformed Muserk from a microsync licensing side project into the leading U.S. rights administrator, claiming an unexpected \$500K from YouTube in 2017 and growing to manage over 20 million works today. He explains why U.S. mechanical royalties are a tangle all their own, how strategic pivots and industry partnerships drive growth, and why markets in Africa and APAC hold massive untapped potential. Plus, discover the metadata challenges of AI-generated “ghost” tracks and the role of standards like DDEX in cleaning up the data chaos. In this episode, learn about a clear, factual look at the infrastructure that powers a fairer, more transparent music industry.Visit Muresk here; https://muserk.com/___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

Turntable.fm was Joseph Perla’s first breakout hit in 2011 — now he’s back with Hangout.fm, a fully licensed platform that brings shared music experiences online. In this episode, Joseph reveals how a failed music rights negotiation taught him lessons that shaped his career at Facebook and Lyft, and fueled his four-year battle to secure label agreements for Hangout.fm.How did he raise funding from Founders Fund, partner with Discord and other social apps alongside his plans to roll out virtual goods?They are all in this episode.Explore the platform here; https://hangout.fm/___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

From island beats to global charts, Gineyda Cornelio, Director of Marketing & Latin Strategy at AudioMack is rewriting the rules of today’s music business. She traces her own path from club social-media gigs in Miami to guiding AudioMack’s Latin growth, then breaks down the numbers behind the genre’s 19% listener surge, the rise of independent distribution, and why Bad Bunny, Karol G, and regional Mexican stars are changing global charts. She shares candid insights on licensing hurdles, touring economics, and the power of color-coded branding that turns casual listeners into loyal advocates.___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

Knowledge is the new currency for independent musicians—and Ryan Schmidt, Esq., wants every artist to have plenty in the bank. In this episode, the artist-turned-music-lawyer explains Foundation App, a gamified pocket “music-business school” for delivering two-to-five-minute lessons on contracts, royalties, publishing, tour deals, mental health, and more. This conversation covers business skills for musicians and shows how shrinking the knowledge gap helps creators dodge bad agreements, forge stronger label and management partnerships, and maps the mindset—and the practical steps—needed to level up and earn sustainably in 2025’s evolving music landscape.Engage with the Foundation App here; http://foundationapp.xyz/___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

From throwing a DIY festival in his hometown to running a 12‑person, AI‑driven marketing startup in Paris, Clémentin’s journey shows how grit and smart pivots can turn a bedroom idea into a global business tool. In another partnership episode with Music Tech Europe Academy, he shares the highs and lows of building Control Reach, formerly Your Music Marketing —including hard‑won lessons on fundraising, choosing a market, and steering a team through radical change.Learn more about Music Tech Europe Academy: https://www.musictecheuropeacademy.eu/Visit Your Music Marketing: https://yourmusic.marketing/___________________________________________________________________________Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

PARTNERSHIP WITH WALLIFORNIA 2025Are you raising your first round or scouting high‑growth startups? In our first partnership episode with Xavier Peters, CEO of Belgium‑based venture fund, LeanSquare, he explains how his team backs late‑seed and pre‑Series A startups across music, sport, esports, and gaming—and why a strong founder mindset and a clear market need outweigh everything else, including funding in music technology and the ecosystem shaping its future.About the 9th edition of the Wallifornia Music + Tech Summit in July 2025;https://walliforniamusictech.com/Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

Metadata may be the unglamorous backbone of music, but it decides who gets paid. In this episode, entrepreneur and technologist Jacob Varghese explains how his company Noctil uses supervised machine‑learning to link millions of usage logs with the right ownership data, turning “black‑box” royalties into real income for creators. He traces his journey from a 2012 consulting project to a fully bootstrapped, modular platform that now supports publishers, labels, and collecting societies. Along the way, you will hear why blanket licenses and legacy systems leave gaps, how AI can lift match rates by double‑digit percentages, and what policy changes could finally simplify licensing in the streaming and AI era. If you want a clear, jargon‑free look at the hidden infrastructure behind every play button, this conversation delivers it.Learn more about the platform here; https://www.noctil.com/Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

Let's get an inside look at how Alex and Nicholas from Beat Connect are reshaping music production through a fresh take on collaboration. Hear about their journey building a DAW that bridges the gap between pros and newcomers, drawing inspiration from gaming to create an intuitive, real-time creative experience. They also discuss tackling industry roadblocks and why making music more accessible could redefine how artists connect, share, and innovate worldwide.Find out more here; https://www.beatconnect.com/Sponsored by Allfeat: Decentralized Blockchain Solutions for the Music Industry - https://www.allfeat.com/Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures