The Kick & Snare Podcast

In this episode, Molly Neuman joins Michael Nevins to share how CD Baby has changed (and what’s coming next), why the artist “DIY” journey is way more complex than people think, and how platforms earn trust when the experience is intuitive and fair. They also get into the pressure artists feel to do everything (music, content, business), and why it’s worth being honest about what success can look like. Along the way: Riot Grrrl, music scenes, and community-building; drumming as both craft and metaphor (multiple limbs / multiple priorities); and the mindset Molly uses to navigate a long, evolving career in music and tech. 00:00 - Kick & Snare intro 00:18 - Meet Molly Neuman (CD Baby President) 02:43 - Squiggly careers 04:53 - What CD Baby does today (and why “DIY” is more complex than it sounds) 06:59 - Molly’s Downtown journey: Songtrust → CMO → CD Baby 08:58 - Repositioning CD Baby: infrastructure, operations, and competing in a crowded market 11:24 - “By artists, for artists” + modern artist needs (global scale, new expectations) 12:38 - UX is the brand: why product experience beats logos 14:05 - Labels as filters: identity, taste, and trust (Discord, scenes, discovery) 18:26 - Labels as filters: identity, taste, and trust (Discord, scenes, discovery) 22:40 - Scenes, movements, and Riot Grrrl: how it grew (and what it wasn’t) 37:15 - Representation and visibility: why it changes people’s lives 42:12 - Career growth via new environments (Kickstarter lessons, scaling Songtrust) 44:36 - Untapped opportunity: supporting more women creators 45:51 - Getting her start as a drummer: learning by watching the kick drum 52:28 - Getting better in your 50s 53:51 - Drumming and leadership: multitasking, anticipation, staying in time 55:36 - Artist tools: being real about what artists need now 58:05 - What Molly’s listening to right now + closing  

Cliff Fluet (partner at Louis Silkin, joint head of Media & Entertainment; Chair of Music Technology UK; founder of Eleven Advisory) joins Michael Nevins to unpack how music, tech, and IP are colliding in the age of AI. We cover: why MusicTechnology UK focuses on funding + ecosystem building, why Cliff believes AI is a paradigm shift on the scale of electricity, and his core argument: “Copyright isn’t the problem. Licensing is the answer.” Plus: the case for focusing on outputs vs inputs, the music industry’s data problem, and practical advice for founders and people breaking into music tech. ​Cliff Fluet (Louis Silkin): #MusicTech #AI #Copyright #Licensing #MusicIndustry #startups 00:00 - Start 00:23 - Intro: Cliff Fluet (Louis Silkin, MusicTech UK, Eleven Advisory) 01:54 - From hi-fi salesman to Warner Music: Cliff’s origin story 04:00 - Warner Music in the CD boom → internet flips the industry 04:47 - New media at Warner: early streaming + disruption 05:51 - The jump to radio: “I’ve got to go on the other side and get some rights from you.” 06:57 - Private practice: advising mobile + early streaming (Pandora → DSPs) 07:58 - Why “legal + strategic” (and founding Eleven Advisory) 09:22 - Building MusicTech UK: the what and the why 12:56 - The #1 problem for music tech startups 16:03 - Community + “space & place”: H.O.M.E. + Tileyard Studios ecosystems 19:48 - Does the UK get enough credit for music innovation? 23:58 - AI as a revolution (not an evolution) 33:47 - AI training data + copyright: can we “unscramble the egg”? 34:23 - Key thesis: “Licensing is the answer” (outputs vs inputs) 38:13 - Flying the plane while building it: contracting in uncertainty 44:13 - The music industry’s biggest blind spot: data 48:16 - Disruption vs curiosity: what founders get wrong 51:56 - Career advice: curiosity wins 54:25 - What Cliff is listening to now 56:23 - Cool tech: Bria & Uhmbrella 57:07 - Closing: “help write music’s next verse.”

Michael Nevins welcomes guest Alan Chappell, President of Chappell and Associates, ad tech privacy expert, and multifaceted musician. Alan shares insights into balancing a demanding legal career with his passion for music, discussing his songwriting process, the impact of AI on the creative industry, and experiences working with renowned producers like Jimmy Einer and Jerry Harrison. The conversation explores the evolution of music technology, incorporating personal anecdotes about Alan's musical journey and his perspectives on the integration of creativity and business. Alan also offers advice for aspiring creatives, emphasizing the importance of embracing chaos in the creative process. ​ More about Alan and his music: https://thisischapell.com/ And More about Chappell & Associates: https://thisischapell.com/chapellassociates/

In this episode of The Kick & Snare Podcast, host Michael Nevins talks with Richard James Burgess, President & CEO of A2IM (American Association of Independent Music). They explore what defines “independent,” how A2IM supports its member labels, the challenges of streaming payouts, the battle for fair compensation from platforms like TikTok, and what’s next for music and AI. Richard also shares stories and insights from his varied music career as a drummer, signed artist, producer, artist manager, label exec, and his current role at A2IM.  Fun facts: Richard coined the term “EDM” (Electronic Dance Music), produced Spandau Ballet, and was an innovator and early adopter in music tech, He contributed to the development of the the first Simmons electronic drum kits and championed the The Fairlight CMI, a ground breaking digital synthesizer, music sampler, and digital audio workstation, This episode is an essential listen for anyone passionate about independent music, digital rights, music tech, and innovation in the music industry. 🌐 Learn more about A2IM: https://a2im.org/ 00:00 - Intro: Meet Richard Burgess 01:16 - Discussion Outline and Topics 03:12 - Understanding A2IM and A Definition of “Independent” in Music 05:27 - History and Mission of A2IM and Digital Disruption 11:01 - Indies vs Majors: A Complicated Relationship 13:25 - Misconceptions About Independent Labels 14:31 - The Critical Role of Independent Labels in Music Innovation 17:05 - Support and Advocacy for Independent Labels and Artists 20:51 - Challenges and Opportunities in the Digital Music Landscape 25:08 - The Impact of AI on Independent Music 27:45 - Supporting Artist Well-Being Through A2IM Programs 30:48 - Health Insurance for Artists 34:10 - Reflecting on a Decade at A2IM 38:34 - Transitioning Leadership at A2IM 41:55 - A Journey Through Music: From Drummer to Producer 43:38 - From Drummer to Studio Musician 44:40 - From Drummer for Hire to Signed Artist 46:29 - Transition to Producing, Including Producing Spandau Ballet 47:06 - Coining The Terms “EDM” and “New Romantic Movement” 48:24 - Why Drummers Are Often Great Producers 49:52 - The Move To Artist Management, Smithsonian Folkways, And How Lead Belly Played A Role 50:53 - Getting Involved With A2IM 51:20 - Studying at Berklee with Alan Dawson 53:45 - Advice for Artists & Labels: Finding Your Audience

🎙️ In this episode of The Kick and Snare Podcast, Michael Nevins speaks with Chantal Epp, founder and CEO of ClicknClear, a music rights tech company solving licensing issues for choreographed sports like cheerleading, dance, and gymnastics. Chantal shares her journey from music licensing at a Peter Gabriel startup to becoming a two-time world champion cheerleader and creating a solution to a widespread problem in the sports and performing arts world. We dive into: ✅ How ClicknClear helps athletes and teams license music legally ✅ The unique challenges of music rights for sports routines ✅ Building inclusive cheerleading programs & Paralympic initiatives ✅ The role of Music Technology UK in supporting founders ✅ Challenges facing music tech startups today 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of music, technology, and business. 👉 For more on Click n Clear: https://www.clicknclear.com 👉 Follow Kick & Snare Podcast: https://kickandsnare.com 00:00 - Introduction to Chantal Epp & ClicknClear 03:50 - The Challenge of Music Licensing in Sports 05:47 - The Role of Education in Music Licensing 07:22 - Chantal’s Journey as a World Champion Cheerleader 09:15 - Advocacy for Inclusive Cheerleading And Other Sports 15:01 - Navigating Language and Inclusion 19:15 - The Importance of Community and Music Technology UK 21:04 - Key Challenges Facing Music Tech Startups 24:14 - Women in Male-Dominated Industries 30:06 - Chantal’s Personal Connection to Music 33:17 - The Therapeutic Power of Music #MusicTech #ChantalEpp #ClicknClear #MusicLicensing #Cheerleading #AdaptiveSports #MusicTechnologyUK #KickAndSnarePodcast #FounderStories    

In this episode of the Kick & Snare podcast, Michael interviews Katie Debrah, founder of Halo and Echo, a creative advertising consultancy for music, culture, and platforms. Katie shares her journey from YouTuber to marketing professional, recounting her years at Google in product and marketing, as well as her transition to becoming an independent consultant. She discusses her new venture, the HypeMuse app, which is designed to help independent artists focus more on their music than on self-promotion. Katie also discusses her involvement with Music Technology UK and the challenges currently facing music tech startups. Tune in to explore Katie's insights on the evolving relationship between tech and the music industry, her personal experiences, and her exciting new projects. #AIinMusic #MusicProduction #HypeMuse #MusicTechnology #google   🌐 Learn more about Katie Debrah and Halo And Echo: https://www.katiedebrah.com   00:00 - Introduction to Kick & Snare Podcast 00:18 - Meet Katie Debrah: Founder of Halo and Echo 00:43 - Katie’s Journey in Marketing and Tech 01:24 - Transition to Entrepreneurship and developing HypeMuse 01:49 - Challenges and Opportunities for Independent Artists 02:33 - Katie’s Experience at Google 04:15 - The Decision to Go Independent 08:31 - Developing Marketing Tech for Artists: More about HypeMuse 21:07 - The Role of Music Tech UK 25:46 - Challenges in Music and Tech Startups 32:30 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts  

🎧 In this episode of The Kick & Snare Podcast, host Michael Nevins sits down with David Ronan, founder and CEO of RoEx, to explore how AI is reshaping music production. RoEx is building powerful, intuitive tools that make high-quality music creation faster, easier, and more accessible, especially for emerging artists and bedroom producers. We dig into the mission behind RoEx, how user feedback drives smarter design, and what makes their approach to AI in audio production unique. David also shares how Music Technology UK and Innovate UK are helping UK-based startups like his tackle challenges in visibility, funding, and industry trust. 🚀 Highlights include: – How RoEx simplifies music mixing with AI – Why control, privacy, and creativity still matter – The challenges of raising investment in music tech – RoEx’s plans to expand into film & TV post-production Whether you're a producer, tech enthusiast, or curious about the future of music creation, this conversation delivers. #AIinMusic #MusicProduction #RoEx #MusicTechnology #AudioInnovation #kickandsnare

​In this second episode of our Music Technology UK Member Spotlight Series, Michael Nevins speaks with Hazel Savage, CEO of Syntho and a music tech pioneer whose journey spans founding the AI startup Musio (later acquired by SoundCloud). Hazel discusses working across global music companies and now leading one of the UK’s most exciting startups. Hazel opens up about her fast-track return from “retirement,” what makes Syntho different in a world flooded with online music education, and how community insights drive product innovation. They explore themes of gender equity in tech, IP in the age of AI, what makes a startup fundable, and the role of organizations like Music Technology UK in elevating early-stage companies. Whether you're into music, startups, or the business of innovation, this one’s packed with sharp insights and fun stories.​ 00:00 - Introduction to Hazel Savage and Syntho 01:50 - Hazel’s Role at Syntho and Rapid Return from Retirement 06:13 - Community Engagement and User Feedback at Syntho 09:16 - Lessons Learned About Demonstrating Value 13:56 - Trust And The Importance of The People Behind The Tech 14:43 - The Challenges of IP in Music Tech 15:57 - The Widening Attitude Gap: Tech vs IP 17:38 - What Sets Syntho Apart in the Market 19:28 - Syntho’s Unique Value Proposition in a Crowded Market 20:41 - Production Value Matters - Does It Scream Professional? 23:37 - Hazel’s Squiggly Career Path in Music & Music Tech 25:22 - Getting Her Start At HMV 25:51 - Early Days At Shazam & Learning to Love Working In Tech 27:39 - Headehunted Out By Universal Music 28:39 - The Importance of Executive Sponsorship to Support Innovation 32:01 - On Being The Only Woman In The Room 35:06 - Music Tech UK and Building Industry Community 38:14 - Startup Investment Challenges in the UK 41:00 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts 🎙️ Subscribe for more candid convos with leaders shaping the future of music and media. 📌 Learn more about Hazel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hazelsavage/ ​📌 Learn more about Syntho: https://www.synthohub.com ​​Stay tuned for follow-up conversations with more leaders from a variety of MTUK's membership. 

Can music heal? In this episode, Gary Jones, CEO of MediMusic, joins us to explore how personalized playlists are improving patient outcomes. We dive into the science behind music as medicine, the regulatory roadblocks, and how startups are breaking through industry noise. Plus, hear how Music Technology  UK is supporting UK-based music tech companies.

In this episode of The Kick & Snare podcast, host Michael Nevins interviews Matt Carmel, Chief Executive of Music Technology UK. They discuss the mission, goals, and advocacy initiatives of Music Tech UK, as well as the innovations brought forth by its diverse membership. They touch on a range of fascinating topics from AI's role in music creation to immersive live events and music for wellness. They also delve into Matt's career journey, highlighting the convergence of his passions for music, technology, and communications. Tune in to learn more about the vibrant world of music technology and the future it holds! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:01 Goals for the Episode 01:20 Understanding Music Tech UK's Mission 04:07 Innovative Members of Music Tech UK 10:24 AI in Music Technology 14:32 Success Stories and Member Support 16:56 Upcoming Events and Initiatives 19:32 Advocacy and Policy Efforts 23:41 Matt Carmel's Career Journey 25:16 The Birth of Music Tech UK 25:51 Career Trajectories and Early Beginnings 29:01 Transition to Journalism 29:35 The Changing Landscape of Media and Communications 34:05 Experiences in Trade Associations 37:58 Shoutouts and Influential Figures 43:22 Music Recommendations and Personal Stories 47:05 How to Get Involved with Music Tech UK  

Navigating Transformational Media: A Conversation with Elana Sofko In this episode of Kick and Snare, we sit down with Elana Sofko, the founder and principal of EBS_AF, to discuss her fascinating career history and her current role in her consulting and advisory practice. Elana shares insights into her work at various technological and media inflection points, her early days as an audio engineer, and key moments at Sirius, A&E, Nokia, ESPN, WWE, and Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment. She also offers valuable advice for aspiring professionals and delves into gender dynamics in the industry. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, innovation, and practical advice. 00:00 - Introduction & Welcome to Elana Sofko 01:01 - Elana Sofko’s Current Role and Consulting Practice 02:54 - Elana’s Start in Audio for Live Events 05:25 - Point of Purchase Radio and the Evolution to Digital Audio 09:22 - Seizing the Opportunity: Elana Makes A Bold Move To The Business Side 13:34 - Taking Risks When Opportunity Knocks 14:41 - Pioneering Work At Sirius Satellite Radio 16:39 - Transition to TV 19:55 - Mobile: Innovating In A Traditional Environment 22:47 - Women Leading Innovation 23:55 - Flipping The Script: Building A Global Content Business At Nokia 29:19 - Working Global Markets & Cultures At Nokia 32:06 - ESPN: A Challenge To Motivate Innovation 33:51 - Entering The Ring: Global Expansion at WWE! 38:45 - Becoming COO and Acquiring 9 Companies At Chicken Soup For The Soul 44:13 - Being “The Only Woman In The Room” - How Can Men Be Better Allies? 47:54 - Inspirational People: Who Are They & How Have They Inspired You? 51:39 - Elana’s Words Of Wisdom: The Journey As The Destination 55:12 - Final Thoughts: Elana’s Answers The Critical Questions ;)  

Exploring the World of Digital Drums with Allan Leibowitz - Kick & Snare Podcast In this episode of Kick & Snare, host Michael sits down with Allan Leibowitz, founder and editor of digitalDrummer Magazine, to discuss the booming electronic drum market. Allan shares his journey from rediscovering drumming as an adult to launching the successful digitalDrummer Magazine. They delve into the technology behind electronic drums, the challenges and advantages, and their growing role in live performances and home studios. The conversation also explores the impact of electronic drums on music education and accessibility for differently-abled drummers. Tune in for an insightful discussion on how electronic drums are reshaping the drumming landscape. 00:00:00 - Intro to Allan Leibowitz & How We Each Came To Electronic Drums 00:02:08 - The lack of information and critical reviews of electronic drums 00:03:09 - The problem with the music instrument magazine publishing industry 00:03:32 - The Launch of digitalDrummer Magazine 00:05:28 - More About The Lack of True Critical Journalism in Music and Music Tech 00:07:42 - Influencers.  Can we trust their reviews? 00:09:42 - Electronic Drums  & Triggers - How Do They Work? 00:11:25 - How The Technology is Changing 00:13:54 - Interoperability and Innovation in Electronic Drums 00:20:45 - Electronic Drums in Live Performance - The Big Tours 00:23:46 - Electronic Drums in Live Performance - Weekend Warriors 00:25:56 - Looks Still Matter - The Perception Problem 00:27:45 - Mastery of Electronic Drums - Key to Getting Gigs 00:29:59 - Sonic Possibilities 00:31:56 - E-Drums In The Studio 00:37:20 - Electronic Kits in Music Education 00:46:06 - Stem Separation - On the Module? 00:50:57 - Accessibility and Electronic Drumming  00:55:27 - Time to Raise the Profile of Finger Drumming  00:58:07 - Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Kick & Snare Podcast, Michael Nevins welcomes Gary Geller, founder of Breakpoint Digital, for more fascinating conversation as Gary's experiences in the music industry and beyond just don’t fit in one show. Gary shares stories from attending iconic concerts like Led Zeppelin at MSG and Leon Russell at the Fillmore East to his career transitions from living on the road as a tour manager for various artists, including the Sex Pistols and Living Colour, to his significant contributions to the tech industry, notably with music content innovators, Muze. The journey encompasses his deep dive into music metadata, e-commerce, and later roles driving business forward with various digital companies. Throughout the discussion, Gary underscores the importance of relationships and being good to people in sustaining a successful and fulfilling career. 00:00 Introduction 00:53 Gary's First Concert Experience 01:43 Favorite Concert Memories 03:00 Transitioning from the Road 05:24 Life on the Road: The Realities 07:23 Maintaining Relationships on Tour 09:15 Working with Al Jarreau and David Sanborn 13:20 Living Colour and Vernon Reid 17:55 Transition to Muze: The Early Days 23:22 Empowering Retail with Music Metadata 23:52 Investors with Opposite Personalities 25:11 The Evolution of Retail 27:39 The Rise of E-commerce 31:38 The Impact of Streaming and iTunes 34:44 Career Transitions and New Ventures 42:46 Advice for the Next Generation 44:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Kick & Snare Podcast, host Michael Nevins welcomes his dear friend, Gary Geller, founder of Breakpoint Digital. Gary shares fascinating stories from his extensive career in the music industry, starting from his early days working with various bands to his pivotal role in the Rolling Stones' Steel Wheels tour. They discuss Gary's innovative work with Effanel Music, his experiences with iconic bands like Van Halen, Living Colour, and The Sex Pistols, and other adventures in tour and production management. Tune in for an inside look at the music industry's golden era and the personal journey of a seasoned professional. Don't miss part two for more of Gary’s tales from the road and back in the real world!

Join host Michael Nevins as he interviews Andrew Rosenman, the President of Arise Media Group, a leading Connected TV planning and buying agency. Celebrating almost 20 years in business, Andrew shares insights into his company's evolution and their role in public service campaigns. They delve into digital advertising and advanced TV and discuss the importance of media with a public purpose. From his early career, influenced by futuristic insights to leadership in digital media, Andrew provides perspectives on the industry's future. An engaging discussion filled with humor, history, and thought-provoking ideas about advertising, targeting, privacy, and more.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of narrative design with Tobin Travarthen, founder of Spatial Shift by Tobin. Tobin shares his journey from sales and business development to creating immersive workshops that help companies redefine their narratives. We explore the distinctions between storytelling and narrative creation, discuss the impact of AI on narrative development, and delve into Tobin's eclectic career, including his experiences as a DJ, and how these diverse backgrounds influence his innovative approaches today. Join us for an insightful conversation on creativity, neurodiversity in the workplace, and the evolving landscape of media and branding.