Music Business Insider Podcast

Top Music Attorney Ben McLane REVEALS the Biggest Contract Mistakes Artists Make In this episode, Top Music Attorney Ben McLane REVEALS the Biggest Contract Mistakes Artists Make, Renowned top music attorney Ben Mclane joins us to break down how record deals have evolved, new strategies in music distribution, and what every emerging artist must know before signing with a label or investor. We also dive into licensing vs. ownership, the power of artist independence, and key legal pitfalls to watch out for. Perfect for songwriters, producers, and independent artists who want to protect their creative rights and build lasting music careers!

In this episode, 'The Art of Letting Go: Joe Zook's GAME-CHANGING Advice for Musicians', dives deep with acclaimed mixing engineer and producer Joe Zook, revealing his journey from tribute bands in Boulder to mixing hits for artists like OneRepublic and U2. Discover how technology, creativity, and authenticity fuel Joe's approach to music production, his early days with Quincy Jones, and his lessons for anyone looking to build a career as a music engineer or musician. This episode is packed with practical advice and music industry insights for artists, engineers, and producers alike!

In this episode entitled, How Top Booking Agents REALLY Spot Breakout Artists, we sit down with veteran United Talent Agency UTA  music agent Ben Hogan to uncover the crucial role of live music in building a successful artist career. Ben shares his journey from raver to music promoter, reveals why live performance can outlast streaming success, and explains the importance of creative teams and real-world experience in the industry. Perfect for aspiring agents, artists, and anyone looking to make their mark on the live music scene!

In the episode, 'Building Superfans in the Streaming Era of Spotify – Expert Advice for Musicians', we dive into the future of music with Nick Holmsten, the visionary behind some of Spotify's most innovative features, as he joins the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast. We explore how AI, the streaming revolution, and the attention economy are shaping the fan-artist relationship, personal storytelling, and the new era of super fans. Discover why building community and authentic connections is more critical than ever for artists in today's music industry.

Inside the Secret World of Sync: How Top Brands REALLY Pick Music. What does it really take to land your song in a major ad campaign? In this episode, we sit down with Jessica Entner, VP of Sync at Warner Chappell Music, who's navigated the worlds of independent music and major publishing. Jessica shares her journey from songwriter to sync leader, reveals the hidden relationship-building skills behind successful placements, and discusses how seasonality, timing, and emotional impact drive the music licensing world. Get top insight on how sync works for artists, from advertising to artist development!

How Are Music Lawyers REVOLUTIONIZING Artist Deals in 2025? Dive into the world of music law with Brianna Schwartz and Alexis Schreiber, the groundbreaking duo behind Schwartz and Schreiber Law Firm. In this episode of the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, discover how their innovative, artist-centric approach is reshaping legal representation in the music industry. From AI and blockchain impacts to streaming contract innovations, get essential insights for navigating today's evolving music business landscape!

Dive into the world of sync licensing with the visionary, Lionel Lodge, founder of SyncLodge. In this episode of the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, we uncover Lionel's remarkable journey from a recording artist to a sync licensing pioneer. Learn about the rapid changes in sync licensing for visual media, the importance of authentic music, and how SyncLodge is simplifying the licensing process. Perfect for independent artists and industry veterans alike!

Tune into this episode entitled, 'Music Industry vs. Mental Health: Are We Doing Enough?' of the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast where we sit with David Andreone to discuss his unique journey from music executive to psychotherapist. Explore the intricate connection between creativity and mental health struggles and learn how David aids artists in navigating challenges like imposter syndrome and the pressures of monetizing art. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dedicated to understanding the mental wellness landscape within the music and entertainment industries!

Dive into the world of film scoring and production with Simon Franglen, acclaimed composer known for his work on Titanic and Avatar, in this milestone 100th episode!

Dive deep into the intersection of music, technology, and brands with Jesse Kirshbaum, CEO of the Nue Agency, on the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast. Learn how Jesse crafts iconic partnerships with giants like Spotify and McDonald's and discover the critical elements that drive successful artist-brand collaborations in today's evolving landscape. With insights into the future of music through web three and AI, this episode is a must for anyone committed to navigating the music industry.

Join us in this fascinating episode as we welcome Dina Cerchione, a stylist with over three decades of experience in Hollywood, to discuss the profound connection between fashion and music. Explore how personal style and brand identity can elevate an artist's image, making it essential in today's competitive market. Discover Dina's six-step process to transform your wardrobe and life! Whether you're an artist wanting to stand out or simply want to boost your confidence, this is a must-listen!

Join us for this intriguing episode entitled, "I Built a Music Venue Inside a Cave and You Won't Believe What Happened!" featuring Todd Mayo, the visionary mind behind The Caverns, a world-renowned music venue set in Tennessee's majestic cave landscapes. Discover Todd's inspiring transformation from an advertising executive to a music industry pioneer. We delve into his deeply reflective journey, overcoming personal challenges, and creating a unique space that unites people through music. Learn about Todd's philosophies on risk-taking and resilience and how he balances dreams with real-world action. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to be inspired by the power of music and personal discovery!

Explore the Journey of Ryan Dusick: Founding Drummer of Maroon 5

Discover in the episode, 'Finding Success In The Music Industry Through Engaging Your True Fans' the secrets of success in niche music genres with Benjamin Groff on the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast.

Join us for an eye-opening episode entitled, 'Music Marketing: Transforming Fans into Superfans in 2025' featuring Johnny Dwinell from Daredevil Production! Discover how major artists like Luke Bryan navigate today's music promotion landscape and why promoting a single on a major market can cost up to $1,000,000. Johnny shares valuable insights into the power of digital platforms and the importance of nurturing your core audience into superfans. Learn actionable tips from industry icons like Gary Vaynerchuk and success stories such as Taylor Swift, all packed into this episode full of strategic digital marketing secrets!

In this episode entitled, 'The Top 10 Music Industry Jobs in the Music Business in 2025', of the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, hosts Eric Knight and Ritch Esra explore the Top 10 Music Careers in 2025 that are shaping the industry today. From producers to artist managers, dive into the careers that blend creativity with business acumen to drive success in the evolving music landscape. Whether you're an artist or looking to work behind the scenes, this episode offers valuable insights for carving out your path in the music industry.

Explore the world of A&R with Pete Ganbarg on this episode of the "MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast", Artist and Repertoire A&R Masterclass With Pete Ganbarg Atlantic Records.

Can You REALLY Make It BIG in the Music Industry in 2025? Unveil the secrets to a thriving music career in 2025 with hosts Ritch Esra and Eric Knight on the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast. From Muse's dynamic video strategies to the rising importance of sonic branding and AI-driven performances, this episode offers a comprehensive look at navigating the modern music landscape. We also discuss mental health, content creation, and overcoming the high costs of touring. Your ultimate guide to music industry success starts here!

How Sync Placements Can Boost an Artist's Career? Join us on the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast as Peymon Maskan discusses the significant shifts in music supervision over the past decade. From the increased integration of music in advertising to the use of social media platforms like TikTok, discover how these changes are shaping the industry. Maskan also shares memorable sync placement stories and offers expert advice for aspiring music supervisors.

In this episode, 'Marcus Spence's PROVEN Formula for Music Industry Success' of the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, we sit down with the visionary Marcus Spence, who shares his journey from buying show tickets to managing top talents like Michael B. Jordan and Guy Sebastian. Marcus delves into strategic insights on navigating the music industry, adapting management styles, and leveraging international markets for success. Discover how he built a diverse label and the importance of education for artists in today's industry.

Join us for an in-depth conversation in the episode entitled, 'How Will the .Music Domain Change the Music Industry Forever?' with Constantine Roussos who is the Founder & CEO of .MUSIC domain. on the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast. We explore the pivotal role of intellectual property lobbies in influencing ICANN's trademark policies and the launch of the .music domain. Learn about the "Sunrise phase" for trademark holders, the challenges of managing domains for bands with generic names, and the importance of verification to prevent cyber squatting. This episode is a must-watch for anyone intrigued by the merging worlds of tech and music!

How are artists navigating wealth transmission and estate planning in today's music industry? On this episode of the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast entitled, 'Hold or Sell Your Music Rights The Surprising Truth Revealed' with Roland Kluger, we explore the motivations behind selling music catalogs, the role of Performance Rights Organizations, and how new platforms are changing the game. Discover how evolving copyright laws in the U.S. and Europe impact these decisions and the potential of emerging markets!

Unlocking the Potential of African Music with Fotemah Mba In this episode entitled, 'Fotemah Mba's Secret Method for Discovering New Talent' of the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, Eric Knight and Ritch Esra sit down with Fotemah Mba to discuss the incredible potential of African music. Learn about his day-to-day responsibilities, managing international teams, and his passion for educational philanthropy through Jump Africa. Fotemah also delves into the challenges artists face, emphasizing the need for proper management and understanding industry terms. Don't miss this deep dive into the vibrant world of African music and its global impact.

Breaking into Southeast Asia's Music Scene with Andy Griffin's Expert Tips! In this episode of the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, join Ritch Esra and Eric Knight as they chat with Artist Manager Andy Griffin about his journey from band member to industry executive. Dive into Andy's firsthand experiences of the Southeast Asian music market, the impact of digital platforms like YouTube and Spotify, and key career advice for musicians. We also discuss the suppression of piracy with legal platforms and the need for a balanced promotional strategy in today's market. Enhance your understanding of global music industry trends with this must-listen episode!

Madonna Wade-Reed Reveals The MIND-BLOWING Music Supervision Strategies You Need to Know. Join Ritch Esra and Eric Knight in an exclusive conversation with veteran music supervisor Madonna Wade-Reed. Uncover the secrets of successful music placements, the importance of formal communication, and the impact of sync deals on independent artists' careers. Learn about Madonna Wade-Reed's unique approach to script breakdowns and music selection that bring stories to life in film and TV.

David Schulhof Discusses 'The Future of Music Investment with MUSQ. Join hosts Ritch Esra and Eric Knight on the "MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast" as they sit down with David Schulhof who is the founder & CEO of MUSQ to discuss the evolving music landscape. They cover everything from the decreasing influence of major labels to the financial moves of iconic artists selling their music rights. Schulhof also offers a deep dive into the MUSQ ETF, a unique way to invest in the music industry's future. This episode is essential for anyone interested in music and finance!

Join us on our latest episode of the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast entitled, "BRANDING Secrets Every Musician Needs to Succeed!" as Dani Felt, a top branding consultant, shares her journey and tips for artists to succeed in the modern music industry. From understanding your 'why' to building a loyal fanbase and crafting a consistent content strategy, this episode covers it all. Explore why owning your communication channels like websites and email lists is essential for long-term success. Plus, get actionable advice on maintaining a positive mindset and tackling the emotional demands of the industry. This is a must-listen for any musician serious about their career!

Tune in to this informative episode entitled, Surprising Things You Will Learn About Digital Mechanical Royalties, on the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast as hosts Eric Knight and Ritch Esra sit down with Serona Elton, head of educational partnerships at the MLC and music business department head at the University of Miami. They dive deep into the significance of the Music Modernization Act and its impact on digital mechanical royalties. Discover how the MLC's tailored programs and resources, such as PowerPoints and video materials, are making complex industry concepts accessible to diverse student populations. Perfect for students, educators, and music professionals alike!

Get an insider look at artist empowerment with Thaddeus Rudd of Mom + Pop Music. In this new episode entitled, "Mom+Pop's SECRET to Long-Term Success in the Streaming Era", join us as we explore the shift from old major label practices to new strategies in the streaming era. Celebrate 15 years of passionate dedication and hear how personalized support and long-term artist development set Mom + Pop apart. Thaddeus shares anecdotes, talks about global market growth, and discusses the reality of building a music career today.

In this episode entitled, "Can AI Revolutionize Music Discovery?" we sit down with Mike Odabashian to explore the intersection of technology and music. Mike shares his journey from professional musician to the co-founder of AIMS, a pioneering AI music search technology. Discover the challenges and triumphs of following your passion in the music industry, the crucial role of networking, and how AI is transforming music discovery and licensing. Whether you're a musician, tech enthusiast, or music business professional, this conversation offers invaluable insights!

Step into the world of K-pop and global music expansion with Haezy Kim, Managing Director at Kreation Music Rights (KMR). In the episode, "Kreation Music is Revolutionizing the K-Pop Scene" discover how KMR is revolutionizing the K-pop industry, integrating artist management, publishing, and production under one roof. We dive deep into KMR's unique value proposition, their strategic expansion into the U.S. market, and their innovative approach to talent recruitment. Whether you're a songwriter, producer, or just fascinated by the music industry, this episode is a treasure trove of insights!

Netflix's SECRET to Global Music Domination: Insights with Ramprasad Sundar

Join hosts Eric Knight and Ritch Esra as they sit down with renowned K-pop songwriter-producer JINBYJIN. With 65 number one hits and over 35 million physical copies sold, JINBYJIN shares his incredible journey from life engineering to music production, the intricacies of K-pop and J-pop, and the unique role of fan culture. Discover what makes a hit song in these genres and get inspired by JINBYJIN's advice for aspiring musicians. Don't miss this deep dive into the heart of the global music phenomenon!

Unlock the Secrets of Music Branding & Monetization with Chris Johnson!

In this episode, 'AI Mixing vs. Human Mix: Future of Music Technology with Jerome Renard'. Dive into the fascinating world of music mixing with music mixing engineer Jerome Renard.

How Will AI and Blockchain Transform the Music Industry? In this episode, we sit down with Gary Chen, CEO of All Saints Music Group, to explore how AI and blockchain are revolutionizing the digital music landscape. Discover how All Saints is utilizing cutting-edge technologies like these, along with the metaverse, to enhance artist opportunities beyond traditional streaming models. This conversation will provide valuable insights for anyone interested in the future of the music industry!

Inside A&R: Michael Goldberg on Signing Artists at American Recordings Join us as we delve into the world of A&R with Michael Goldberg from American Recordings. In this insightful discussion, we explore how the criteria for signing artists has evolved over the last five years and what factors are crucial for him to sign an artist today. Michael also shares how his extensive experience as a manager and producer influences his signing decisions. We discuss his long-standing collaboration with Rick Rubin, who has run American Recordings since the 90s, and how it has shaped his perspective on signing artists. Additionally, Michael reveals his strategy of starting relationships with artists by signing them to publishing deals for development purposes before offering record deals. We also touch on how the definition of success in the music industry has changed over the past decade. #MusicIndustry #AmericanRecordings #MusicMarketing Our mission here at MUBUTV is to help independent artists and music business professionals of the future to educate, empower and engage their music career.

How to Become a Music Supervisor: Secrets Revealed! Join us as we dive into an insightful conversation with Jennifer Pyken, the mastermind behind the Jennifer Pyken Mastercourse. We discuss the greatest changes in today's music supervision and sync landscape, the biggest misconceptions about the job, and her new master class she created for those interested in becoming music supervisors. Discover what it takes to thrive in music supervision companies, learn how to find music supervisors, and understand what a music supervisor does. If you're passionate about music licensing, music business jobs, or the music industry, this video is a must-watch! #MusicSupervision #MusicIndustryJobs #JenniferPyken Our mission here at MUBUTV is to help independent artists and music business professionals of the future to educate, empower and engage their music career.

In this episode entitled, All You Need To Know About The Music Business 11th edition with Don Passman, the one and only Don Passman returns as our guest. As you may recall, Don was our very first guest on the podcast last year and he's back with us discussing the most crucial updates on his latest book that you need to know about the music industry today! He literally wrote the book "All You Need To Know About The Music Business". Order the new 11th edition here out now