SyncRiffs

Ep.50 

EP. 49: From Reality TV to Sync Gold: Jordan Young on Music Supervision, AI & Artist Power  First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45541ff  

Ep.48 Music Rights, Mentorship & the Future of Sync | Jonathan Lane of Slipstream Music  First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45541ff  

Music Supervision Secrets with Andrew Weaver: AI, Indie Artists & Nashville's Sync Boom!

EP. 46: Inside Music Supervision: Playtone's Sync Secrets from The Piano Lesson to Masters of the Air First Step For Sync? Get Your Music Meta-Data Done Right! - Grab your FREE guide on how to do this here: https://mailchi.mp/839e030188ce/9mc45... 

EP.44: Music Supervisor Burt Blackarach on Sync, Sampling & Survival in the Music Industry 

Ep.42: Behind the Sync: LA Music Supervisors Share Their Journeys, Challenges, & AI Insights Charles sits down with three top LA music supervisors—Lava Hong, Deric Berberabe, and Allyson Aranez—for an inside look at breaking into the world of music supervision. Discover their inspiring career journeys, the power of mentorship, and how they tackle the challenges of licensing music for TV, film, and more. Get insights on the future of AI in music supervision, learn about key networking tips within the AAPI community, and hear expert advice for anyone looking to thrive in the industry. Whether you're an aspiring music supervisor or just curious about the sync world, this episode is packed with valuable tips and real-world wisdom 

S2: E11 Linda Ferrando on Sync Trends, Industry Evolution, and Indie Artist Tips 

Hot Topics in Music: AI Music Trends, Sync Income Strategies, & Branding Tips for Indie Artists - P2  

S2:E9  Hot Topics in Music: AI Music Trends, Sync Income Strategies, & Branding Tips for Indie Artists (part 1) 

S2: E8 Indie Singer-Songwriter Marelle: Journey, Inspirations, and Music Insights 

S2:E7: Producer Dom Brady & Hip Hop Artist Nor Kin4Life  

S2: E6 Interview with Angela Leus, SVP of Universal Films  

S2: E5: Producer Dom Brady &  Artist MiaMei: Behind the Beats & Rhymes  

 Interview with music supervisor Brittany Douziech of Hulu's Life and Beth  

S2.EP3: Interview with Lana Bui, Music Director at Rogue Planet  

S2 EP. 2: Analog Recording Tips & Sync-Friendly Music  

Season 2, Ep 1 or we can call it Episode 31Universal Music's TikTok Exit, Co-Writer Vetting, Nashville's Influence, and More! 

Sync Agent, Charles Levan of Blue Buddha, breaks down songs synced in Season 6, of Love Is Blind. What are the trends in Sync and what Sync Agents are looking for. SyncRiffs Podcast

Sync Agent, Charles Levan of Blue Buddha, breaks down songs synced in Season 6, of Love Is Blind. What are the trends in Sync and what Sync Agents are looking for.SyncRiffs Podcast

Sync Agent, Charles Levan of Blue Buddha, breaks down songs synced in Season 6, of Love Is Blind. What are the trends in Sync and what Sync Agents are looking for. SyncRiffs Podcast

EP. 30: INTERVIEW WITH MUSIC SUPERVISOR ANN KLINEThis week on SyncRiffs, Charles sits down with Ann Kline, an experienced music supervisor and attorney with film and television credits including some of the most successful and prestigious television series (ER, The West Wing, Shameless, The Good Doctor, etc.). Ann's experience is unique in that it combines high level creative skills for placing music with the ability to understand the increasingly complex content rights landscape and negotiate deals addressing complex rights issues among myriad interconnected parties including artists, managers, attorneys, agents, composers, producers, writers, directors, labels, publishers, networks and studios. Ann is also a frequent speaker at industry events including SXSW, TIFF, etc. Ann has taught Music Supervision at UCLA extension and mentored several women who have gone on to become successful music industry executives and music supervisors.Follow Ann Kline on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theannkline/ 0:00 Introduction1:44 Ann's initial work in the music industry 3:24 Working with John Wells Production 5:25 Ann's musical palette & influences 7:35 Streaming content vs. traditional cable format10:00 Working with showrunners & music budgets11:02 Tying in sync to marketing music from the majors12:14 Working catalog music (period shows) 12:58 Working on the show Aquarius 14:35 Evergreen artists and sync17:10 Art vs. Commerce18:20 The pacing of legacy Shows vs. streaming content20:18 When a music supervisor is brought onto a show21:55 The benefits of working onsite vs. remote23:02 The nuances of syncing a song to picture 26:16 Benefits of working with a sync agent27:00 What sync agents do 29:00 Working with trustworthy agents & partners30:00 Benefits of meditation 36:29 Sensory deprivation + floating38:00 What's on repeat on Ann's playlist

EP. 29: INTERVIEW WITH MUSIC SUPERVISOR JENNIFER SMITH  This week on SyncRiffs, Charles sits down with Jennifer Smith, a Los Angeles based Music Supervisor with over a decade of experience in music and film/TV. Jennifer's impressive career includes working on shows such as America's Best Dance Crew, Dancing With The Stars, The Ellen Show, and Netflix's Deadly Illusions. She is also the founder of her own music supervision company, Rat Dance Party, which specializes in Film, TV.Jennifer's work has been featured on projects produced by Showtime, Paramount+, Netflix, Viacom, Shorts TV, Amazon, Pluto TV, NBC, Voltage Pictures, Indican Productions, Kiss & Tale Productions and many more. When she's not working, Jennifer is teaching as part of the music business faculty at the Los Angeles College Of Music or hanging out with her pet rats. Jennifer is a board member of The Guild Of Music Supervisors and a member of the Television Academy, Women In Media, Women In Music, and the Recording Academy. Don't miss this episode to hear from a true industry expert!  (Note: At the time of this interview, the WGA-SAG AFTRA strike was occurring. Since the airing of this episode, a deal has been reached.)  Follow Jennifer on IG at: @rat_dance_party On the web: https://www.ratdanceparty.com/  0:00 Introduction 1:05 Background and work 1:58 Breaking into the Industry 1:26 Working at Kobalt 3:46 American Idol 4:13 Sonic Storytellers 5:31 Understanding all angles of the music industry 7:30 Forming Rat Dance Party Music Supervision 8:52 Mentorship Programs and Jennifer's work 10:05 Working & Teaching Artists 11:30 WGA - Sag Aftra Strike + Music Supervisors forming a union 12:56 Protections during Covid 13:50 Protections and Equity for Music Supervisions 17:08 Giving Folks the tools for Change 17:27 Relationships with your Show runners & creating change 18:30 A livable wage in the Entertainment Industry 19:33 Working through the studios & Show runner to create change 25:34 Jennifer's teaching curriculum 26:19 Advise for new artists 27:18 Building your team in the music industry 28:00 Unscripted Television 30:00 Protocol with working with Music Supervisors 36:00 Working with Mark Cherry 38:48 Working on Why Women Kill 39:41 Working on Behind the Music 41:56 What's on repeat on Jennifer's playlist? 43:30 Jennifer's sweet spot for getting work done. 45:35 Etiquette for reaching out to Music Supervisors 48:37 Building authentic relationships with Music Supervisors 49:25 Bending Music to Picture 

EP. 28: INTERVIEW WITH DAVE GREEN OF THE FILTHY SOULS This week on SyncRiffs, Charles interviews Dave Green of The Filthy Souls, an indie-rock band originally from Manchester, England. Front-man Dave Green possesses a creative energy that drives their music and electric live performances. His strength of voice transcends any era classification, while still giving just a hint of his many musical influences. The music of this Brit rock/pop group has been featured in many TV shows, film trailers, and adverts.   Follow Dave on IG: @davegr33n Music & Merch: https://thefilthysouls.bandcamp.com/  

EP.27: INTERVIEW WITH SUSAN DOLAN OF DIG MUSIC This week on SyncRiffs, Charles interviews music supervisor Susan Dolan of Dig Music. Susan has spent the last fifteen years spearheading the music related aspects of productions. Some of her past work includes placements and scores in notable ad campaigns for Fortune 500 companies, network TV shows and award winning independent films.   Topics  0:00 Introduction  1: 28 Entering the Industry  2:06 New York ad agency in the early days  2:41 Moving to Los Angeles and connecting with KCRW 3:41 Working at Hum Music  4:47 Working on ABC's Men In Trees  7:08 Working as an Indie Music Supervisor 8:09 What prepared Susan to work in the Ad space  9:39 The Art of Working as a Music Supervisor  10:15 Focusing and learning from past clearances 11:52 The overall arc of working in the Ad Space 13:20 Guiding clients in the Ad Space 15:29 Working with different teams and adding value 15:50 Car Commercials 18:45 Soundtracks 20:20 Trends and Cultural Events  23:54 Brand alignment with artist identity  25:01 Band identity matching with an Artist Brand 26:05 Social media and driving the creative process  27:44 The ability of brands to break an indie band 29:50 Ads and connecting with their end consumer 31:03 Artificial Intelligence and the challenges  32:40 Current trends in Ads and counter movements 35:47 Navigating evergreen tracks and budgets 38:26 Cover tunes and the creative process 40:24 The role of musicologists and “sound alikes” 41:49 Susan's Spotify playlist  Susan Dolan website: https://www.digmusic.tv/work IG: @dig_music  

EP. 26: INTERVIEW WITH JACKSON WHALANCharles interviews Jackson Whalan, an American lyricist and producer known for his high-impact rapping, music production, live performance, and collaboration. He has independently released over 100 songs, including LPs, EPs, singles, and features, while touring extensively both solo and with a live band.Topics 0:00 Introduction 1:50 Jackson's start in music2:35 Early influences: Nas, Fugees 3:33 Early mixtapes and the road to being a rapper4:05 Passing out mixtapes in high school & live performances5:00 Early days of “The Aposoul” aka Jackson Whalan5:35 Early gear & a casio keyboard7:07 Learning with DJ Rob Swift @ The New School9:45 Jackson's creative process11:02 The song “SNAG”11:25 Making the time to be creative12:18 “Big Facts” and “Discipline” 13:00 Performing at The United Nations - International Day of Peace15:00 The best time to be Creative 16:10 Collab with KRS-One of B.D.P17:05 Working with Ian Evans to write the song about “From The Woods” (KRS Remix) 17:45 Linking up with KRS-One and the backstory19:23 Old School Hip Hop 21:04 Live performances with other hip hop acts22:47 “Bring It Back”- New track24:55 Playback of “Bring it Back” 26:28 The recording of “Bring it Back”28:15 Playback of “Encourage”32:54 Writing songs for sync 34:34 Producing and writing songs for sync35:40: What's on Repeat for Jackson?37:03. Freestyle Rap by Jackson Whalan Follow Jackson on IG: @jacksonwhalanmusicOn the web: https://www.jacksonwhalan.com/

EP. 25: INTERVIEW WITH COMPOSER JERMAINE STEGALL  Charles interviews composer Jermaine Stegall, an accomplished and versatile composer and conductor. With over 50 projects to his credit, Stegall is most well-known for the score to “Coming 2 America,” the highly anticipated sequel to the Eddie Murphy classic, with Murphy, Arsenio Hall and James Earl-Jones all reprising their roles. Jermaine recently completed the score for "Praise This" for Universal Pictures. Other scoring and conducting assignments have included “Senior Year” (2022) for Paramount Pictures, and the upcoming film “Oracle” for Universal Pictures.  As a musical conductor, Stegall led a live string orchestra alongside Grammy-winning artist Tori Kelly at the televised 2019 ESPY Awards. A year prior, he conducted the orchestra to Camila Cabello's performance of “Consequences” on ABC's American Music Awards. In addition to scoring 2 seasons of "Our Star Wars Stories,” an original digital series from Lucasfilm and StarWars.com, in which host Jordan Hembrough uncovers heartfelt tales of fans and families who have found inspiration in the galaxy far, far away, Jermaine was also nominated for a MPSE Golden Reel Award for scoring the animated Netflix short film "Canvas" directed by Pixar's Frank Abney III.  Topics  0:00 Introduction  1:30 Starting In the industry  3:14 Star Wars, "Our Star Wars Stories"  5:05 Scoring for various projects  7:52: Recording ideas as they happen 10:00 Improvising and creating as a composer 11:50 Jermaine's favorite projects to work on 13:35 Composing for horror films 17:16 Working on the film "Praise This" 18:30 Using score vs licensing a piece of music for a film 19:07 Creating music and art, being ready for the moment 20:53: Exercises for composers to sharpen their craft 22:10 Telling a story with one instrument  23:10 Capturing emotion through chord progressions  26:00 Hans Zimmer and touring  27:10 Live shows to catch  28:00 Animated films and what to look for 30:47 Composing for film vs television  32:55 Scoring for television with respect to underscore 34:35 New projects in the pipeline  35:29 The creative process for "The Oracle"  37:10 Jermaine's intention and drive as a composer 38:55 Working on short films and working with a team 40:00 Jermaine's most creative time to work 41:20 Composing to picture 43:25 Composing for "Coming to America 2" 46:21 Preparing for a new film and the process 52:12 What's on repeat at the moment 54:00 The work of John Williams  57:12 Closing Thoughts   Follow Jermaine Stegall on IG: @jermainestegall On the web: https://www.jermainestegall.com/ Check out our linktree for opportunities to connect with us: https://linktr.ee/bluebuddhaent  

EP. 24: INTERVIEW WITH ANNABEL LEECharles interviews Annabel Lee, a force in the underground Los Angeles music scene, packing every venue she plays (The Echo, School Night, Satellite, Moroccan Lounge, Hotel Cafe and more). Her current album MOTHER'S HAMMER is available on all D.S.P's.   “Alt-rock killer Queen Annabel Lee is rising from the L.A. underground scene biting down a knife as sharp as the lyrics to her song. She started out kicking it in the New England scene, where she would develop that manic, live-wire stage presence and energy that's characterized her every step of the way. Lee seems to go berserk and believable rumors say that she has the power to induce that savagery in the audience as well.“- LADYGUNN   ANNABEL LEE is also the creator and curator of the Sweat Gala, an annual multi-media, fine art rock showcase and art auction in Los Angeles. Annabel was direct support for one of Amanda Palmer's tours, and has had songs featured on shows such as Mrs. Fletcher (HBO), Lucifer (Netflix), The Rookie (ABC), and in a national ad campaign for Casper Mattress. She was booted off of Songland by Leona Lewis and Ester Dean said, “you're an artist, don't give away your song. . . I love everything about you.”  Annabel's debut album ‘MOTHER'S HAMMER' released in March of 2023. “The alt-pop frontrunner rises to the tempestuous challenge of the debut album, impressing with the diverse and compelling project. A provoking, consistent and complex album, Mother's Hammer is a more than worthy entry into the pop-rock stratosphere, and leaves Annabel Lee poised for a big future.” - Wonderland Magazine 0:00 Introduction 1:40 Mother's Hammer and the inspiration for the album 4:48 Recording with Justin and “All of my Ghosts” 9:30 The creative process and going with the flow 10:23 Annabel Lee's musical influences 11:27 Recording “Los Angeles”  13:45 Different mixes for Annabel Lee's song 14:10 Recording of “Alas I'm a Lady” music video 22:41 New music and songs in the future 24:20: Merch drop and beyond 28:04 Recording and inspiration for Annabel Lee 35:12 Performing Live 36:00 Floating and meditation  40:00 Playback of “Sarah, Sarah” 43:44 Recording of “Sarah, Sarah” 46:04 Recording of “Los Angeles” + new video  50:00 What's on repeat for Annabel Lee  Follow Annabel on IG: @yourannabellee Website: https://www.annabelleemusic.com/ 

EP. 23: INTERVIEW WITH JASON KOITER, ASSOCIATE PRODUCER OF CRIMINAL MINDSThis week on SyncRiffs, Charles interviews associate producer of CBS's Criminal Minds, Jason Koiter. A fourteen year veteran of post production, Jason Koiter has worked on over 270 episodes of network and streaming TV, as well as music videos, web series, feature films and short films. He got started in the entertainment business as a professional musician, and soon became a recording engineer, working for many years at studios around Los Angeles.Topics 0:00 Introduction 0:30 Jason's Background 0:58 Jason's start as a musician and recording engineer 2:26 Working as a PA for “Charmed” (2019) 2:55 The challenges of working on “Charmed”3:22 Working on CBS's Bull (Final Season) 3:52 The role of an associate producer 4:37 The steps of post production 7:33 Spotting Sessions with Music Supervisors + Editors 8:33 The various departments in Post Production and elements9:27 Budgeting for a television series 10:36 Locking in an episode with music 10:53 Working with a composer with re-edits11:59 The role of a sync agent and One Stop Rep. Music12:43 Managing songs and working with Music Supervisor Kevin Edelman13:42 Dropping in replacement songs14:14 Sync Agents and Music Supervisors15:16 Showrunners and the creative music process15:43 Music cues for Criminal Minds17:11 The creative flow for a show18:01 Working with the same creative team 18:26 Working 16 seasons of Criminal Minds19:42 Actors from Criminal Minds taking a directing role20:43 Examples of shows directed by actors21:33 How being in the music industry prepared Jason to be an AP23:14 Providing vocal + instrumental mixes 24:04 The importance of instrumental mixes25:25 Mixing and mastering your songs27:41 Standards and practices and their role29:37 Editing out expletives 31:10 Ripped from the headlines 34:49 Music matching topical themes 37:44 Criminal Minds evolution 38:52 Preparing to work in post production44:17 Working in post production 45:18 Internships and your resume48:04 Vancouver and Los Angeles for post production49:26 A.I. and the future of production 52:12 Wrapping up Follow Jason Koiter on YouTube: @jasonkoiter9555  Follow on IG: @jasonkoiter

EP. 22: INTERVIEW WITH JEFF CAUDILL OF LOW COAST This week on SyncRiffs, Charles interviews Jeff Caudill of Low Coast.  After more than two decades with the fan-adored band Gameface, Jeff Caudill returns with a new band, Low Coast, and a debut album, Existing the Dream. Low Coast is a departure from the SoCal melodic punk rock world and a foray into the direction of bands like Wilco, Gin Blossoms, and Death Cab For Cutie.  Topics  0:00 Introduction  1:09 Jeff's first band Gameface 2:30 Going Solo & forming Low Coast 4:01 Working & crafting songs with the band  6:00 Low Coast Influences  7:35.The song “Hard to Believe”  10:00 Jeff's influences & creative process 12:24 The creative process & writing songs 16:00 Playback of “Everybody Shines” 19:00 Songwriting and writing for sync 20:05 Live performances 22: 47 Playback of “Car Stereo” 26:18 Kevin Ratterman and mixing the Low Coast Release 31:05 Playback of “Hard To Believe”  34:50 The recording of “Hard to Believe” and the process 36:54 Low Coast Vinyl + Website 39:17 What's Jeff listening to currently?  Follow the band on IG: @lowcoastyams Website: https://www.spartanrecords.com/artist... Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lowcoastband  

EP. 21: INTERVIEW WITH COMPOSER TROY MACCUBBIN OF ALLOY TRACKS  This week on SyncRiffs, Charles interviews Troy MacCubbin, President and owner of Alloy Tracks, an audio production company specializing in Custom Music & Sound Design for Trailers, Film, TV, Gaming, Commercials, New Media & more.   Some of their work includes compositions in films and trailers like: Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Big Sugar, It, Cocaine Bear, and Oppenheimer to name a few.   Topics:  0:00 Introduction 2:00 Troy's career as an Indie Artist 3:20 Forming Alloy Tracks 7:30 The Art of Trailerization + Remixes 9:45 Trailer for Stranger Things 11:05 Chatting with Steve Perry of Journey  15:15 Working with the Trailer House “Trailer Park” 15:52 Working on Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer  17:45 Trailers and the Creative Direction 19:25. Working with a Specific Team 21:00 Competition in the Trailer Space 24:00 What is Alloy Tracks known for? 27:00 U2 Documentary  28:55 Advice for Composers  32:14 Advice from Blue Buddha Ent.  32:39 Tracks with Vibes will still work  35:18 Troy's Process Working with His Composers 36:50 The Secret to Success for Trailers 37:44 Sound Design for Cocaine Bear 39:14 Trailer Deadlines  41:00 Competition and Songs Released  43:49 Trailers and the Magic Formula 48:29 Vocal Tracks vs Score 48:43 Trailer Houses and Stems  Follow Troy on IG: @alloytracks/ Website: https://www.alloytracks.com 

Ep. 20: Interview with music supervisor Laura WebbThis week on SyncRiffs, Charles interviews music supervisor Laura Webb.A veteran music supervisor of television and film, a proud member of the Guild of Music Supervisors, and a three Times GMS Award Winner, Laura Webb is known for her work on hit projects like: The Hills, Kung Fu, XO Kitty, To All The Boys, I Still Love You, Teen Wolf, The Purge, Resident Alien and others. Laura peels back the curtain on the art of being a music supervisor and selecting and clearing music for various media. Topics 0:00 Introduction 1:49 How Laura first broke into the business 2:51 Laura's first gig- an agent trainee 4:15 Working for The Firm5:40 UTA job list and landing a job 6:37 Danny Boyle's Trainspotting 8:29 Landing her first gig and working with Laura Wasserman 9:25. Shark Tale, XXX and feature films 9:53 Working at MTV's The Hills10:23 Re-score for The Hills 11:16 Working on Unscripted Shows 11:23 Parental Control- Reality Show12:11 The collaborative side of music supervision 12:42 Teen Wolf and scripted shows13:10 Working with Lindsay Wolfington 14:50 To All The Boys Franchise 15:50 Monster High Sequel 17:15 Kung Fu and using authentic music 19:49 Favorite projects 20:52 Love At First Sight (Netflix Production) 22:45 Bad Bad Hats & To All The Boys 24:38 The use of music libraries26:17 Listening to new music 27:10 Curating playlists & briefs 28:30 Receiving music from clients30:01 Working with showrunners & the creative process 32:38 Working with a trusted agent33:01 The scope of a music supervisor's job35:06 Music supervisors & forming a union43:51 Support for music supervisors 46:41 Advice for artists looking to get into the sync space50:34 The traditional TV season 51:53 What's on Laura's Spotify playlistLaura Webb's website: https://www.webbworldwidemusic.com/aboutFollow Laura on IG: https://www.instagram.com/webb.worldw...

EP 19: Hollywood Strike + Answering Your QuestionsCharles and Chase discuss the current and future impact of the TV & Film production shutdown in Hollywood, strategies for indie artists during the work stoppage, and answer viewer + listener questions. Want your questions answered on a future episode? Tag us on Instagram @syncriffs and @bluebuddhaent.- Namaste -Check out our linktree for opportunities to connect with us: ⁠https://linktr.ee/bluebuddhaent⁠

EP 18: SYNC 101 Samples & Cover Tunes  Charles and Chase break things down as it relates to songs with samples and having cover versions in your catalog of work.   Understanding BOTH topics is uber important in the sync space.  Topics Discussed: 0:00 Introduction 1:00 Definition of Cover Tunes & Pitching Cover Songs 2:08 Why Record Cover Tunes? 3:00 Getting Cover Tune Assets from Label Partners 4:50 Mechanical License vs. a Cover Tune 7:32 Derivative Works 8:40 What Songs Should I Cover? 9:01 Which Artists Won't Approve Cover Versions? 10:10 Do the Homework to Make Sure It'll Clear 10:40 Definition of a “Sample” 12:04 Definition of a “Sample” Broken Down 12:48 Manipulating Samples 13:23 Copyright is Copyright 14:12 Sampling from Vinyl 15:25 Working with Your producer & Samples 16:00 Sample Packs & Syncs 18:12 Can I use Sample Packs? 19:12 Example of 2 Songs Using the Sample 20:00 Creating Your Own Samples 21:55. Details on a Compulsory License  23:50 Due Diligence and Metadata  24:00 Artists Creating Their Own Samples 27:45 News Episodes and Fair Use 29:00 Public Domain Tracks 32:50 Working with a Sync Agent 33:00 Working with a Producer   SyncRiffs is a weekly podcast where we discuss sync placements in multimedia (TV/Film/Advertising, etc.), the music industry, pop culture and everything in between including exclusive interviews with musical artists, composers, agents, and music supervisors where we riff about syncs and the state of the music industry.  

Ep.17: Interview with music supervisor Jen PykenThis week on SyncRiffs, Charles interviews music supervisor Jen Pyken.A veteran music supervisor of television and movies, Jen Pyken landed her first Emmy nomination for her work on NBC's “This Is Us.” She is a proud member of the Guild of Music Supervisors and recently launched an online Masterclass on music supervision (see link below). In this episode Jen breaks down her process and the craft of music supervision. 1:15 The process 3:20 Average budgets in television 5:00 Collaborating with her showrunner & editor6:00 Listening to new music & music briefs 7:00 Spotting sessions & cuts10:00 Music supervision Masterclass course11:55 Island Records, Jen's first gig13:45 Managing expectations of the showrunners 14:50 The creative process & working with showrunners16:00 Budgeting songs & clearance  16:55 Needle drops & songs used  17:50 Transitional songs  18:30 Working with editors (Collaboration)20:00 "The Way Home" and the sonic palette22:15 Working on ABC's "Alias"23:55 One stop rep. Sync Agent 25:15 Split sheets & cue sheets26:45 Splice and sample packs32:00 Advice for indie artists entering the sync space35:00 Exclusivity 35:28 Working with new contacts 39:00 What's on Jen's reading list40:50 Music supervision Masterclass 41:55 East coast music conferenceFollow Jen Pyken on IG: @https://www.instagram.com/jenpyken/Jen Pyken's Masterclass:https://www.musicsuper.net/courses/mu...Jen Pyken on YouTube: @MusicSuperJen 

Ep.16: Interview with singer songwriter Lenka This week on SyncRiffs, Charles interviews Lenka, an Australian singer songwriter who is back working with the Blue Buddha Sync Team. Charles & Blue Buddha Entertainment first worked with Lenka in 2007, securing her two syncs before she went on to secure a major label and publishing deal.  Welcome to Lenkaland! Inhabited by Aussie singer-songwriter Lenka and all her sugar bombs, Lenka has spent much of her time on this earth making music to soothe her own heart and hopefully yours. Her early career as an actress spiked everything with a sense of drama. Her education in fine art peppered all with visual expression. Her love of nature began with a blissful early childhood in the Australian bush. Career highs saw her tour the world extensively and perform on live TV around the globe. Motherhood has brought her back to the Australian countryside, where she resides and continues to make music.  She takes us through her journey as a singer songwriter and talks about her process for writing music, her forthcoming new album & a 2023 winter U.S tour.  

Ep.15: Interview with music supervisor and KCRW DJ Francesca HardingThis week on SyncRiffs, Charles interviews KCRW DJ & music supervisor Francesca Harding.Francesca Harding has worked as a radio host, DJ and music supervisor for over a decade. From DJ'ing internationally to working in the sync and licensing world, Francesca has provided the musical backdrop for a variety of projects. Francesca's music supervision credits include 911 (FOX), Kings of Napa (OWN), and High School Musical: The Musical, The Series S3 (Disney) She takes us through her journey as a music supervisor and gives us insights into working in the music business.Topics discussed:✔️ Background and breaking into the Industry✔️ Working at Yayteam Music Supervision✔️The Difference between Trailers Vs. Television Projects✔️Managing & curating playlists✔️The sonic palate for Fox's (911) show ✔️Managing budgets for television✔️Advice for folks wanting to get into music supervision✔️ Mentorship programs and Q&Yay ✔️Benefits of working with a sync agent✔️ ️A.I. & the future of music ✔️ Mindfulness and enjoying music✔️ ️What's on “repeat” on Francesca's playlist?✔️KCRW & The Hollywood Bowl Summer NightsFollow Francesca Harding on IG: @thefrancescahardingWebsite: http://djfrancescaharding.com/Francesca Harding's KCRW playlists: https://www.kcrw.com/music/shows/fran...YayTeam Mentorship Program: https://www.yayteaminc.com/education

Ep.14: Interview with pop artist Jess Meilman  This week on SyncRiffs, Charles welcomes pop artist, Jess Meilman, to the studio for a special interview about her singles “Ketamine Kids” and “Nothing,” her musical influences, how she approaches the songwriting process, upcoming releases, and more!  After her sparkling debut with the soulful indie pop tracks “Guilty Soulmate,” “Plenty,” the summer anthem “Summer Nights,” the witty “Life Is A Bitch,” and “Ketamine Kids,” the up-and-coming indie pop vocalist recently released her heartbreak anthem “Nothing” in Spring of 2023. Originally from New York, Meilman grew up singing, songwriting, and performing and was often found in her family's piano room, creating songs for hours on end. It was there that she honed her artistry, leaning into the soundscapes of Tame Impala, SZA, Dayglow, and others. Meilman quit her 9-5 in 2021 and moved to LA to bring the songs in her voice memos to life.  Meilman explains her approach to crafting music simply as: “Creativity without force creates intuitive magic.” An empath, she feels things deeply and writes with a desire to connect, heal, and understand herself and the world through music. Jess turns her sensitive self-reflection into catchy tracks that hold surprising depth and come straight from the heart.  Topics discussed:  

EP 13: Interview with music supervisor Melany Mitchell This week on @syncriffs, Charles interviews music supervisor Melany Mitchell. Melany Mitchell was born in Burlington, North Carolina, USA. She is known for The Broken Hearts Gallery (2020), As They Made Us (2022) Everything's Gonna Be Okay (2020), Fantasy Island (Fox), I'm Totally Fine (2022), Block Party (2023) God Save the Queens (2022) and more. She takes us through her journey as a music supervisor and gives us insights into working in the music business.  Topics discussed:  ✔️ Background and breaking into the Industry ✔️Challenges & opportunities as a music supervisor ✔️Music supervising film vs television projects ✔️Managing music budgets & clearance ✔️Clearance and unforeseen issues  ✔️Independent artists and the licensing process ✔️Music supervisors and the need for a union. ✔️Streaming platforms vs traditional television cycle ✔️Benefits of working with a sync agent ✔️Pride month and representation in Film + TV ✔️Working with briefs and the pitching process. ✔️Workflow of television projects ✔️One piece of advice for aspiring music supervisors ✔️Be open to new opportunities and projects ✔️Mentorship programs and Sidetime ✔️What new music is on repeat on your playlist ✔️Broadway shows and music supervision  ✔️TikTok & clearing music for productions  Follow Melany Mitchell on IG: @melanymitchell Check out her linktree: https://linktr.ee/melanymitchell IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2903260/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/melanym Mentorship: https://sidetime.com/  

Ep.12: INTERVIEW WITH SIMON SHORT, LEAD SINGER OF THE JACK KNIVES  #syncagency #musiclicensing #musicindustry #indierock #punkrock This week on SyncRiffs, Charles welcomes SIMON SHORT, lead singer of indie punk-rock band THE JACK KNIVES to the studio for a special interview about their latest single ‘Are You Listening,' his musical influences, their songwriting process, upcoming releases, and plans for a tour in 2023.  Topics discussed:  

EP.11: INTERVIEW WITH AMERICANA SINGER SONGWRITER KATIE COLE#syncagency #musiclicensing #musicindustry #indieartist #americanaThis week on SyncRiffs, Charles welcomes KATIE COLE, an Americana singer songwriter and keys player for The Smashing Pumpkins, to the studio for a special interview about her latest EP ‘Rivers & Roads,' her musical influences, and what it's like touring and performing with The Smashing Pumpkins.Topics discussed:

EP 10: Interview with music supervisor Bianca Valencia

EP 9: INTERVIEW WITH MUSIC COMPOSER TANGELENE BOLTON  This week on SyncRiffs, Charles interviews music composer Tangelene Bolton for AAPI heritage month.⚡️ Tangelene Bolton (she/her) is a Filipina-American film, TV, and media composer based in Los Angeles, CA. A Berklee College of Music Film Scoring graduate and a 2020 Sundance Composer Fellow, Tangelene possesses a distinct music style that is a mashup of neoclassical, electronic, folk, and jazz. She boldly turns traditional and conventional sounds into exciting and new territories.  Having got her start working for A-list composers such as Hans Zimmer (The Lion King, Gladiator, The Dark Knight, Interstellar), Henry Jackman (X-Men, Captain America), and Bobby Tahouri (Game of Thrones, Iron Man), Tangelene is known for her scores from Netflix's original series Warrior Nun (Season 2), created and executive produced by Simon Barry (Continuum, Bad Blood, Ghost Wars, Van Helsing), as well as Blumhouse's thriller film Unseen, directed by Yoko Okumura. She also composed the music for Disney+'s Let's Be Tigers and Walt Disney Animation Studios' Just a Thought, which was an official selection at the 2019 Annecy International Animation Film Festival.  Most recently Tangelene had the opportunity to score Season 3 of Comedy Central's Awkwafina is Nora from Queens, created by Awkwafina and Teresa Hsiao. Starring Awkwafina, BD Wong, Lori Tan Chinn, and Bowen Yang, the comedy is inspired by Awkwafina's real life growing up in Queens, NY.  Topics discussed: ✔️ Breaking into the Industry | Mentorship  ✔️ AAPI productions (Film)  ✔️ Crafting sonic palette for “Unseen” (Blumhouse) & "Warrior Nun" ✔️ Remote Control & Mentors ✔️ Mentors & Peers ✔️ Composing for Comedy  ✔️ "Aquafina is Nora from Queens" ✔️ Lead times for Television  ✔️ Advice for AAPIs ✔️ Future Projects  Music: "Flying Tigers" from @magictiger_ Podcast produced by Blue Buddha Entertainment, LLC (c) (p) 2003. All Rights Reserved.  #podcast #syncriffs #musiccomposer #musiceducation #musiclicensing #musicplacement #musicindustry #musicsupervisor #syncagent #syncagency #bluebuddhaent Support the Show.

This week on SyncRiffs, Charles interviews Arianna Lady Basco, music supervisor Mindy Dinh, and indie artists Air Apparent and Trynket, for AAPI Heritage Month.The guests discuss their journeys in the entertainment industry and share what they've learned along the way.Arianna Lady Basco: artist/actress/directorIG: @ariannabasco__"The Fabulous Filipino Brothers" Mindy Dinh: music supervisorIG:@thegreatmindino"Fremont," "The Big Brunch," "Legacy: The True Story of the LA Lakers," "I Love My Dad," Bud Light Next Super Bowl 2023 commercial Neil Sethi aka Air Apparent: musicianIG:@airapparentmusicTrynket: musicianIG: iamtrynketSyncRiffs is a weekly podcast where we discuss sync placements in multimedia (TV/Film/Advertising, etc.), the music industry, pop culture and everything in between including exclusive interviews with musical artists, composers, agents, and music supervisors where we riff about syncs and the state of the music industry.Music: "Flying Tigers" from Magic TigerPodcast produced by Blue Buddha EntertainmentSupport the Show.

EP 7: PART 2 INTERVIEW WITH DEREK BASCO, ELLA JAY BASCO & CASEY DUNMORE  This week on SyncRiffs, Charles continues his interview with Derek Basco, Ellay Jay Basco & Casey Dunmore for AAPI Heritage Month. In part 2 of this exclusive interview, the guests discuss their journeys in the entertainment industry and share what they've learned along the way.  Music: "Flying Tigers" from Magic Tiger Podcast produced by Blue Buddha Entertainment  This content is for educational purposes. We encourage others to conduct proper research, and if needed, consult an attorney for any legal advice regarding music licensing. (c) (p) 2023 Support the Show.

syncriffs ep 6EP 6: INTERVIEW WITH DEREK BASCO, ELLA JAY BASCO & CASEY DUNMORE #musicindustry #aapivoices  This week on SyncRiffs, Charles interviews Derek Basco, Ellay Jay Basco & Casey Dunmore for AAPI Heritage Month.  In part 1 of this exclusive interview, the guests discuss their journeys in the entertainment industry, reflect on their "start" in Hollywood and music, and share what they've learned along the way.  Derek Basco: actor/director IG: @derek_basco "The Fabulous Filipino Brothers," "Obi-wan Kenobi," "Mayor of Kingstown"  Ella Jay Basco: actress/musician/filmmaker IG:@ellajaybasco "Birds of Prey," "A Friend of the Family," "Grey's Anatomy" Music: "Gold" with Ruby Ibarra, "Bubble Tea," & "Eye to Eye"  Casey Dunmore: producer & composer IG:@schpilkas NBA Toronto Raptors, Tyler Perry's Acrimony, Glass, Get Out, Watchmen Support the Show.

EP 5: Sync Songs About LifeThis week on SyncRiffs, Charles & Chase discuss songs about life, the experiences that make great music for TV and other media placements, and answer viewer questions (drop yours in the comments for future Q&A segments!).Topics discussed:✔️ Co-Writers & Split Sheets✔️ Registering Your Music with a PRO✔️ Pitching Alternate Mixes✔️Work For Hire✔️ Stems for Instrumental Mixes✔️ One Stop vs. Easy Clear✔️ Library MusicSupport the Show.

EP 4: LOVE SONGS THAT GET SYNCED is live on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Amazon

This week on SyncRiffs, Charles & Chase discuss what makes a great party song and the qualities that lend itself for landing a music placement.Topics discussed:✔️ Elements of a Great Party Song✔️ Source vs. Diegetic Songs✔️ Tempo & BPMs✔️ Vocals & HooksSyncRiffs is a weekly podcast where we discuss sync placements in multimedia (TV/Film/Advertising, etc.), the music industry, pop culture and everything in between including exclusive interviews with musical artists, composers, agents, and music supervisors where we riff about syncs and the state of the music industry.Check out our linktree for opportunities to connect with us: https://linktr.ee/bluebuddhaent

This week on SyncRiffs, Charles & Chase discuss how sync agents pitch songs, giving insight to the key information music supervisors share in briefs and how lyrics can make or break a potential sync.Topics discussed: ✔️ Music Briefs ✔️ Replacing ‘temp' songs ✔️ Song lyrics ✔️ MetadataMusic: "Flying Tigers" from @magictiger_Podcast produced by Blue Buddha Entertainment#podcast #musiceducation #musiclicensing #musicindustry #onestop #indieartist #musicsupervisor #syncagent #bluebuddhaent #syncriffsSupport the Show.