Sound Connections

#168: FOUNDER: Building a Unified System for Music Rights, Data, and Payments: Tim Luckow

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 23:03:48 GMT

The music industry generates billions in royalties, but getting that money to the right people remains surprisingly complicated.

In this episode of Sound Connections, Jakob speaks with Tim Luckow, founder of Notes.fm and an experienced music-tech entrepreneur, about the structural challenges behind music royalty collection and the technology working to address them.

Tim shares how his experience building music technology companies, including STEM, shaped his perspective on the industry. He explains how fragmented metadata, mismatched registrations, and disconnected systems can leave royalties unclaimed, and how Notes.fm and Credits.fm help identify missing revenue and make music data more accessible.

The conversation also explores how open APIs could improve the industry's infrastructure, why music publishing and distribution might eventually become a more integrated service, and how independent technology platforms can challenge established ways of working.

Listen to the full conversation for insights into music rights, technology, and the systems shaping the future of royalty collection.

[Link in bio]

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#167: EXPERTS: The Future of Music Discovery Through Context & Emotion: Ty Roberts & Göran Andersson

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 18:29:18 GMT

What would it take to make music discovery more personal, contextual, and meaningful?

In this episode of Sound Connections, Jakob Wredstrøm speaks with Ty Roberts, co-founder of Gracenote and currently Chief Commercial Officer at MusiMap, and Göran Andersson, Head of Strategy at MusiMap and veteran music producer and music technology entrepreneur, about the technology shaping music discovery.

They explore why music recommendations often rely on popularity rather than listening context, how human-curated metadata and audio analysis can help describe music more deeply, and how emotional intelligence and listener profiling could improve personalized listening experiences.

The conversation also examines the challenges of fragmented music metadata, the potential for context-aware music experiences in streaming services, and the role of technology in connecting listeners with music they might otherwise never discover.

Listen to the full conversation to explore how better music data and listener insights could reshape the way people discover music.

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#166: FOUNDER: Beyond Generative AI: Building Technology for Musicians: Andrew Carlins

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 22:21:45 GMT

What does it take to build a scalable music technology company in a market many investors consider too niche?

In this episode of Sound Connections, host Jakob Wredstrøm speaks with Andrew Carlins, Co-founder and CEO of Play Anything, about how assistive AI is making music learning more accessible.

Andrew shares how a Stanford classroom project became a music technology company, developing tools that turn recordings into sheet music and offer personalized piano learning.

The conversation also explores the realities of building a venture-backed music startup, from securing music licensing agreements and navigating publisher relationships to validating organic demand, managing investor expectations, and balancing technical development with user growth. Andrew reflects on the challenges of being a non-technical founder and why community could become an important source of long-term differentiation.

Listen in for insights into the future of AI-powered music education and the business of building music technology.

#165: FOUNDER: AI and the New Economics of Independent Music Careers: JC Sanchez

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 23:23:25 GMT

What happens when AI takes care of more of the business behind an artist’s career?

In this episode of Sound Connections, Jakob Wredstrøm sits down with JC Sanchez, founder of Orphiq and a former music strategist at Spotify, Meta, and Sony, to explore how AI could change the way artists and their teams manage careers.

JC shares why the next generation of music technology should reduce complexity rather than give artists another job to learn. The conversation explores artist management, AI-powered workflows, direct-to-fan relationships, product-led growth, and the growing middle of the music market.

They also discuss why smaller audiences could become increasingly viable as AI lowers the cost of managing and monetizing a career, and why artists may not need to become full-time marketers or business operators to build sustainable careers.

Listen in for a grounded conversation about AI, artist independence, management technology, niche audiences, and the changing economics of building a career in music.

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#164: FOUNDER: Building the Infrastructure Behind Modern Artist Commerce: Tommy Stalknecht

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 23:32:53 GMT

Artists can have millions of listeners, ticket buyers, and fans, yet still have limited visibility into who those people are.

In this episode of Sound Connections, Jakob Wredstrøm speaks with Tommy Stalknecht, founder and CEO of Single Music, about the infrastructure connecting music, e-commerce, chart reporting, fan communities, and direct-to-fan experiences.

Tommy shares how Single started by solving a specific reporting problem between Shopify and the music industry, then expanded into a broader B2B platform supporting digital music, video, communities, and commerce for artists, labels, and merchandise companies.

Tommy also discusses the realities of the superfan economy, the balance between fan engagement and monetization, privacy and consent, and how communities can support everything from fan relationships to decisions about where an artist should tour.

A practical conversation about music commerce, infrastructure, data ownership, and building technology that stays behind the artist rather than competing for the fan’s attention.

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#163: FOUNDER: Rethinking Music Education Through AI and Personalized Learning: Raul Rodrigues

Amplitude Ventures — Sun, 27 Sep 2026 22:24:24 GMT

Learning an instrument has never been more accessible, but keeping people motivated remains one of music education’s hardest problems.

Raul Rodrigues, founder and CEO of Upbeat Studio, joins Sound Connections to unpack the business and technology behind modern music education. Starting with drummers, Upbeat is building educational tools designed to move beyond libraries of content and toward a more personalized learning experience.

Raul breaks down the challenging economics of music education, why distribution can matter as much as product quality, and how Upbeat approaches retention in a market where keeping people engaged over the long term remains difficult.

Raul also explores how AI could bring the most valuable parts of a great teacher into digital products, why learning music is ultimately about more than becoming a great musician, and how instruments themselves could eventually become part of the learning experience.

Tune in for a grounded conversation about building in music education and preparing for a future where AI may reshape how people learn.

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#162: FOUNDER: The New Economics of Music Fandom: Jacquelle Amankonah Horton

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 22:18:36 GMT

What happens when superfans stop being treated as the end of the music experience and become part of building it?

Jacquelle Amankonah Horton, founder of Fave, returns to Sound Connections to explore how fandom has evolved since our first conversation. Drawing on her background at YouTube and Google and years spent building tools around creators and fans, Jacquelle explains why the next opportunity in music may sit beyond traditional artist-to-fan relationships.

We explore how fan-to-fan communities create their own products, events, experiences, and economies, why conventional merchandise can miss what fans actually want, and how artist teams can identify and support the people already shaping their communities.

Jacquelle also shares how Fave is evolving from a place for superfans to connect into infrastructure that helps fans bring ideas to life, while giving artists new insights and potential revenue opportunities without requiring them to constantly create more content.

It’s a closer look at fandom as culture, community, and an emerging layer of the creator economy.

Listen in and join the conversation.

[Link in bio]

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#SoundConnections #Fave #Superfans #MusicIndustry #MusicTech #FanEngagement #CreatorEconomy #MusicBusiness

#161: EXPERT: The Business of Turning Music Royalties into Growth Capital: Michael Bizenov

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 22:09:51 GMT

Music rights generate value, but turning that income into capital can still be difficult for many creators.

In this episode of Sound Connections, Michael Bizenov, Managing Partner and President of Sound Royalties, joins Jakob Wredstrøm to unpack the business of financing music royalties and how alternative financing can give creators access to capital without giving up ownership of their work.

Michael shares how his background in banking and entrepreneurship shaped his approach to the music industry, from evaluating royalty streams and managing risk to building financing solutions around the individual creative. They discuss why ownership matters, the role of financial literacy, and how Sound Royalties has built its business by focusing specifically on financing rather than becoming a label, distributor, manager, or publisher.

The conversation also explores how the company evaluates royalty income, uses data and technology alongside human judgment, and grows with creators as their businesses develop.

Tune in for a conversation on music finance, rights, trust, and the business behind creative careers.

[Link in bio]

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#SoundConnections #MusicFinance #MusicRights #CreatorEconomy #MusicBusiness

#160: FOUNDER: Exporting African Music: Rights, Revenue, and Global Growth: Yoel Kenan

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 07 Sep 2026 21:58:55 GMT

African music is growing globally, but the business behind that growth is still catching up.

In this episode of Sound Connections, Jakob Wredstrøm speaks with Yoel Kenan, a longtime music executive and entrepreneur whose career has taken him from major-label roles at Universal and BMG to building businesses focused specifically on African music. After founding Africori and helping develop it into a significant distribution business, Yoel is now returning his attention to African music rights, catalog investment, and the wider opportunity around cultural entrepreneurship.

Together, they unpack why the growth story of Sub-Saharan African music is more complicated than the headline numbers suggest. Yoel discusses the gap between huge levels of music consumption and comparatively low monetization, the role of telecom companies and streaming platforms, challenges around publishing and rights registration, and why missing contracts and unclear ownership can make catalog investment particularly difficult.

From exporting African artists and songs to building stronger marketing systems, investing in catalogs whose audiences are still moving toward streaming, and supporting the next generation of cultural entrepreneurs, Yoel sees significant opportunity, but on a longer timeline than many investors expect.

This is a candid conversation about patience, infrastructure, ownership, and what it will actually take for African music’s global momentum to become a stronger and more sustainable business.

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#159: FOUNDER: Building the Infrastructure for Scalable Music Licensing: Chantal Epp

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 03:32:20 GMT

Music is everywhere, but the systems for licensing it at scale are still remarkably fragmented.

In this episode of Sound Connections, Jakob Wredstrøm sits down with Chantal Epp, founder of ClicknClear, to explore the hidden challenges and opportunities within music licensing. Chantal shares how her background in music and cheerleading led her to identify a licensing gap in choreographed sports, and how that insight evolved into a technology platform connecting music rights holders with businesses that want to use music legally.

They discuss why licensing thousands of songs for a single sporting event cannot be handled one deal at a time, the complexity of securing rights for video-on-demand content, and why the music industry has struggled to monetize many of the markets already using its music.

Chantal also opens up about the realities of building a music tech company over seven years, securing deals with every major record label and music publisher, raising capital as a sole founder, and staying lean while waiting for the market and licensing ecosystem to catch up.

A conversation about music rights, technology, entrepreneurship, and the infrastructure needed to unlock new revenue across the music industry.

If you want to learn more about ClicknClear:

Website: https://www.clicknclear.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clicknclearmusic/
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/clicknclearmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clicknclear_

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#158: FOUNDER: The Business of Artist Analytics in the Age of AI: Oskar Eichler

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 04:00:20 GMT

Music is becoming increasingly data-driven, but having access to data is only the beginning.

In this episode of Sound Connections, Oskar, founder of Songstats, joins Jakob to discuss the business of artist analytics, music technology, and the growing role of AI in how artists and music companies understand their data.

Oskar shares his journey from building music-related tools as a young DJ and technologist to developing Songstats into a platform that brings data from streaming, social media, radio, playlists, and other sources together in one place.

The conversation explores the challenges of turning music data into something artists can actually use, building a music tech company without outside investors, and developing a business model that combines artists with enterprise customers.

Oskar also discusses the shift from dashboards and apps toward AI-powered interfaces, including Songstats' work allowing AI tools to interact directly with its data. The conversation looks at what this could mean for artist decision-making and the wider music ecosystem.

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

If you want to learn more about Songstats:

Website: https://songstats.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/songstats/

#157: FOUNDER: The Reality of Building a Music Tech Business: Matt Urmy

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 23:57:19 GMT

Building music technology is often presented as a story of rapid growth. Matt’s journey with Artist Growth tells a very different story.

In this episode of Sound Connections, Jakob sits down with Matt Urmy, Founder of Artist Growth. He reflects on more than a decade of building software for the business side of music. What began as a product for independent artists eventually led him toward a deeper industry problem: management companies, labels, and agencies were still relying on spreadsheets, email, and disconnected systems to manage their operations.

They explore the difficult shift from B2C to B2B, the challenges of raising capital before finding product-market fit, and what it takes to keep a company going through years of slow enterprise adoption.

Matt also shares his perspective on building software in the age of AI, where developing products is becoming easier, but understanding customers, building reliable data infrastructure, and creating lasting value remain difficult.

A grounded conversation about capital, technology, resilience, and the realities of building a company in music tech.

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#156: FOUNDER: Reinventing the Tools Behind Music Creation: Casey Kolb

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 23:07:48 GMT

Can music software become more powerful without making creativity feel less human?

Casey Kolb, founder of Lunacy, joins Sound Connections to explore the changing world of audio plugins and what it takes to build tools that feel as inspiring visually as they sound.

From his years as a film composer in Los Angeles to spending a year and a half programming Lunacy’s first flagship product, Cube, Casey shares the persistence behind turning a side project into a growing music tech company. We discuss product design, pricing, seasonal revenue, community building, fundraising, and why Lunacy has been careful to protect its creative independence while scaling.

The conversation looks ahead to Nova and a future where creators can build and share their own plugins with AI assisting the code rather than replacing human creativity.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on sound, technology, and what the next generation of music tools could become.

#155: FOUNDER: Inside the Next Generation of Music Companies: Aidan Schechter

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 23:32:59 GMT

What happens when the future of the music business is built by small, agile companies instead of industry giants?

In this episode of Sound Connections, Jakob Wredstrøm sits down with Aidan, CEO of Patchbay and Partner at 1916 Enterprises, to explore how music, technology, investment, and entrepreneurship are reshaping the industry's future.

Aidan explains why independent music businesses are becoming more powerful, how AI is accelerating product development, and why the next generation of music companies will rely on collaboration rather than scale. From artist management and publishing to software and venture investing, he shares how small teams can now accomplish what once required entire enterprises.

The conversation also explores data infrastructure, the changing economics of music, and why relationships remain the industry's greatest competitive advantage.

Rather than replacing people, technology should remove administrative complexity; giving artists, managers, and executives more time to discover talent, build relationships, and create meaningful careers.

If you're interested in music technology, AI, entrepreneurship, independent music, or the future of the creative economy, this episode is for you.

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#154: EXIT: Building a Music Tech Company Before the Market Was Ready: Vijay Basrur

Amplitude Ventures — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 04:15:55 GMT

A missed CD delivery exposed a gap in India's music industry. That moment led Vijay to build OKListen, an independent music platform that spent more than a decade growing alongside a market that wasn't yet ready for it before ultimately being acquired by AWAL.

In this episode of Sound Connections, Vijay shares what it was like to build a music tech company in one of the world's largest music markets while streaming, independent music, and consumer willingness to pay were still evolving. He reflects on bootstrapping the business, spending five years balancing a corporate career while keeping the company alive, and why patience became a competitive advantage.

The conversation explores the realities of building music businesses in emerging markets, from raising capital and competing against global platforms to understanding when market timing matters more than execution. Vijay also discusses India's evolving independent music ecosystem, the economics behind music tech, and why founders often need conviction long before the market validates their ideas.

If you're interested in music technology, entrepreneurship, emerging markets, or the business of music, this episode offers a thoughtful look at what it takes to build for the long term.

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#153: FOUNDER: AI Is Rewriting the Business of Music Software: Noam Levinberg

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 02:36:57 GMT

Are traditional music production tools entering their last era?

Noam Levinberg, founder of Safari Audio, believes the future of music creation may look very different from the world producers know today.

In this episode, we explore the rapid impact of AI on music software, why traditional plugin businesses are being challenged, and how the next generation of creators may never adopt the workflows that defined the last 30 years of music production.

Noam shares the story behind Safari Audio, a bootstrapped company that has grown to more than 170,000 users by building creative, unconventional tools for music producers.

We discuss startup building, product-market fit, software distribution, customer loyalty, and the difficult challenge of staying relevant in a market changing faster than ever before.

Whether you're a music producer, founder, engineer, or music technology enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insight into the future of creative tools and entrepreneurship.

Subscribe for more real conversations on music, startups, and innovation.

#152: FOUNDER: The Metadata Problem Costing Creators Millions: Niclas Molinder

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 22:27:34 GMT

What happens when creators make music, but the industry does not know who to pay?

In this episode of Sound Connections, Jakob Wredstrøm sits down with Niclas Molinder, songwriter, producer, founder of Session, and one of the music industry's leading advocates for creator rights.

Niclas shares how missing rights data continues to cost creators credits, royalties, and recognition, and why solving this problem has become his life's work. He explains how Session was built to capture metadata directly during the creative process, why industry legends Björn Ulvaeus and Max Martin joined the mission, and what it takes to build a company around one of music's least glamorous but most important challenges.

The conversation also explores Session's journey into Salt, the realities of founder-led innovation, and the broader education efforts behind the Music Rights Awareness Foundation and Clip.

If you're curious about how the music business really works, this episode offers valuable insights into the systems that determine who gets credited, who gets paid, and why that still matters more than ever.

Listen now and join the conversation.

If you want to learn more about Session visit here:

- Website: https://www.sessionstudio.com/

- Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/SessionCredit?_rdc=1&_rdr#

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sessioncredit/

#151: EXPERT: The Business Model Independent Music Is Missing: Thierry Ascarez

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 11 May 2026 22:19:47 GMT

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:

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.

#150: EXPERT: From Fan Economy to Artist Economy: John Lister

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 04 May 2026 22:14:55 GMT

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 creation
Why artist-to-artist communities drive deeper engagement
The role of competitions and recognition in creator growth
How platforms like Rap Fame support independent artists

At 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-app

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rapfame_app...

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rapfame_app?_...

#149: FOUNDER: Turning Cultural Gaps into a Streaming Business: Faraan Irfan

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:16:04 GMT

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.com

Saarey LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saarey/

Saarey Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saareymusic

Saarey Insta: https://www.instagram.com/saareymusic

#148: FOUNDER: The Rise of Functional Music in Wellness Spaces: Freddie Moross

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 22:15:11 GMT

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.

#147: FOUNDER: What It Takes to Build Music Tech in a Resistant Industry: Mark Bamford

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 23:25:29 GMT

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.

#146: EXPERT: Building Real Fandom in the Age of Algorithms: Rob Abelow

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 21:39:36 GMT

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.

#065: Founder: Marzio F Schena: Investing in Melody: The A-Note Music Story

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 05:00:00 GMT

What does it take to thrive in this evolving marketplace of music investment?

Marzio, a leading figure at A-Note Music, shares how the platform is revolutionizing music investment by creating unique opportunities for investors and rights holders. In this episode, he delves into the challenges and successes of bridging finance and music through innovative solutions.

Highlights:

● Creating a marketplace for music rights: Marzio shares the journey and vision.

● Adapting to market challenges: How A-Note responds to industry changes and investor demands.

● The future of music as an investment: Opportunities for growth and innovation.

AI Jake Analysis: Key Insights from the 2024 Luminate Midyear Music Report

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 20 Jul 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Welcome to Sound Connections! I'm AI Jake, your guide to music trends and insights. Today, we explore the Luminate Midyear Music Report for 2024, highlighting the growth of streaming and indie artists' success. We'll also discuss the demand for vinyl, the impact of live music on streaming, and the role of short-form videos.

We also look at the global context of audio streaming and evolving consumer preferences. Learn about the rise of niche genres and the impact of sustainability on music purchases. As the industry evolves, integrating diverse content and experiences is key. This is AI Jake, signing off from Sound Connections. Until next time, keep listening and stay connected!

Blackstone's Bold Move: $1.5 Billion Acquisition of Hipgnosis

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 13 Jul 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Today, we explore Blackstone’s $1.5 billion acquisition of Hipgnosis Songs Fund, a deal consolidating over 40,000 songs into Blackstone's expansive portfolio. This acquisition highlights the increasing trend of private equity firms investing in music catalogs, driven by the steady revenue streams from streaming services. With a diverse catalog featuring hits from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Justin Timberlake, and Shakira, the enterprise value of Hipgnosis's assets now stands at approximately $2.2 billion, showcasing the lucrative potential of music asset management.

#046: Worlds First AI Podcast Host

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 01 May 2024 18:00:00 GMT

Meet AI Jake, the world’s first AI podcast host, in this special episode of *Sound Connections*. Joined by visionary mentor Jerry, the discussion explores the integration of artificial intelligence into podcasting and its broader impact on the music and media industries.

In this episode, Jacob reflects on the full-circle moment of integrating AI into podcasting, addressing the challenges, and the intriguing ethics of AI in the creative world. The conversation also covers the rapid evolution of the music industry, the role of AI ethics, and the future of interactive creativity.

Highlights:

The origin story of blending AI with human podcasting.
Insights from industry veteran Jerry on technology's impact on creativity.
Exploring AI's role in revolutionizing music and media industries.
Real-time iterating and the future of podcasting.
The importance of asking deep, meaningful questions in public discourse.

#031: FOUNDER: Jeff Ponchick: Simplifying the Business of Music with Mogul

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Join us on Sound Connections Podcast as we venture into music tech with Jeff Ponchick, the innovative mind behind Mogul. In this episode, we cover Jeff's inspiring journey from his early entrepreneurial ventures to his current role in transforming how artists manage their earnings and achieve financial success. Learn how Mogul centralizes earnings data, provides actionable insights, and empowers musicians to take charge of their financial futures.

Highlights:

The beginnings and mission of Mogul in the music industry.
Challenges artists face in managing their income streams.
Jeff's journey and insights on building a successful tech startup.
How Mogul simplifies the business of music for creators.

#018: FOUNDER: Jørgen Iden - Crescat's Quest to Transform Event Management

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 23:00:00 GMT

Step into the world of event innovation as Jørgen Iden, founder of Crescat, recounts his move from classical guitar student to tech entrepreneur. Hear how Crescat addresses real challenges in event planning, fosters collaboration at every step, and pursues an entrepreneurial spirit that’s shaping the industry in Norway and beyond.

Highlights:

Developing Crescat from a music-based entrepreneurial vision.
Tackling industry-wide communication challenges with creative solutions.
Crescat's growth strategy and entry into new markets.

#010: EXPERT: Hannes Andersson: The Sonic Revolution of Oeksound

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 22:00:00 GMT

We take a close look at how Hannes Andersson influenced Oeksound, a Finnish company known for shaping modern audio production. Hear about the steps behind their standout plugins, Soothe and Spiff, the hurdles they overcame, and why encouraging creative thinking continues to push the boundaries of sound design worldwide.

Highlights:

● The growth of Oeksound and its influence on the audio industry.

● The story behind the development of Soothe and Spiff plugins.

● Hannes Andersson's unique approach to creativity and entrepreneurship.

● The role of passion and resilience in driving innovation.

#003: EXPERT: Stein Bjelland: At the Crossroads of Arts and Business

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Stein Bjelland, a global music industry leader and creative expert, shares how to blend artistry with smart business strategies. Drawing from his days as a musician in New York to shaping Norway’s export scene, he reveals proven methods to grow your career on an international stage. Get practical advice for artists, entrepreneurs, and pros who want to excel where creativity and commerce meet.

Highlights:

● Turning creativity into a business.

● Lessons from the global music industry.

● Building a sustainable, scalable career in the arts

BandLab's Milestone: 100 Million Users

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 08:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Sound Connections Podcast, join Jake, our AI co-host, as we explore the revolutionary world of BandLab and its recent milestone of surpassing 100 million users. Discover how BandLab, since its launch in 2015, has become a beacon for musicians globally by democratizing music creation with its array of free, innovative tools. We delve into BandLab's philosophy of making music creation accessible to all, and how its digital audio workstation, virtual instruments, and collaborative features are reshaping the music industry landscape. Hear the story of d4vd and his song "Romantic Homicide," a BandLab success that transitioned from a digital creation to a viral hit, illustrating the platform's transformative impact. This episode highlights not just BandLab's significant achievements but also points towards the future of entrepreneurship in the music industry, marked by digitalization, democratization, and a focus on community and collaboration. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the evolving dynamics of music production and distribution, and how platforms like BandLab are paving the way for a new era of music industry entrepreneurs.

Introducing JKBX - A New Chapter In Music Investments

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Sound Connections, we introduce an exciting innovation in the music industry: JKBX. Join Jake, your AI co-host, as we dive into how this groundbreaking music investment platform is redefining opportunities for songwriters, recording artists, and investors. With support from industry giants like Spotify and Red Light Management, JKBX offers a unique way for fans to invest in song royalties, democratizing an asset class once reserved for the elite. Discover how this SEC-approved platform merges passion with investment, allowing you to support your favorite artists while potentially earning from their success.

#069: EXPERT: Daniel Rowland: LANDR And The Rise Of The Casual Music Creator

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Daniel Rowland, Head of Strategy and Partnerships at LANDR, discusses the evolution of music production tools and their role in empowering a new generation of casual creators. In this episode, he shares his journey from music production and academia to leading innovative projects at LANDR.

Learn how LANDR transformed from an AI mixing service into a comprehensive creative platform, bridging the gap between technology and music creation. This conversation offers valuable insights into the future of accessible music production.

Highlights:

Daniel Rowland's distinct career merging music production and tech innovation.
The transformation of LANDR into a top creative platform.
Insights into the casual music creator trend and its effects on the industry.
The influence of AI and data in shaping the future of music production.

#106: MTEA: Scaling Music Tech: What Control Reach Is Doing Differently || Clémentin Diard

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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

#076: EXPERT: Georgia Taglietti: How To Talk To The Music Industry

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Georgia Taglietti, founder of the International Consulting Network for the Arts, joins this episode of *Sound Connections* to share her expertise in the music industry. From mastering communication in a fast-paced sector to mentoring at the Music Tech Europe Academy, Georgia dives into the fusion of technology and culture, offering valuable insights for fostering innovation and creativity in the arts.

Highlights:

Communicating in the cultural ecosystem.
Technology's influence on music business strategies.
Insights from a mentor at Music Tech Europe Academy.

#074: EXPERT: Yvan Boudillet: How AI and Technology are Reshaping Live Music

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 05:00:00 GMT

The live music industry is entering a new era with the integration of artificial intelligence, and Yvan Boudillet is at the forefront of this transformation. In this episode, Yvan discusses his innovative efforts to enhance fan engagement and streamline production techniques through cutting-edge technology. As the co-founder of Musictek Europe, he shares insights from his journey in the digital evolution of music and his vision for the future of live experiences.

Highlights:

The changing role of AI in live music
Yvan's career and impact on music technology
The importance of creativity in live music experiences

#130: FOUNDER: The Business of Band Merchandise and Artist Branding || Seamus Menihane

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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.ventures

Follow on;

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

#073: EXPERT: Priyanka Khimani: Decoding India's Music Market: From Copyright to Creativity

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 05:00:00 GMT

India's music industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation, and Priyanka Khimani, one of the nation’s leading entertainment lawyers, provides a front-row view in this episode. From her journey as a litigation attorney to establishing a top entertainment law firm, Priyanka shares her insights on the evolving landscape of music, copyright, and creativity.

Highlights:

Understanding India's music market beyond Bollywood.
Insights into the Indian entertainment law environment.
Opportunities in India's non-film and independent music ecosystem.
The role of cultural nuances in international business growth.

#060: EXPERT: Patrick Ermlich: Artist Development and Music Business Strategies

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Artist growth and music industry strategy take the spotlight in this episode featuring Patrick Ermlich, a seasoned expert with 24 years of experience. Patrick shares his unique perspective on blending creativity with entrepreneurship, offering practical advice for personal and professional development.

Whether you're an emerging artist or an industry veteran, this conversation is packed with insights to help navigate the ever-evolving music business and achieve lasting success.

Highlights:

Grasping the dual role of artists as creative entrepreneurs.
The role of financial knowledge and strategic thinking in an artist's career.
Creating a supportive network for artists' success.
Facing the challenges of today's music industry and the changing role of technology.

Nigeria's Music Industry Gets a Major Boost from Warner Music

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 07:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Sound Connections Podcast, AI Jake explores Warner Music Group's significant expansion into Sub-Saharan Africa with the opening of its first fully-owned office in Lagos, Nigeria. Discover how this move will enhance A&R, operations, and marketing expertise within Nigeria's burgeoning music scene. Learn about the region's rapid growth in recorded music revenues, the international success of Nigerian artists, and Warner's long-term commitment to empowering Nigeria's creative sector. Tune in for insights into the global impact of this strategic investment and the future of African music on the world stage.

Warner Music's entry into Nigeria's music industry is a game-changer! Find out how this collaboration is shaping the music scene in Nigeria.

#047: EXPERT: Martin Berg: Super Tickets: Reimagining Ticketing for the Web3 Era

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 07 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Join Martin Berg, CEO of DX, in this exciting episode as he shares how his company is transforming ticketing and venue management. Learn about the innovative 'Super Tickets' concept and how blockchain and NFT technologies are set to reshape the entertainment industry.

From graphic design to tech innovation, the obstacles he’s overcome in the ticketing world, and how NFTs could redefine fan experiences at live events, get ready to explore the future of live entertainment and consumer engagement.

Highlights:

The shift in ticketing: From traditional methods to NFT-based systems.
Grasping 'Super Tickets' and their impact on fan experiences.
The blend of technology and entertainment: Opportunities and challenges.
Future of blockchain in promoting data ownership.

#011 FOUNDER: Christian Ringstad Schultz: Mastering Music Tech with Masterchannel

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 22:00:00 GMT

In this Founder Series episode, Christian Schultz, CEO of MasterChannel.ai, shares how his AI-powered mastering service is changing the way musicians polish their tracks. Hear about the challenges of creating a tech startup in the Nordics, the importance of a global outlook, and how creativity joins forces with technology. Christian also highlights the choices that have positioned MasterChannel as a leader in the field—and the vision that drives them forward.

Highlights:

● The inception and growth of MasterChannel in the competitive music tech landscape.

● Overcoming geographical and industry challenges to achieve global reach.

● Leveraging partnerships and networks for startup success.

● Christian's personal journey and insights as a second-time founder.

#072: INVESTOR: Thierry Baujard: Bridging Creative Financing Gaps with Music Tech Europe Academy

Amplitude Ventures — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 05:00:00 GMT

From his beginnings in film financing to becoming a leader in music tech investments, Thierry Baujard brings decades of expertise to this episode. He shares how his work with the Music Tech Europe Academy and Media Deals is addressing the financing gap in the industry, helping creative entrepreneurs thrive. Thierry also explores the unique challenges of the creative sectors and the powerful potential of combining content with cutting-edge technology. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on innovation and opportunity in the music tech world.

Music Tech Europe Academy: https://www.musictecheuropeacademy.eu/

Highlights:

Grasping the role of the Music Tech Europe Academy in aiding startups.
Perspectives on the changing landscape of creative financing.
The blend of technology and content in the music industry.
Thierry's outlook on the future of music tech investments.

#141: EXIT: The Startup Apple Music Had to Acquire: Simon M. Eder

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT

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=45206dd146a84ae1

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

00:00 Welcome and Intro
00:53 Founder Background and Transition
02:51 Digitalizing a Classical Label
04:50 High Quality Audio Formats
08:36 Building the Primephonic Brand
14:53 Solving Classical Metadata Challenges
21:18 Streaming Payout Models Explained
28:27 In-House Tech Team Growth
32:57 Apple Music Classical Acquisition
45:56 Reflections on Entrepreneurial Life

#042: WISE: The Vision of WISE with Founder Philipp Grefer

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Philipp Grefer, the founder of WISE, takes us behind the scenes of a groundbreaking platform that bridges music, technology, and creativity. Learn how WISE has evolved from its roots in China to becoming a hub for innovation and collaboration in Berlin. Discover the platform's impact on fostering thought leadership and its role in shaping the intersection of creative industries and technology. A must-listen for anyone curious about the future of music and innovation.

Highlights:

The growth of WISE from a pioneering idea to a global platform.
Connecting cultural and technological gaps between China and the West.
Exploring forward-thinking themes like AI and its impact on creativity.
Insight into WISE's annual themes and innovative approaches.

#026: EXPERT: Linda Bloss-Baum: Navigating Performance Rights Within Music

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 06:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, Linda Bloss-Baum, a leading figure in performance rights, explores the ups and downs of ensuring fair compensation in the music world. She reflects on her path from Capitol Hill to SoundExchange, showing how legislation like the Digital Millennium Copyright Act and Music Modernization Act shapes payments for sound recording owners. Along the way, learn about the challenges of terrestrial radio, the role of digital royalties, and why securing performance rights on U.S. terrestrial radio remains a pressing goal.

Highlights:

Understanding the historical context and current challenges of performance rights.
Linda's significant role in the creation of SoundExchange and its impact on digital royalties.
The global effort for fair compensation and the legislative hurdles in the U.S.
Insights into the lobbying dynamics and their influence on legislative changes.

AI Jake Round-Up: Episode #066 EXPERT: Christopher Wieduwilt

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 24 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the first recap episode of Sound Connections! In this condensed summary, we revisit our insightful conversation with Chris Wieduwilt, the AI Musicpreneur. Chris dives into how AI is revolutionizing the music industry, offering tools that empower artists to streamline their workflow and connect with audiences through powerful storytelling. From leveraging AI music generation tools to enhancing content creation, Chris shares valuable tips for musicians looking to stay ahead in the evolving landscape. Whether you missed the full episode or need a quick refresher, this recap is packed with practical advice for navigating the intersection of AI and music.

#128: FOUNDER: Building a Music Career Fans Can Emotionally Invest In || Vishal Ramakrishna

Amplitude Ventures — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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.ventures

Follow on;

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

#068: David Ponte: Founder: From Artist-First to 30 Million Users: Audiomack’s Rise

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

David Ponte, co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Audiomack, shares the story behind the platform’s rise as a leader in music streaming. In this episode, he highlights Audiomack’s mission to empower artists and foster music discovery, with a focus on supporting underrepresented creators.

Learn how Audiomack carved out its unique space in the industry, the challenges of building a global platform, and the importance of community and authentic artist-fan connections in shaping the future of music streaming.

Highlights:

The vision behind Audiomack's artist-first approach.
Overcoming obstacles in a competitive streaming landscape.
The future of music streaming and artist monetization.

#087: Tajdar Khan: Business in Music: Understanding The Challenges and Opportunities

Amplitude Ventures — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 15:00:00 GMT

Amplitude Ventures partner, Taj, shares his insights on the evolving music industry in this episode. From blending traditional business strategies with the passion economy to exploring how technology drives innovation, Taj offers a fresh perspective on the challenges and opportunities in the sector. He also reflects on his journey from India to Norway and how his unique background shapes his approach to music as a product and business.

Highlights:

Connecting business and music.
Understanding the passion economy and its influence on the industry.
Creative strategies for music ventures.
Insights into Taj's unique perspective as a non-musician in the music world.

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

Tencent Music's AI Revolution and Its Impact on the Music Industry

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 11 May 2024 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Sound Connections, join Jake, our AI host, as we dive into Tencent Music Entertainment's innovative use of AI in the music industry. Discover how TME's groundbreaking "Predictive Model" is not only predicting the next big hits by analyzing audio and lyrics but also shaping user experiences with tailored playlists and targeted marketing strategies. We'll explore the significant growth in TME’s music subscription sector, the introduction of new AI-powered music production tools, and the ongoing legal and ethical challenges posed by AI technologies. Tune in to understand how TME is setting new industry standards and what this means for the future of music streaming and production.

#093: FOUNDER: Michael Jacob: Building Ethical AI For Musicians

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

MJ, CEO of Lemonaide Music, shares his inspiring journey from aspiring rapper to tech entrepreneur. He dives into the challenges and successes of integrating AI into music production, emphasizing ethical AI practices and artist empowerment. Learn how Lemonaide Music is revolutionizing the industry by providing innovative AI-driven tools that support musicians in their creative process.

Highlights:

MJ's transformation from artist to entrepreneur.
The ethical implications of AI in music.
How Lemonade Music supports and protects artists' income.
Building a sustainable music technology company.

#028: EXPERT: Shain Shapiro - Advancing Music Ecosystems Through Policy and Data

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Join us in this enlightening episode as we converse with Shain Shapiro, founder of Sound Diplomacy and the Center for Music Ecosystems. Shain narrates his distinct path from the music industry to an influential role in reshaping how cities integrate music into their cultural framework and policies.

Highlights:

Understand how Shain's efforts connect music with urban development.
Examine Sound Diplomacy's contributions to enhancing music ecosystems through innovative policy and strategy.
Learn about the hurdles and successes of embedding music into city planning and public policy.
Gain insights into Shain’s vision for a future where music is acknowledged as an essential economic contributor.

#104: FOUNDER: Transforming Music Metadata with AI – A New Chapter with Noctil || Jacob Varghese

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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

#100: EXPERT: "Scott" Yusuke Sugino: Insights From Yamaha

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

President & CEO of Yamaha Music Innovations, Yusuke Sugino details his 17-year journey from semiconductor sales to European market leadership, and why he was chosen to spearhead this bold initiative. We dive into the challenges of financing music tech startups, the long-term vision for Yamaha’s fund, and how the company plans to support founders beyond capital—leveraging their global brand, customer base, and deep industry expertise.

Visit their website: https://www.yamaha.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

#094: EXPERT: Christine Osazuwa: The Reality of Music Careers on Breaking In & Moving Up

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

This episode delves into the changing landscape of music and data. Christine Osazuwa, founder of Measure of Music and a seasoned expert in data-driven strategies for artists and labels, describes her journey from the US to key positions in London and Stockholm. She explains how she uses data to promote diversity and inclusion, and reveals the forward-thinking methods reshaping the industry.

Highlights:

Christine's unique career path and global impact on the music scene.
The inception and growth of the "Measure of Music" conference.
Challenges and successes in connecting data with creative music strategies.
Insights into fostering a more inclusive and equitable 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

#085: EXPERT: Takayuki Suzuki: Superfans and Strategy: How Japan Is Monetizing Fandom

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Japan’s music industry, the second largest in the world, is spotlighted in this episode as Takayuki Suzuki, founder of MusicTech Japan, shares his expertise. From the enduring dominance of physical music sales to innovative approaches in monetizing fandom, Taka unpacks the unique characteristics that set Japan apart. He also discusses the role of Web3, AI, and storytelling in shaping the future of music, offering valuable insights for startups and global audiences looking to learn from Japan’s success.

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

#096: MTEA: Thais Ruiz de Alda: Why Female Artists Are Missing From Your Playlists ft. Music Tech Europe Academy

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Thais Ruiz de Alda, founder of Digital Femmes, delves into the barriers women face in tech and music while highlighting the opportunities for change. She shares her journey and the mission of Digital Femmes to create a more inclusive and diverse digital landscape.

This episode is produced in partnership with Music Tech Europe Academy: https://www.musictecheuropeacademy.eu/

Highlights:

Understanding the effects of gender imbalance in tech
Approaches to boost female involvement and leadership
The importance of diversity in tech innovation and product creation
Establishing a supportive network for women in tech and music

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

#062: FOUNDER: Mansoor Rahimat Khan: From Sitar to Startup: Building Beatoven.ai #generativeai

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 05:00:00 GMT

AI-driven music platforms like Beethoven.ai are revolutionizing how music is created and experienced. In this episode, co-founder and CEO Mansoor Rahimat Khan discusses how the platform combines advanced technology with a deep appreciation for musical heritage.

From his roots in a family of renowned sitar musicians to leading an innovative music tech company, Mansoor shares his journey, the challenges of growing a startup, and his vision for the future of music creation in a tech-driven world.

Highlights:

The development of Beethoven.ai in the AI music arena.
Connecting traditional Indian music with contemporary technology.
Overcoming industry hurdles and building a long-lasting music tech business.
Considering the ethical aspects of AI in music creation.

#052: Discussing AI's Impact on the Music Industry with my AI Avatar

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 23 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Artificial intelligence is transforming the music industry, and in this episode, the host Jacob, and his AI avatar, AI Jake, dive into its groundbreaking impact. They explore how AI is reshaping music creation and consumption, driving innovation, and challenging traditional methods.

From idea-driven creativity to the democratization of music production, this episode unpacks the opportunities and challenges AI presents for artists and producers. Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion on the future of music in the age of artificial intelligence.

Highlights:

Exploring AI's impact on job displacement and new creative possibilities.
The transition from skill-based to idea-based creativity.
Challenges and opportunities in integrating AI with traditional music roles.
The ethical landscape of AI in music, ensuring fair credit and compensation.

#044: WISE: Dr. Martin Clancy: Exploring AI Ethics and Music Innovation

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Learn about the intersection of AI, ethics, and music innovation with Dr. Martin Clancy, a leading expert and member of the IEEE Global AI Ethics Committee. This episode delves into how AI is reshaping the music industry, from creative possibilities to ethical dilemmas and financial implications. Dr. Clancy shares his journey in music, the foundation of his groundbreaking research, and his vision for the future of music creation in an increasingly AI-driven world.

Highlights:

The evolution of AI ethics in the music industry.
Dr. Martin Clancy's insights on generative AI and its implications.
The financial landscape of the music industry amidst AI advancements.
Philosophical and practical discussions on AI ethics.

#041: FOUNDER: Alex Brees: Empowering Artists: The Rise of un:hurd in Music Promotion

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Alex Brees, founder of un:hurd, shares his journey from a tech background to redefining music marketing. This episode unpacks how un:hurd uses data-driven strategies to empower artists, offering innovative tools to amplify their reach and impact. Gain insights into the future of music promotion and the role technology plays in helping artists thrive in an ever-evolving industry.

Highlights:

Changing the music marketing industry with un:hurd.
Developing a tech-focused platform for independent and major label artists.
New methods for artist empowerment and community building.
The startup journey of un:hurd to a global service.

#025: FOUNDER: Mischa Sigtermans - Artist Management Through Music Tech with Stagent

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Meet Mischa Sigtermans, founder of Stagent, as he explains how he combined his passion for music and technology to build a more efficient artist management platform. He talks about turning obstacles into opportunities, creating a straightforward system for booking and managing artists, and dealing with the complex nature of the music industry. Hear his insights on the importance of user-friendly design, the role of entrepreneurship, and the plans guiding Stagent’s future.

Highlights:

Transforming artist management with technology at Stagent.
The entrepreneurial journey of Mischa Sigtermans in the music industry.
Overcoming barriers to create a seamless booking experience.
Future aspirations for Stagent in the evolving music tech landscape.

#022: EXPERT: Drew Thurlow - Decoding AI's Role in Music

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 23:00:00 GMT

This is how artificial intelligence is transforming the music scene as Drew Thurlow, whose résumé spans from the Boston Red Sox to Warner Music Group and Pandora, draws on his varied experiences. Gain insights into how technology intersects with music and the critical role AI plays in shaping the industry’s future.

Highlights:

AI's influence on the music industry's transformation.
The future of music creation and consumption.
Addressing AI's challenges and opportunities for artists and businesses.
Insights into the evolving dynamics of fan engagement and artist development.

#014: Caroline Ravn: Navigating the Music Industry as a Young Professional

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT

In this Sound Connections episode, Caroline Ravn opens up about her path through the music industry, from completing influential reports to taking on various roles. She talks about the barriers she faced—especially in the Nordic market—and why she thought about seeking opportunities elsewhere. Caroline also looks ahead, highlighting the changes needed to keep young talent in the music world. Plus, she shares helpful advice, networks, and resources that guided her along the way.

#013: FOUNDER: Jesper Skibsby WARMing Up the Music Industry

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Ready to turn up the heat in the music industry?

Meet Jesper Skibsby, founder and CEO of WARM, who turned a single idea into a global radio monitoring service. Hear how he faced funding hurdles, built a committed team, and made real-time radio data available to independent artists, labels, and managers—insights that were once reserved for industry giants. This conversation spotlights the power of innovation and the determination needed to succeed in the music world.

Highlights:

The start of WARM: From a personal insight to a global service.
Overcoming challenges as a solo founder in the tech-driven music scene.
Empowering the independent music sector with innovative data solutions.
The future of radio monitoring and its impact on music royalties.

#136: FOUNDER: Epidemic Sound: The Legal Model That Created a New Music Economy: Tom Höglund

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

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.ventures

Follow on;

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

ESNS 2026: Innovative Ticketing Strategies: Mike van Gaasbeek and Yannick Corbeau

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMT

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/
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Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;

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00:00 Welcome and context
05:28 One platform approach
09:38 Ticketing as marketing strategy
13:00 Promoter economics and margins
17:02 Market consolidation trends
23:05 Ticketing and cash flow
28:17 Brand focus and challenges
34:12 Funding models and longevity
41:25 Regulation and audience trust
55:39 Music beyond capital

#061: ARTIST: Sharmin Sultana Sumi: From Chirkutt's Front Lady to a Bangladeshi marketing CEO

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Patrick Ermlich, a music industry expert with 24 years of experience, joins the conversation to share his insights on artist growth, creativity, and entrepreneurship. In this episode, he offers a fresh perspective on guiding artists through personal and professional development while navigating the complexities of the music business. Packed with actionable advice for both emerging and seasoned artists, this discussion explores what it takes to achieve lasting success in an ever-evolving music landscape.

Highlights:

Grasping the dual role of artists as creative entrepreneurs.
The role of financial knowledge and strategic thinking in an artist's career.
Creating a supportive network for artists' success.
Facing the challenges of today's music industry and the changing role of technology.

#067: EXIT: Lasse Andresen: From Rockstar Dreams to ForgeRock's $3 Billion IPO

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

The evolving relationship between music and technology takes center stage in this episode, featuring insights from industry leaders. These are the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the music business and the innovative strategies they’ve used to overcome them.

Highlights:

Exploring the journey from musical passion to business achievement.
Insights into building a sustainable music business in today's digital landscape.
The role of technology in transforming live music experiences and industry practices.
Discussions on the importance of diversity and collaboration in achieving business objectives.

#043: FOUNDER: Dmitri Vietze: Mastering the Art of Innovative Storytelling in Music Tech PR

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Discover the fascinating intersection of music, technology, and storytelling in this episode featuring Dmitri Vietze, founder of Rock Paper Scissors. Dive into the challenges and triumphs shaping the modern music industry, as Dmitri shares his journey in building a thriving PR firm and fostering innovation in music tech. From the rise of startups to opportunities for artists and entrepreneurs, this conversation unveils how music tech continues to transform the creative landscape.

Highlights:

Storytelling in the music tech industry.
Overcoming challenges and finding opportunities in music innovation.
Supporting artists and tech startups through strategic communication.

#045: EXIT: Scott Cohen: From Financial Ruin To Selling The Orchard

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Uncover the inspiring story of Scott Cohen, co-founder of The Orchard, in this engaging episode of *Sound Connections*. A true pioneer in music technology, Scott shares his journey from humble beginnings to revolutionizing the industry with the creation of the first digital distribution company.

Discover the challenges he faced, the breakthroughs that defined his career—like playing a pivotal role in the iTunes launch—and his transition to Chief Innovation Officer at Warner. Gain valuable insights into his drive for innovation and the profound impact of his work on music rights investment and the industry at large.

Highlights:

Scott Cohen's journey from financial challenges to a successful exit with The Orchard.
The role of vision in predicting technological impacts on the music industry.
Overcoming obstacles in scaling a groundbreaking digital distribution company.
Scott's transition to Warner and his ongoing influence in music rights investment.

Music Royalties: The Case for 'Completion'

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 03 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Join us on Sound Connections as we delve into the evolving world of music royalties with AI Jake. In this episode, we tackle the widely debated pro-rata model and introduce economist Will Page's innovative 'Completion' model. Discover how this proposal rewards fully streamed songs, combats streaming fraud, and offers a straightforward implementation for the music industry. We examine the potential winners and losers, address concerns about genre bias, and explore the model's alignment with current industry trends. Tune in for a comprehensive look at how the Completion model could pave the way for a fairer and more sustainable royalty system.

#36: EXIT: Agnes Chung: The Story of Musicube's AI Metadata Mastery & Songtradr Acquisition

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Peek into the evolution of a cutting-edge music search platform as co-founder Agnes Chung delves into Musicube’s origins and its groundbreaking AI-driven capabilities. Gain insights into the startup’s recent acquisition by Songtradr, and follow Agnes’ own path from musicology to entrepreneurship. This episode reveals the hurdles faced, the wins celebrated, and a forward-thinking approach that’s redefining how we find and engage with music.

Highlights:

The vision of Musicube: Enhancing music discovery through AI.
Overcoming challenges in the music industry.
The unexpected path to acquisition by Songtradr.
Maintaining team integrity and vision post-acquisition.

#40: FOUNDER: Karl Richter: Building DISCO: Revolutionizing Music Sharing and Discovery

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Explore the innovative world of music technology with Karl Richter, the founder of Disco in a detailed discussion about how Disco is redefining music sharing and discovery for music supervisors. Karl provides an inside look into the development of a B2B SaaS platform tailored to the unique challenges of the music tech industry. He shares his strategies for fostering creativity and driving innovation to ensure Disco's growth and success. This episode offers practical insights into building a sustainable startup and addresses the real-world problems Disco aims to solve within the music supervision landscape.

Highlights:

Building Disco from the start: A tale of determination and creativity.
The blend of music and technology: How Disco is leading the change.
Equipping music supervisors with advanced tools and solutions.
The impact of creativity in establishing sustainable music tech companies.

KISS Sells to Pophouse: A $300 Million Legacy Deal

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Sound Connections, co-host AI Jake takes us through the substantial deal between rock icons KISS and Pophouse Entertainment, where KISS sold their song catalog, brand, and intellectual property for $300 million. This significant agreement includes their famous face paint designs, shares of master recordings, and publishing rights, marking a notable shift in the music industry's landscape.

We explore what Pophouse's acquisition means for the future of KISS's music and brand. The episode discusses Pophouse's intention to leverage technology to enhance and perpetuate KISS's legacy, drawing parallels with their successful ABBA Voyage project. This strategy indicates a new era where technology ensures the longevity of artists' impacts, blending historical music influence with modern digital experiences.

#114: EXPERT: The Business of Music Catalogs: How Artists can Profit from IP || Yonas Aregai

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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/

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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

#126: WALLIFORNIA: Music Tech Funding Is Broken – Who Might Fix It?

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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/

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Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures

Follow on;

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#131: BIME: Why Audience Data Is the New Currency in Live Music || Lauriane Saint-Denis

Amplitude Ventures — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 15:00:00 GMT

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.

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Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.ventures

Follow on;

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

#135: MTEA: Rethinking AI, Consciousness, and Creativity: Alex Braga

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 23:00:00 GMT

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 creativity

Alex 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.ventures

Follow on;
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

#039: EXPERT: Dani Deahl: The Future of Music at BandLab Technologies

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Sound Connections, host Jakob Wredstrøm sits down with Dani Deahl, Head of Communications at BandLab, to discuss the platform's impressive growth and its transformative impact on the music industry. Discover how BandLab is empowering a new generation of music creators around the world by breaking down traditional production barriers and fostering a vibrant global community. Dani shares insights into the innovative features that set BandLab apart and explores the future of music creation in an increasingly digital landscape.

Highlights:

BandLab's journey to reaching 100 million users and its influence on the global music scene.
Insights into how BandLab promotes creativity and teamwork across various demographics.
The role of AI in creating new opportunities for musicians and the ethical considerations involved.
Dani Deahl shares her unique career path from DJ to a leading voice in music tech.

#029: EXPERT: Amanda Schupf: Unlocking the Money / Guide to Music Tech Fundraising

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Join us in this episode as we explore the details of music tech fundraising with expert Amanda Schupf. Learn about the challenges and strategies for securing investments in the changing music technology sector. From building trust with investors to identifying real industry problems, Amanda shares her journey and expertise in connecting traditional music businesses with innovative tech startups.

Highlights:

Understanding the dynamics of music tech fundraising.
Building genuine relationships and trust with investors.
Facing the music industry's unique challenges and opportunities.
Using innovation to empower music tech startups.

#021: EXPERT: Matthias Strobel: Navigating the Music-Tech Landscape in Europe

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 23:00:00 GMT

Enter Europe’s evolving music-tech sphere with Matthias Strobel, a key force behind MusicTech Germany. Hear about his journey from building a leading organization to uniting vibrant communities and events at the intersection of technology and music. Explore the hurdles and opportunities in this fast-changing industry, the value of strong networks, and the influence of new tech. Matthias also highlights how startups, investors, and a supportive environment can fuel innovation across the music-tech landscape.

Highlights:

The inception of MusicTech Germany and its influence on the music-tech ecosystem.
Building an engaged community through gatherings and networking events.
The meeting point of creativity, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Challenges and opportunities for music-tech startups in Europe.
The contribution of investors and the necessity of a connected network.

#108: EXPERT: Audiomack is Changing Latin Music and Fan Culture || Gineyda Cornelio

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 06 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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.

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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

#024: FOUNDER: Svitlana Pozniakova - Data, AI, and Outsider's Perspective with Nexro

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Join Svitlana Pozniakova, founder of Nexro, to explore how data and AI are changing the way artists plan their careers. She describes her path from Ukraine to Norway, the shift from a royalty exchange platform to predictive analytics, and why data-driven insights matter for independent artists. Learn how Nexro helps safeguard and support creators in a rapidly evolving music industry.

Highlights:

Innovating the music industry with data and AI at Nexro.
The journey from royalty exchange to predictive analytics.
Empowering artists and their teams through technology.
Insights on navigating startup challenges in a competitive market.

#002: EXPERT: Josh Greenberg: Merging Music and Technology

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 19 Aug 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Musical innovator Josh Greenberg discusses how technology and creativity blend to drive the music industry forward. Drawing on his work with global brands like Red Bull and Spotify, he shares the lessons he's learned from life in the studio to influencing corporate music culture. Get ready for a firsthand look at how artistry and tech intersect to shape today's evolving soundscape.

Highlights:

Crossing the paths of music and technology
Insights into Josh’s unique career path and influences
The evolution of music business strategies with brands like Red Bull

#145: EXIT: The 5-Year Exit Nightmare: Surviving My Acquirer's Collapse: Jan Willem

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 22:00:00 GMT

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!

#091: EXPERT: Jean Christophe Barat: Allfeat and The Future of Royalties

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT

The collaboration between Allfeat and Sound Connections is paving the way for innovation in the music industry. In this episode, Jean Christophe Barat (JC), founder of Allfeat, shares how their blockchain technology addresses critical issues like metadata management and royalty distribution. He also discusses the journey of building Allfeat and its role in creating transparent and efficient solutions for artists and music professionals.

Highlights:

Building a blockchain-based solution for secure music metadata.
Overcoming industry challenges through partnership and innovation.
Empowering independent artists with transparent royalty management.

#081: Founder: Clément Souchier: From Creaminal.io to Bridge Audio: The Switzerland Of Music Assets

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 06:00:00 GMT

The management and transparency of music assets take center stage in this episode as Clément Souchier, founder of Bridge Audio, shares his journey. From his early career at Creaminal.io to establishing Bridge Audio as the "Switzerland of Music Assets," Clément delves into the challenges and innovations shaping the future of the music industry.

Highlights:

The inception of Bridge Audio and its unique role in the music industry.
Clément's experiences and lessons learned from founding Creaminal.io.
The evolving landscape of music tech and its impact on sharing and discovering music.
Insights into building a tech platform that serves diverse stakeholders in the music business.

#129: FOUNDER: Building Sustainable Music Tech Companies in a Resistant Industry || Edward Ginis

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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.ventures

Follow on;

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#125: FOUNDER: Changing the Music Industry’s Artist Revenue Model: Mag Rodriguez

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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.ventures

Follow on;

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#118: FOUNDER: The Truth About AI Mixing, Mastering, and the Future of Music Tech || David Ronan

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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.ventures

Follow on;

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2omT8uLhBamH3GFeih4oo3?si=45206dd146a84ae1

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soundconnectionspodcast?igsh=bDZzbnhrYXBlNHBr

#038: EXIT: Hazel Savage: Building Musiio and the Path to SoundCloud

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Experience the inspiring journey of Hazel Savage, co-founder of Musiio, in this compelling episode of the Sound Connections podcast. Host Jakob Wredstrøm delves into how Hazel navigated the intricate music tech landscape, steering her AI-driven startup to a successful acquisition by SoundCloud. Gain firsthand insights into the challenges of fundraising, the strategic decisions that attracted Musiio’s initial clients, and the vital role of leadership in driving sales.

Highlights:

Founding Musiio: The inception and development of a music tech pioneer.
Overcoming industry obstacles: Dealing with investor skepticism and market challenges.
The journey to acquisition: How SoundCloud became a key player in Musiio's story.
Empowering the music tech landscape: Hazel's vision for the future of AI in music.

#071: INVESTOR: Gareth Deakin: Cracking the Code of Music Tech Investments and Startups

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Learn what it takes to succeed in the competitive world of music tech investments in this episode featuring Gareth Deakin. With years of experience building a strong profile in the music tech sector, Gareth shares actionable insights for entrepreneurs and investors looking to make an impact. From navigating startup ecosystems to understanding the latest trends, this episode delivers the knowledge you need to thrive in this ever-evolving industry.

Highlights:

Exploring the changes in music tech investment over the past 15 years.
Understanding the hurdles and prospects in music tech startups.
Insights into sustainable innovation in the music industry.

#005: EXPERT: Rasmus Rex: Unpacking the User-Centric Distribution Model in Music Streaming

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Rasmus Rex unpacks the contrasting user-centric and pro-rata streaming models, shedding light on how these frameworks shape the careers of artists and the broader music ecosystem. Discover the influence of digitalization on streaming platforms, the power of devoted fans, and the economic underpinnings that drive the industry forward.

Highlights:

Understanding the user-centric vs. pro-rata models.
How digital platforms are changing music culture.
The economic implications for artists in different streaming models.
Insights into potential shifts in royalty distribution.

#017: Ole Dreyer: Navigating Music Publishing, Sync Deals, and Industry Politics

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 23:00:00 GMT

Take a closer look at how AI is reshaping music as Einar Helde, co-founder of AIMS API, shares his unexpected path into the industry. Discover how advanced data tools are improving music discoverability and boosting audience engagement. Along the way, he recounts the start-up hurdles he had to overcome, the successes that fueled AIMS’ growth, and the forward-thinking vision for blending AI and creativity in the music scene.

Highlights:

Ole’s origins with punk bands in Denmark
Shift to music publishing and management
Insights into synchronization and music rights
The influence of AI on the music industry

#121: EXPERT: The Future of Physical Music Collectibles in a Digital World || Jennifer Sullivan

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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

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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

#063: EXPERT: Dr. Kobi Abayomi: The Future of Music Creation: AI's Role in the Industry #aiinmusic

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Generative AI is transforming music creation, revolutionizing production, creativity, and copyright. In this episode, Dr. Kobi Abayomi explores its implications for the music industry and its potential to shape the future for creators, offering key insights into the intersection of technology and artistry.

Highlights:

Examining AI's influence on music creation and industry changes.
Understanding the intersection of technology and artistry.
Addressing the challenges and opportunities AI presents to musicians and creators.

#053: EXPERT: Dr. Chinedu Chukwuji: Inside the Nigerian Music Industry and Its Global Influence

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 28 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Discover the Nigerian music industry's dynamic landscape with Dr. Chinedu Chukwuji. This episode explores Afrobeat's evolution, its worldwide impact, and Nigeria's creative sector growth potential. Dr. Chukwuji offers insights from his career, highlighting Nigeria's transformation into a hub of musical innovation and global partnerships.

Highlights:

Examining the global reach of Nigerian music and Afrobeat.
Technology and youth's influence on advancing Nigeria's creative scenes.
Addressing infrastructural challenges to uplift local talent.
Insights into global partnerships with Nigerian artists.

#134: EXPERT: The Mood Music Model: A New Way to Make a Living in Music: Niklas Brantberg

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT

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.ventures

Follow on;

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#079: INVESTOR: Michael Böwadt & Rie Pripsø: Fueling SoundTech Success with SoundHub & SoundInvest

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Michael Rohde Böwadt and Rie Kold Pripsø dive into the thriving SoundTech industry, sharing how SoundHub and SoundInvest are driving innovation and business growth. Discover Denmark's legacy in audio technology and how these initiatives are shaping the future through accelerator programs and strategic alliances. This episode explores the challenges of building a robust SoundTech ecosystem, the importance of hardware in startup success, and the impact of fostering innovation in this transformative sector.

Highlights:

The cooperation between SoundHub & SoundInvest in supporting SoundTech startups.
Denmark's tradition and leadership in audio technology.
Overcoming funding challenges in the hardware-based SoundTech sector.
The significance of passion and deep knowledge for startup achievement.

#110: FOUNDER: Muserk is Solving the Royalty Problem || Hans Peter Roth

Amplitude Ventures — Fri, 23 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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/

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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

#008 Failure: The Story of Timbre with Jonas Krossli and Kristian Wredstrøm

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 22:00:00 GMT

This is the ambitious story of Timbre with co-founders Jonas Krossli and Kristian Wredstrøm. This candid conversation dives into their bold idea of democratizing music IP investments, the tough realities they encountered, and the hard-earned lessons of resilience. Uncover the vision behind Timbre’s quest to reshape the music business—and learn why even the most innovative efforts can face an uphill battle against industry constraints.

Highlights:

Handling the intricacies of music investment
The emotional highs and lows of startup life
Insights into the music industry's response to innovation
Personal development through entrepreneurial challenges

#082: MANAGER: Mike Holland: Taking Charge: How Emerging Artists Are Shaping Their Own Success

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Mike Holland, an experienced artist manager, discusses the challenges and opportunities for emerging artists in today’s music industry. In this episode, he shares practical advice on building a fanbase, understanding the business side of music, and taking control of a career in a rapidly changing landscape. A grounded look at the realities of artist development and management.

Highlights:

Exploring the dynamic shifts in the music industry and their impact on artists.
The importance of artists acting as their own CEOs.
Strategies for artists to maintain artistic integrity while expanding their fanbase.
Mike's personal journey from content creation to music management.

Independent Artists Reign: TuneCore's $4 Billion Milestone

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 15 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, host AI Jake delves into TuneCore's monumental achievement of paying out over $4 billion to self-releasing artists. This episode celebrates the DIY music distribution platform’s role in transforming the music industry landscape and empowering independent musicians globally.

Join Sound Connections Podcast host AI Jake as we celebrate TuneCore's $4 billion milestone in royalty payouts to independent artists. Tune in to hear how indie artists are taking the music industry by storm!

#097: FOUNDER: Ciarán O'Toole & Michael Coll; The Story Behind Songbox; A MusicTech Startup

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Ciarán and Michael share how their music-sharing platform began as a solution for artists who need to send tracks securely, privately, and with clear insights on who has listened.
Drawing from real-life music industry frustrations and professional tech expertise, they explain how Songbox evolved through user feedback, personal experience, and the practical know-how gained from successful and challenging business ventures.

Also, find out why major artists like Bryan Adams embraced Songbox early on, and hear how strong focus, bootstrapping, and smart growth strategies guided their journey. Whether you’re a musician seeking the right tool for sharing music or simply curious about a unique startup approach, this episode offers an honest look at building a service that supports creators at every stage.

Visit the platform: https://songbox.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

#119: WALLIFORNIA: The Role of Community and Authenticity in Music Success: Rachel Young

Amplitude Ventures — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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/

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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

#140: EXPERT: A Quiet Path Through the Noise of Modern Algorithms: Gigi Johnson, PhD.

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 07:00:00 GMT

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;

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#138: FOUNDER: Adapting E-commerce Strategies for Musicians: Jack McCarthy

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 07:00:00 GMT

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 music

About Indiepreneur: https://indepreneur.io/

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Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.venturesFollow on;

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#111: FOUNDER: Solving Music Royalties with Tech and Getting Acquired || Tom Allen

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 27 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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 tech

Learn about Curve: https://www.curveforcreators.com/about-curve
Learn about Downtown Music: https://downtownmusic.com/

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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

#098: EXPERT: Daniel Nordgård; The Truth About Music Streaming, AI, and Artists' Future

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Legal and financial hurdles stand at the forefront of the modern music industry. In this conversation, music management professor, Daniel Nordgård, shares insights on how technology, academia, and sustainable artist careers converge to shape the sector’s future. He examines the influence of AI on music creation and discusses the shifting values behind music consumption.

By spotlighting forward-thinking strategies, Daniel showcases how innovation can help overcome industry challenges and drive positive change.

Highlights:

A positive perspective on the future of music.
Tackling challenges from AI and digital growth.
Examining the worldwide growth of music markets.
The role of professional intermediaries in the music business.

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

#056: EXPERT: Vickie Nauman: What most founders miss: Industry Marker Fit

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

"Industry Market Fit" takes center stage in this episode, as consultant Vickie Nauman breaks down its importance for success in the music tech space. Learn how it differs from product and investor market fit and why understanding the unique challenges of the music industry is essential for startups.

Vickie shares key insights from her journey, highlighting common pitfalls, the value of patience, and the importance of strategic alliances for thriving in this dynamic field.

Highlights:

Grasping the subtleties of Industry Market Fit in music tech.
Examining the hurdles and prospects within the music sector.
Insights into effective investor dialogue and risk management.
The future of music in gaming and digital settings.

#120: FOUNDER: What’s Really Going On With Lyrics and DSPs || Darryl Ballantyne

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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

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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

#127: EXPERT: Building a Music Career Fans Can Emotionally Invest In

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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.ventures

Follow on;

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#133: FOUNDER: Democratizing Music Ownership Through Smarter Finance and Technology: Lior Tibon

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 13:00:00 GMT

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.ventures

Follow on;

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#080: FOUNDER: Kanru Hua: Founding Dreamtonics: Creating music with AI Vocal Synthesizers

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Dreamtonics, the company behind groundbreaking AI vocal synthesizers, is changing the music industry with its innovative approach. Founder Kanru Hua shares his journey, from his early passion for engineering and music to building a company that bridges creativity and technology. In this episode, Kanru explores the challenges of vocal synthesis development, the future of music production, and how innovation is transforming the way music is created and experienced.

Highlights:

The beginning of Dreamtonics and Kanru Hua's distinct route to starting the company.
How AI vocal synthesizers are altering the way music is created.
The hurdles and successes of merging technology with traditional music methods.
Kanru’s engineering-focused method for addressing creative challenges in music.

#054: EXPERT: Jeff Liebenson: AI and Music Industry Legal Challenges

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 30 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the music industry, and with it comes a wave of legal and creative challenges. In this episode, entertainment lawyer Jeff Liebenson delves into how AI is influencing the music scene, offering both opportunities and risks for artists and creators.

Understand Jeff's insights on managing the complexities of copyright, balancing innovation with protection, and the broader implications of AI for the future of music. This conversation provides essential knowledge for anyone navigating the intersection of music and technology.

Highlights:

The shift from physical to digital media and its economic effects.
AI's role in both replacing and boosting artists.
Legal complexities in AI-created music and copyright conflicts.
Approaches for using AI while protecting creative rights.

#122: ARTIST: The Truth About Being a Professional Guitarist || Ryan Roxie

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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

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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

#033: EXPERT: Michael Pelczynski: The Future of Fandom in a Digital Age

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Let's understand how digital platforms are reshaping music fandom in this in-depth talk with music tech expert Mike Pelczynski. Uncover how user-centric models influence artists and fans, learn about the complex world of licensing and royalties, and see how fandom drives real change in the industry. With insights drawn from major labels to forward-thinking streaming services, this episode highlights a new era of connection and opportunity for everyone involved in music.

Highlights:

The evolution of music fandom in the digital era.
Mike Pelczynski's impactful journey in the music industry.
Strategic insights into user-centric models and their implications.
Understanding the complexities of licensing and royalties in music tech.

#059: FOUNDER: JC Barat: Building the Future of Music: Blockchain, AI, and the Allfeat Platform

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Blockchain's potential to reshape the music industry takes center stage in this episode, featuring JC Barat, co-founder of Allfeat, a groundbreaking platform dedicated to traceability, ownership, and community building.

This is the journey of creating a decentralized data structure for music and gain insights into the challenges and opportunities the industry faces in embracing blockchain technology. This conversation offers a forward-thinking perspective on the future of music innovation.

Highlights:

Examining the potential of blockchain in the music industry.
Developing a decentralized platform for artists and fans.
Managing the complexities of integrating blockchain with music.

#144: FOUNDER: Staying Lean as a Competitive Edge in Music Tech: Christian Ringstad Schultz

Amplitude Ventures — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 23:00:00 GMT

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.

#020: FOUNDER: Ken Kobori - SURF Brings Power Back To Music Makers

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 23:00:00 GMT

Venture behind the scenes of Surf, the platform that empowers music creators by connecting them directly with industry buyers. Ken Kobori, founder and former music producer, reveals how his innovative approach reshapes the music scene. Hear about the hurdles he tackled, the value of a strong community, and why transparency and collaboration drive the future of music tech.

Highlights:

Ken Kobori's shift from music producer to tech entrepreneur.
The creation and impact of Surf in the global music industry.
Building a platform that connects music creators directly with buyers.
Insights into promoting collaboration and community within the music tech space.

#139: EXPERT: Independent Music Success: Distribution, Marketing & Ownership: JESSE FLORES

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 07:00:00 GMT

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 distributor
Why creative control matters
What $1,000 can do for your music
Smart ways to grow without a label
What makes indie artists succeed today

Whether 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.

#027: FOUNDER: Con Raso - Streamlining Music Tech with Tuned Global

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 23:00:00 GMT

Trace how Con Raso, founder of Tuned Global, used his non-music background to build a digital platform that now serves millions worldwide. Delve into the complexities of licensing, entry into new markets, and innovative ventures in health, fitness, and Web3. Hear about the hurdles, the successes, and what it takes to navigate an ever-evolving music technology landscape.

Highlights:

The start of Tuned Global and its influence on the music industry.
Con Raso's move from tech enthusiast to music tech entrepreneur.
Overcoming challenges in digital music distribution and rights management.
Exploring new areas in health, fitness, and blockchain with music.

#034: SØRVEIV: Sørveiv's Vision for Music and Tech Synergy

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Join us in an episode filled with fresh insights from the Sørveiv Music Industry Conference. With hosts Hannah and Lena, we examine how this distinctive festival connects music and technology in Norway. Discover the energetic interaction of live shows and tech advancements that are transforming the music industry.

Highlights:

The special collaboration at Sørveiv, merging live music and tech conversations.
Challenges and possibilities for tech companies in the music domain.
Supporting emerging artists and building connections within the music business.

#015: Jakob Wredstrøm: The Unconventional Journey as a Music Entrepreneur

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 22:00:00 GMT

A move from Denmark to Norway sparked a fresh outlook on the Nordic music landscape. Follow the journey behind Capella’s founding in Stavanger, including the cultural challenges faced and the practical methods used to foster creativity and innovation for artists and entrepreneurs alike.

Highlights:

Overcoming cultural challenges in Norway's music industry.
Establishing a successful music venture in a non-traditional music city.
Empowering artists through collaboration and innovation.
Personal and professional growth as an entrepreneur.

#078: EXPERT: Jenn Miller: AI Meets Artistry: Transforming Music Licensing with AudioSocket

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Jenn Anderson-Miller, CEO and co-founder of AudioSocket, shares how her company is transforming the music licensing landscape. This episode delves into AudioSocket's groundbreaking use of AI, its commitment to ethical practices, and its dedication to supporting independent artists. Jenn offers a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities of licensing music in a rapidly evolving digital world, emphasizing the power of collaboration and innovation.

Highlights:

AudioSocket's role in reshaping music licensing with AI.
Empowering indie artists through innovative platforms.
The significance of ethical AI in music creation and licensing.
Insights into the future of music industry collaborations.

Audiosocket: https://www.audiosocket.com/

HYBE's Virtual Pop Group SYNDI8: Pioneering AI in Music with Unprecedented Realism

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 06 Jul 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Welcome to another exciting episode of Sound Connections! I’m your host, AI Jake, here to guide you through the latest groundbreaking developments in music and technology. In this episode, we explore the revolutionary debut of HYBE's AI-powered virtual pop group, SYNDI8.

#057: EXPERT: Josh Greenberg: Evolving Fandom: Monetizing Engagement in the Digital Age

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Fandom in the digital age is evolving, and Josh Greenberg, a key strategist in the music industry, shares his expertise in this episode. Discover how modern superfans are defined by engagement rather than financial contributions and why recurring revenue is becoming vital for artists.

Josh offers valuable perspectives on building authentic fan bases and navigating the changing dynamics of the music business, providing essential insights for artists and industry professionals alike.

Highlights:

Transforming fandom: Shift from the pre-digital era to the current landscape.
The role of superfans in an artist's revenue stream.
Josh Greenberg's approaches for success in the music industry.
The core of building a sustainable and connected fan base.

#048: EXPERT: Mathilde Neu: The Art of Storytelling in Music Tech

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 09 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Mathilde Neu from Resonance Agency, a seasoned expert at the crossroads of music and technology. In this episode of *Sound Connections*, Mathilde shares her journey and offers practical advice for startups looking to thrive in the music tech industry.

Highlights:

The importance of storytelling in music tech.
Strategies for effective communication with diverse audiences.
Challenges in the music tech industry and how to overcome them.
Insights into the future of music tech innovation and collaboration.

#001 The Journey of Capella Entertainment

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 11:00:00 GMT

In this first episode, co-founders Jonah Bjerga and Moi Sultan return to share the growth of Capella Entertainment. They discuss how their passion for music led them from bartending to creating a leading Scandinavian music venture studio. Discover how they built a supportive network in a city with limited opportunities and fueled a thriving culture of creativity and entrepreneurship.

Highlights:

Turning dreams into reality with Capella Entertainment.
Establishing a flourishing music venture studio in Scandinavia.
Overcoming challenges in a growing music industry.
Supporting artists and entrepreneurs through teamwork.

#143: FOUNDER: Industrial-Scale Money Laundering in the Music Industry: Andrew Batey & Morgan Hayduk

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 23:00:00 GMT

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.

#004 The Accidental Founder: Journey of Sondre Pedersen and Mintix

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Explore the unexpected journey of Sondre Pedersen, the accidental founder behind Mintix, a blockchain-based ticketing platform reshaping live events. Hear how a simple idea evolved into a tech breakthrough for the music scene, and learn about the challenges and breakthroughs of launching a startup in an ever-changing industry.

Highlights:

The beginning and growth of Mintix, a blockchain ticketing startup.
Sondre Pedersen's surprising journey to becoming a founder.
The impact of blockchain on ticketing and event management.
Insights into overcoming challenges within the startup culture.

#115: FOUNDER: From Musician to Founder: How Sleeve Helps Artists Earn Real Income || Anna Lidell

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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/

#109: FOUNDER: Inside Hangout.fm: Changing How We Listen to Music Together || Joseph Perla

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 13 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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/

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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

Sony's Billion-Dollar Bid: The Future of Queen's Iconic Music

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 08 Jun 2024 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Sound Connections, AI Jake dives into the potentially groundbreaking deal between Sony Music and the legendary Queen catalog, a transaction that could be worth a staggering $1 billion. Join us as we explore the implications of this monumental acquisition, encompassing Queen's iconic hits, merchandising, and more.

Explore Sony's billion-dollar bid for Queen's iconic music catalog and what it means for the future of music. Tune in to the Sound Connections Podcast for all the details!

#055: EXIT: Jonas Norberg: Pacemaker’s 18-Year Journey – Acquired by Tuned Global

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Jonas Norberg, creator of the Pacemaker DJ app and Head of AI at Toon Global, shares his inspiring journey from a music-filled childhood to becoming a trailblazer in music technology. In this episode, he reflects on the challenges of developing Pacemaker, a groundbreaking app that revolutionized music mixing and sharing, and how his innovative use of AI transformed music experiences.

Along the way, Jonas provides valuable insights into building a sustainable business, adapting to change, and the evolving role of technology in shaping the music industry, offering lessons for entrepreneurs and music enthusiasts alike.

Highlights:

Jonas Norberg's early influences and journey into music technology.
The creation and evolution of Pacemaker, a pioneering DJ app.
The role of AI in reshaping music experiences.
Lessons learned from working in the tech and music industries.

#019: FOUNDER: Christiana Sudano - Bridging the Nordics and U.S. with Do Less Management

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 23:00:00 GMT

In the evolving world of music management with Kristiana Sudano, founder of Do Less Management we listen to the story about her Nashville roots to building a cross-border operation that links the Nordics and the U.S., Kristiana shares how she navigates an ever-changing industry. Hear about the obstacles she faced, the lessons she learned, and why bridging cultural gaps is key to fostering genuine collaboration in today’s music scene.

Highlights:

Kristiana's early influences and career beginnings in Nashville.
The key role of Los Angeles in her career development.
Her transition to founding Do Less Management just before the pandemic.
The innovative approach to artist development and management.
Kristiana's dedication to mental health and supporting marginalized communities within the industry.

Spotify vs. MLC: The Bundled Royalties Showdown

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 10 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Sound Connections, we explore the ongoing legal battle between Spotify and the Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) over bundled royalties. At the heart of the dispute is Spotify's controversial reclassification of its subscription plans to include audiobooks, a move that allows the streaming giant to pay lower mechanical royalties to songwriters and publishers.

Join us as we break down the stakes, the legal arguments, and what this battle means for the future of music streaming and compensation for creators.

Spotify's $4.5 Billion Indie Milestone

Amplitude Ventures — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 23:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Sound Connections, we delve into Spotify's groundbreaking announcement: independent artists and labels earned $4.5 billion in 2023, making up half of the platform's total payouts. Explore the implications of this significant shift towards the democratization of music distribution, the explosive growth of the indie sector, and the opportunities this presents for entrepreneurs in the music industry. Join Jake, an AI co-presenter, for an insightful analysis of Spotify's impact on global recorded music revenue and what this means for the future of music creation and consumption.

#035: SØRVEIV: Pål Bråtelund: Collaborative Models in the Music Industry

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Discover how fresh alliances are transforming the music business in this conversation with Pål Bråtelund. Hear firsthand how smaller enterprises can thrive through strategic teamwork rather than following the conventional acquisition route. From rethinking old business models to forging innovative collaborations in music tech, this episode offers a forward-looking perspective on creating sustainable success in a rapidly shifting landscape.

Highlights:

The transition from conventional music industry frameworks to collaborative models.
Exploring collaboration as a strong alternative to acquisitions.
Insights into the potential of blockchain and tokenization in royalty distribution.
The importance of partnerships in encouraging innovation and growth in music tech.

#009: EXPERT: Turo Pekari: Mastering the Art of Networking in Music

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 22:00:00 GMT

In this Sound Connections episode, Turo Pekari, a familiar face in the Nordic music world, talks about the value of strong connections in the music business.

Celebrated for his networking skills, Turo shares his story and offers valuable insights into networking in the music business. Learn about building meaningful relationships, the impact of innovation, and the role of entrepreneurship in today's music world.

Highlights:

Discovering Turo Pekari's journey as a networker in the music industry.
The importance of human connections and personal relationships in business.
Turo's path from a passionate music lover to an influential figure in the industry.
Insights into the intersection of music and technology.
Techniques and strategies for effective networking and collaboration.

#137: FOUNDER: Music IP Rights — Valuing Catalogs, Due Diligence & The 10-Year Rule: Alan Wallis

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

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 like

A must-watch for anyone exploring the intersection of music, finance, publishing, and IP ownership.

Learn more about Dynamite Songs: https://www.dynamite-songs.com/

#113: FOUNDER: Symphony Is Leading the Future of DIY Music Marketing || Megh Vakharia and Chuka Chase

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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

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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

#132: AI, Localization, and the New Music Economy: Ben Mendoza

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:00:00 GMT

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/
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Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Venture Building - https://amplitude.ventures

Follow on;

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/soundconnectionspodcast/

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#064: EXPERT: Rosanna Connolly: Mastering Impactful Storytelling in the Music Industry

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Rosanna Connolly, founder of Morena Coms and a veteran in music industry PR, shares her journey from the Brit School to roles at Universal Music and Apple Music. In this episode, she discusses her unique approach to empowering artists and entrepreneurs through impactful storytelling.

Get to know why defining a strong 'why' is essential for building a successful brand and how storytelling can transform the way artists connect with their audience. This conversation is packed with valuable insights for anyone in the music and entertainment world.

Highlights:

Rosanna's career path and the founding of Morena Coms.
The importance of storytelling and a strong 'why' in the music industry.
Overcoming challenges in PR and building a brand that resonates.
Insights into the role of PR, earned media, and strategic storytelling.
The changing landscape of the music industry with technology and AI.

#112: WALLIFORNIA: The Real Story Behind Music and Streaming Algorithms at Deezer || Aurélien Hérault

Amplitude Ventures — Fri, 30 May 2025 05:00:00 GMT

PARTNERSHIP WITH WALLIFORNIA 2025
We 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.com

About the 9th edition of the Wallifornia Music + Tech Summit in July 2025;
https://walliforniamusictech.com/

#095: EXPERT: Dan Fowler: Music Industry in Crisis? Challenges and Opportunities

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Streaming, technology, and economic shifts are transforming the music industry. In this episode, music expert Dan breaks down the biggest challenges and innovations shaping the business today. From the impact of streaming on artists and labels to the role of creators and new monetization strategies, this discussion explores how macroeconomic trends and digital advancements are redefining the industry. Learn how artists and professionals can adapt to these changes and thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Highlights:

Understanding economic trends and their impact on the music industry.
The role of streaming and its future viability.
Innovative ways creators are connecting and growing their fanbase.
Lessons the music industry can learn from the gaming sector.

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

#123: EXPERT: AI vs the Music Industry: What’s Actually Happening? || Becky Brook

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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.

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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

#084: INVESTOR: Andrea Rosen: Music as a Catalyst: Investing in the Future of Nightlife and Culture

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Investing in forward-thinking startups is reshaping the nightlife industry, and Andrea Rosen, portfolio manager at Best Nights VC, is at the forefront of this transformation. In this episode, Andrea shares her approach to supporting innovative projects that connect music, culture, and technology. From her roots as a DJ to her role as a VC leader, she discusses the challenges and opportunities in creating a positive impact through music and community-driven initiatives.

Highlights:

Andrea Rosen's distinct shift from DJ to venture capital.
The influence of music on enhancing nightlife and cultural projects.
Tackling industry hurdles with creative solutions.
Empowering communities through strategic investments in music tech.

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

Ethics in AI Music: Navigating Legal Battles and Sustainable Practices

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 29 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the Sound Connections Podcast! In this episode, AI Jake dives into the legal battles between major record labels and AI music companies Suno and Udio, accused by the RIAA of mass copyright infringement. These lawsuits could set significant precedents for AI's role in the music industry. We also explore ethical AI practices with Mansoor Rahimat Khan, CEO of Beatoven.ai, who emphasizes fair compensation and proper usage rights for artists.

Additionally, we revisit insights from AI ethics expert Martin Clancy on the AI-OK trust mark, designed to uphold ethical standards in AI-generated music. Join us as we discuss the importance of integrating ethical considerations into AI development to protect artists' rights and ensure a balanced ecosystem in the evolving music landscape.

TikTok and DistroKid simplify Artist Account Creation

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 27 Jul 2024 15:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Sound Connections, hosted by AI Jake, we explore the transformative partnership between TikTok and DistroKid aimed at revolutionizing the process of creating official TikTok Artist Accounts for independent musicians. Join us as we discuss how this collaboration is set to drastically reduce account setup times from weeks to just hours, providing artists with seamless access to a suite of innovative features.

#032: FOUNDER: Keatly Haldeman: Decentralizing the Future of Music Licensing

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Join us for an inspiring episode as we explore the intersection of music licensing and blockchain with Keatly Haldeman, founder of Dequency. Learn how Keatly's passion for music and technology has led him to innovate in the Web3 space, changing the way music is licensed and shared. We follow his journey from a music enthusiast to a leader in the blockchain industry.

In this episode, Keatly discusses the challenges and opportunities of combining blockchain with music, offering a glimpse into the future of decentralized music rights management. From understanding blockchain's potential to tackling the music industry's complexities, Keatly's story showcases the power of innovation and determination.

Highlights:
Keatly Haldeman’s path from music lover to blockchain leader.
The effect of blockchain on music licensing and rights management.
Overcoming industry challenges with technology.
The future of decentralized music sharing.

#012: FOUNDER: Jakob Løkkegaard: Building W.A.S. Entertainment from the Ground Up

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 22:00:00 GMT

This conversation explores how Jakob Løkkegaard built W.A.S. Entertainment from the ground up, defying industry doubts and financial setbacks along the way. Hear about his creative approach to management, from forming strategic alliances to promoting equality in the music scene—and gain insight into how one vision can drive lasting change in the industry.

Highlights:

The beginning of W.A.S. Entertainment and its development over the years.
Challenges encountered and lessons gained in the competitive music industry.
Insights into creating a lasting and prosperous music management company.
Jakob’s vision for the future and his dedication to supporting new talent.

#058: SØRVEIV: Daan Archer & Pål Bråtelund Identifying AI in Music

Amplitude Ventures — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

AI is revolutionizing the music industry, and this episode dives into its impact with insights from Daan of Copyright Delta and other innovators. From boosting creativity and collaboration to navigating complex legal and rights management challenges, the discussion sheds light on the opportunities and hurdles AI presents.

Highlights:

The role of AI in transforming music industry practices.
Challenges and opportunities in AI-driven music rights management.
The evolution of digital infrastructure and its impact on music creators.
Insights into building a collaborative and sustainable music ecosystem.

#051: EXPERT: Serona Elton: Exploring Music's Money Maze

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 21 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Understanding music royalties has never been more important, and in this episode of the podcast, we tackle the topic with Serona Elton, head of educational partnerships at the Mechanical Licensing Collective. Serona shares expert advice for songwriters on how to ensure they’re collecting all the royalties they’re owed.

Learn how the Music Modernization Act is transforming the industry and how the MLC is simplifying the management of digital mechanical royalties. This episode offers invaluable insights for anyone navigating the financial side of the music business.

Highlights:

Understanding the role of the MLC in managing music royalties.
The impact of the Music Modernization Act on songwriters.
How songwriters can ensure they are collecting all their royalties.
Educational initiatives to support rights holders in the music industry.

#016: FOUNDER: Einar Helde: Bridging AI and Music for Enhanced Discoverability

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 23:00:00 GMT

The unexpected entry into the music sector and founding AIMS API.
How AIMS API is enhancing music search and discovery.
Einar's vision for AI in music and the balance between technology and creativity.
Insights into growing a self-funded AI startup in the music field.

#124: EXPERT: How Remote Work Benefits Creators || Adam Fine

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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.

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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

#050: WISE Festival: Investing in the Future: Navigating AI Trends in Music Tech

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 16 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Get an insider’s perspective on the future of music technology in this special episode from the WISE Festival. Host Jakob Wredstrøm leads a thought-provoking panel discussion with Savia Peters (LeanSquare), Thierry Bujod (Media Deals), Hazel Savage (SoundCloud), and Florian Stadler (Deutsche Telekom) to uncover how AI is revolutionizing the music industry.

Find out what investors value most in startups, the critical role of timing, and how AI is reshaping creative industries. This episode is packed with insights for anyone passionate about music, tech, and innovation.

Highlights:

Key insights from top investors in the music tech space.
Understanding what makes a sound investment in AI trends.
The importance of timing and proprietary technology in startup success.
The evolving role of AI in empowering creative industries.

#030: FOUNDER: Peder Jørgensen - Pioneering Next-Generation Audio Enhancement with Hance.ai

Amplitude Ventures — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Join host Jakob Wredstrøm for an engaging conversation with Peder Jørgensen, founder of Hance.ai, to explore his remarkable journey in audio enhancement. This episode covers the fusion of music, sound design, and technology, showcasing how Peder's innovative work is changing our sound experience.

Highlights:

Peder's shift from music production to impactful tech innovations.
The creation of Soundly and its influence on sound design.
Insights into Hance.ai's advanced machine learning in audio.
Overcoming industry challenges and embracing new sound technology opportunities.

#007 Nurturing Talent and Community

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Discover the inspiring journey of Capella Entertainment’s co-founders, Jonah Bjerga and Moi Sultan, as they share how they built a forward-thinking hub for Scandinavian music. Gain insights into their talent-nurturing philosophy, the importance of supportive workspaces, and the steps they took to redefine industry norms. They also reveal strategies for launching a music venture studio, tackling local obstacles, and empowering artists and entrepreneurs to push their creative limits.

#101: FOUNDER: Creating Music with TUNEY || Antony Demekhin

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Experience the possibilities of ethical AI in music creation as Antony Demekhin, CEO and co-founder of TUNEY, explains how his platform helps aspiring musicians craft tracks without compromising sound quality or copyright. In this episode, he recounts a lifelong passion for percussion and hip hop, revealing how it shaped TUNEY’s focus on genuine creativity and accessible workflows.

It is a practical look at what happens when technology and artistry evolve hand in hand.

Explore here: https://tuney.io/

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

#006: EXPERT: Vickie Nauman: Decoding Web3's Role in the Future of Music

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 22:00:00 GMT

How is Web3 reshaping the music industry?

In this Sound Connections episode, Vickie Nauman—founder of Cross Border Works—explains how decentralized technologies are opening new doors for artists, fans, and businesses.

Explore the shift from NFTs to next-generation fan engagement strategies, discover the power of token-based communities, and see how virtual worlds are transforming musical experiences. Drawing on her background from radio to pioneering music tech, Vickie reveals the challenges and opportunities at the intersection of innovation and creativity, offering a glimpse into new models that redefine artist-fan relationships.

Highlights:

Understanding Web3's influence on the music industry's future.
The transition from NFTs to dynamic fan communities.
Adopting decentralized tech for innovative music experiences.
Insights into the complex web of music rights and licensing.

Ariana Grande Joins Weverse: Expanding Global Fan Engagement with HYBE's Superfan Platform

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 22 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In this exciting episode of Sound Connections, we delve into the latest buzz in the music world: Ariana Grande joining the superfan platform Weverse, owned by entertainment giant HYBE. Known for its K-pop roots and interactive features, Weverse is expanding its reach by welcoming international superstar Ariana Grande. We explore how this move aligns with Grande's ongoing business relationship with HYBE America, led by CEO Scooter Braun, and her new management under Brandon Creed. Discover how Grande's presence on Weverse, a platform boasting over 10 million monthly active users and machine translation in 15 languages, promises to enhance fan engagement globally.

#142: FOUNDER: Building the Next Generation of Music Infrastructure: Björn Lindvall

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 23:00:00 GMT

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!

#099: EXPERT: Jody McKinley: How To Scale A Music Tech Business - Insights From Eleven75

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Kickstart your journey into the evolving music startup scene with an in-depth conversation featuring Jody McKinley, a leading voice in music tech.
Know the industry’s most pressing challenges, from managing fragmented talent to navigating complex licensing and gain insights on building a winning team and learn how technological advancements are shaping the future for aspiring entrepreneurs.

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

#037: SØRVEIV: Sania Haq: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) in the Music Industry

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Join host Jakob Wredstrøm for a meaningful conversation with Sania Haq, a leading advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the music industry. This episode delves into the challenges and opportunities of integrating DEI principles into the music scene. Sania shares her journey from her research role at AudienceNet to founding Brighter Stereotypes, highlighting efforts to enhance diversity within music. Explore the evolving global music markets and understand why elevating South Asian artists is crucial for mainstream recognition. Gain valuable perspectives on building a more inclusive and dynamic music landscape.

Highlights:

The progression of DEI in the music industry
Sania's perspectives on the representation of South Asian artists
New trends in global music markets

#023: FOUNDER: Jacquelle Horton - Cultivating Innovative Artist Fandom at Fave

Amplitude Ventures — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 23:00:00 GMT

Gain first-hand insight into performance rights as Linda Bloss-Baum, an experienced advocate in the music industry, breaks down the realities of terrestrial radio, digital royalties, and shifting legislation. Follow her path from Capitol Hill to SoundExchange, where she’s worked to ensure fair compensation for sound recording copyright owners. Hear how milestones like the Digital Millennium Copyright Act and Music Modernization Act have influenced the rights landscape—and discover the ongoing push to secure performance rights on U.S. terrestrial radio.

Highlights:

Understanding the historical context and current challenges of performance rights.
Linda's significant role in the creation of SoundExchange and its impact on digital royalties.
The global effort for fair compensation and the legislative hurdles in the U.S.
Insights into the lobbying dynamics and their influence on legislative changes.

#103: FOUNDER: How BeatConnect Is Changing Music Production || Alexandre Turbide & Nicholas Laroche

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 07:00:00 GMT

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

From Viral Videos to Live Venues: TikTok's Ticketing Alliance with CTS Eventim

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 04 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we delve into TikTok's latest venture into ticketing, teaming up with CTS Eventim. Known for viral content, TikTok's partnership aims to boost direct-to-fan ticket sales for artists worldwide. With insights from TikTok's Michael Kümmerle and CTS Eventim's Alexander Ruoff, we explore the strategic implications of this move and its potential to reshape the music industry's digital landscape. Tune in for a closer look at how this alliance could revolutionize fan engagement and ticketing dynamics.

How Neuroscience Explains the Human Connection with Music: Dr. Tom Fritz

Amplitude Ventures — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In episode 70 of Sound Connections, host Jakob Wredstrøm sits down with Dr. Tom Fritz, founder of Jymmin and researcher at the Max Planck Institute, to explore the intersection of music, the human brain, and AI. Discover how Jymmin combines music and physical exercise to boost motivation and well-being. Tom shares insights on how AI-generated music affects our brains, the role of music in rehabilitation, and the enduring importance of human connection in music creation. This episode offers a deep dive into the future of music, culture, and neuroscience.

Full episode out on all platforms: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZS2i5GPm4Ss

#049: FOUNDER: Morgan Hayduk and Andrew Batey: Fraud Fighters: Beatdapp's Mission for Fair Royalties

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 14 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Tune in to this compelling episode with Morgan Hayduk and Andrew Batey, the founders of Beatdapp, a company revolutionizing the music industry by ensuring fair royalties for artists. Discover how they identified a major fraud problem in streaming platforms and turned it into an opportunity to drive innovation and reshape the industry.

Morgan and Andrew share their journey, the challenges they faced, and how their groundbreaking technology is creating transparency and fairness in music streaming. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of royalties and artist advocacy in the digital age.

Highlights:

The creation and growth of Beatdapp’s fraud detection technology.
Tackling the obstacles of introducing transparency to music streaming.
The founders’ distinctive backgrounds and the synergy that powers Beatdapp’s achievements.
Insights into the music tech startup voyage from concept to securing a $17 million series A funding.
The value of trust, perseverance, and strategic alliances in building a disruptive tech enterprise.

#116: WALLIFORNIA: Investing in Music Tech Startups Is Risky but Worth It || Collette Tibbetts

Amplitude Ventures — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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.

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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

#117: FOUNDER: Use Branding to Attract Tech Partnerships and Customers || Erik Herrström

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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/

#107: FOUNDER: How the Foundation App Empowers Artists || Ryan Schmidt, Esq.

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

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/
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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

#105: WALLIFORNIA: How LeanSquare Invests in Music Tech Startups || Xavier Péters

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 05:00:00 GMT

PARTNERSHIP WITH WALLIFORNIA 2025

Are 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/

#102: MANAGER: Music Entrepreneur’s Journey: Building Global Success from Estonia || Britt Randma

Amplitude Ventures — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Entrepreneur, DJ and newly honored as Manager of the Year and Music Exporter of the Year at the Estonian Music Industry Awards, Britt Randma, sheds light on building a viable career from a smaller market, the realities of music export, and why hard work often outweighs immediate financial gain.

Listen to Britt share her firsthand experience balancing multiple roles—artist management (Night Tapes), event organization, and label collaborations—all while navigating international tours and funding. If you’ve ever wondered about the behind-the-scenes challenges of the music industry, this conversation delivers fresh insights on turning passion into a sustainable livelihood.

Find out more about Music Estonia here; https://www.musicestonia.eu/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

#092: FOUNDER: Ola Sars: Transforming Music for Business

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Beats and Spotify were early steps for Ola Sars in shaping how businesses use music, leading him to start Soundtrack Your Brand. This episode explains how his work with consumer streaming platforms guided him toward a B2B model that changes how companies engage audiences through music, focusing on fairer licensing, increasing value for artists, and overcoming the hurdles of a global music service.

Highlights:

Building a blockchain-based solution for secure music metadata.
Overcoming industry challenges through partnership and innovation.
Empowering independent artists with transparent royalty management.

#090: EXPERT: Pedro Sarmento: Music, AI, and the Human Touch

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT

The human element in music remains essential, even as AI transforms the creative process. In this episode, Pedro Sarmento, a postdoctoral researcher at the Center for Digital Music in London, discusses how technology can support, rather than overshadow, human creativity. From his journey as a guitarist to his work with AI and guitar tablatures, Pedro explores the balance between tradition and innovation, music education's future, and AI-generated art's philosophical implications.

Highlights:

The intersection of AI, music, and creativity.
Pedro's practical approach to integrating AI in music.
The significance of human artistry in an AI-driven world.
Innovative AI tools enhancing musical craftsmanship.

#089: EXPERT: Maciej Dulski: The Story Behind MusicTech Lab

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 09 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT

MusicTechLab is helping to address the challenges of integrating technology into the music industry while supporting creativity in startups. In this episode, Maciej Dulski shares his perspective on the changing landscape of music technology and how it is creating practical opportunities for artists and businesses. A thoughtful look at the hurdles and progress in this evolving field.

Highlights:
- MusicTechLab's journey in aiding music tech startups.
- Insights into financing challenges in the music tech industry.
- Exploring AI's potential and innovative solutions in music production.

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

#088: AI Jake's Take: Cracking The Code On Music Tech Financing

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Get to know why "boring B2B solutions" and infrastructure-based innovations hold untapped potential, and learn practical strategies for raising capital in an industry with scarce investor specialization. Jakob and AI Jake also touch on the importance of realistic multiples, the pitfalls of emotional biases in investment, and the critical role of public knowledge and research in reshaping the music tech landscape.

#086: Founder: John Gerhart & Chris Santillo: From LA's Grind to Global Impact: The Lightworks Story

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 06:00:00 GMT

John Samuel and Chris Santillo share their journey through Los Angeles’ vibrant music industry, from humble beginnings to collaborating with icons like Simon Cowell. This episode delves into the challenges, successes, and lessons learned while navigating one of the world’s most creative and competitive music scenes.

Highlights:

● The relentless pursuit of passion in LA's competitive music scene.

● Building meaningful connections and collaborations.

● Balancing creativity and business in the music industry.

● Insights into the evolving landscape of music entrepreneurship.

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

#083: EXPERT: Con Raso & Andrew Batey: How Tuned Global and BeatDapp Are Unmasking Fraud In Music

Amplitude Ventures — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 06:00:00 GMT

Andrew Batey of BeatDapp and Con Raso of Tuned Global discuss combating music streaming fraud. They explore its ties to organized crime, its impact on artists and labels, and how advanced fraud detection improves transparency, boosts catalog value, and ensures fair earnings in the music industry.

Highlights:

● Music streaming fraud with BeatDapp and Tuned Global

● Fighting music streaming fraud and its impact on the music industry

● Increasing transparency, fairness, and confidence in music streaming

#077: Founders: Louis Marks & Fabian Brown: Beyond the Grammys: 25 Years of Art and Independent Success

Amplitude Ventures — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Listen to Jakob Wredstrøm as he chats with founders Louis Marks and Fabian Brown about the remarkable path of Rope-A-Dope, a label that has excelled in the independent music scene for over two decades. Learn how creativity and business skills have led to a lasting influence beyond mainstream achievements.

Highlights:

The transformation of Rope-A-Dope from its chaotic start to becoming a cultural force.
Insights into surviving and thriving in the changing world of independent music.
The principle of putting people and creativity first over commercial demands.

#075: EXPERT: Becky Brook: AI and the Fight for Music Rights

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Music licensing is facing a profound transformation in the era of AI, and Becky Brook brings her expertise to unpack this complex topic. In this episode, she shares her experiences advising both startups and major corporations, offering insights into the challenges and innovations reshaping the music tech landscape.

A must-listen for anyone navigating the intersection of music, technology, and legal innovation.

Highlights:

Insights into the changing field of music licensing and AI's impact.
Understanding the dynamics of music rights in a digital world.
Becky's unique experiences from startups to corporate advising.

#066: EXPERT: Christopher Wieduwilt: AI Musicpreneur: Empowering Musicians with AI

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 05:00:00 GMT

The intersection of AI and music is transforming the creative landscape, offering new tools and opportunities for innovation. In this episode, Chris Wieduwilt, the AI Musicpreneur, shares his journey from musician to a leader in AI-driven music solutions.

Highlights:

The influence of AI on the music industry and artists' processes.
Chris's shift from music to tech entrepreneurship.
Practical and philosophical insights into the future of music.
Supporting musicians with AI-driven solutions.

#070: EXPERT: Tom Fritz: The Neuroscience of Music: Exploring AI, Culture, and the Future of Sound

Amplitude Ventures — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

Music and neuroscience converge in this episode with Tom Fritz from the Max Planck Institute, where he explores how AI and cultural factors shape our perception of sound. Drawing from his innovative research, Tom highlights the transformative role of music in health, fitness, and rehabilitation, emphasizing its universal impact across cultures and its potential to improve lives through science and technology.

Highlights:

Exploring the link between music and health.
Understanding the effect of AI on music perception.
Cross-cultural insights into the emotional power of music.
Utilizing music for rehabilitation and wellness.

Warner Music Strategically Defies Streaming Slowdown

Amplitude Ventures — Sat, 17 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we delve into Warner Music Group's remarkable success in defying the industry's streaming slowdown. While competitors like Universal and Sony faced significant challenges in Q2 2024, Warner reported a standout 10.2% increase in streaming revenue, driven by major global hits and strategic digital partnerships. Join us as we explore how Warner’s focus on hit production and subscriber growth has set them apart in a challenging market, and what this means for the future of the music streaming industry. Tune in to discover the strategies behind Warner’s continued success amidst uncertainty.