Innovating Music Podcast: Unlocking the Future of the Music Industry with Rethink Next and Dr. Gigi Johnson
The Innovating Music podcast, now proudly produced by Rethink Next, is your essential resource for understanding how innovation and technology are reshaping the global music industry. Hosted by Dr. Gigi Johnson, founder of Rethink Next and former faculty member at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music, this series continues its impactful journey that began at UCLA, now with an expanded focus on actionable insights for the future of music.
Dr. Johnson, who has led this podcast for over five years, dives into the challenges and opportunities facing artists, music professionals, and creative entrepreneurs in an era of rapid digital transformation. Our in-depth conversations provide strategic thinking on core themes vital to the future of music:
- Music Technology and AI: Explore groundbreaking advancements like AI-powered audio and video editing with tools such as Descript and music data management and automated tagging with companies like Museo. We analyze how AI is being used for automated mastering (e.g., LANDR) and the complex world of streaming fraud detection (e.g., Beatdapp). The podcast also touches upon the impact of smart speakers and 3D spatial audio (e.g., Mach 1) on listening habits and immersive experiences.
- Blockchain in Music: Understand the potential of decentralized technologies for transparent royalty payments, alternative artist funding (e.g., selling “artist coins”), and innovative ticketing solutions (e.g., Hello to Goy). Learn about pioneering companies like Ujo Music, JAAK, Resonate, and Benji Rogers’ .blockchain music, and the broader concept of blockchain as a “social movement disguised as technology”.
- The Evolving Live Music Landscape: Discover how live performances and mass gatherings are adapting to new realities, from the pivot to live streaming (e.g., Bandsintown’s shift during the pandemic) to the intricate logistics of touring (e.g., Eventric’s Master Tour, which centralizes tour data and operations for its users). We also examine the vital role of music cities in fostering local music ecosystems amidst challenges like venue closures and gentrification. New creative and technical talents for live production are also discussed.
- Artist Empowerment and Business Models: Gain insights into how independent artists are monetizing their music through direct-to-fan platforms (e.g., CD Baby, which helps nearly half a million artists with distribution and monetization), navigating complex digital marketplaces, and addressing issues like the “messy” state of music data. Learn about the legal implications of music innovation (e.g., contracts, intellectual property, managing co-creation agreements) and strategies for building a sustainable music career in a multi-platform world, including leveraging content marketing and strategic partnerships.
- Global Music Markets and Cultural Exchange: Our discussions span international markets, including the unique challenges and opportunities in China (e.g., building value for recorded music from a history of piracy, metadata challenges, and new consumption patterns) and Latin America (e.g., high mobile and video usage, cultural crossover, and pricing strategies). We also delve into the critical role of legal lyric translation in bridging cultures and increasing music discoverability worldwide (e.g., LyricFind).
The “Innovating Music” podcast, now at home with Rethink Next, is designed for anyone passionate about where music is headed. Whether you’re interested in music business, music technology, artist development, intellectual property, digital marketing, cultural policy, or live event production, our conversations offer unparalleled insights into the forces driving change.
Join Dr. Gigi Johnson and a diverse array of guests—from seasoned industry veterans and creative lawyers to groundbreaking startups and global innovators—as we uncover the trends, discuss the frictions, and highlight the bold solutions that are shaping the future of music.
Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform or explore our extensive archive of episodes. Learn more about Rethink Next, its programs, and Dr. Gigi Johnson’s ongoing work at RethinkNext.com.