Sound Connections

Explore the intersection of music, culture, and policy with Shain Shapiro, pioneering leader and author of "This Must Be The Place: How Music Can Make Your City Better." In this episode, we trace Shain's journey in recognizing music's power to shape vibrant, equitable communities and his mission to integrate music into urban planning globally.
We discuss the impetus behind founding Sound Diplomacy to advance music ecosystems through data and policy consulting with cities worldwide. Shain recounts signature projects and how music infrastructure investment has achieved economic, social, and cultural impacts.
He shares his motivation for recently establishing the Center for Music Ecosystems to drive music's role in global public policy, leveraging it to address systemic issues. We also exchange perspectives on music's immense 'public good' values from human enrichment to sustainable development.
Shain outlines the inherent challenges of accurately quantifying these externalities and 'translating' music's worth across industries, leading to its broader underinvestment. He argues more 'outside' support for music yields returns for music itself - an example being music education.
Our conversation explores how music ecosystems drastically differ internationally, needing tailored localization. Shain discusses paths toward standardizing music as an intentional economic player in all countries. We ultimately explore his global vision for music having a seat at the table in solving society's grand challenges.

In the latest episode of Sound Connections' FOUNDER series, we're thrilled to welcome Kenneth (Ken) Kobori, the visionary behind SURF Music. His story is a fascinating blend of creativity and tech-savvy entrepreneurship, extending from his early successes in the music industry to his current venture that's reshaping how music is made and shared.
Our journey with Ken begins with his initial triumphs, including his work on "Story" by AI, and collaborations with iconic groups like Earth Wind & Fire and Little Glee Monster. We delve into the challenges and pivotal learnings that paved his path from a successful music professional to a groundbreaking founder.
The core of our conversation centers around the genesis of SURF Music. Ken shares the inspiration behind creating this dynamic platform and its mission to inject new energy into the music industry. We explore how SURF Music is not just a digital ecosystem but a revolutionary tool for artists and creators.
Our discussion then shifts to the nuts and bolts of SURF Music’s business model. Ken elaborates on how the platform simplifies transactions and maximizes opportunities, creating a seamless experience for users in the digital music landscape.
The episode also uncovers the technological prowess behind SURF Music, from its AI song tagging system to its advanced search functions. Ken gives us a sneak peek into what's next for the SURF global creative community, hinting at exciting developments on the horizon.
Another key focus of our talk is the significance of SURF Music’s base in Tokyo, Japan. Ken provides unique insights into the Asian music market, particularly the vibrant Japanese music scene, and how this influences the platform's growth and strategies.
Looking towards the future, Ken discusses the next steps for SURF Music, including its recognition as a SXSW Innovation Awards Finalist and what this prestigious acknowledgment means for the company’s trajectory.

Sponsored by Amplitude Ventures: Pioneering Music Industry Innovation - https://amplitude.ventures

Produced by Amplitude Ventures Consulting: Partners in Early-Stage Music Tech - https://amplitude.ventures
In this insightful episode of Sound Connections, Jakob Wredstrøm dives deep into the challenges and opportunities of financing music tech startups. Joined by AI Jake, Jakob shares his journey from founding fractionalized IP rights startups to leading Amplitude Ventures, a venture studio revolutionizing the music tech space.
Together, they unpack the concept of "parallel narratives," an innovative approach to framing pitches that resonate with investors. They also explore why founders should minimize music-specific elements in their pitches, focus on broader business mechanics, and recalibrate expectations for funding rounds.
Discover 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.
This episode offers a candid look at the realities of music tech financing and equips founders with actionable insights to navigate the complexities of raising capital. Tune in for an unmissable conversation that sets the tone for a groundbreaking year ahead in music innovation.

In this episode of the Sound Connections podcast, we sit down with Tom Fritz, a leading researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences. Tom's work explores the fascinating intersection of music, health, and emerging AI technologies. Join us as we delve into his journey from music ethnology in Cameroon to groundbreaking research in music-evoked brain plasticity. We discuss the implications of AI-generated music, the physiological and cultural impacts of music on listeners, and the critical role of storytelling in the future of the music industry. Tom offers insights into how music can be a powerful tool in rehabilitation and fitness, and why human connection and cultural context will remain essential in an increasingly AI-driven world.

In this episode of Sound Connections, Jakob sits down with Mike Holland, seasoned music manager to Logic and visionary behind Bobby Boy Productions, to discuss the evolving landscape of the music industry and the unique challenges artists face today. Mike dives into the immense shift in music, describing the opportunities and obstacles that lie ahead as technology transforms the way artists create, distribute, and monetize their work. From harnessing AI in music creation to the democratization of production tools, Mike shares his insights into what makes an artist successful in today’s industry: an entrepreneurial mindset and a dedicated team.

Mike also talks candidly about his journey into artist management, beginning as a passionate videographer capturing local musicians, to forming an unbreakable partnership with Logic. The conversation touches on the often-overlooked mental toll of the music industry, and Mike’s advice for artists navigating these pressures. He discusses the art of building connections with fans, balancing artistic integrity with business savvy, and the importance of staying grounded while aiming high.

If you’re an artist, manager, or simply a music enthusiast, this episode offers an honest look into what it takes to thrive in a changing musical landscape and the personal resilience needed to succeed.