Music Business Insider Podcast

The Truth About Record Deals: Are They Still Worth It In 2026?
Step inside the new era of music entrepreneurship with music attorney Ryan Kairalla! We explore why the value of a record label isn't the same for every artist, how technology empowers musicians to run their own empires, and why today's artists need to be proactive, educated, and creative. Perfect for anyone looking to break through as a DIY musician, manage music industry career paths, or negotiate smart record deals! 💡🎤 #MusicEntrepreneur #ArtistDevelopment #MusicIndustryTips
 
Here are the ways to work with us here at MUBUTV:
⚡️Insiders! Secure Your Spot! Get expert music career coaching with Ritch & Eric. Book your 15-min discovery call now: Grab a spot! 👉 https://book.mubutv.com

MUBUTV Free Music Guides:
⚡FREE A&R Guide:  👉 https://link.mubutv.com/ARFreeGuide
⚡FREE Music Supervisor Guide: 👉 https://link.mubutv.com/MSFreeGuide
⚡FREE Music Manager Guide:  👉 https://link.mubutv.com/MGRFreeGuide

Our mission here at MUBUTV is to help independent artists and music business professionals of the future to educate, empower and engage their music career.

🎙️ Music Business Insider Podcast: https://www.mubutv.com/podcast
The Music Business Insider Podcast is a deep dive for listeners like you who want to educate, empower & engage their music career. We take you inside behind the scenes through a series of in-depth conversations with today's leading experts in the Music Industry including A&R, Music Supervision, Artist Management, Marketing, Publicity, Touring, and much much more. You can find it by searching "Music Business Insider Podcast" on any podcast app or platform [ie: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.].
 
📒 Show Notes and Resources 📒
https://www.mubutv.com/ryan-kairalla-music-attorney
 
⚡️What you'll learn in this episode⚡️
👉 The biggest mistakes artists make with record deals—and how to avoid them
👉 How to build a successful independent artist career as a true entrepreneur
👉 Why thinking like a CEO is now non-negotiable
👉 The major shifts in label value (and how to decide what's right for YOU)
👉 and so much more...

SUGGESTED & RECOMMENDED BOOKS:
 
📒 Break the Business - https://amzn.to/4ebmk6c
📒 Thinking In Sync: A Primer on the Mind of a Music Supervisor - https://amzn.to/3TJY6WY
🎧 Get Audible Free - Your favorite titles anywhere you go. Enjoy a free trial on us!
https://amzn.to/3RB2nu4
 
Recommended Audio Software
⚡Castmagic - 10x Audio Content & Supercharge Your Media With AI
https://link.mubutv.com/castmagic
 
Podcast Credits
Produced by: Ritch Esra & Eric Knight
Editor: Eric Knight
Shownotes & Transcriptions: Andy Bleu Heeler


Get expert music business insider advice to help build your career. Learn how to navigate the industry and improve your path forward. This video features segments from the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, hosted by Ritch Esra and Eric Knight. If you are looking for practical music career advice , these discussions provide the clarity needed to handle current industry challenges. Whether you are an independent artist or just starting out, this music industry podcast offers insights relevant to your professional growth. Beyond these segments, we offer a free 15-minute discovery call for those seeking personalized music business coaching . This session is designed to help you clarify your goals and refine your music career strategy effectively. New episodes are released every Tuesday on Apple, Spotify, and iHeart Radio for ongoing support. Subscribe for weekly music career strategy breakdowns, and comment below with your biggest question about the industry right now.
 
Join the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast for clips from our podcast series, hosted by Ritch Esra and Eric Knight. We provide essential music industry tips and resources like guides on A&R, attracting an artist manager, and pitching to music supervisors. Our mission is to educate and empower individuals in their music career journey. 🔥🎧 #MusicBusiness #musiccareer 
DISCLOSURE: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.
Copyright © 2026 MUBUTV™ Media. All Rights Reserved

We Asked a Legendary A&R Exec to Reveal the BIGGEST Mistakes New Artists Make—Her Answer SHOCKED Us!
Legendary A&R exec Kim Buie breaks down the evolution of talent discovery, from smoke-filled clubs to today's streaming and AI landscape. Learn her three pillars for artist success, get essential A&R tips, and hear stories from her work with icons like Chris Blackwell, Sturgill Simpson, and Ryan Bingham. If you're an artist, music pro, or just passionate about the music business, this episode is packed with inspiration and real-world advice! 🎤🔥 #MusicBusiness #AandR #MusicIndustry
 
Here are the ways to work with us here at MUBUTV:
⚡️Insiders! Secure Your Spot! Get expert music career coaching with Ritch & Eric.
Book your 15-min discovery call now: Grab a spot! 👉 https://book.mubutv.com

MUBUTV Free Music Guides:
⚡FREE A&R Guide:  👉 https://link.mubutv.com/ARFreeGuide
⚡FREE Music Supervisor Guide: 👉 https://link.mubutv.com/MSFreeGuide
⚡FREE Music Manager Guide:  👉 https://link.mubutv.com/MGRFreeGuide

Our mission here at MUBUTV is to help independent artists and music business professionals of the future to educate, empower and engage their music career.

🎙️ Music Business Insider Podcast: https://www.mubutv.com/podcast
The Music Business Insider Podcast is a deep dive for listeners like you who want to educate, empower & engage their music career. We take you inside behind the scenes through a series of in-depth conversations with today's leading experts in the Music Industry including A&R, Music Supervision, Artist Management, Marketing, Publicity, Touring, and much much more. You can find it by searching "Music Business Insider Podcast" on any podcast app or platform [ie: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.].
 
📒 Show Notes and Resources 📒
https://www.mubutv.com/kim-buie-a-r-executive
 
⚡️What you'll learn in this episode⚡️
👉 The 3 pillars every A&R pro needs to spot a breakout artist
👉 The crucial differences between indie and major labels (and why both matter!)
👉 The #1 thing holding artists back from true success
👉 Inside stories featuring Sturgill Simpson, Ryan Bingham & more
👉 Unmissable career advice for artists & aspiring execs!
👉 and so much more...

SUGGESTED & RECOMMENDED BOOKS:
📒 All You Need To Know About the Music Business 11th Edition - https://amzn.to/3sdgrja
🎧 Get Audible Free - Your favorite titles anywhere you go. Enjoy a free trial on us!
https://amzn.to/3RB2nu4
 
Recommended Audio Software
⚡Castmagic - 10x Audio Content & Supercharge Your Media With AI
https://link.mubutv.com/castmagic
 
Podcast Credits
Produced by: Ritch Esra & Eric Knight
Editor: Eric Knight
Shownotes & Transcriptions: Jermaine Shepherd


Learn exactly what A&R look for in new talent and how to overcome the artist self-doubt that holds your music career back. Ritch Esra and Eric Knight break down the realities of the music business so you can stop guessing what scouts want. This episode of the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast focuses on the practical side of the industry. We discuss the specific qualities and professional habits that capture the attention of A&R representatives in today's market. Whether you are an independent artist or just starting, understanding what A&R look for is critical for navigating your next steps. Beyond technical skills, we address the mental hurdles every creator faces. By tackling artist self-doubt head-on, you can approach the industry with more confidence. Use these music business advice strategies to refine your presentation and better position your work for potential opportunities. Subscribe for weekly music industry tips , and comment below with the biggest challenge you face when trying to get your music heard.

Join the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast for clips from our podcast series, hosted by Ritch Esra and Eric Knight. We provide essential music industry tips and resources like guides on A&R, attracting an artist manager, and pitching to music supervisors. Our mission is to educate and empower individuals in their music career journey. 🔥🎧 #MusicBusiness #musiccareer 
DISCLOSURE: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.
Copyright © 2026 MUBUTV™ Media. All Rights Reserved

Revealed: The Top Secrets A&Rs Look for in New Artists
Dive into the evolving world of A&R as we chat with Ed Poston, Head of A&R at Symphonic Distribution! Discover what it takes to stand out as an artist, how strong management teams power long-term careers, and how Ed blends analytics with intuition when scouting new talent. Plus, gain actionable advice on career building, finding your true audience, and making the most of today's music industry options! Perfect for musicians & managers ready to level up. 🌍🎵 #AandR #MusicBusiness #Management
 
Here are the ways to work with us here at MUBUTV:
⚡️Insiders! Secure Your Spot! Get expert music career coaching with Ritch & Eric. Book your 15-min discovery call now: Grab a spot! 👉 https://book.mubutv.com

MUBUTV Free Music Guides:
⚡FREE A&R Guide:  👉 https://link.mubutv.com/ARFreeGuide
⚡FREE Music Supervisor Guide: 👉 https://link.mubutv.com/MSFreeGuide
⚡FREE Music Manager Guide:  👉 https://link.mubutv.com/MGRFreeGuide

Our mission here at MUBUTV is to help independent artists and music business professionals of the future to educate, empower and engage their music career.

🎙️ Music Business Insider Podcast: https://www.mubutv.com/podcast
The Music Business Insider Podcast is a deep dive for listeners like you who want to educate, empower & engage their music career. We take you inside behind the scenes through a series of in-depth conversations with today's leading experts in the Music Industry including A&R, Music Supervision, Artist Management, Marketing, Publicity, Touring, and much much more. You can find it by searching "Music Business Insider Podcast" on any podcast app or platform [ie: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.].
 
📒 Show Notes and Resources 📒
https://www.mubutv.com/ed-poston-a-r-symphonic-distribution
 
⚡️What you'll learn in this episode⚡️
👉 How Ed identifies unique talent in today's music landscape
👉 The evolving role of A&R at distribution companies
👉 Why a strong management team can make or break your career
👉 Symphonic's artist-focused, global vision
👉 and so much more...

SUGGESTED & RECOMMENDED BOOKS:
📒 Songwriters on Songwriting - https://amzn.to/4ugtevz
📒 All You Need To Know About the Music Business 11th Edition - https://amzn.to/3sdgrja
📒 Thinking In Sync: A Primer on the Mind of a Music Supervisor - https://amzn.to/3TJY6WY
🎧 Get Audible Free - Your favorite titles anywhere you go. Enjoy a free trial on us!
https://amzn.to/3RB2nu4
 
Recommended Audio Software
⚡Castmagic - 10x Audio Content & Supercharge Your Media With AI
https://link.mubutv.com/castmagic
 
Podcast Credits
Produced by: Ritch Esra & Eric Knight
Editor: Eric Knight
Shownotes & Transcriptions: Jermaine Shepherd


In this episode, Ed Poston from Symphonic Distribution dives into essential music business 101 concepts, sharing expert advice on music marketing, release strategy, and artist management for the music business. He highlights the vital role of A&R in shaping successful careers and offers actionable music industry tips for independent musicians. Whether you're seeking guidance on music promotion, understanding how the music industry works, or mastering music branding, this discussion provides a clear roadmap to navigate the complex music industry landscape. 🔥🎧
 
Join the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast for clips from our podcast series, hosted by Ritch Esra and Eric Knight. We provide essential music industry tips and resources like guides on A&R, attracting an artist manager, and pitching to music supervisors. Our mission is to educate and empower individuals in their music career journey. 🔥🎧 #MusicBusiness #musiccareer 
DISCLOSURE: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.
Copyright © 2026 MUBUTV™ Media. All Rights Reserved

Are You Making THIS Mistake Before Releasing Your Music? 
Get an inside look at music marketing and career strategy with Michael Epstein, Head of Marketing at Good Talk and creator of the hey Mike newsletter! In this episode, we break down the must-have digital marketing skills for artists, the underrated power of Twitter, and the real reasons why only 1% of artists make it long-term. Find out what you need in place before releasing music, why proactivity is your superpower, and how saying no can grow your career. Essential listening for artists, managers, and aspiring insiders! 🚀🎸 #MusicMarketing #ArtistSuccess #MusicBusiness
 
Here are the ways to work with us here at MUBUTV:
⚡️Insiders! Secure Your Spot! Get expert music career coaching with Ritch & Eric. Book your 15-min discovery call now: Grab a spot! 👉 https://book.mubutv.com

MUBUTV Free Music Guides:
⚡FREE A&R Guide:  👉 https://link.mubutv.com/ARFreeGuide
⚡FREE Music Supervisor Guide: 👉 https://link.mubutv.com/MSFreeGuide
⚡FREE Music Manager Guide:  👉 https://link.mubutv.com/MGRFreeGuide

Our mission here at MUBUTV is to help independent artists and music business professionals of the future to educate, empower and engage their music career.

🎙️ Music Business Insider Podcast: https://www.mubutv.com/podcast
The Music Business Insider Podcast is a deep dive for listeners like you who want to educate, empower & engage their music career. We take you inside behind the scenes through a series of in-depth conversations with today's leading experts in the Music Industry including A&R, Music Supervision, Artist Management, Marketing, Publicity, Touring, and much much more. You can find it by searching "Music Business Insider Podcast" on any podcast app or platform [ie: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.].
 
📒 Show Notes and Resources 📒
https://www.mubutv.com/michael-epstein-goodtalk
 
⚡️What you'll learn in this episode⚡️
👉 Why paid fan clubs haven't reached their potential
👉 How direct artist-to-fan relationships can create thriving careers
👉 Strategies to maximize revenue and artist control
👉 and so much more...

SUGGESTED & RECOMMENDED BOOKS:
📒 Good to Great - https://amzn.to/4dXlLeK
📒 Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike - https://amzn.to/437y6Z4
📒 All You Need To Know About the Music Business 11th Edition - https://amzn.to/3sdgrja
🎧 Get Audible Free - Your favorite titles anywhere you go. Enjoy a free trial on us!
https://amzn.to/3RB2nu4
 
Recommended Audio Software
⚡Castmagic - 10x Audio Content & Supercharge Your Media With AI
https://link.mubutv.com/castmagic
 
Podcast Credits
Produced by: Ritch Esra & Eric Knight
Editor: Eric Knight
Shownotes & Transcriptions: Jermaine Shepherd


Catch the latest episode of the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, "Are You Making THIS Mistake Before Releasing Your Music?" hosted by Ritch Esra and Eric Knight, every Tuesday. This series dives deep into the world of music licensing , offering key insights for artists and professionals. Learn how to generate music income and navigate the complexities of music publishing with expert advice. 🔥🎧

Join the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, hosted by music insiders Ritch Esra and Eric Knight, for exclusive music executive interviews and valuable music business insights. Whether you're exploring music industry jobs or seeking music career tips, our podcast offers expert advice from a television music consultant and deep dives into the music A&R career path. Gain firsthand music business experiences and insider knowledge from top music industry insiders that will help you navigate your journey. Tune in for unmatched music A&R insights and stay connected with the latest trends shared by music executives. Empower your music career with MUBUTV's trusted music business podcast. 🔥🎧 #MusicBusiness #MusicCareer #MusicIndustryInsights
 
DISCLOSURE: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.
Copyright © 2026 MUBUTV™ Media. All Rights Reserved

The Untold Power of Superfans—How to Build a Loyal Audience in 2026!
Dive into the future of the music business as we sit down with Matt Jones, CEO of Medallion, on the latest MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast. Discover how artist-owned platforms, fan data control, and direct-to-fan communities are changing the game for sustainable music careers. Matt shares lessons from working with Imagine Dragons & Disclosure and unveils why traditional streaming and paid fan clubs just don't cut it anymore. A must-watch for artists and industry pros ready to take control! 🚀🎵 #ArtistOwnership #MusicBusiness #FanEngagement
 
Here are the ways to work with us here at MUBUTV:
⚡️Insiders! Secure Your Spot! Get expert music career coaching with Ritch & Eric. Book your 15-min discovery call now: Grab a spot! 👉 https://book.mubutv.com

MUBUTV Free Music Guides:
⚡FREE A&R Guide:  👉 https://link.mubutv.com/ARFreeGuide
⚡FREE Music Supervisor Guide: 👉 https://link.mubutv.com/MSFreeGuide
⚡FREE Music Manager Guide:  👉 https://link.mubutv.com/MGRFreeGuide

Our mission here at MUBUTV is to help independent artists and music business professionals of the future to educate, empower and engage their music career.

🎙️ Music Business Insider Podcast: https://www.mubutv.com/podcast
The Music Business Insider Podcast is a deep dive for listeners like you who want to educate, empower & engage their music career. We take you inside behind the scenes through a series of in-depth conversations with today's leading experts in the Music Industry including A&R, Music Supervision, Artist Management, Marketing, Publicity, Touring, and much much more. You can find it by searching "Music Business Insider Podcast" on any podcast app or platform [ie: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.].
 
📒 Show Notes and Resources 📒
https://www.mubutv.com/matt-jones-medallion
 
⚡️What you'll learn in this episode⚡️
👉 Why paid fan clubs haven't reached their potential
👉 How direct artist-to-fan relationships can create thriving careers
👉 Strategies to maximize revenue and artist control
👉 and so much more...

SUGGESTED & RECOMMENDED BOOKS:
📒 All You Need To Know About the Music Business 11th Edition - https://amzn.to/3sdgrja
🎧 Get Audible Free - Your favorite titles anywhere you go. Enjoy a free trial on us!
https://amzn.to/3RB2nu4
 
Recommended Audio Software
⚡Castmagic - 10x Audio Content & Supercharge Your Media With AI
https://link.mubutv.com/castmagic
 
Podcast Credits
Produced by: Ritch Esra & Eric Knight
Editor: Eric Knight
Shownotes & Transcriptions: Jermaine Shepherd


Catch the latest episode of the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, "TThe Untold Power of Superfans—How to Build a Loyal Audience in 2026!" hosted by Ritch Esra and Eric Knight, every Tuesday. This series dives deep into the world of music licensing , offering key insights for artists and professionals. Learn how to generate music income and navigate the complexities of music publishing with expert advice. 🔥🎧

Join the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast, hosted by music insiders Ritch Esra and Eric Knight, for exclusive music executive interviews and valuable music business insights. Whether you're exploring music industry jobs or seeking music career tips, our podcast offers expert advice from a television music consultant and deep dives into the music A&R career path. Gain firsthand music business experiences and insider knowledge from top music industry insiders that will help you navigate your journey. Tune in for unmatched music A&R insights and stay connected with the latest trends shared by music executives. Empower your music career with MUBUTV's trusted music business podcast. 🔥🎧 #MusicBusiness #MusicCareer #MusicIndustryInsights
 
DISCLOSURE: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission.
Copyright © 2026 MUBUTV™ Media. All Rights Reserved