The Music Executive

I'm back After 14 months away - and zero apologies for it - here is the episode I had to live through before I could record it. This isn't your standard "how to avoid burnout" checklist. We goes deeper, calling this particular cycle something closer to a creative identity crisis: a period of losing clarity, coming face-to-face with the question of who she is without music, and...

The Power of Hobbies: Enhancing Creativity and Well-Being for Musicians In this episode of The Music Executive Podcast, host Cinnamon Denise discusses the challenges of small talk and how delving into non-music related hobbies transformed her music career.  By engaging in jewelry making, exploring the world of tea, and embracing fitness, Cinnamon enhanced her creativity, decreased anxiety, and dis...

In this episode of the Music Executive Podcast, hosted by Cinnamon Denise, the focus is on making rehearsals efficient and productive.  Cinnamon shares five critical steps to improve rehearsal experiences: making an agenda, being prompt, leaving time for fun, following up with participants, and recording the rehearsal for future review. The episode also emphasizes the importance of camaraderie, pu...

In this episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise explores the innovative idea of using mood boards to enhance the music production process.  Inspired by a YouTube series from a fashion designer, Cinnamon decided to implement mood boards to visually represent song concepts, aiding in decision-making and creativity. The episode details steps for creating and utilizing a mood board, align...

In this episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise addresses the frustration of creating numerous incomplete projects and offers a strategic approach to overcome this cycle.  By identifying three key skills and focusing on them exclusively for two to three months, artists can build confidence and see tangible progress.  Cinnamon shares her personal journey, outlining how this method revi...

In this episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise explores the concept of ethical collaborations in the music industry, emphasizing the importance of equitable efforts and mutual benefits. Cinnamon outlines three key principles for fostering ethical collabs: being forthcoming and honest, mindful, and nurturing relationships.  The episode provides practical advice for musicians at any ca...

In this episode of the Music Executive Podcast, host Cinnamon Denise provides an in-depth guide on how to prepare for an open mic performance, drawing from her extensive experience as a live sound engineer, host, and musician.  Cinnamon offers practical advice on understanding different types of open mics, adhering to venue rules and cultural norms, and being prepared with the right equipment and...

In this episode of the Music Executive Podcast, host Cinnamon Denise shares insights into building a sustainable music career by exploring alternative career paths within the industry.  Drawing from personal experiences and extensive research, the episode details four unique music-related career options: neuroscientist specializing in music cognition, ethnomusicologist, archivist, and interactive...

In this episode of the Music Executive Podcast, host Cinnamon Denise addresses the contentious issue of accepting unpaid gigs in the music industry. She discusses the fine line between valuable exposure and blatant exploitation, providing listeners with practical advice on how to vet opportunities and determine if they are worth taking.  Key topics include: researching the gig,  assessing personal...

In this episode of The Music Executive Podcast, host Cinnamon Denise reflects on the past year and shares insights into thriving in the music industry. She discusses the importance of making the 'next best decision' and drawing inspiration from the resilience and adaptability of salmon.   Through personal anecdotes and lessons learned, Sentimental emphasizes the significance of intention...

In this episode of the Music Executive podcast, host Cinnamon Denise explores how musicians, producers, songwriters, and other creatives in the music industry can avoid burnout.  Drawing from personal experience working as a live sound engineer and musician, she breaks down the four identified levels of burnout—pre-burnout, early stage burnout, burnout, and full wildfire burnout—and shares strateg...

In this episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise sits down with incredible pianist Phil Adair.  Phil shares his musical journey, starting with early piano lessons, his love for classical and jazz, and his professional growth through jam sessions and music education.  The conversation covers Phil's experiences touring and working on various music projects, his approach to selecting...

In this episode of The Music Executive, hosted by Cinnamon Denise, listeners are introduced to Nakia Peck, an anointed musician from New Orleans, Louisiana. Nakia shares his journey from growing up in a challenging environment to becoming a skilled multi-genre musician.  He reveals the impact of his mentor on his life, the importance of accountability groups, and his strategies for consistently po...

In this episode of 'The Music Executive', host Cinnamon Denise welcomes Isaiah Hill, a self-taught piano player and successful music composer based in Atlanta, Georgia.  Isaiah has played for notable artists like Keith Sweat, Monica, and Tamar Braxton. He shares insights about his journey, from learning piano as a child to earning a full tuition scholarship at the prestigious Berkelee Co...

In this episode of 'The Music Executive,' host Cinnamon Denise welcomes Tangela, an Austin-based audio engineer with an impressive portfolio, including work on productions like Hamilton and Little Mermaid.  Tangela shares her journey from church audio setups to college and professional sound engineering, emphasizing the importance of persistence and finding mentors.  The discussion cover...

In this special episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise interviews Infinitus, a critically acclaimed beatboxing string trio known for their unique fusion of classical, hip hop, jazz, and Latin music.  The trio, consisting of John, Anthony, and Alex, share their journey from university friends to an innovative musical ensemble.  They discuss the challenges they faced in creating their...

In this episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise welcomes Dustin Fichter, an Atlanta-based musician known for his guitar skills and diverse collaborations.  Raised with a strong jazz background and influenced by his aunt, a violinist for the Atlanta Symphony, Dustin shares his journey into music and the importance of sight reading.  The discussion covers effective practice strategies,...

In this episode of 'The Music Executive,' host Cinnamon Denise welcomes guest J'na Jefferson, a New York-based content creator and producer with extensive experience in both print and digital editorial work. J'na shares insights from her journey in journalism, detailing her transition into audio production.  She describes her work with Universal Music Group on creating talk pla...

In this episode of 'The Music Executive,' host Cinnamon Denise interviews Jeff Ralston, a talented guitarist and friend.  Jeff shares his experiences of moving to Atlanta, transitioning his music career, and how he prepared to succeed in a new city.  The discussion covers critical aspects of  laying a solid foundation,  doing the footwork,  and crushing the real work to establish oneself...

In this episode, Cinnamon interviews Emmanuel Chops Smith, an accomplished pianist, singer, producer, arranger, and band leader.  Emmanuel shares his musical journey from playing in church as a child to leading bands and performing across various genres. The discussion delves into the importance of camaraderie, good pay, and quality music in bands, along with key takeaways from Emmanuel's exp...

In this episode of The Music Executive, the host welcomes Jenna Funicella, a high school math teacher who embarked on an impressive songwriting journey.  Jenna took on the challenge of writing one song every day in April, a task that tested her creativity and perseverance.  She discusses  the motivations behind the challenge,  the emotional connection to her music,  and the practical steps she too...

In this episode, host Cinnamon Denise interviews professional singer and voiceover actor Lena Hill. The show dives into her career journey from her early days as a singer to becoming a globally recognized voice actor.  Lena discusses  her experiences working with a mentor,  the importance of storytelling in her performances,  and her marketing strategies.  She also shares insights on finding one&a...

In this episode, the host dives into an in-depth conversation with Josh Giunta, also known as Love Science Music, an accomplished producer, artist, and studio engineer.  Josh discusses his approach to feeling in control both in life and career, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and intuition. He shares insights about his latest projects, including collaborations and plans for new releases in...

In this episode of 'The Music Executive,' host Cinnamon Denise welcomes guest Patrick Arthur, a seasoned guitarist, mixing engineer, and producer, to discuss the essentials of starting a home recording studio.  The episode covers the importance of having a digital audio workstation (DAW), audio interface, and microphones. Patrick shares his journey from college student to music professio...

In this episode of The Music Executive, host Cinnamon Denise speaks with Lisa Machac, musician and director of the Omni Sound Project.  Lisa delves into her journey from recording an album in a pickup truck to establishing Omni Sound Project, an organization dedicated to creating accessible entry points into music and audio industries.  They discuss the importance of intention, inclusivity, and le...