The Career Musician

#190: Composer & Sync-Licensing Powerhouse – Devin Powers on Making Music Work


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Introduction & Background

  • Casual, authentic conversation with insights into the music industry.

  • Focus on TV and film scoring, specifically unscripted reality TV and production music.

  • Personal stories illustrate industry evolution and building a career.

    Industry Insights & Knowledge

    • Importance of building client relationships ("clients, clients, clients").

    • Overdelivering as a key to standing out and securing repeat business.

    • The significance of templates, alternate mixes, and stems to streamline workflow and ensure consistency.

    • Technical tips on mixing, layering, and the use of sound signatures (stings, bumpers) for editors.

    • Moving away from traditional library music to creating custom scores, emphasizing uniqueness and adaptability.

    • The importance of understanding the editing process and how cues are integrated into shows.

    • Strategies for collaboration, negotiation, and valuing your work ethically.

    • Practical advice on career longevity, brand building, and nurturing a team.

      Personal Anecdotes & Stories

      • The journey from early work on shows like Blind Date to big hits like Naked and Afraid.

      • Real-life stories of musicians’ financial breakthroughs and gratitude.

      • Experiences with different business models, ownership, and licensing.

        Closing & Future Content

        • Promises a part two focusing on production, artist development, and broader career strategies.

        • Emphasis on sharing actionable knowledge to help aspiring and current professionals.



          2. 10 Takeaways for Young Musicians

          1. Build Strong Client Relationships: Success depends on developing trust and long-term collaborations.

          2. Always Overdeliver: Doing more than expected sets you apart and keeps clients coming back.

          3. Use Templates & Workflow Strategies: Streamline your production with templates, tracks, and consistent practices.

          4. Create Versatile Alternate Mixes & Stems: Flexibility in your cues makes your work more valuable.

          5. Pay Attention to Editor Needs: Design cues with clear starts, stops, and signature sounds for easier editing.

          6. Specialize in Custom Scores: Unique, tailored music stands out more than stock or library tracks.

          7. Learn the Business Side: Understand licensing, rights, and negotiations; value your work ethically.

          8. Experiment & Be Self-critical: Continually refine your sound by listening objectively and experimenting.

          9. Develop a Network & Team: Your success is multiplied when you nurture relationships and support other creatives.

            Stay Adaptable & Evolving: Keep up with tech, industry trends, and changing client needs to remain relevant.

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