Breaking Down the Biz

The digital revolution in music didn't just change how we listen; it upended the entire industry. From the chaos of piracy and industry decline in the early 2000s to Apple's game-changing iTunes, and now to the streaming era, one thing is clear: the business has never been more unpredictable or more exciting.

In this episode of Breaking Down the Biz, Seth Shachner sits down with industry veteran Thomas Hesse to walk through the seismic shifts that transformed music from physical to digital to AI. You'll discover how the industry responded to piracy with innovative licensing models, the strategic dance with Apple to launch iTunes with the industry on board, and the rise of streaming platforms like Spotify that redefined access versus ownership. Thomas shares behind-the-scenes stories of negotiating with tech giants, and reveals how the industry’s revenue models changed, from the 99-cent song to subscription ecosystems that keep the industry alive.

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On this inaugural episode of Breaking Down The Biz, Bruno Del Granado reveals how Latin artists like Ricky Martin and Bad Bunny use streaming and cultural authenticity to achieve global success. Discover how the internet empowers artists to reach audiences worldwide and build independent teams. Learn about innovative strategies and the importance of embracing cultural roots in today's digital music landscape.

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On Breaking Down the Biz, we simplify the big stuff in the business of music , entertainment, and technology. Industry insider Seth Schachner (ex Sony Music, Microsoft, AOL, Universal Music) brings you a bite-sized, insider’s guide to how the industry really works. 

Each week Seth is joined by industry insiders who are making culture happen - the brains behind your favorite artists, movies, and media companies.

Ever wondered how Apple helped save the music industry? What actually happened with those Taylor Swift tickets? And how did Bad Bunny go from unknown to global superstar?

From timely breakdowns to the biggest industry-shifting moments in recent history, we’re unpacking the deals, the drama, and the decisions that shape what you watch and listen to every day. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

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