Guest: Cindy Hulej, Luthier/Artist | Website: https://www.cindyguitars.com/

Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast & Music Evolves Podcast | Website: https://www.seanmartin.com/

What happens when the story of a city becomes part of the music we make? In this episode of Music Evolves, host Sean Martin sits down with luthier and artist Cindy Hulej of Cindy Guitars to explore how reclaimed wood from historic New York buildings is transformed into custom electric guitars—each one uniquely shaped by memory, material, and imagination.

Craft as Innovation

Cindy’s process at Carmine Street Guitars isn’t just about building instruments—it’s about listening to what the material has to say. The beams salvaged from landmarks like the Chelsea Hotel and John Lennon’s former home aren’t just structural—they carry decades of vibration, weather, and presence. That physical history directly shapes how these guitars sound, feel, and resonate—offering a kind of analog innovation rooted in human touch and intention.

Cindy describes how she and her husband Johnny repurpose old beams, often salvaged from 1800s-era buildings, and transform them into guitars that are not only playable but deeply resonant—physically and emotionally. The aged wood, shaped by centuries of seasonal change, yields a tone that’s warm and chimey, with a resonance modern lumber can’t match. “You’re working with material that’s already lived a hundred lives,” she explains. “You just have to unlock the next one.”

Creativity Beyond Convention

Each guitar is made by hand, down to the smallest detail. From collaborating with boutique pickup winders to mixing finishes from shellac flakes, Cindy builds instruments that are both sonic and visual statements. No two are alike—because the creative process isn’t about repeating perfection, it’s about shaping something personal and alive. Whether players come with a precise vision or just a feeling, Cindy helps translate that into tone and form.

Reimagining the Past to Shape the Future

This isn’t just about guitars. It’s about the convergence of history, artistry, community, and sound. This episode challenges the idea that innovation must come from new tech or flashy trends. Sometimes, the most meaningful advances come from rethinking old materials and techniques.

Cindy’s guitars are a form of living history—reminding us that sound isn’t just produced, it’s inherited, interpreted, and carried forward. And, Cindy’s path from bartending to building some of the most soulful instruments in New York is a reminder that craft isn’t just skill—it’s commitment to meaning.

About Rick Kelly and Carmine Street Guitars

Carmine Street Guitars, located in New York City’s Greenwich Village, is a hand-built electric guitar workshop led by legendary luthier Rick Kelly. Known for using reclaimed old-growth wood from historic buildings across the city, Rick has built instruments for renowned musicians such as Lou Reed, Patti Smith, Bob Dylan, and many others. His approach blends time-honored techniques with a reverence for the city’s past, crafting guitars that are as storied as the musicians who play them. At the heart of the shop’s ethos is a commitment to individuality, craftsmanship, and sonic integrity—values continued today through Cindy Guitars and the growing creative community within the space.

Are you interested in sponsoring this show or placing an ad in the podcast?

Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship

Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

Carmine Street Guitars: https://carminestreetguitars.com

More from Music Evolves: https://www.seanmartin.com/music-evolves-podcast

Music Evolves on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllTRJ5du7hFDXjiugu-uNPtW

On Location with Sean and Marco: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location

ITSPmagazine YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine

Be sure to share and subscribe!

Guest: Regan Sommer McCoy, Chief Curator of Mixtape Museum | Website: https://sommer.nyc/

Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast & Music Evolves Podcast | Website: https://www.seanmartin.com/

In this episode of Music Evolves, host Sean Martin connects with Sommer McCoy, founder of the Mixtape Museum, to explore how a simple cassette tape became a cultural vehicle for creativity, connection, and entrepreneurship—especially within hip hop. Sommer’s journey starts with managing hip hop artists like the Clipse, where a label dispute revealed the real power of mixtapes as grassroots distribution tools when the industry’s gatekeepers were roadblocks.

Sommer describes mixtapes as more than just homemade compilations; they are living archives of personal and collective history. From recording DJ sets off the radio to carefully curating tapes for summer camp, these stories form a thread that binds generations. Through the Mixtape Museum, Sommer captures not only the tapes themselves but also the hidden data inside—the handwritten J-cards, the audio quality that degrades with each copy, and the layers of social exchange that gave rise to underground music scenes.

What’s striking is that the Mixtape Museum does not seek to own every cassette but instead to document, digitize, and study them. Sommer, a database manager by day, focuses on preserving the stories and metadata behind each tape, spotlighting the artists, DJs, collectors, and communities that sustained the mixtape era. Supported by a Grammy Preservation Grant, she’s already digitized dozens of tapes while helping other collectors understand how to safeguard their archives.

The conversation touches on how mixtapes laid the groundwork for today’s playlists and streaming culture—yet today’s digital curation lacks the physical, handcrafted artistry that made each cassette unique. Sommer’s mission is to encourage collectors and students alike to look deeper: to uncover forgotten shoebox treasures in attics, to share memories, and to research how these tapes shaped music and culture long before social algorithms took over.

At its heart, the Mixtape Museum is an open invitation to honor the past while inspiring new ways to think about music’s role in documenting who we are. For Sommer, each cassette holds more than songs—it holds a memory worth saving.

Are you interested in sponsoring this show or placing an ad in the podcast?

Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship

Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

Mixtape Museum: https://mixtapemuseum.org/

More from Music Evolves: https://www.seanmartin.com/music-evolves-podcast

Music Evolves on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllTRJ5du7hFDXjiugu-uNPtW

On Location with Sean and Marco: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location

ITSPmagazine YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine

Be sure to share and subscribe!

Guest: George Platsis (AKA DJ Zeus) | Website: https://www.djzeus.com/home.html

Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast & Music Evolves Podcast | Website: https://www.seanmartin.com/

In this episode of Music Evolves, host Sean Martin is joined by George Platsis—known on stage and online as DJ Zeus—for a conversation about the art, the science, and the soul of DJing.

DJ Zeus brings a unique perspective to the turntables, shaped by a classical music education, years performing in Toronto’s largest clubs, and a deep appreciation for music that tells a story. From early days making mixtapes on cassette to manipulating multiple turntables live, he shares how his journey started with rock, shifted into dance music, and eventually settled into a world of layered soundscapes and emotional storytelling.

From Mixes to Soundtracks

DJ Zeus doesn’t just play music—he creates moments. He explains that making a great mix isn’t about throwing popular songs together; it’s about reading the room, responding to energy, and creating a journey. Whether it’s a club performance or a recorded set in Ableton Live, each mix is built like a story—with dynamics, tension, release, and emotion.

This philosophy carries through to how he uses technology. Instead of letting it do the work for him, Zeus uses tools like pitch shifting, EQ manipulation, and harmonic mixing to craft something that couldn’t exist without human touch. “If you’re not pushing the technology,” he says, “you’re not adding your own soul to it.”

When Technology Meets Feel

Zeus shares how today’s tools can isolate vocals, remix tracks on the fly, and even keep beats perfectly aligned—but warns that without intuition, timing, and feel, you’re just making playlists. The difference between a DJ and a playlist? Emotion. Surprise. Humanity.

He also reflects on two tracks that changed everything: Daft Punk’s One More Time and Cher’s Believe. One brought club music into mainstream pop; the other proved pop could crush in the clubs. Both used vocal manipulation in new ways and redefined the sound of their time.

This episode isn’t about nostalgia—it’s about remembering why music matters. DJ Zeus reminds us that great DJing isn’t just what you hear—it’s what you feel.

Are you interested in sponsoring this show or placing an ad in the podcast?

Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship

Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

DJ Zeus Website: https://www.djzeus.com/home.html

More from Music Evolves: https://www.seanmartin.com/music-evolves-podcast

Music Evolves on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllTRJ5du7hFDXjiugu-uNPtW

On Location with Sean and Marco: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location

ITSPmagazine YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine

Be sure to share and subscribe!

Guest: Aaron Friedman, Executive Director, Make Music Alliance | On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-friedman-7068014/

Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast & Music Evolves Podcast | Website: https://www.seanmartin.com/

What if June 21st wasn’t just another day on the calendar—but the one day a year where the world collectively said: go ahead, make noise?

In this episode of Music Evolves, host Sean Martin talks with Aaron Friedman, composer and founder of the Make Music Alliance, about the day that flips the script on who gets to perform. Make Music Day isn’t about headliners, stages, or ticket sales. It’s about showing up with your sound—whatever that is—and putting it out into the world.

What started in 1982 as a spontaneous moment in the streets of France has become a global celebration of music made by everyone. And Aaron’s been part of growing that idea across more than 150 U.S. cities—and beyond. There’s no audition. No gatekeeping. Whether it’s a punk band on a rooftop, a saxophonist on a stoop, or 200 people sight-reading Sousa marches in a park, it’s all fair game.

What makes this work? A custom-built matchmaking platform connects performers with unexpected venues—think record shops, laundromats, patios, public steps. There’s even room for big group experiences like Mass Appeal, where companies donate instruments and anyone can join in. No gear? No problem.

Aaron shares why this kind of open access matters, especially now. In a world of algorithm-driven listening and self-curated playlists, real connection—hearing music you didn’t expect, played by someone you don’t know—hits different. It’s discovery in its purest form.

Make Music Day isn’t just about performance. It’s about participation. It’s about remembering that music doesn’t need permission—it just needs a spark.

So mark the date: June 21. Wherever you are, find a way to join in. Visit makemusicday.org to find your city or start your own.

Because the world doesn’t need more noise.

It needs more music. Your music.

Are you interested in sponsoring this show or placing an ad in the podcast?

Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship

Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

Make Music Day: https://makemusicday.org/

Make Music Alliance: https://makemusicday.org/about/alliance/

Sousapalooza: https://makemusicday.org/national-projects/sousapalooza/

TuneFest Ireland: https://www.instagram.com/tunefest_dungarvan/p/DGsVzCUPW3F/

More from Music Evolves: https://www.seanmartin.com/music-evolves-podcast

Music Evolves on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllTRJ5du7hFDXjiugu-uNPtW

On Location with Sean and Marco: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location

ITSPmagazine YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine

Be sure to share and subscribe!

Guest: Seth Cluett, Director of Columbia University’s Computer Music Center | On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-cluett-7631065/ | Columbia University Computer Music Center Bio: https://cmc.music.columbia.edu/bios/seth-cluett

Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast & Music Evolves Podcast | Website: https://www.seanmartin.com/

Music and technology have always shaped each other, and few places embody that relationship as deeply as the Computer Music Center (CMC) at Columbia University. In this episode of Music Evolves, Sean Martin sits down with Seth Cluett, Director of the Computer Music Center and Assistant Director of the Sound Art MFA program at Columbia, to explore the center’s rich history, its role in advancing music technology, and how it continues to shape the future of sound.

The Legacy and Mission of the Computer Music Center

The CMC is housed in the same 6,000-square-foot space as the original Columbia-Princeton Electronic Music Center, which dates back to 1951 and is one of the world’s oldest university-based electronic music research facilities. This was the birthplace of early electronic music, where pioneers learned to use cutting-edge technology to create new sounds. Many of those musicians went on to establish their own studios around the world, from Egypt to Japan.

The center has played a role in major milestones in music history, including the work of Wendy Carlos, a former student known for Switched-On Bach, the score for Tron, and The Shining. The first piece of electronic music to win a Pulitzer Prize was also composed here. Today, under Cluett’s leadership, the focus remains on creativity-driven technological innovation—allowing composers and artists to explore technology freely and push the boundaries of what’s possible in sound and music.

One of the center’s guiding principles is accessibility. Cluett emphasizes the importance of lowering barriers to entry for students who may not have had prior access to music technology. The goal is to make sure that anyone, regardless of background, can walk into the studio and begin working with 80% of its capabilities within the first 20 minutes.

Exploring the Labs and Studios

The episode also includes a tour of the labs and studios, showcasing some of the center’s groundbreaking equipment. One highlight is the RCA Mark II Synthesizer, the world’s first programmable music synthesizer. Built in the late 1950s, this massive machine—seven feet tall and weighing over a ton—was instrumental in shaping the sound of early electronic music. The system worked by punching holes into paper to control sound generation, similar to a player piano. While no longer in use, the CMC has collaborated with iZotope to model some of its effects digitally.

The tour also features Columbia’s electronic music studio, which houses synthesizers from Buchla, Serge, and Moog—the latter being developed by Bob Moog, who was once an undergraduate at Columbia. The center’s modern design emphasizes a seamless workflow between analog and digital technologies, allowing students to quickly create, process, and experiment with sound.

Another key space is the immersive media and spatial audio research facility, which features a 12.1-channel loudspeaker sphere for ambisonic sound, along with a 32-capsule microphone that captures highly detailed audio environments. This technology is not only shaping music but also fields like virtual reality, data sonification, and interactive media.

The Future of Music Technology

Looking ahead, Cluett highlights the increasing interplay between AI, machine learning, and music composition. While some companies promote AI-generated melodies, he believes that truly expressive, human-driven composition remains essential. The role of technology, he argues, is not to replace human creativity but to enable new forms of expression. The CMC is at the forefront of this shift, experimenting with real-time audio processing, interactive performance systems, and embedded sensors that enhance live music experiences.

As music and technology continue to merge, Columbia’s Computer Music Center remains a key player in shaping the future of sound. Whether through pioneering hardware, software innovation, or fostering the next generation of creative minds, the center proves that music technology is not just about engineering—it’s about expression, accessibility, and the pursuit of artistic joy.

🎧 To hear the full conversation and get an inside look at the labs and studios, listen to the episode now and catch it on the YouTube playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllTRJ5du7hFDXjiugu-uNPtW.

Are you interested in sponsoring this show or placing an ad in the podcast?

Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship

Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

Columbia University Computer Music Center: https://cmc.music.columbia.edu/

The last piece of functional music created on the RCA Mark II Synthesizer (1998) | DJ Spooky vs. The Freight Elevator Quartet – File Under Futurism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KViFoylo2hQ

Podcast | The Future Of Music And Its Impact On Society And Humanity | With Seth Cluett and Scott Scheferman: https://itspmagazine.simplecast.com/episodes/the-future-of-music-and-its-impact-on-society-and-humanity-with-seth-cluett-and-shagghie

More from Music Evolves: https://www.seanmartin.com/music-evolves-podcast

Music Evolves on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllTRJ5du7hFDXjiugu-uNPtW

On Location with Sean and Marco: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location

ITSPmagazine YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine

Be sure to share and subscribe!

Guest: Scott “Shagghie” Scheferman, Artist: Raw. Analogue Techno. | On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottscheferman/ | Bandcamp: https://highsage.bandcamp.com/

Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast & Music Evolves Podcast | Website: https://www.seanmartin.com/

The latest episode of Music Evolves brings a fascinating discussion with Scott “Shagghie” Scheferman, a longtime cybersecurity professional and electronic music creator. Host Sean Martin sits down with Scheferman to explore the intersection of creativity, technology, and music—challenging the traditional definitions of hacking and how it applies to the artistic process.

The Hacker Mindset in Music

Scheferman, who has spent decades working in cybersecurity, explains how his approach to music is deeply influenced by the hacker mindset. Traditionally associated with computers and networks, hacking is about problem-solving, exploration, and pushing boundaries. For Scheferman, that same mentality extends to music—whether modifying effects pedals beyond their intended use, experimenting with modular synthesizers, or applying unconventional methods to sound creation.

This perspective reframes the way we think about creativity: hacking isn’t just breaking things—it’s about finding new ways to build. In music, that could mean repurposing technology, combining analog and digital tools, or embracing unexpected results to drive innovation.

The Role of Technology in Music Creation

A core theme of the conversation is how technology shapes the way music is created and experienced. From the early days of analog synthesizers to today’s AI-driven tools, technology has always played a role in expanding musical possibilities. Scheferman describes his studio setup, filled with modular synthesizers, custom effects pedals, and digital sequencing tools, as an evolving playground for sound experimentation.

One of the key takeaways is that while technology can enable creativity, it can also introduce constraints. Whether it’s the frustration of a technical failure or the overwhelming options provided by AI-driven music tools, technology isn’t just a tool—it’s a collaborator. Sometimes, the best results come from working within limitations or intentionally breaking the rules.

AI, Automation, and the Future of Music

The conversation also touches on artificial intelligence and its growing role in music composition. AI tools can generate melodies, suggest chord progressions, and even simulate human-like performances. But does AI-enhanced music lose something essential?

Scheferman shares his thoughts on where technology ends and artistry begins. While AI can assist in generating ideas or automating tedious processes, it doesn’t replace the human connection to music. He sees AI as a tool for acceleration rather than substitution—something that can help musicians explore new ideas but should not dictate creative choices.

This is particularly relevant when it comes to live performance and improvisation. A computer can generate perfect beats and sequences, but can it capture the spontaneous interplay between musicians, the imperfections that make a performance feel alive? That’s still an open question.

The Human Element in Sound

Beyond the technical aspects, Scheferman and Martin discuss the emotional power of music. Whether it’s an acoustic guitar, an electrified soundscape, or a fully synthesized production, music has the ability to transport listeners to different states of mind.

They reflect on how people connect with sound—how live performances create an irreplaceable energy, how vinyl records provide a tactile experience that digital streaming lacks, and how technology might change the way future generations perceive and create music. The question remains: as digital tools become more dominant, will we continue to crave raw, unprocessed sound?

A Collaboration of Sound and Emotion

As the episode wraps up, Scheferman shares a track he created with his wife, Kati Rockit, blending electronic production with rock-influenced vocals. Their collaboration highlights another key theme of the episode—music as dialogue. Whether between humans and technology or between two creative partners, the best results often come from interplay, not isolation.

This episode of Music Evolves is a must-listen for anyone interested in how technology and creativity intersect. It challenges assumptions about what it means to be a musician in the digital age and invites listeners to rethink how they interact with sound.

🎧 Listen to the full conversation to hear more about hacking music, pushing creative boundaries, and the future of AI-driven sound.

Are you interested in sponsoring this show or placing an ad in the podcast?

Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship

Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

Katy Rokit - Forgotten Dance Mix (Techno meets Pop Electronica): https://katyrokit.bandcamp.com/track/the-forgotten-forgetaboutit-dance-mix

Highsage - Sloane vs. Aliens (my kid's voice vs. algo filtering, tape delays, drum machine and euro rack - live performance): https://highsage.bandcamp.com/track/sloane-vs-martians

"Open" - Just a man with his 303, 808 and some strings... - "like a breeze that opens the door with a funk that shuts the window" (live cut): https://highsage.bandcamp.com/track/open

More from Music Evolves: https://www.seanmartin.com/music-evolves-podcast

Music Evolves on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllTRJ5du7hFDXjiugu-uNPtW

On Location with Sean and Marco: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location

ITSPmagazine YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine

Be sure to share and subscribe!

Guest: Precious Perez, President at RAMPD | On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/precious-perez-a0548915b/ | Website: https://preciousperezmusica.com/

Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast & Music Evolves Podcast | Website: https://www.seanmartin.com/

The intersection of music, technology, and accessibility is shaping how artists create, perform, and share their work. In this episode of Music Evolves, host Sean Martin speaks with singer, songwriter, and educator Precious Perez, a Berklee College of Music graduate with degrees in music education and vocal performance. As a blind Latina artist and disability advocate, Perez shares her journey in music, the role of technology in her creative process, and how she works to increase opportunities for musicians with disabilities.

A Life Shaped by Music

Perez’s passion for music started early, surrounded by the diverse sounds of her Puerto Rican household. From salsa and reggaeton to R&B and pop, her exposure to various genres helped shape her identity as an artist. She recalls her first songwriting experience in fourth grade, when she transformed a poem into a song with the help of a music teacher. That moment solidified her desire to pursue music professionally, leading her to Berklee, where she refined her skills in both performance and education.

As a blind musician, Perez explains how she interacts with music differently from sighted artists. She describes her early experiences learning Braille music and how tactile memory plays a role in understanding composition. While she primarily relies on her ear, her knowledge of Braille notation helps her analyze rhythm and structure in a unique way.

Technology as a Tool for Inclusion

For Perez, technology has been both a gateway and a challenge. She demonstrates how she uses a BrailleSense note taker, a device that allows her to type lyrics and read them in Braille while composing. She also shares how screen reading software enables her to navigate recording software like Logic Pro and Pro Tools, ensuring she can produce and edit her music independently.

Beyond the studio, accessibility in live performance is another key consideration. Whether using in-ear monitors or giving cues to her bandmates through verbal or physical signals, Perez emphasizes that clear communication and collaboration make performances seamless.

Advocating for Disability Representation in Music

Perez is also the president of RAMPD (Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities), an organization founded by recording artist Lachi and NPR Tiny Desk Contest winner Gaelynn Lea. RAMPD is dedicated to amplifying disability culture, promoting accessibility, and ensuring that disabled artists have equitable opportunities in the music industry. The organization consults with major industry events like the Grammys, NAMM, and Folk Alliance to improve accessibility and representation.

She stresses that disability is an often-overlooked part of diversity and that anyone, at any time, could join this community due to illness, injury, or aging. Through RAMPD, Perez and her colleagues are breaking down barriers and proving that disabled musicians are just as competitive and professional as their peers.

A New Era of Music

Perez is embracing a new era in her music, blending her Latin roots with her pop and R&B influences. She performs her latest song, Rosé, a Spanish-language track about embracing the present moment with a loved one despite life’s difficulties. With plans to record a new project with We Could Be Music in Costa Rica, she is leaning into the Latin music space in a way she has always envisioned.

Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and passion. From navigating music education as a blind student to advocating for industry-wide accessibility, Perez is proving that talent and determination—not sight—define an artist’s success.

Listen to the full episode to hear Precious Perez’s insights on technology, performance, and advocacy in music.

Are you interested in sponsoring this show or placing an ad in the podcast?

Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship

Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

Precious' LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/preciousperezmusica

Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities (RAMPD): https://rampd.org/

More from Music Evolves: https://www.seanmartin.com/music-evolves-podcast

Music Evolves on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllTRJ5du7hFDXjiugu-uNPtW

On Location with Sean and Marco: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location

ITSPmagazine YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine

Be sure to share and subscribe!

Guest: John Mlynczak, President and CEO of NAMM | View Website | Visit NAMM

Host: Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine Podcasts and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast & Music Evolves Podcast | On ITSPmagazine: https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin

Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine Podcasts and Host of Redefining Society and Technology Podcast | On ITSPmagazine: https://www.itspmagazine.com/marco-ciappelli

The latest On Location episode of The Music Evolves Podcast takes listeners behind the scenes of the NAMM 2025 show, featuring a vibrant discussion with John Mlynczak, NAMM President and CEO. The conversation is not just a recap of an incredible event but a celebration of music’s enduring power and the evolving role of technology in the music industry.

A Legacy of Music and Community

Founded in 1901, NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) has become the world’s largest trade association representing the musical products industry. John Mlynczak shares how NAMM operates year-round to support manufacturers, retailers, and music educators through research, advocacy, and events. The annual NAMM show is the pinnacle of this work, gathering thousands of music makers, industry professionals, and artists to spark creativity and innovation.

Technology Meets Tradition

One of the episode’s key themes is the blend of modern technology with nostalgic sounds. The 2025 NAMM show showcased groundbreaking technologies, from AI-driven music tools to hardware-software collaborations. Mlynczak discusses how companies are innovating to create real-time processing tools, allowing musicians to produce music faster and more intuitively than ever before. He emphasizes that the goal is not to replace traditional methods but to enhance creativity and make music more accessible to all.

The Power of Inspiration

NAMM’s mission to create more music makers worldwide is a central focus. Mlynczak explains how the NAMM Foundation supports educational programs across all ages, from K-12 schools to community groups and adult learners. The foundation’s work aims to ensure everyone has the opportunity to explore music, whether through formal education or new digital tools that lower the barrier to entry.

A Moment to Remember: Jon Batiste at NAMM

A standout moment from the show was Mlynczak’s interview with Grammy-winning artist Jon Batiste [https://youtu.be/Lfq35enGq58]. Initially uncertain, the conversation transformed into a genuine exchange about music’s influence and the industry’s impact on artists. This interaction highlighted NAMM’s broader vision of not just serving as a trade show but as a cultural hub that fosters creativity and community.

Looking Ahead to NAMM 2026

The episode concludes with anticipation for NAMM 2026, scheduled for January 20-24 in Anaheim, California. As Sean, Marco, and John reflect on this year’s successes, they invite listeners to join them next year to explore the intersection of music, technology, and inspiration.

Tune in to The Music Evolves Podcast to dive deeper into these insights and discover how NAMM continues to shape the future of music. Be sure to stay tuned for more On Location with Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli as they cover more technology and society events around the world.

Are you interested in sponsoring this show or running ad placement in the podcast?

Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship

Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

Event Coverage Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/event-coverage-package

NAMM Organization: https://www.namm.org/

The NAMM Show 2025: https://www.namm.org/thenammshow/attend

Catch more stories from NAMM Show 2025 coverage: https://itspmagazine.com/the-2025-namm-show-namm-music-conference-music-technology-event-coverage-anaheim-california

Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter | The 2025 NAMM Show: Honoring Tradition, Pioneering the Future: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/2025-namm-show-honoring-tradition-pioneering-future-sean-martin-6jcge/

Music Evolves Episode | The debut episode of Music Evolves explores how technology is transforming music creation, performance, and production, with insights from the NAMM Show 2025

More from Marco Ciappelli on Redefining Society and Technology Podcast: https://redefiningsocietyandtechnologypodcast.com/

More from Music Evolves: https://www.seanmartin.com/music-evolves-podcast

Music Evolves on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllTRJ5du7hFDXjiugu-uNPtW

On Location with Sean and Marco: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location

ITSPmagazine YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine

Be sure to share and subscribe!

Guest: Larry Jaffee, Author, Journalist, Professor, and Co-Founder of Making Vinyl | On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larry-jaffee-1379bb2/

Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast & Music Evolves Podcast | On ITSPmagazine: https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin

Vinyl records have experienced one of the most unexpected resurgences in music history. Once considered obsolete, the format has reestablished its presence in the music sales market, attracting collectors, audiophiles, and younger generations discovering the medium for the first time. On this episode of Music Evolves, host Sean Martin is joined by Larry Jaffee, journalist, author, and co-founder of Making Vinyl, to explore the past, present, and future of vinyl records.

The History and Evolution of Vinyl

Larry Jaffee’s passion for music began early, shaped by childhood experiences with radio, tape recorders, and eventually, his first turntable. His journey mirrors that of recorded music itself—from early reel-to-reel tapes and cassettes to the dominance of LPs. Jaffee explains how vinyl records initially took hold in the 1940s, replacing fragile shellac 78s, and how the industry saw its first format war between Thomas Edison’s cylinders and Emil Berliner’s flat disc records.

By the 1980s, however, vinyl was rapidly losing ground to compact discs, and later, digital streaming. The shift was largely driven by convenience, corporate pressure, and the record industry’s aggressive push for higher-priced CDs. As labels stopped accepting returns on LPs, retailers began phasing them out. Yet, as Jaffee points out, the format never truly disappeared. Audiophile labels, collectors, and independent artists kept vinyl alive, setting the stage for its resurgence decades later.

The Vinyl Revival

Vinyl’s comeback has been driven by multiple factors, including nostalgia, superior sound quality, and a renewed appreciation for physical media. Jaffee highlights Record Store Day, the annual event launched in 2008 that played a key role in reigniting public interest in records. Starting with just a dozen exclusive releases and a high-profile in-store appearance by Metallica, Record Store Day quickly gained traction, attracting major labels and leading to hundreds of special vinyl releases each year.

Independent artists and labels have also embraced vinyl as a way to connect with fans and generate revenue. Unlike streaming, where payouts are minimal, selling a physical album—especially directly to fans—can be a major source of income for musicians. Jaffee notes that younger generations are playing a key role in sustaining the trend, with millennial and Gen Z listeners making up a growing portion of vinyl buyers.

Sound Quality and the Vinyl Experience

One of the biggest debates in music is whether vinyl actually sounds better than digital formats. While some argue that CDs and high-resolution digital files offer cleaner sound, vinyl enthusiasts appreciate the warmth, depth, and dynamic range that analog recordings provide. The experience of playing a record—removing it from the sleeve, placing it on the turntable, and carefully dropping the needle—also adds a tactile, immersive element that digital music lacks.

Jaffee discusses how vinyl manufacturing has improved in recent years, with pressing plants refining quality control and experimenting with new formulations, including colored and marbled vinyl. However, the resurgence has also exposed industry bottlenecks, with pressing plants struggling to keep up with demand.

The Future of Vinyl: Sustainability and Innovation

As vinyl production increases, concerns about its environmental impact have also grown. Traditional records are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a material that Greenpeace considers among the most harmful plastics. Jaffee is now involved in efforts to create plant-based, sustainable alternatives, and his team recently produced their first eco-friendly record using a new biodegradable material.

With new pressing plants opening, younger audiences embracing the format, and innovations in sustainability, vinyl’s future looks promising. While digital music remains dominant, the continued demand for physical media proves that records are more than just a nostalgic novelty—they offer an experience that streaming cannot replicate.

Listen to the Full Episode

Larry Jaffee’s deep knowledge of music history, industry shifts, and the cultural significance of vinyl makes this an essential episode for music fans. Tune in to Music Evolves to hear more about the making of records, the role of packaging and design, and what’s next for the format that refuses to fade.

Are you interested in sponsoring this show or running ad placement in the podcast?

Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship

Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

Record Store Day Book: https://amzn.to/3CR932O

Record Store Day: https://recordstoreday.com

Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter | Grooves That Connect: A Reunion in Music: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/grooves-connect-reunion-music-sean-martin-ksfke/

Mixtape Museum: https://mixtapemuseum.org/

Article | As Trevor Noah exits Daily Show: his music tastes and life as a teenaged CD bootlegger in South Africa: https://www.goldminemag.com/articles/as-trevor-noah-exits-daily-show-his-music-tastes-and-life-as-a-teenaged-cd-bootlegger-in-south-africa

Article | How well is MoFi managing its digital mastering LP controversy? https://www.goldminemag.com/collector-resources/how-well-is-mofi-managing-its-digital-mastering-lp-controversy

More from Music Evolves: https://www.seanmartin.com/music-evolves-podcast

Music Evolves on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllTRJ5du7hFDXjiugu-uNPtW

On Location with Sean and Marco: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location

ITSPmagazine YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine

Be sure to share and subscribe!

Guest: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast & Audio Signals Podcast | On ITSPmagazine: https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli

Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast & Music Evolves Podcast | On ITSPmagazine: https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin

The first episode of Music Evolves with host Sean Martin sets the tone for an exciting exploration of the intersection of music and technology. Kicking things off with a discussion of the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Show, this episode covers how musicians, producers, and innovators are shaping the future of sound.

Music Meets Technology

From the resurgence of classic analog instruments to the latest AI-assisted music creation tools, technology continues to redefine how music is made, performed, and shared. Sean shares his firsthand experience at NAMM, where major brands and independent creators showcased groundbreaking advancements, including digital amplifiers that recreate vintage sounds, AI-driven music production tools, and innovations designed to break creative barriers.

One standout topic is how technology is making music creation more accessible. Companies are introducing tools that allow artists to experiment with sounds in ways that were once impossible without expensive studio setups. Instruments with built-in effects, digital modeling amps that maintain rich analog tones at lower volumes, and silent drum heads that allow musicians to practice in small apartments—all of these are making professional-quality music creation more attainable.

The Role of AI in Music

A key discussion point in this episode is the growing influence of artificial intelligence. AI-generated music isn’t just an experiment—it’s already shaping songwriting, production, and even performance. Some musicians use AI to refine lyrics, generate melodies, or experiment with new sonic textures. But with this innovation comes debate. Can AI-generated music carry the same emotional depth as human-created work? And how does this impact authenticity in songwriting and performance?

NAMM also brought attention to ethical concerns surrounding AI, with Roland and Universal Music Group unveiling an initiative to address fair use, artist rights, and responsible AI implementation in music. As AI continues to evolve, these discussions will be critical in determining its role in the industry.

Preserving the Classics While Pushing Boundaries

Despite all the technological advancements, there remains a strong nostalgia for classic sounds. This balance between innovation and tradition was evident at NAMM, where artists and engineers worked to preserve vintage tones while enhancing their usability for modern musicians. Companies are now blending analog warmth with digital precision, allowing musicians to replicate legendary sounds without the constraints of older hardware.

Sean also touches on the impact of these advancements on performance. Portable gear with built-in looping and effects is allowing musicians to push creative limits, while innovations in live sound engineering are making it possible to replicate studio-quality mixes on stage.

More to Come on Music Evolves

This episode sets the stage for a series that will dive deep into how technology is changing the way music is created, performed, and consumed. Future episodes will explore everything from sound engineering and music education to AI composition and new performance technologies.

For those passionate about music and its ever-expanding possibilities, Music Evolves offers a fresh perspective on how creativity and technology intersect. Be sure to listen to the full episode to hear firsthand insights from NAMM and stay tuned for upcoming discussions with musicians, engineers, and industry leaders shaping the future of sound.

Are you interested in sponsoring this show or running ad placement in the podcast?

Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship

Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc

More The 2025 NAMM Show Coverage: https://itspmagazine.com/the-2025-namm-show-namm-music-conference-music-technology-event-coverage-anaheim-california

Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter | The 2025 NAMM Show: Honoring Tradition, Pioneering the Future: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/2025-namm-show-honoring-tradition-pioneering-future-sean-martin-6jcge/

More from Music Evolves: https://www.seanmartin.com/music-evolves-podcast

Music Evolves on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllTRJ5du7hFDXjiugu-uNPtW

On Location with Sean and Marco: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location

ITSPmagazine YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine

Be sure to share and subscribe!