The Music Executive

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 strategies to prevent reaching the severe stages. 

She discusses the importance of maintaining physical health, staying creatively inspired, and ensuring clarity in professional commitments. Cinnamon Denise introduces a practical 30-day habit focusing on the three most important aspects of life—self, loved ones, and career—to maintain balance and avoid burnout. 

This episode serves as a guide for music executives to manage their wellbeing while thriving in the demanding music industry.

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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 the right opportunities, and the importance of business acumen in the music industry. 

Phil also discusses building a profile on gig platforms like Gig Masters (now The Bash), and offers valuable advice for aspiring musicians on investing in themselves and diversifying their skills. 

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Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/cinnamondenise

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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 posting quality content. 

The discussion touches on 

• overcoming fear, 
• maintaining authenticity, 
• and the significance of putting one's work out into the world.

Nakia also shares insights on how he manages to produce engaging content daily while staying true to his musical niche.

Support the show

Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/cinnamondenise

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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 College of Music. Isaiah discusses his transition from performing live to composing music for television and film. 

He emphasizes the importance of faith, mentorship, and a supportive network in achieving success in the music industry. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with valuable advice for aspiring musicians.

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Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/cinnamondenise

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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 covers pet peeves in live sound, the significance of preparation and safety, and offers industry tips on getting and keeping a job. The conversation highlights Tangela's passion for audio and the importance of a positive attitude in the music industry.

Support the show

Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/cinnamondenise

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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 sound, their transition from senior outreach to educational shows, and their approach to breaking the 'fourth wall' in performances. 

The group also talks about their touring experiences, best practices, and humorous anecdotes, offering insights into the life of performing musicians. 

Additionally, they highlight their current projects, including a summer camp for aspiring string players. 

Support the show

Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/cinnamondenise

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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, particularly for those with limited time, and emphasizes the significance of warming up, exploring new music, and finding one's unique musical voice. Dustin also provides insights on tailoring practice sessions for beginners and intermediate players. Tune in to hear more about his approach to music and enjoy his original tune, 'White Out Swag.'

Support the show

Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/cinnamondenise

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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 playlists that bring historical music narratives to life. Jayna also offers advice for aspiring writers, emphasizes the importance of protecting one's mental health, and navigating the challenges within the journalism industry. 

The episode concludes with a sneak peek into J'na's latest project, an introduction to Glam Rock, produced for Discovery Music.

Support the show

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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 as a professional musician. 

Jeff emphasizes the importance of having an online presence, networking diligently, and paying meticulous attention to detail, from rehearsals to attire. The episode concludes with Jeff performing the classical piece 'Julio Flora' by Augustin Barrios Mangoré.

Support the show

Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/cinnamondenise

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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 experience as both a successful band member and a leader. 

Support the show

Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/cinnamondenise

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