In this episode, we go deep into the power of art and artist/creators in our society, as well as into the evolution of the business of music and technology in music. From selling merch to AI, this episode is a must-watch for industry pros and artists alike. Benji has been through some of the industry's largest swings and has so much insight to offer. Here is a link to Benji's company, Sureel AI: https://www.sureel.ai/

In this episode, I speak with Jonathan Shank, CEO of Terrapin Station Entertainment. Los Angeles-based Shank has firmly placed himself at the unconventional intersection of artist management (Victoria Justice, Scarypoolparty, Laura Marano), event production, immersive installations, talent development, and community enrichment. A music obsessive who has worked with everyone from the Bob Marley Estate to the Grateful Dead’s Mickey Hart, Shank is a recognized pioneer in bringing beloved intellectual property to the live stage, with productions such as Disney Junior Dance Party On Tour, Peppa Pig Live!, and The Fresh Beat Band Live generating more than $80 million in gross box office sales. As part of his extensive work with Mickey Hart, he also earned a Grammy Award in 2009 for his role in creating the groundbreaking album Global Drum Project. In 2020, he received the T.J. Martell Trailblazer Award for his work producing such charity events as The Homeward Bound Concert and A Tribute to the Music of Linda Ronstadt.https://terrapinent.com/

In this episode, I speak with Mag about his journey into music and business, his company, Even, and how he sees the industry evolving. Thanks for watching. Enjoy! Control Signal Host: Matt Urmy - Co-founder/CEO of Artist Growth. This episode's guest: Mag Rodriguez - Founder/CEO, EVEN What is EVEN? EVEN is more than just a platform; it's a community that thrives on the direct connection between artists and their fans. It revolutionizes the way fans can support their favorite artists and how artists can give back to their most loyal fans. When you purchase a release on EVEN, you're not just buying music – you're gaining early access to an artist's creative work. This could include their latest music, exclusive content, first dibs on tour tickets, merchandise, and much more. It's a first-class experience for fans, offering more than the typical streaming or purchase options available elsewhere. How does EVEN work? EVEN operates with the aim of fostering a direct and rewarding relationship between artists and fans. Here's a step-by-step guide to how it works: Explore the Catalogue: With EVEN, fans can browse through a wide variety of releases from their favorite artists. These could include singles, albums, EPs, or even exclusive content that's not available anywhere else. Purchase Releases: Once a fan has chosen a release they'd like to own, they can purchase it directly on the platform. Gain Exclusive Access: Upon purchasing a release, fans are granted something we call "Access". This gives them the ability to listen to the music before it's available on streaming platforms. Access could include first dibs on merchandise, tour tickets, access to private events, behind-the-scenes content, and much more. How do artists benefit? The future of music is direct. EVEN prepares artists with all the tools and resources to make their music available to their fans and take ownership of that relationship. ​ With EVEN, Artists: Set the price for their art. Decide how they want to reward their fans. Get paid daily! Own & export their data with a click.