Rob, the CEO of PUTINWORK Solution and one of the most dynamic music managers in Boston, visited ‘Highstreet’ to share his insights on what artists need to focus on to succeed in this episode. Recently, Rob organized the ‘Future Forward Festival’, which was postponed due to rain. He discussed the difficulties of event planning, including dealing with city regulations and permits.
In the conversation, Rob touched on several key aspects of the music industry:
Rob discussed how artists are chosen for shows and festivals, stressing that it’s about creating unmissable music, not relying on personal connections. He expressed frustration with artists who feel entitled to perform without putting in the necessary effort or creating impactful music. The discussion also covered the state of Boston’s music scene, with participants naming standout local artists and songs. The group debated how music becomes popular, with some crediting marketing, while Rob argued that great music will naturally gain attention. Rob highlighted the difficulties local artists face in gaining recognition, especially in Boston, and how social media algorithms affect music discovery and popularity.
Rob emphasized the importance of focusing on the music itself, not just social media content. He criticized artists who prioritize content creation over songwriting and artistry, calling it “cheapening” their value. Rob advised artists to seek partners or investors rather than trying to manage everything alone, stressing the significance of ownership and control over their work. He encouraged artists to understand the business side of the industry and make strategic decisions, especially regarding record deals and financial management. The conversation provided a deep dive into the financial realities of the music industry. Rob explained how record deals work, the small percentage of earnings artists typically receive, and the risk of ending up in debt. He advocated for a more business-minded approach to music careers, focusing on songwriting, publishing, and ownership.
