Bridge The Atlantic

LA-based songwriting teacher, record producer and A&R consultant Loren Israel joins us on the show this week. Loren specializes in finding and developing new talent. As the Director of A&R at Capitol Records, Loren worked with Jimmy Eat World, Coldplay and Less Than Jake. As an A&R Consultant, he has worked with Plain White T’s, and Neon Trees. In this episode, Loren talks with us about the differences between indie and major labels, and the importance of building relationships in the music business. Highlights: - Loren is honest, passionate and hard working - Loren shares his concerns that many artists are less passionate about the hard work of the business than they should be - We talk about Loren’s passion for developing new artists, including his work with Jimmy Eat World - Loren talks about how there needs to be a demand for an artist in order to gain investment and/or sign a record deal - We hear about the importance of tipping points in a band’s career if you want to sign a deal or gain investment - We all agree that artists can’t do everything themselves - there needs to be a team in place - The biggest mistake artists make when approaching labels is that they forget that major labels are all about the hits - Loren shares his insight into the different types of labels - it all comes down to doing your research and finding the right fit for you - We all agree the music business doesn’t need to be as mysterious as it is - We talk about the importance of clicking with someone you’re going to be working with long-term Advice: - When approaching a label, do your research - find out what the label specialises in, and whether it’s a good fit for you - Maximise on your own strengths and find a partnership that benefits both you and the label/partner - Start meeting people and contacting people - either in person or online - Choose the people you’re going to be working with carefully - not just because they’re great at what they do, but because you share the same values and foundational beliefs - Build relationships, work hard and work smart Recommendations: - Nathaniel Rateliff (Music) Guest Links: - Website: lorenisrael.com - Twitter: @lorenisrael Sponsors: - Chris Keaton @ Chris Keaton Presents - Christine Infanger @ Thirty Roses --- For more episodes, visit http://bridge-the-atlantic.com Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/bridge_atlantic Subscribe on iTunes: http://bridge-the-atlantic.com/itunes Support us on Patreon: http://patreon.com/bridgetheatlantic