Best Dave Kropf Podcasts (2024)

1
Getting Into Film Scoring (with Scott Mclaughlin) 1:00:38

28m ago1:00:38

1:00:38

For many, including myself, film music remains the Holy Grail. While I love writing production music for libraries, scoring to picture is a rewarding and challenging pursuit that I aspire to. So joining me today on the podcast is 52 Cues family member Scott McLaughlin, who is venturing into film music. We discuss his upcoming projects, how he balan…

1
EP 109. From $$ to $$$$ in Sync PRO with "Da Fingaz" Marcus Manderson | How He Did It! 1:11:38

2d ago1:11:38

1:11:38

In this podcast we talk with Marcus "Da Fingaz" Manderson and talk about how he went from never making over $100 ever on a PRO check to making HIGH FOUR Figures in his last BMI Check.I ask all the questions, and he details what happened and his strategy and how he finds time to make music for sync.#synclicensing #composer #musician @dafingaz LINKS …

1
How to Play the DAW Like an Instrument 51:30

7d ago51:30

51:30

In this episode, I discuss why I believe the DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is an instrument and how treating it as such can enhance our creative flow. By learning, performing, and practicing the DAW the same way we would with a traditional instrument, we can compose better and faster and reduce the friction between having an idea and expressing i…

1
EP 108. Is Stock Music/MicroSync Worth It in 2024?? Or Fruitless? Let’s look at some data… 1:14:10

10d ago1:14:10

1:14:10

Almost three years ago my channel blew up with a video called “Zero to $600 a Month with Stock Music Licensing.” Surely this is all over now right? No one can be making any money on this now with the advent of AI can they? Sync is the ONLY way to go to make money in licensing right?Well, let’s look at the data…#stockmusiclicensing #musiclicensing #…

1
Production Music Is A Team Sport 59:00

15d ago59:00

59:00

So I had a crazy idea: what if I invited Family members from the 52 Cues community to come to my house and spend the weekend hanging out and sharing life? Well, this past April, 12 members flew from around the work to join me in Orlando where we cooked, made music, talked shop, and even recorded a podcast episode discussing the importance of commun…

1
More Inconvenient Truths About Production Music 1:06:49

21d ago1:06:49

1:06:49

In this episode, Dave shares five more "Inconvenient Truths" for sync composers, including insights on how to stand out in an increasingly competitive industry, and reveals some hard-to-hear realities every production music composer should know. Plus, we reveal the winner of the "What's Your Superpower" Composer Quest, and Dave talks about rekindli…

1
EP 107. How to Find and Contact Sync Music Libraries | Clips from the "Getting in Sync Course" 54:14

23d ago54:14

54:14

Eric shows clips from his “Getting in Sync” Course and talks about the EXACT way he got into his first two libraries.GET THE 2024 MUSIC DIRECTORY FROM SYNCMYMUSIC:https://www.syncmymusic.com/musicdirectoryMake sure to email Jesse after you buy and tell him Eric Copeland sent you! --THE NEW COURSE "GETTING IN SYNC" IS HERE!How I Got My Music on TV! …

1
What's Your Superpower? Composer Quest Live! 55:07

27d ago55:07

55:07

The quest: showcase your particular, extraordinary abilities! Whether your strength lies in crafting compelling rhythms, enchanting melodies, masterful mixing, innovative sound design, or anything in between, in this episode we listen to the 10 submissions and you get to vote! Voting is open through June 9! https://www.52cues.com/vote Watch this ep…

1
EP 106. i'm changing things...(again) 1:07:30

1M ago1:07:30

1:07:30

I’m going to have to change thigns up to make my life and music work the way I need it to. Come listen and see if it helps you too. -- THE NEW COURSE "GETTING IN SYNC" IS HERE!How I Got My Music on TV! (And How YOU Can Too!)Once I found out about sync licensing and that people were making music income, I began a systematic, focused plan to get my m…

1
I Got Copyright Notices for Using AI Loops 42:10

1M ago42:10

42:10

Now, I know what you're thinking—you’re probably sick of hearing about AI. I know I’m sick of talking about AI and the constant handwringing about it, but recent events have brought AI screaming to the forefront. During a recent live stream, I used Sumo AI to generate a custom reference track, but after the session, I was hit with not one, not two,…

1
EP 105. 🎹 🖥️ What DAW Should I Switch To? Which One Would YOU Pick? Replacing Logic Pro AI 🤖 1:11:43

1M ago1:11:43

1:11:43

What DAW (or Digital Audio Workstation) would you choose if you had to switch DAWS?Not what DAW is BEST! What would your transition be? From Logic to Studio One? From FL to Logic? From Ableton to Pro Tools? (That would be weird) --THE NEW COURSE "GETTING IN SYNC" IS HERE!How I Got My Music on TV! (And How YOU Can Too!)Once I found out about sync li…

1
Sync Gems, Part 2 (with Roy Matz) 52:06

1M ago52:06

52:06

In this episode of the 52 Cues Podcast, Dave continues his interview with Roy Matz of the Sync Gems podcast and Roy discusses the challenge of overcommitting and the importance of authenticity in the sync industry. He shares how his passion for superhero movies fuels his music career and reflects on balancing creative expression with commercial dem…

1
EP104. 💰 How Much Netflix Paid Me | May Showers Royalties | Logic Pro 11 55:48

2M ago55:48

55:48

In this week’s podcast I talk about how much Netflix paid out for a top of show, logo placement on the hit show Love Is Blind. Also other surprisingly good royalty reports, and...we need to talk about Logic Pro 11.--THE NEW COURSE "GETTING IN SYNC" IS HERE!How I Got My Music on TV! (And How YOU Can Too!)Once I found out about sync licensing and tha…

1
Sync Gems, Part 1 (with Roy Matz) 53:44

2M ago53:44

53:44

In this episode of the 52 Cues podcast, we chat with Roy Matz of the Sync Gems podcast about his transition from beatboxing to music production and the importance of authenticity in the industry. We explore personal growth, recognizing when to move on from past identities, and the significance of setting goals. Watch this episode on YouTube https:/…

1
Production Music Q&A LIVE! 1:15:56

2M ago1:15:56

1:15:56

In this live Q&A episode of the 52 Cues podcast, Dave tackles questions on the importance of reference tracks, offering tips on using them creatively while analyzing harmonic structures, instrumental textures, and rhythmic languages. He also talks about LUFS targets for quiet music, layering strategies for various cue types, managing low-end freque…

1
EP103. Video Game Music Licensing with Steven Melin | $80,000 Freelancer Yearly Average? 1:12:26

2M ago1:12:26

1:12:26

In this episode we talk to Steven Melin of Video Game Music Alliance, who composes music exclusively for video games on all levels including independent, Steam, and console gaming.Did you know that the average yearly salary for FREELANCE Video Game Music Composers and Sound Designers is $80,000 per year? (Source: https://www.gamesoundcon.com/post/g…

1
5 Career Lessons I Learned from Star Wars 58:26

2M ago58:26

58:26

In this episode, Dave Kropf explores lessons from Star Wars that can be applied to production and library music. He discusses the importance of using references effectively, the developmental journey from novice to expert, and the balance between artistry and commercial viability. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/7yFNZFZ7uqk 00:00 - …

1
What's Your Superpower? 56:01

2M ago56:01

56:01

In this episode of the 52 Cues podcast, we explore "superpowers"—those innate skills that emerge naturally and effortlessly. We talk about recognizing these abilities, understanding their value, and applying them effectively within the production music industry to ensure both success and personal fulfillment in your career! Watch this episode on Yo…

1
The Habits of Success (with Jelle Dittmar) 1:01:00

3M ago1:01:00

1:01:00

Tune in as Dave Kropf hosts music producer Jelle Dittmar in a dynamic episode of the 52 Cues Podcast. Explore how online networking catapulted Jelle into a major album deal with an LA music library, plus uncover the secrets to forging lasting industry relationships. Learn about the role of live elements in music production, advances in remote colla…

1
EP102. Surprising First Quarter Stock Numbers | BMI New Site | Deposit Photos 49:04

3M ago49:04

49:04

In Podcast 102 Eric talks about a surprising thing he is seeing in his stock music licensing numbers for 2024, BMI’s new websiute and app, and a slight but welcome change at Deposit Photos.LINKS DISCUSSED:MY TEACHING PRODUCTS: https://makemusicincome.com/learn/BMI: https://www.bmi.com/Find our more about The Ultimate Composers Mastermind! - https:/…

1
Parkinson's Law and Composers 30:25

3M ago30:25

30:25

Parkinson's Law states that work expands to fill the time available for its completion. In this episode, Dave discusses how this concept applies to the world of production music, and how it impacts efficiency, decision-making, and creativity in music production. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5i2nXHdbh6I 00:00 - Intro & welcome 02:…

1
EP101. Your Music vs. A.I. | What Can You Do? | Ideas to Help You Compete in the New World of Music and AI 1:06:06

3M ago1:06:06

1:06:06

Today I try and bring you some solace and relief to that sinking feeling that AI is going to replace or displace you in the world of music.We talk about why to stop listening to the media and doomsayers, how AI can actually help us in our music, why Stock music is certainly the low hanging fruit, why Sync may not be as affected, what I am doing to …

1
Evolving in the Music Industry (with Timothy Andrew Edwards) 1:01:30

3M ago1:01:30

1:01:30

In this episode, composer and publisher, Timothy Andrew Edwards, shares insights from his journey in production music, emphasizing the role of networking, creativity, and organization. He discusses balancing work with personal interests and the need for multiple income streams. Join us as we discuss the importance of standing out through originalit…

1
EP100. Changes...with Stevie B | Composing, YouTube, Stock/AI, Sync 1:02:46

3M ago1:02:46

1:02:46

It's our 100th podcast episode, we are joined by Stevie B after an April Fools fake out!Change has to come and we explain these and other changes that are affecting what we do to make music and make music income.#musicproducer #composer #musician HEY PODCAST AUDIENCE!I'd love your thoughts about The Make Music Income Podcast. It's hard to know what…

1
EP99. Music Income in the Church ⛪ | With Music Director Shane Jensen | Singer, Musician, Sound Jobs 1:30:24

3M ago1:30:24

1:30:24

You might be aware of music in the church, but did you know that there are solid jobs from full-time music director positions with benefits, to part-time paid players, singers, and sound engineers that are needed?In this deep diving interview, I talk with Shane Jensen who works as a Music Director for a 500 member church in the Las Vegas area. We t…

1
Let's Talk Sync Agents (with Chuck Milan) 51:51

3M ago51:51

51:51

On this episode, I welcome Chuck Milan who shares insights into the evolving role of sync agents, music libraries, and the legal intricacies involved in music production and distribution. We chat about the challenges and strategies for artists looking to navigate the sync licensing landscape, and Chuck shares his perspective on the balance between …

1
EP98. A Different Way of Creating...Being in The Flow | News AI Does Dishes | 500 Songs Update 52:46

4M ago52:46

52:46

What if we said no to the pressure? What if we just completely surrendered to the creative flow?Could it work? Could this be the true way to beat AI, to create more?Let’s talk it through…. Soundtrack for this episode: Landscape of a Dream by John Eric Copeland. https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/fromthemomentmusic/moving-forward --Introducing STREAM…

1
From Pews to Production Music (with Jeff Hargrove) 58:09

4M ago58:09

58:09

In this episode, Dave welcomes Jeff Hargrove back to the podcast. They catch up on Jeff's progress in the past year, including his success in getting placements on CBS Sports and signing with multiple libraries, along with his experience starting a YouTube channel and the next steps in his career! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/35v…

1
Where Are Your Bottlenecks? 54:02

4M ago54:02

54:02

In this episode, Dave explores some common bottlenecks that can impede our workflow and creativity. From finding motivation, choosing the right sounds, to mastering the technicalities of music production, Dave helps you navigate these obstacles, including setting routines, utilizing music briefs, and managing the balance between creative and techni…

1
Special Episode: Monetizing Your Music with the META Ads and Brand Strategies of Tom Dupree III | Facebook, Instagram, Spotify (Uncut Conversation) 1:06:00

4M ago1:06:00

1:06:00

In this deep interview with working musician and marketing expert ⁠Tom Dupree III, we dive into his recent changes towards his content, including how he now teaches about Facebook and Instagram Ads, Spotify Marquee and Showcase, Making PROFIT with Spotify and Streaming, Short Form Video Marketing, and Making Music with Brands.#facebookads #meta #…

1
Cymbal Slice Composer Quest LIVE! 1:12:29

4M ago1:12:29

1:12:29

The quest - create a cue with the provided bowed cymbal samples, much like a sushi chef expertly prepares their ingredients! This challenge encouraged participants to slice, dice, stretch, and creatively manipulate the samples in any way imaginable, transforming these sounds into something uniquely theirs, and showcasing their ability to innovate a…

1
Special Episode. The Real Truth About SONGTRUST | What They Do & Don’t Do | Find More Music Royalties 1:08:19

4M ago1:08:19

1:08:19

I have been waiting what seems like forever to get some real information about Songtrust, a publishing administration company that I have heard a lot about, but most of what heard seemed like misinformation.Well, in this video we go directly to the source and speak to the Associate Director of Marketing for Songtrust, Renée Buchholtz. Not only do w…

1
We Need To Talk About AI... Again 42:41

4M ago42:41

42:41

In this week's episode of the 52 Cues podcast, we dive back into the topic of AI, spurred by OpenAI's recent release of their text-to-video engine, Sora, which presents both stunning and unsettling advancements in AI-generated content. Dave reflects on the rapidly evolving capabilities of AI in creative industries and stresses the importance for co…

1
EP97. Composer, Organist, and Synthesist, Jameson Nathan Jones 1:25:00

4M ago1:25:00

1:25:00

What do you do when you are taught formally, play the organ at church, compose music. AND love synthesizers? Well, for Jameson Nathan Jones, you end up with a YouTube channel talking about it.And he’s kind of hilarious!Education is a sticky subject for some, maybe you. But in this interview we delve into how education helped Nathan become…Nathan, A…

1
Hacking Music Theory with Music Interval Theory 1:02:28

4M ago1:02:28

1:02:28

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome Frank and TC from the Music Interval Theory Academy, who introduce a groundbreaking approach to music composition. By focusing on a three-step composing process that veers away from traditional music theory, they offer new creative strategies and methods that not only challenge conventional composing techn…

1
EP96. The Yay, The Nay, and the...Meh of Music Licensing & Music Income | Netflix, NFL, BMI, Identifyy 50:56

5M ago50:56

50:56

In music income, there’s good and there’s bad and there’s just stuff in between. Today I will share some nice wins, some poor results, and some stuff that’s just…the same. Plus how NOT to get lost in all the minutiae of music life.See the Netflix "Love is Blind" placement of "The Rest of My Life" here: !https://youtu.be/2kY5llWDitE?si=_lrbnQQ-INNrN…

1
Ready for Sync? Live! 1:34:43

5M ago1:34:43

1:34:43

Join us for a special Ready For Sync? LIVE! event where I give feedback on cues from the 52 Community! Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/wG0GUg2wPJs It's the last week to sign up for the 52 Cues Mastermind, and you can get $25 off your paid-in-full registration by entering the code "MMFOMO" when signing up. If you’re seriously ready to…

1
Special Episode: Talking Music Libraries with Art Munson ofMusicLibraryReport.com | Music Licensing 1:00:36

5M ago1:00:36

1:00:36

In this video we talk with Art Munson who developed and runs MusicLibraryReport.com, This is a web site that has been operating for over 15 years gathering and updating information about music libraries. Art has a rich history with music and the beginning of production music in Los Angeles and Nashville.#musiclicensing #musiclibrary #productionmusi…

1
Software Synths Demystified (with Jon Audio) 57:23

5M ago57:23

57:23

Today, Dave welcomes synth guru, Jon Audio ( @jonaudio ) and they delve into the world of synthesizers, discussing favorites like Zebra, Omnisphere, and Vital, highlighting the importance of user-friendliness, third-party support, and learning through presets. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/6Jp263rPPbE 00:00 - Intro & welcome 01:52…

1
EP95. 💔 The Sad State of Creative Content Makers 🎵📷🎥 | The Real Problem 55:02

5M ago55:02

55:02

So right now we are in a “I Quit YouTube” phase with some rather big YouTubers quitting. This is not a video about that per se.I myself have seen and experienced some issues in keeping a music YouTube site going.And you’ll never guess what the biggest problem seems to be with MUSIC and creative YouTubers…Special thanks, best wishes, and watch the c…

1
What Are You Afraid Of? 43:41

5M ago43:41

43:41

Pursuing a career in any creative industry, whether it's production music, film scoring, game music, or even being a painter, is filled with uncertainty. What fears keep you up at night? What are you afraid of? In this episode, I unpack six different fears that you might be struggling with and give you some tips on how to overcome them! 00:00 - Int…

1
Special Episode: Sync Agent Mark Frieser Explains What a Sync Agent Does & How Sync Licensing REALLY Works 1:05:49

5M ago1:05:49

1:05:49

So, what does a full-time sync agent actually do? What do they look for? Who do they work with?In this revealing video, Mark Frieser of ⁠ @syncsummit tells it like it is and what he does every day as a sync agent.#syncagent #synclicensing #musiclicensingLINKS IN THIS VIDEO:SYNC SUMMIT: https://syncsummit.com/FREE METADATA STYLE GUIDE: https://sync…

1
What Can Golf Teach Us About Production Music? 1:03:04

5M ago1:03:04

1:03:04

Join me as I welcome 52 Cues Family member, Shane Jensen, who in addition to being an accomplished musician was also once a professional golfer. In this episode we discuss how his time on the links has translated to his time in the studio and what lessons can be learned by learning golf. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/FQ1Z1bI_vPs 0…

1
From Beats to Banjos (with Ryan Harlin) 56:36

6M ago56:36

56:36

If you've watched any music production tutorials out on YouTube, I guarantee you you've at least heard this man's voice. My guest joining me today is a singer, a songwriter, producer, music educator, the senior creative lead at Reason Studios, Ryan Harlin, and chat about everything from how he found himself making Reason tutorials, how Reason fits …

1
EP94. My Music Income in 2023 | And How It Affects 2024 | Music Licensing, Publishing, Teaching, & Clients 50:36

6M ago50:36

50:36

You know how I always ask every guest on the show “How do you Make Music income?” Well, in today’s podcast I tell you how I made income last year. In many ways. 2023 was an affirming year and also a directional year for my music.Not to spoil the show, but I probably ended up making about as much in 2023 as I did in 2022. With basically the same job…

1
How to Handle Discouragement (a Family Roundtable) 58:21

6M ago58:21

58:21

Whether it's getting rejected from a client, ghosted from a publisher, getting placements that pay pennies to the dollar, or never getting placements at all, this gig can be pretty brutal at times. So how do we deal with that? This week, I thought it would be a really good idea to have another 52 Cue Family roundtable and talk about handling discou…

1
EP93. Music Libraries VS. Direct Sync with Tamara Bubble | Sync Agents, Music Supervisors 44:02

6M ago44:02

44:02

THIS IS THE MAIN EVENT! In this corner…the way most online gurus suggest you license your music for TV and Film…the Master of Passive Placement…the Sometimes Your Song Is Never Heard But You Do It Anyway Because All You Gotta Do is Load It Up and Wait…Music Libraries! (ERIC COPELAND)And in this corner…the way artists and songwriters get their music…

1
What Should You Look for in a Mentor? 55:10

6M ago55:10

55:10

Mentors and coaches can play a huge role in guiding you along your career journey, but how do you know when you need one, and what should you look for when looking for a mentor? Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/7hUVOk1mv0w 00:00 - Intro & welcome 02:05 - A small change to our YouTube Vlog format 03:04 - Weekly check-in 04:33 - This w…

1
EP92. My AUDACIOUS Goals in 2024! 🔥 For MUCH More Music and Music Income! 💰 1:20:18

6M ago1:20:18

1:20:18

au·da·cious/ôˈdāSHəs/adjective1. showing a willingness to take surprisingly bold risks.So, it’s going to get REAL in 2024. I’m done fooling around. I’m done with part-timing it. I’m done with being done.Wait until you hear what I will be doing in 2024. It might just blow your mind. 🤯0:00 - Audacious! 6:48 - 500 Songs?? 14:57 - 25 Albums to Sync 25:…

1
Looking Back on 2023 and What's Ahead for 2024 57:45

6M ago57:45

57:45

Join me as I take a look back on the ups, downs, and challenges of 2023 while also looking forward to what's to come for me and the channel for 2024! Watch this Episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/gvC6_eCKZ_U It's the last week to sign up for the 52 Cues Mastermind, and you can get $25 off your paid-in-full registration by entering the code "MMFOMO…

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