Best Podcast Network By Sony Music Podcasts (2025)

1
7 Keys to Great Collaborations 1:21:16

3h ago1:21:16

1:21:16

Teaming up with other composers not only lightens the workload, it pushes you creatively and can open doors to opportunities you wouldn’t have on your own. But collaboration only works when it’s done right, so today we’re talking about seven keys to successful co-writing and how to make sure your next collab is a win-win. Plus, we listen to another…

1
Reworking, Repurposing, and Reinventing Your Cues with SCAMPER 1:19:37

4d ago1:19:37

1:19:37

Feeling like all your cues are starting to sound the same? In this episode, we’re talking about the SCAMPER model, a simple but powerful creativity tool that can help you rethink, reshape, and repurpose your music so you can work smarter and keep your ideas fresh. Plus, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on an epic trailer cue by 52 Cues Friend David Gate…

1
Do Sync Composers Need Branding? (with Andy Gesner) 1:06:43

8d ago1:06:43

1:06:43

In this week's episode, I’m joined by Andy Gesner of HIP Video Promo to talk about why personal branding is becoming harder to ignore – and how production music composers can build a presence without feeling like they have to become content creators. Plus, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on an electronic disco/funk cue by 52 Cues Friend Darko Malcevic …

1
Production Music Q&A – LIVE! 1:15:37

15d ago1:15:37

1:15:37

In this week's episode of the 52 Cues Podcast, we're doing a live Ask Me Anything session! I answer questions about sync licensing, production, and composition! We talk about the US Copyright Office's AI ruling, the importance of adding human elements to cues, and what genres are in demand. I also share my approach to mastering stems, how much you …

1
The State of AI in 2025 (with Timothy Andrew Edwards) 51:53

22d ago51:53

51:53

In this week's episode, I’m welcoming back Timothy Andrew Edwards to talk about how AI is already affecting gigs, contracts, and the production music industry – and what composers need to do to protect their careers. Plus, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on a cinematic tension cue by 52 Cues Friend Russ Westfield and featuring a new modern comedy cue I…

1
How to Stay Grounded When Sync Feels Overwhelming 35:15

1M ago35:15

35:15

Today we’re talking all about how the ancient philosophy of stoicism can help production music composers stay grounded, focused, and resilient in the unpredictable world of sync licensing. Plus, I share my thoughts on a dark fantasy cue written by OG 52 Cues member, Enrico Caporale and feature an intrigue with hope cue of my own. Watch this episode…

1
Sync Trends for 2025 (with Timothy Andrew Edwards) 1:27:20

2M ago1:27:20

1:27:20

This week, I’m joined by production music heavyweight, Timothy Andrew Edwards ,to talk about the trends shaping 2025 – from the growing demand for vocal cues to why tension music still reigns supreme and how composers can stay ahead of the game. Plus, I share my own ominous crime tension cue, “Read Between the Crimes,” and give feedback on a neocla…

1
How To Work Smarter, Not Harder 44:12

2M ago44:12

44:12

In this episode, I’m sharing six practical strategies to help you streamline your workflow, save time, and stay creative – from reusing sounds and organizing your library to simplifying your mix and using reference cues for structure. Plus, I review Timothy Ackerman’s cyberpunk cue, "Circuit Breaker!" Do you want to have your cue reviewed on the po…

1
Looking Back on 2024 and What's Ahead for 2025 41:31

2M ago41:31

41:31

On this final episode of the year, I’m reflecting on 2024 – the milestones, lessons learned, and highlights from both my personal journey and the 52 Cues community. Plus, I’ll share a sneak peek into what’s coming in 2025 and the goals I’m setting for the year ahead! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/nlpIut1QVlY Cymbal SFX - Bowed! El…

1
The 3 Keys to a Long (and Happy!) Career 23:59

2M ago23:59

23:59

Feeling stuck on what you should be writing? This week, I’m unpacking three keys to building a sustainable and fulfilling career in production music. Plus, I’ll break down my latest NuDisco-inspired cue, Funk Salad Annie! What this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/8Wv4nxo1v-w Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—…

1
Why Does it Take So Long to Get Paid? 26:10

3M ago26:10

26:10

From concept to cash, I’m breaking down the complete timeline of a production music cue so you’ll know exactly what to expect on your path to those sweet royalty checks. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/vVyK-ZvJ20s Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal pe…

1
What Defines the "Mood" in a Cue? 33:21

3M ago33:21

33:21

In today's episode, Dave's talks about mood, and he unpacks how he communicates emotions in his cues by shifting three primary musical elements. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/fVSKlQLLI40 Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously …

1
It's Episode 200! What Have I Learned? 50:33

3M ago50:33

50:33

In this epic 200th episode, Dave shares lessons learned from four years of the 52 Cues Podcast, working towards sustainability, growth, and embracing imperfection. Watch this on YouTube https://youtu.be/puqtb1FP0P0 Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, met…

1
Understanding Ominous Tension 42:24

3M ago42:24

42:24

In this episode, we revisit the art of crafting ominous tension cues as Dave explores the harmonic and rhythmic techniques behind these cues, emphasizing drone-based harmony, slow-moving melodies, and evolving layers. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/_pCP9_MPm7M Friends and Family, join us for the Dramedy Writing Workshop! https://my.…

1
Is Originality Overrated? 50:16

4M ago50:16

50:16

In this episode, Dave questions whether originality is overrated in production music, suggesting that unique expression matters more than being entirely original. He discusses techniques like modeling and referencing to meet industry expectations while staying creatively fulfilled. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/aM5E-wY0rq8 Cymbal …

1
How to Use Transition SFX 52:51

4M ago52:51

52:51

In this episode, Dave breaks down the art of using SFX like booms, risers, and sweeps to enhance transitions in a cue, demonstrating his approach live on a recent hip-hop track. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/JkeKZQazOLI Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cy…

1
Collaboration is King (with Dale Grisa) 1:13:03

4M ago1:13:03

1:13:03

In this episode, Dave welcomes Detroit-based pianist and composer Dale Grisa about his journey from performing thousands of gigs to creating production music and collaborating with top musicians! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/v4SutVFN0Ag https://www.dalegrisa.com Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed…

1
Ask Me Anything! 1:12:50

4M ago1:12:50

1:12:50

It's time for another 52 Cues live Q&A! In this episode, Dave Kropf tackles questions from the community, including whether it’s safe to upload tracks to SoundCloud if they’re already on Spotify, how many cues you need for a sustainable income, and the best way to approach bigger libraries. Plus, thoughts on using tempo changes in cues and the impo…

1
Conferences, Colons, and Storms (Oh My!) 1:16:11

5M ago1:16:11

1:16:11

In today's very special episode of the 52 Cues podcast, Dave welcomes back Mrs. 52 Cues herself, Shannon Kropf, for a discussion about the whirlwind of the past few weeks. No cues, no production music topics this week – just conferences, colonoscopies, and (2!) hurricanes! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/72ZdCTpx0Yo 00:00 - Introduc…

1
One on One with Jason Graves 1:38:36

5M ago1:38:36

1:38:36

In this episode, Dave chats with BAFTA-winning composer Jason Graves, known for his work on blockbuster games like Dead Space, Tomb Raider, and Call of Duty: Warzone. They reminisce about their college days and explore Jason's journey from percussionist to leading industry composer, discussing his creative process and the evolution of game music! M…

1
Writing Epic Hip-Hop for Sports 58:20

5M ago58:20

58:20

In this episode, Dave breaks down his epic hip-hop sports broadcasting cue, "All Up In This," revealing how to create tracks that resonate across various sports platforms. He also shares his eventful week—from preparing for the upcoming Production Music Conference to handling a last-minute request from CBS that didn't go as planned. Stay tuned unti…

1
Christmas In July Winners! 1:07:18

6M ago1:07:18

1:07:18

In this episode, Dave sits down with the winners of the Christmas in July Composer Quest: Jenny Goodspeed, Simon Tong, and Ralph Oleski. They discuss their award-winning tracks, their journeys into the world of production music, and how feedback and community have shaped their creative processes. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/jFwT4…

1
Cue Review – LIVE! 2:20:03

6M ago2:20:03

2:20:03

In this special live podcast episode, Dave reviews cues written by the 52 Cues Community! Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! htt…

1
How To Use Story Beats to Structure Trailer Cues 1:00:19

6M ago1:00:19

1:00:19

In this episode, Dave explores the fascinating connection between storytelling and music structure, particularly in trailer cues, and he breaks down how narrative beats, like those found in novels or movies, can apply to the form and structure of production music. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/RVx-NaQLazM Save The Cat! by Blake Sn…

1
What Makes a "Good" Cue? 57:05

6M ago57:05

57:05

In this episode, Dave unpacks the essential elements that make a cue truly stand out in the competitive world of production music. He explores the often-overlooked qualities that can elevate one cue above another and the fundamental components that every professional cue must have. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/_y3L1FBkCj4 Cymbal S…

1
How Do I Stay So Positive? 50:24

7M ago50:24

50:24

In this episode, Dave shares four key strategies he relies on to maintain a positive mindset, even when the music industry throws its toughest challenges his way. He explores practical approaches to staying resilient, from navigating rejection to pushing through setbacks. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/UPxRlnp6Urg The War of Art by…

1
Christmas In July Composer Quest Live! 1:53:09

7M ago1:53:09

1:53:09

In this episode, we host a special live voting session for the Christmas in July Composer Quest, where participants' cues are showcased across three categories: Classic Christmas Magic, High-Energy Holiday, and Acoustic Christmas. Join us as we listen to the submissions, and the community votes on their favorites, with winners receiving exciting pr…

1
How PROs Support Composers (with Erin Collins, SESAC) 1:08:42

7M ago1:08:42

1:08:42

In this episode of the 52 Cues Podcast, Dave welcomes Erin Collins, Senior Vice President of TV/Film and Creative Services for SESAC, to discuss her journey from high school musician to senior executive. They explore the evolving music industry, including streaming, AI, and SESAC's initiatives to support underrepresented composers. Watch this episo…

1
Are Production Music Composers Going Extinct? 55:46

7M ago55:46

55:46

In this episode, we discuss the impact of technology and AI on the production, library, and sync music industry, drawing parallels to the career of Academy Award-winning animator Phil Tippett. We explore the extinction of various aspects of sync over the past decade, highlighting the real need to adapt and evolve. Watch this episode on YouTube! htt…

1
How To Use Your Superpower (with Nathan Toft) 55:53

8M ago55:53

55:53

In this episode, Nathan Toft, winner of the What's Your Superpower Composer Quest, shares his journey into production and library music. He discusses embracing his trombone superpower, recording challenges at home, the limitations of virtual instruments, and breaking out of a creative rut. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/2h1WF-HTnO0…

1
Understanding Orchestral Articulations 1:02:12

8M ago1:02:12

1:02:12

In this episode, we're digging into orchestral articulations in the DAW. We'll be exploring BBCSO, which features a wealth of fantastic articulations, and examining the string, brass, and woodwind sections. I'll demonstrate and unpack various articulations, providing you with insights into their sounds and potential uses. Watch this episode on YouT…

1
Getting Into Film Scoring (with Scott Mclaughlin) 59:44

8M ago59:44

59:44

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
How to Play the DAW Like an Instrument 50:36

8M ago50:36

50:36

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
Production Music Is A Team Sport 58:06

9M ago58:06

58:06

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 1:05:55

9M ago1:05:55

1:05:55

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
What's Your Superpower? Composer Quest Live! 54:13

9M ago54:13

54:13

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
I Got Copyright Notices for Using AI Loops 41:17

9M ago41:17

41:17

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
Sync Gems, Part 2 (with Roy Matz) 51:12

9M ago51:12

51:12

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
Sync Gems, Part 1 (with Roy Matz) 52:50

10M ago52:50

52:50

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! 1:15:02

10M ago1:15:02

1:15:02

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
5 Career Lessons I Learned from Star Wars 57:32

10M ago57:32

57:32

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? 55:07

10M ago55:07

55:07

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) 1:00:06

11M ago1:00:06

1:00:06

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
Parkinson's Law and Composers 29:31

11M ago29:31

29:31

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
Evolving in the Music Industry (with Timothy Andrew Edwards) 1:00:36

11M ago1:00:36

1:00:36

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
Let's Talk Sync Agents (with Chuck Milan) 50:58

11M ago50:58

50:58

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
From Pews to Production Music (with Jeff Hargrove) 57:15

12M ago57:15

57:15

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? 53:08

12M ago53:08

53:08

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
Cymbal Slice Composer Quest LIVE! 1:11:35

12M ago1:11:35

1:11:35

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
We Need To Talk About AI... Again 41:47

1y ago41:47

41:47

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…

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