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This week on the New Music Business podcast, Ari sits down with Ralph Torrefranca, Executive Director of A&R at Angry Mob Music. With nearly two decades of experience, Ralph has championed emerging songwriters, artists, and producers, working with talents like Jake Scott, Bailey Bryan, and Joe Pepe. He is also the founder of Angry Mob’s New Normal Writing Camp, a diversity-driven initiative, and a respected voice on equity in the music industry. Beyond his A&R work, Ralph fronts the post-punk band Cuffed Up and is an award-winning filmmaker.
In this episode, Ralph offers a candid look at the realities of A&R and independent publishing. He and Ari discuss signing and developing new talent, navigating the politics of song splits, and the growing importance of diversity in writers’ rooms. Ralph also sheds light on the challenges songwriters face in today’s industry and the ongoing fight for fair representation, making this conversation invaluable for anyone seeking an inside perspective on the business of songwriting and publishing.
https://www.instagram.com/rhymeswithralph
https://www.instagram.com/angrymobmusic
00:00:00 Introduction to A&R and Publishing
00:03:00 The Role of A&R in Independent Publishing
00:09:00 Challenges in Signing New Talent
00:15:00 The Politics of Song Splits
00:21:00 Diversity in Writers’ Rooms
00:27:00 Advocating for Songwriters’ Rights
00:33:00 The Evolving Music Industry Landscape
00:39:00 Songwriting Camps and Collaboration
00:45:00 Defining Success in the Music Business
Edited and mixed by Peter Schrupp
Music by Brassroots District
Produced by the team at Ari’s Take
Order the THIRD EDITION of How to Make It in the New Music Business: https://aristake.com
