Panel Introduction
A panel discussion titled “Challenging Industry Norms with Crypto” takes place. The panel consists of three individuals: Jess, an independent singer-songwriter; Sylvia, a music industry veteran; and Mariana, the co-founder of Embrace Music, a music digital marketing and artist management company based in London. Each panelist represents a distinct perspective: an artist, a music industry insider, and a tech industry professional.
Exploring Industry Perspectives
The panel aims to discuss the impact of Web 2.0 on various industries and how new innovations in Web 3.0 can bring about positive change. They emphasize the importance of understanding different perspectives to drive meaningful transformations in human behavior. The panelists introduce themselves, sharing their backgrounds and roles in the industry.
Artist’s Perspective - Jess
Jess, an Irish singer-songwriter residing in London, reflects on her journey as an independent artist. She mentions her initial shock when streaming platforms first emerged and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the panel discussion. Jess highlights the challenges faced by independent artists, including the choice between signing with major labels or seeking alternative avenues for distribution and revenue generation.
Embrace Music - Mariana and Sylvia
Mariana and Sylvia, co-founders of Embrace Music, discuss their company’s mission to support emerging artists in their music careers. They express their alignment with the innovative vision of EQ and the Cello blockchain, which provide artists with new opportunities and financial resources. Embrace Music focuses on artist management, digital marketing, live gigs, and campaigns to empower artists at different stages of their careers.
Financial Struggles in the Music Industry
Sylvia sheds light on the financial challenges faced by artists, particularly the reliance on touring as a major income source. She shares insights from her husband’s experience working with artists like Sam Smith, Coldplay, and One Direction. Despite their immense popularity, touring becomes a necessity for artists, and even then, the income disparity within the industry is evident. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the financial hardships for artists, prompting the need for alternative revenue streams.
The Role of Web3 in Supporting Artists
The panel discusses how Web 3.0 platforms like EQ can provide solutions for artists’ financial sustainability. Jess emphasizes the allure of remaining independent and retaining creative control, while Mariana highlights the potential for emerging artists to finance their careers and gain exposure through platforms like EQ. They acknowledge that established artists can also benefit from these new opportunities.
Gender Disparity and Accountability
The panel delves into the lack of diversity and gender disparity in both the music industry and the tech industry. Sylvia shares disheartening statistics on the minimal venture capital funding allocated to women and diverse founders. They emphasize the importance of challenging industry norms and promoting inclusivity. The panel encourages male counterparts in the tech industry to support and uplift women by actively promoting their work and creating opportunities.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
As the discussion nears its end, the panel reflects on the need for accountability within industries and the potential for technology, such as blockchain, to drive positive change. They highlight the significance of preserving the purity of art amidst technological advancements. The panel concludes with Jess, the artist, being given the final word, but she chooses not to perform, appreciating the opportunity to contribute to the discussion.