Larry Jackson, a key figure in the music industry, has witnessed significant sea changes. As head of A&R at Arista Records/RCA Music Group during the transition from CDs to the iTunes Store, he oversaw albums by Whitney Houston and Jennifer Hudson. His work at Interscope, alongside Jimmy Iovine, saw the signing of artists like Chief Keef and Lana Del Rey as YouTube emerged as a platform for new stars. Now, as global creative director at Apple Music, he is competing with Spotify and the major labels while partnering with artists like Drake, Frank Ocean, and Taylor Swift to bring streaming to the masses.
These different eras and experiences have given Jackson a unique perspective on the music business. He has seen how disruptions have shaped the industry and how artists have adapted to new platforms and technologies. His insights are valuable as we navigate the current music landscape.
During his time at labels, Larry Jackson learned valuable lessons that he is now applying to the current state of the music industry. He understands the importance of artist development and the role that labels play in nurturing talent. His experiences have taught him how to identify potential stars and how to build successful careers.
Jackson also emphasizes the need for innovation and adaptation in the face of changing technologies. He believes that labels must embrace new platforms and find ways to connect with audiences in different ways. His approach is focused on creating a sustainable music ecosystem that benefits both artists and fans.
The Popcast provides a platform for music discussion and community building. Hosted by Jon Caramanica and Joe Coscarelli, the show features interviews with industry insiders like Larry Jackson. Listeners can join the show's Facebook group and Discord channel to connect with other music fans and share their thoughts.
Listeners are encouraged to tune in and share their opinions at popcast@nytimes.com. The hosts also interact with listeners on Twitter, with Jon Caramanica available at @joncaramanica. This creates a sense of community and engagement that is essential in the music industry.
To fully experience the world of New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture, subscribe to Popcast today. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at nytimes.com/podcasts. By subscribing, you gain access to exclusive content and the opportunity to engage with the music community.
Subscribe now and join Larry Jackson on his musical journey. Discover new music, learn from industry experts, and be a part of the Popcast community.