Episode #169
The Music Industry Has Changed—Here's How to Win With A&R Executive Jacob Fain [Chainsmokers, Russ, Bailey Zimmerman]
⚡️Insiders! Secure Your Spot! Get expert music career coaching with Ritch & Eric. Book your 15-min discovery call now: Grab a spot! https://book.mubutv.com The Music Industry Has Changed—Here's How to Win With A&R Executive Jacob Fain [Chainsmokers, Russ, Bailey Zimmerman] A&R and publishing executive Jacob Fain unpacks the new rules for artist success in the modern music industry! After two decades working with both major and indie labels, executives, and breakout artists like Russ and Bailey Zimmerman, Jacob offers eye-opening insights into how the real criteria for signing and breaking through have changed. Get the inside story on the balance between data vs. gut instinct, why artist authenticity now trumps commercial hits, and the unsung power of persistence. If you're serious about building your music career—or want to understand what top A&R execs are really searching for—this episode is packed with actionable advice, inspiring stories, and must-read industry recommendations! #MusicBusiness #AandR #ArtistSuccess Here are the ways to work with us here at MUBUTV: ⚡️Insiders! Secure Your Spot! Get expert music career coaching with Ritch & Eric. Book your 15-min discovery call now: Grab a spot! https://book.mubutv.com MUBUTV Free Music Guides: ⚡FREE A&R Guide: https://link.mubutv.com/ARFreeGuide ⚡FREE Music Supervisor Guide: https://link.mubutv.com/MSFreeGuide ⚡FREE Music Manager Guide: https://link.mubutv.com/MGRFreeGuide Our mission here at MUBUTV is to help independent artists and music business professionals of the future to educate, empower and engage their music career. ️ Music Business Insider Podcast: https://www.mubutv.com/podcast The Music Business Insider Podcast is a deep dive for listeners like you who want to educate, empower & engage their music career. We take you inside behind the scenes through a series of in-depth conversations with today's leading experts in the Music Industry including A&R, Music Supervision, Artist Management, Marketing, Publicity, Touring, and much much more. You can find it by searching "Music Business Insider Podcast" on any podcast app or platform (ie: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.). Show Notes and Resources https://www.mubutv.com/jacob-fain-music-executive ⚡️What you'll learn in this episode⚡️ The shifting criteria for signing artists in today's industry Why authenticity and artistic vision now matter more than chart hits The REAL role of research, data, and analytics—and what data can never tell you Stories of persistence and resilience from Russ and Bailey Zimmerman The impact of the right (or wrong) artist team on lasting career success Must-read books and documentaries for every aspiring music professional The evolving value of record labels—and how artists can break through in 2026 and so much more... SUGGESTED & RECOMMENDED BOOKS: All You Need to Know About the Music Business 11th Edition - https://amzn.to/3sdgrja The Score Takes Care of Itself by Bill Walsh – https://amzn.to/4dN0xBh Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull – https://amzn.to/3zYz1vc The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker – https://amzn.to/3VSR1Rw The Defiant Ones (HBO Doc) - https://www.hbo.com/the-defiant-ones Get Audible Free - Your favorite titles anywhere you go. Enjoy a free trial on us! https://amzn.to/3RB2nu4 Recommended Audio Software ⚡Castmagic - 10x Audio Content & Supercharge Your Media With AI https://link.mubutv.com/castmagic Podcast Credits Produced by: Ritch Esra & Eric Knight Editor: Eric Knight Shownotes & Transcriptions: Jermaine Shepherd Discover exactly what top A&R executives look for in new talent and how to build true longevity as an artist. Hosts Ritch Esra and Eric Knight break down why commercial hits aren't the only measure of artist success—and how the right mindset, authenticity, persistence, and a strong team set you apart in today's crowded music industry. Whether you're chasing your first deal or leveling up your artistry, this episode arms you with the practical strategies and inside perspectives you need to own your path. Subscribe for weekly deep dives into the realities of the music business, direct from the world's leading insiders! Join the MUBUTV Music Business Insider Podcast for more essential music industry insights and resources—including free artist guides on A&R, finding the right manager, and pitching for sync deals. Our mission is to educate, empower, and engage your music career journey. #MusicBusiness #musiccareer DISCLOSURE: Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission. Copyright © 2026 MUBUTV™ Media. All Rights Reserved
