Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Welcome to the Music Lounge Podcast

In this engaging conversation, Blair Herter, SVP Gaming Agency Services - Global at Dentsu shares his journey from a small town in Louisiana to becoming a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, particularly through his experiences with MTV and G4. He reflects on the transformative impact of his time on 'Road Rules', the evolution of content creation at MTV.com, and the rise of gaming culture. Blair discusses the importance of authenticity in music and marketing, and how his diverse experiences have shaped his career trajectory. He emphasizes the value of creative freedom and the lessons learned from working in dynamic environments.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:57 The Road Rules Experience

05:38 Transition to MTV and Content Creation

11:00 The Evolution of MTV.com

16:51 The G4 Era and Gaming Culture

21:47 Marketing and Career Transition

27:22 Reflections on Authenticity in Music

32:50 Final Thoughts and Future Directions

In this episode of the podcast, hosts Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte welcome music expert Justin Tyme Prager to discuss the upcoming Grammy Awards and the evolving landscape of music award shows. The conversation kicks off with a light-hearted introduction before diving into the significance of the Grammys and MTV awards, particularly how they have adapted to attract younger audiences. Justin shares insights on his TikTok commentary, touching on recent music trends and notable artists, including the impact of shows like 'Stranger Things' on music popularity. The trio also debates the nominees for major Grammy categories, analyzing the cultural relevance of artists like Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, and others, while considering how social media influences award show dynamics today.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Music Lounge

01:21 The Grammys vs. MTV: A Cultural Shift

05:59 The Impact of Social Media on Award Shows

12:04 Behind-the-Scenes Content: The New Norm

17:06 The Future of the Grammys and Youth Engagement

18:34 The State of Award Shows

20:36 Memorable Performances and Their Impact

22:32 The Role of Social Media in Music Awards

25:53 The Shift in Audience Engagement

29:47 Data-Driven Decisions in Award Shows

34:58 Predictions for Grammy 2026 Categories

37:27 Grammy Predictions: Song and Record of the Year

38:49 Album of the Year: Bad Bunny's Moment?

42:24 Song of the Year: K-Pop vs. Established Artists

43:51 Best New Artist: Olivia Dean's Rise

47:33 The Evolving Role of Award Shows

In this episode of the Music Lounge, hosts Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte welcome David Cohn, former EVP and GM of MTV2, Hits, and Jams at MTV. The conversation delves into David's journey at MTV, starting at the age of 23, and his experiences during the early days of the channel. David shares insights into the culture at MTV, the challenges and successes of launching MTV2, and the evolution of the music industry over the decades. The episode is filled with anecdotes about the vibrant and sometimes chaotic environment at MTV, the creation of iconic shows, and the strategic decisions that shaped the network's growth.

Chapters

• 00:00:01 Introduction and New Year Greetings
• 00:00:25 Introducing David Cohn
• 00:01:58 David's Journey to MTV
• 00:03:25 Early Days at MTV
• 00:10:26 MTV's Cultural Impact
• 00:18:29 MTV2 and Strategic Expansion
• 00:27:44 Global Expansion and London Experience
• 00:33:37 MTV2's Development and Challenges
• 00:44:38 Reflections and Future of Music Television

In this engaging conversation, Tom Freston, former CEO of MTV Networks, shares his journey from the early days of MTV to his current philanthropic efforts. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of launching MTV, the importance of creativity in building a unique culture, and the impact of music on society. Freston reflects on memorable moments from his career, the evolution of MTV's programming, and his relationships with artists. He also emphasizes the significance of giving back and making a difference in the world.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Music Lounge and Guest Introduction

01:49 The Journey to Writing 'Unplugged'

03:46 Early Life and Experiences in India and Afghanistan

08:35 The Birth of MTV and Its Cultural Impact

13:16 Creative Freedom and Management at MTV

17:54 Memorable Moments and Relationships in the Music Industry

23:28 Evolution of MTV and Strategic Shifts

28:21 Evolution of MTV's Programming

31:03 The Rise of Hip Hop on MTV

32:43 Cultural Impact of MTV

34:56 Reflections on Leadership and Regrets

37:11 The Emotional Exit from MTV

42:49 Judy McGrath's Influence at MTV

46:29 Involvement with the One Campaign

50:54 Spotting Future Superstars

In this engaging conversation, Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte interview Paul Debenedittis, a former executive at MTV, discussing his journey in the media industry, the evolution of MTV's programming, and the importance of mentorship and emotional intelligence in the workplace. Paul shares insights on the shift from music videos to broader content strategies, the significance of creative retreats for team collaboration, and the impact of celebrity culture on programming. He emphasizes the need to understand and adapt to the changing audience, particularly Generation Alpha, and the lessons learned from his experiences at MTV and beyond.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Mentorship in the Industry

03:12 The Importance of Kindness and Emotional Intelligence

06:23 Joining MTV: The Initial Reluctance

12:47 The Evolution of MTV's Programming Strategy

28:02 TRL: A Cultural Phenomenon and Its Impact

34:53 Celebrating Success and Teamwork at MTV

36:18 Managing Success and Budgeting for Growth

38:37 Creative Retreats: Building a Collaborative Culture

45:22 The Importance of Offsites in Content Development

51:03 Lessons from MTV: Adapting to Changing Audiences

The conversation explores the deep connections formed in a work environment, highlighting how intense collaboration can lead to familial bonds among colleagues. It also touches on the surprising shift in social dynamics when transitioning to different work cultures, where after-work socializing is not the norm.

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Kevin Lyman, the founder of the Warped Tour, shares insights into the evolution of music festivals, the influence of MTV, and the importance of branding in the music industry. He reflects on the diverse lineup of artists that have graced the Warped Tour stage, the significance of audience engagement, and the lasting impact of the festival on music culture. Lyman also discusses the challenges and opportunities faced by artists today, the role of mental health in the music industry, and the importance of community engagement.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Music Lounge

01:14 The Legacy of the Warped Tour

02:42 MTV's Influence on Music and Festivals

05:35 Booking Bands and the Eclectic Lineup

09:02 Collaboration Between Genres

12:03 The Evolution of Warped Tour's Branding

14:50 Music Discovery Before Streaming

15:03 The Impact of TRL on Music Trends

19:01 Audience Demographics and Changes

22:15 Artist-Fan Interactions on Tour

23:49 Nostalgia and Lasting Fandom

24:53 The Future of Music Festivals

28:59 Timing and the Birth of Warped Tour

31:02 The Role of Warped Tour in Artist Development

32:56 Looking Ahead: The Future of Warped Tour

34:26 Launching Careers: The Impact of Warped Tour

36:13 The Evolution of Music Genres and Festivals

38:04 Rediscovering the Joy of Music

40:00 Teaching and Learning in the Music Industry

41:50 The Changing Landscape of Music Festivals

43:50 Memorable Moments and Music Memorabilia

45:42 Connecting with Communities Through Music

47:17 The Role of Music in Bridging Divides

49:05 The Authenticity of Live Music Experiences

51:07 Reflections on a Successful Career in Music

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Salli Frattini, former SVP executive producer at MTV, shares her journey through the golden era of the network, reflecting on iconic moments, the evolution of programming, and the challenges of live production. From her early career in Olympic programming to her pivotal role in shaping MTV's identity, Salli discusses the importance of relationships in the industry and her experiences with award shows and live events. She also touches on her life after MTV, her passion for music venues in New York City, and her aspirations for future projects.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Music Lounge and Guest Introduction

02:43 Salli Frattini's Journey at MTV

05:32 The Evolution of MTV and Its Impact on Pop Culture

08:03 Behind the Scenes of MTV Events

11:04 The Challenges of Live Production

13:53 Memorable Moments from MTV Award Shows

16:49 The Relationship Between MTV and Major Sports Leagues

19:33 The Launch of MTV Studio and Its Legacy

32:37 MTV's Impact on New York City

33:40 Challenges of Live Productions

37:17 Navigating Live Show Surprises

39:06 Technological Innovations in Event Production

41:53 Personal Stories and Career Reflections

44:53 Life After MTV and New Ventures

48:38 The Evolution of Award Shows

51:25 Future Aspirations and New Ideas

In this engaging conversation, Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte discuss the evolution of the music industry with guest Ricki Askin, a former music supervisor at MTV. They explore the impact of social media on music discovery, the changing landscape of artist relationships, and the role of labels in artist development. Ricki shares her journey from the temp pool at MTV to her experiences at Vice and TikTok, highlighting the importance of talent and artistry in a rapidly changing industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Current Events in Music Media

02:47 Ricki Askin's Journey in the Music Industry

05:26 The Role of Music Supervision at MTV

08:34 Experiences with Artists and Live Programming

11:05 The Evolution of Music Exposure in Media

13:56 Challenges and Opportunities in Music Supervision

16:55 The Impact of Music on Brand and Artist Development

19:48 The Changing Landscape of Music Promotion

22:36 Conclusion and Future of Music in Media

26:43 The Power of Consumer-Generated Content

28:41 Evolution of Artist-Audience Relationships

33:53 The Challenge of Sustaining Artist Careers

37:27 Generational Shifts in Music Consumption

40:40 The Role of Labels in Artist Development

48:38 Transitioning from MTV to Vice

56:01 Reflections on a Music Industry Career

Summary

In this episode of the Music Lounge, hosts Andrew Schiffman, Susan Natoli, and Perry Turcotte discuss their career paths leading to MTV, the evolution of media and marketing, and the challenges of navigating the music industry today. They reflect on the changing landscape of job opportunities, the impact of streaming services, and the future of integrated marketing. Personal anecdotes and insights provide a candid look at their experiences and aspirations in the entertainment industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Music Lounge

03:11 Susan Natoli's Journey to MTV

07:37 Transitioning from Programming to Integrated Marketing

13:10 Navigating Career Changes and Layoffs

17:56 Perry Turcotte's Career Path

24:13 Andrew Schiffman's MTV Experience

26:17 Navigating Professional Relationships

31:48 The Job Search Struggles

36:26 The Evolution of Music and Nostalgia

41:37 Career Transitions and New Opportunities

48:50 The Future of Broadcasting and Streaming

In this episode of the Music Lounge, hosts Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte welcome guest Amy Pascal to discuss the evolution of music festivals like Coachella, the rise of boy bands, and the significant impact of TRL on pop culture. They delve into the phenomenon of N'Sync, exploring their breakthrough album 'No Strings Attached' and the dynamics of boy bands in the music industry. The conversation highlights the nostalgia surrounding boy bands and their lasting legacy in modern music.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to the Music Lounge

08:10 The Evolution of Coachella

09:19 The Rise of Boy Bands

17:10 The Impact of TRL on Boy Bands

25:20 N'Sync's Breakthrough with No Strings Attached

33:45 The Hiatus and Legacy of N'Sync

In this engaging conversation, Tim Rosta shares his journey through the music industry, from his early days with LifeBeat, an organization dedicated to AIDS awareness, to his influential role at MTV as SVP of Integrated Marketing. He discusses the nostalgia surrounding music festivals, the challenges of securing sponsorships, and the importance of building relationships with artists. Tim reflects on memorable concerts, the evolution of integrated marketing, and the creative solutions his team developed to navigate the advertising landscape. He also touches on his experiences with the Kardashians at E! and the legacy of LifeBeat in continuing the fight against AIDS awareness.

Chapters

00:00 Nostalgia in Music: The Comeback of 90s Bands

03:08 Tim Rosta: Journey from LifeBeat to MTV

05:54 LifeBeat's Impact on the Music Industry

08:19 Navigating Relationships: MTV and LifeBeat

11:21 The Power of Celebrity in Advocacy

14:03 Integrated Marketing at MTV: A New Era

16:48 Creative Solutions for Brand Partnerships

19:19 Challenges in Live Events and Sponsorships

22:10 Spotting Talent: The Rise of Rihanna

25:12 Adapting to Change: Quick Thinking in Live Shows

30:37 Nostalgic Concert Memories

32:04 Current Musical Influences

33:24 The Evolution of Live Music Experiences

33:32 Memorable MTV Swag and Memorabilia

34:50 Iconic Music Videos and Their Impact

36:21 Creative Marketing Challenges at MTV

41:30 Reflections on the VMAs and Integrated Marketing

44:03 Experiences at E! and Working with the Kardashians

48:20 Transitioning from MTV to OWN

50:25 The Evolution of the Oprah Winfrey Network

52:29 Favorite NYC Music Venues and Their Legacy

In this engaging conversation, Nolan Baynes shares his journey from the music industry to his current role at 300 Studios, reflecting on the evolution of music marketing and artist development. The discussion highlights the pivotal role MTV played in shaping the music landscape, the importance of live events, and the need for storytelling in connecting artists with their audiences. As the industry shifts towards digital platforms, the conversation emphasizes the necessity of adapting strategies to engage new generations of music fans.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Music Lounge

03:37 The MTV Era: A Hub for Music Marketing

06:31 Innovative Marketing Strategies at MTV

09:11 The Evolution of Artist Development

12:13 Nolan's Journey to MTV

17:42 Building the Music Marketing Department

21:30 Embracing Failure and Learning Forward

24:09 Collaboration and Creativity at MTV

25:12 The Evolution of Event Management

28:58 The $2 Bill Concert Series: A Game Changer

33:43 The Changing Landscape of Artist Accessibility

35:38 The Power of Live Events in Artist Development

41:17 The Joy of Discovering New Artists

42:37 Passion for Music and Craft

43:22 The Shift in Music Industry Values

44:49 Storytelling in Music and Media

46:49 The Responsibility of Influence

49:04 From Digital to Traditional Media

50:49 The Evolution of Audience Engagement

52:45 Global Reach and Emerging Markets

56:04 The Future of Live Programming

59:10 Building Careers in Music Today

In this episode, Andrew Schiffman, Perry Turcotte, andJustin Tyme Prager reflect on the 2025 MTV VMAs, discussing the performances, the evolution of the show, and the impact of iconic artists. They analyze the mix of old and new talent, the role of hip hop, and the significance oftributes. The conversation also touches on the future of MTV and music programming, emphasizing the need for engaging content that resonates with today's audience.

Chapters

00:00 Post-VMA Reflections

03:19 The Evolution of the VMAs

05:08 Musical Acts and Representation

07:43 The Show's Format and Flow

10:20 Iconic Performers and Their Impact

13:08 The Future of Award Shows

15:31 Cultural Statements and Performances

18:10 Final Thoughts on the VMAs

18:33 Benson Boone's Impact on the VMAs

21:49 The Ozzy Tribute: A Rock Moment

26:56 Emerging Artists and Their Performances

30:38 K-Pop and New Trends in Music

35:25 Revamping MTV: The Future of Music Television

In this engaging conversation, Ryan Kroft, SVP of Live Events and Specials at MTV and head of Film and TV at Live Nation Studios, shares his remarkable journey in the music industry. From his early days as a production assistant at MTV to breaking major news stories and producing iconic live events, Ryan reflects on the evolution of music media and the impact of technology on storytelling. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of working in a fast-paced environment, the significance of live events, and the future of music documentaries in the streaming era.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

02:08 Ryan's Journey to MTV

06:27 The Evolution of MTV News

09:38 The Impact of Social Media on Artists

11:39 Innovative Programming at MTV

16:04 Breaking Major News Stories

25:04 Memorable Live Events and Challenges

33:09 Nostalgia for MTV Swag

37:34 Memorable Music Videos and Iconic Artists

45:26 Transitioning to Live Nation and New Roles

50:42 The Evolution of Music Production and Technology

In this episode of Welcome to the Music Lounge, hosts Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte welcome Graham James, a former vice president of communications at MTV. They discuss Graham's journey to MTV, the excitement of working on the VMAs, the cultural impact of shows like The Osbournes, and the evolution of MTV's brand in the digital age. Graham shares memorable experiences from his time at MTV, the challenges of celebrity publicity, and his transition to Spotify. The conversation highlights the importance of creativity in communications and the changing landscape of media.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction02:47 Graham's Journey to MTV04:36 Life at MTV: The Press Team Experience08:07 The VMAs: Behind the Scenes10:36 The Role of Communications in Shaping Events14:57 The Osbournes: A Cultural Phenomenon16:55 Crisis Management in PR20:08 Pushing the Envelope: MTV's Bold Moves20:51 The MTV Phenomenon: Cultural Impact and Influence24:03 Creative Freedom and Innovation at MTV26:12 Memorable Moments and Experiences in Music30:02 Transitioning from MTV to Other Media34:25 Evolving Media Landscape: From Legacy to Digital36:40 Behind the Scenes: The Magic of Live Performances

In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into the phenomenon of one-hit wonders, exploring the role of MTV and TRL in shaping the careers of artists. They discuss notable one-hit wonders, the impact of changing dynamics in the music industry, and how streaming and social media have transformed artist promotion. The conversation also touches on the future of music in the age of AI, concluding with reflections on current music trends and the challenges artists face today.

In this engaging conversation, Ray Munns shares his unique journey from being a young boy influenced by American pop culture to becoming a VJ on MTV. He reflects on the impact of iconic figures like Ozzy Osbourne, the competitive audition process for MTV, and the challenges of navigating fame at a young age. Ray discusses the behind-the-scenes politics of the VJ competition, the bittersweet nature of his MTV experience, and his eventual transition to production in the MMA industry. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of relationships, the lessons learned from his career, and the lasting impact of his time at MTV.

In this engaging conversation, the hosts reflect on their time at MTV, exploring the evolution of the music industry, the impact of digital channels, and the personal experiences that shaped their careers. They discuss the importance of human connection in creativity and how their backgrounds in music and design continue to influence their work today.

In this celebratory episode of the Music Lounge, hosts Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte reflect on their first year of the podcast, discussing the joy and nostalgia associated with the music industry. They share memorable moments with guests, the influence of strong female leaders, and the importance of integrity and relationships in the business. The conversation also touches on funny artist stories, valuable memorabilia, and the evolution of award shows, culminating in a heartfelt discussion about their favorite experiences in the industry.

In this episode of the Music Lounge, hosts Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte welcome Jeff Frank, a former Senior Director of Music Marketing and Partnerships at MTV. Jeff shares his journey to MTV, the evolution of music marketing, and the significance of experiential marketing in connecting artists with fans.

How do you launch a major music channel in just 30 days 🤯? Lou Stellato faced that challenge with M2! Tune into our latest "Welcome to the Music Lounge" episode for the incredible story. Hosted by Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte!!!

This week on Welcome to the Music Lounge, Robin Reinhardt former SVP Artist Relations and Celebrity Talent , shares her incredible story.

This week on Welcome to the Music Lounge! We're chatting with Sara Kantathavorn, the celebrity booker for TRL! 🤩 Hear all about her dream job and the INSANE influence TRL had on pop culture. Don't miss this one! Hosted by Perry Turcotte and Andrew Schiffman.

Welcome to the Music Lounge dives into our favorite MTV Unplugged episodes this week, with host Andrew Schiffman exploring the iconic (and nearly derailed) 1996 Oasis performance. Also hosted by Hosted by Perry Turcotte and Susan Natoli.

Atlas Genius fans! 🎸 Keith Jeffery joins Welcome to the Music Lounge this week! Hear how MTV & SiriusXM Alt Nation helped launch "Trojans"! 🔥 Hosted by Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte

Buckle up! 🚌 Diane van Horn joins Welcome to the Music Lounge this week with a story about a van ride with Busta Rhymes and Eminem! 😂 That's just the tip of the iceberg - tune in for more amazing stories! Hosted by Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte.

Michelle Welch shares this incredible story on Welcome to the Music Lounge this week. Hear her epic stories hosted by Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte

Get ready for some TRL gold! 🌟 We've got Rob Dixter, a TRL producer, on the show this week. And yes, there are stories!

Psst... wanna know how Jim Shearer became THE voice of MTV2 in the 2000s? 🤫 We're spilling the secrets! 🎤 Hear the inside scoop! 🔥

Get ready for a trip down memory lane! We're excited to introduce a new feature on Welcome to the Music Lounge! This episode focuses on the TRL Top 10 Countdown from March 6, 2000, highlighting the best music videos of that era. Listen or watch now hosted by Andrew Schiffman, Perry Turcotte and special guest host, Susan Natoli!!!

From launching MTV series from Punk’d and The Osbournes to developing the personal brands of Mandy Moore, Nick Cannon, Ashton Kutcher, and Beyoncé Carter, his work has defined pop culture and influenced the media landscape. Dive in and hear his stories hosted by Andrew Schiffman and Perry Turcotte!!!

Welcome to the Music Lounge hosts Tuma Basa, former MTV Music Programming Executive, currently Director Black Music & Culture, YouTube

Welcome to the Music Lounge hosts Tom Calderone, former MTV EVP and President of VH1, current CEO/President PBS/NPR Buffalo/Toronto Public Media.

Welcome to the Music Lounge hosts Holly Schomann, former Sr. Director, MTV Music & Talent .

Welcome to the Music Lounge hosts Brian Leitten, former MTV Music & Talent Producer.

Welcome To The Music Lounge hosts Justin Tyme Prager, Senior Director Programming & Content, Vevo

Join Susan Natoli, Perry Turcotte, and Andrew Schiffman, former MTV programming legends, as they reminisce about their favorite artists from the TRL era.

Welcome To The Music Lounge hosts Paul Logan, former MTVN Creative Music Integration Director. He was so devoted to his job, he gave the shirt off his back to Jesse James Decker.  

Welcome To The Music Lounge hosts Brandon Schmidt, former MTV.com Programming Director and manager of Interpol. He shares stories about Alanis Morisette singing directly to him in a room filled with MTV VIPs and shooting freestyle with an unknown Eminem.

Welcome To The Music Lounge hosts Jason Pleskow, former music executive at Atlantic and Columbia Records. He’s worked with Lenny Kravtiz, Janet Jackson, Smashing Pumpkins, Spice Girls, and was behind the scenes wheeling the ice cream cart in 1515 when Mariah Carey surprised Carson Daly on TRL. 

Susan Natoli joins Perry Turcotte and Andrew Schiffman for a hosts-only episode of Welcome to The Music Lounge, taking a deeper dive into their career journey and Life After MTV.

Welcome To The Music Lounge hosts Doug Cohn, former record label executive at Atlantic and Lava Records. He shares stories of the biggest artists from that time period, including one at Spring Break who was a judge on Say What Karaoke and gave contestants a zero unless they took off their shirt.

Welcome To The Music Lounge hosts John Franck, former music executive at ADA Warner, 300, Koch, and Razor & Tie. When asked how to know what it takes for an artist to become a superstar, he likes to remind people that 8 record labels passed on The Beatles.

Welcome To The Music Lounge hosts Shawn Francis, former Manager of Music Programming & Talent Relationships at MTV and MTV.com. He had a front row seat to the introduction of Rihanna and Adele and… Twitter?

Susan Natoli joins Perry Turcotte and Andrew Schiffman for a hosts-only episode of Welcome to The Music Lounge, taking a deeper dive into all things MTV and the transition from music videos into long form programming. Susan is the new third host for future host-only episodes.

Welcome To The Music Lounge hosts Jordan Glickson, former Executive at Interscope/Epic Records. Video promo rep by day, playboy on “The Hills” at night.