Explore every episode of the podcast 52 Cues - A Production Music and Sync Podcast
Dive into the complete episode list for 52 Cues - A Production Music and Sync Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Title
Pub. Date
Duration
Meet the Exec Who Decides Which Cues Get Used
06 Nov 2025
00:50:21
In this episode I am joined by Emmy and Mark Award–winning composer and Head of Production at Warner Chappell Production Music, Scott Reinwand, and we chat about how composers can stand out in a crowded catalog.
Plus we listen to a recent trip hop tension cue, "Remains to Be Seen."
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
The PROs Say Yes to AI Music. Should You?
30 Oct 2025
00:48:35
In this episode, I unpack what ASCAP, BMI, and SOCAN’s new policy on partially AI-generated works means for production music composers. We’ll talk about where the line is between using AI as a creative assistant and letting it compose for you, what this shift means for publishers and libraries, and whether the “stink of AI” will ever really go away.
Plus we take a listen to a brooding intrigue cue, "Crisis Me a River."
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
How to Write Investigative Tension Cues
28 Aug 2025
00:46:29
In this episode, we’re unpacking investigative tension cues – those cerebral, clue-assembling moments that show up everywhere from crime and dating shows and house hunting reveals.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
6 Career Lessons I Learned from Star Trek
30 Nov 2023
00:35:12
Star Trek is more than just an entertainment franchise; it's a trove of valuable life lessons. The series offers timeless wisdom about embracing diversity, being adaptable, and fostering alliances – lessons that are crucial for a successful music career.
00:00 - Intro & welcome 04:58 - 1: Infinite diversity and infinite combinations 07:59 - 2: Resistance is futile 11:19 - 3: It takes a federation for everyone to succeed 17:09 - 4: You must have, and adhere to, a prime directive 25:07 - 5: We all have to face the Kobayashi Maru 28:41 - 6: Live long and prosper 32:04 - Outro and how you can join the 52 Cues community
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
The Power of Gratitude, Grace, and Forgiveness
23 Nov 2023
00:42:29
The transformative power of gratitude, positivity, and forgiveness is undeniable. These principles wield immense influence in our lives, shaping our personal and professional journeys, and in this week's episode, Shannon and Dave Kropf delve into the significance and power these concepts hold.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
How To Think Like a Publisher (with Jason Rudd)
16 Nov 2023
00:59:01
Publishers and library owners play a critical role in finding homes for our cues and building relationships with these folks is a mission critical skill for any sync music composer. Today, I sit down with Jason Rudd of Level 77 Music, who shares his journey from mastering guru to executive producer for an award-winning catalog, and he offers perspective from the other side of the business.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
I Suck at Guitar (and That's OK)!
09 Nov 2023
00:34:13
Have you ever wondered why picking up a new instrument feels like unlocking a superpower? In this episode, I explore how immersing myself in the world of guitar has reinvigorated music’s magic, sparking a sense of exploration and creativity that has been profoundly transformative!
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 01:49 - I suck at guitar (and that's OK) 06:00 - Why do I enjoy something I'm not good at? 06:46 - Rekindling a sense of exploration and discovery 13:51 - The sense of creative play 18:24 - The value of curiosity 20:32 - The reawakening of inspiration 24:04 - Accepting that a steep learning curve is perfectly normal 29:29 - Balancing expectations with reality 31:35 - Outro and How You Can Join The 42 Cues Community
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Orchestration Recipes (with Philip Johnston)
02 Nov 2023
00:50:10
If you’ve been watching my videos for any length of time you know I love to use metaphors to break down complex topics, and I have found a kindred spirit in composer and concert pianist, Philip Johnston of Orchestration Recipes, who joins me to unpack how he makes advanced musical concepts much less intimidating!
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 01:51 - Interview with Philip Johnston 03:26 - Philip's musical journey 09:31 - An alternative way to represent music theory 15:37 - Is it necessary for composers to be 100% full-time to be taken seriously? 18:05 - Why is the traditional teaching of music theory stuck in one system? 21:24 - The orchestration recipes system 33:04 - How do people get the most from the recipes? 34:43 - Volumes 3 & 4 of orchestration recipes - "the spices" 37:25 - A video example from volume 3 "spices" 40:55 - How should people best use these responsibly? 41:47 - Any specific advice for media composers? 47:32 - How to learn more about Philip and orchestration recipes 47:55 - Outro and How You Can Join the 52 Cues Community!
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Fright Night Composer Quest Live Showcase!
26 Oct 2023
01:06:33
Ready for a bone-chilling journey through soundscapes from comedic to terrifying? We promise to thrill you with 19 mind-bending cues as we navigate the murky depths of horror and comedic music. Not only that, but we're putting the power in your hands to vote for your favorite track, ensuring that the most spine-tingling tune gets the love it deserves!
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Vacation Fails & Life Lessons
21 Aug 2025
01:16:29
In this episode, Mrs. 52 Cues joins me to talk about our recent vacation that started with noisy cabins, wrong turns, and even a dropped pizza. But somewhere between the chaos, the hang gliders, and the quiet mountain mornings, we discovered some unexpected lessons about life and what it means to be a composer.
Plus, we take a listen to an Italian-infused hip-hop comedy cue, "Leave the Cannoli."
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Coming Up Through the Ranks (with Jonas Friedman)
19 Oct 2023
00:52:15
Name-brand composers often employ teams of ghost writers and composers assistants to help get their projects over the finish line. While an accomplished film/TV composer himself, Jonas Friedman joins me today to talk about his experiences in the industry and how often times paying your dues can really pay off.
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:10 - Interview with Jonas Friedman 14:08 - What advice can we offer composers who might feel taken advantage of? 20:26 - A day in the life of a composer's assistant 24:25 - Do you have to live in L.A. to work in the film music business? 32:00 - Jonas talks about mentoring and teaching aspiring composers 41:03 - Authenticity in composing 48:24 - Where can folks learn more about Jonas? 49:53 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
How to Find the Art in Artisan (with Hans York)
12 Oct 2023
00:38:03
Today I welcome production music veteran and 52 Cues member, Hans York to the podcast to talk about his journey into production music, his role and experiences with Sync Academy and Sync My Music, and what he's been doing lately to stave off creative stagnation.
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:10 - Interview with Hans York 00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:10 - Interview with Hans York 4:27 - Hans' journey as a professional musician 13:34 - Seeking out mentors for continual growth 16:04 - Hans' experience with Sync My Music and 52 Cues 21:22 - Hans' guitar poems 28:23 - How to deal with commercialism in art 31:10 - "Tree Talk" - A guitar poem by Hans York 34:02 - Where to find Hans on the web 35:07 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Who Needs Spitfire's Abbey Road 1st Violins??
05 Oct 2023
00:45:11
Spitfire's latest orchestral release, Abbey Road Orchestra 1st Violins, offers an unparalleled level of control, but with an eye-watering price of $449 for just one section It begs the questions: who is this really for? Has Spitfire lost their way, and is it a smart purchase for production music composers?
Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/s7bLlKxOIic 00:00 - Intro & Welcome 01:56 - Who Needs Abbey Road 1st Violins? 4:45 - It started with the Spitfire BBCSO trailer... 8:39 - Now comes Abbey Road 1st Violins... 18:30 - Who is Abbey Road 1st Violins aimed at? 26:24 - Alternative options for production music composers 31:35 - Might Spitfire ever return to more forward-thinking music production tools? 37:20 - Closing thoughts on Abbey Road 1st Violins 39:01 - How to deal with FOMO as a music production composer 43:05 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Prep Like a Chef: The Composer’s Mise en Place
14 Aug 2025
00:36:17
In this episode, I show how the French cooking concept of mise en place can streamline your cue-writing process. You’ll learn five practical steps to get organized, work faster, and hit deadlines – plus, I feature my dark, ominous tension cue, "From Inside the House."
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Can Subscriptions Actually Be Done Right? (A Roundtable)
28 Sep 2023
00:59:58
In today's episode, Dave delves into the debate around software subscriptions, drawing insights from 52 Cues Family members from across the globe. In this roundtable discussion, we explore the complexities of subscriptions, from user perceptions to the strategies of companies like Waves and Adobe.
Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/Zi7_MDVTSng 00:00 - Intro & Welcome 6:40 - Why did the sudden Waves subscription model generate so much negativity? 14:07 - How did Adobe get away with a subscription model and Waves couldn't? 16:35 - What can subscriptions do that make us feel better about it? 26:37 - East West Composer Cloud - are their model and pricing a more attractive option? 32:00 - Getting trapped in subscriptions - for example, Splice 35:14 - Do subscriptions help fight software piracy? 41:25 - The Kilohearts subscription as a better model 46:06 - How do members feel about the 52 Cues subscription? 01:52 - Let's Talk About Subscriptions 57:40 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Exploring Sound Design with Venus Theory
21 Sep 2023
01:12:24
As the world of sound design continues to evolve and innovate, having a firm understanding of the tools, techniques, and trends in the industry is essential. Whether you're an experienced sound designer or a novice looking to break into the field, our conversation with Cameron Gorham of Venus Theory offers invaluable insights to help you navigate this dynamic industry!
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:22 - Interview with Venus Theory 7:40 - Cameron's thoughts on being a YouTuber 11:00 - How does being on YouTube affect the creative work? 14:03 - The negative side of YouTube when things go wrong 19:38 - Cameron's work as a sampler instrument creator 23:27 - Thoughts on making an income from music 32:55 - The role of AI in the music industry 44:03 - The value of sound design and using your own sounds 52:12 - What tools would you start with in sound design? 54:17 - "Active listening" and recording unique sounds 01:10:11 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Turning Pro
14 Sep 2023
00:40:12
What separates hobbyists from professionals in the creative arts field, particularly music composition? What if I told you the answer lies not in talent, but in mindset, accountability, dedication, and an ability to embrace failure?
Join me as we discuss the art of balancing your hobbies and professional goals, understanding the value of patience, persistence, self-actualization, and the acceptance of failure as part of the road to success.
Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/3RqThCZcnT4 00:00 - Intro & Welcome 01:40 - Turning Pro 5:29 - Defining some of the obstacles to going pro 10:03 - Consciously deciding to transition from hobbyist to pro 15:32 - Continual daily focus on improvement across all areas 26:06 - Having the courage to move forward despite setbacks 28:25 - Other factors that get in the way of turning pro 32:30 - Successful pros strive to become the best version of themselves 38:06 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Demystifying the Cue with Dean Krippaehne
07 Sep 2023
00:42:32
There's no shortage of YouTube channels about library and sync music but there aren't that many books about the production music industry. So when I had the opportunity to sit down with one of the few people really putting out great books about production music, I was more than happy to jump at the chance and welcome Dean Krippaehne to the podcast!
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Musical Solutions to Mixing Problems
31 Aug 2023
00:39:54
In this episode, we delve into the challenges of juggling both composition and production tasks, and uncover the 'composer first' approach that prioritizes musicality in three key areas: balance, dynamic range, and stereo placement. Learn how this strategy can simplify your workflow, minimize the need for technical fixes, and elevate the emotional impact of your cues.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
The 4 Stages of Learning Any DAW
07 Aug 2025
00:46:17
In this week’s episode, I compare learning a new DAW to learning a new language – and share where I’m at in my own journey toward “speaking” Ableton Live fluently. Plus, I feature a new reggaeton-meets-comedy hip hop cue.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Q&A Live!
25 Aug 2023
01:15:36
Join me for a special Q&A episode recorded live! I answer your questions about streaming royalties, loudness and mastering practices, sound design, referencing in Ozone, the artisan approach, ride cymbal programming, overcoming fear of submitting to libraries, and many more!
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Standing Out In The Crowd (with Jason Moss)
17 Aug 2023
00:49:34
Join me as I sit down with Jason Moss, the co-founder of Bulletproof Bear, to unpack his journey from being a composer to becoming a music publisher. Jason shares his insights into the value of authentic relationships and the value in striking a balance between originality and commercial success in music licensing.
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:13 - Interview with Jason Moss 5:09 - Jason's journey in the music business 8:02 - The transition from composer to publisher 14:37 - Should composers create a catalog of their own music? 25:36 - Originality vs uniqueness 33:00 - When composers submit pitches, what do they do right and wrong? 41:45 - One thing composers should really know 47:24 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Do You *Need* a YouTube Channel?
10 Aug 2023
00:51:10
Is YouTube an essential part of the marketing portfolio for the modern production music composer? On today's episode, I unpack why you might want to start a YouTube channel, how it could help your career, and what pitfalls you might want to watch out for.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
You Should Learn Guitar (with Mike Meiers)
03 Aug 2023
00:58:23
As production music composers, we often find ourselves reaching for virtual instruments first, but we also know that recording live instruments can bring magic to a cue!
On today's episode, I welcome Emmy Award-winning composer, songwriter, guitarist, and host of the Songwriting for Guitar Podcast, Mike Meiers, to talk about how he uses real instruments on his tracks, and how we shouldn't be afraid to pick up a guitar – even if we don't really know what we're doing!
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Who Writes Those Plugin Demos?
20 Jul 2023
01:06:54
One of my favorite things to do whenever any new synth, sample set, or patch library comes out is to take a listen to the demos, but who actually puts these demos together, and how do you land that gig?
Well, we are super fortunate to have a very accomplished demo writer right here in the community, and I’m thrilled to welcome Michal Sinay to this week’s episode of the 52 Cues Podcast.
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 03:36 - Writing Demos with Michal Sinay 49:39 - Join the 52 Cues Community! 50:56 - "Foolish Curiosity" by John Chambers 01:03:12 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Let's Get Weird!
13 Jul 2023
00:53:54
More and more libraries are starting to place a higher premium on uniqueness - that distinctive thing that you, as a human composer, can bring to their catalog. That means it's time to get a weird, and on today's episode, I look at ways we can break conventions while still playing by production music rules.
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:12 - Let's Get Weird! 39:10 - Join the 52 Cues Community! 40:26 - "Championship Blows" by Carlos Brown 51:05 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Hip-Hop for Sync with Anthony Clint, Jr
06 Jul 2023
00:59:45
If you want to get into writing hip-hop for sync, then you want to be sure to learn from the best, and I can’t think anyone better than Anthony Clint, Jr of Clint Music productions. With placements across all major networks, his courses and YouTube channel are an absolute gold mine of production tips and industry insights
Join me as I welcome the Zen master of hip-hop production music, Anthony Clint, Jr, on this week’s episode of the 52 Cues Podcast.
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:30 - Hip-Hop for Sync with Anthony Clint, Jr. 45:06 - Join the 52 Cues Community! 46:23 - "Longshore Drift" by Graham Clarke 57:05 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
The 5 Lies I Used to (and Still Do) Tell Myself
29 Jun 2023
00:52:30
In the absence of facts, it’s human nature to substitute fears in place of truth, and it seems that no matter how much we grow up and how much we accomplish there are lies we tell ourselves that can keep up from being in the moment or achieving the very success we’re going after.
So on today's episode, I want to talk about 5 lies I used to (and sometimes still do) tell myself about becoming a successful composer.
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:26 - The 5 Lies I Used to (and Still Do) Tell Myself 39:19 - Join the 52 Cues Community! 40:34 - "Under Attack," by Michael Reschke 49:24 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Left vs Right Brain Thinking for Composers
22 Jun 2023
00:43:30
Lateralization of brain function is the idea that our cognitive processes are generally divided into the two hemispheres of our brain - the “left brain” being more analytical, logical, and language oriented; whereas the “right brain” is typically associated with imagination, intuition, and emotion.
So we’re going to explore the intersection of neuroscience and composition and talk about how we can apply these concepts to our work in production music on this week’s episode of the 52 Cues Podcast.
Plus I give feedback on a playful orchestral tension cue written by 52 Cues Community member, Omar Blyde.
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:08 - Join the 52 Cues Mastermind! 03:04 - Left Bran vs. Right Brain in Production Music 31:28 - Join the 52 Cues Community! 32:44 - "Secret Side Fantasy" by Omar Blyde
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Chomp and Circumstance
31 Jul 2025
00:41:28
In this episode, I’m joined by band director and composer Brandon Psenicka, whose eerie reimagining of the classic graduation march – complete with creepy vocals from his own daughter – took first place in our recent Composer Quest!
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
How Gaming Makes Me a Better Composer
15 Jun 2023
00:47:00
As a lifelong gamer, I've come to realize that the decades spent leveling characters, looting corpses, and stomping sentient fungus have led to real, tangible skills that have benefited me as a professional composer. So today, we’re going unpack 5 ways in which gaming can help your career in production music!
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:30 - Join the 52 Cues Mastermind! 03:35 - How Gaming Helped Me Be a Better Composer 30:13 - Join the 52 Cues Community! 31:30 - "Revealing Secrets" by Jerome Detotto 43:36 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Sync or Swim Music with Robbie Hancock
08 Jun 2023
01:01:17
Sync or Swim Music, hosted by songwriter, composer, and music supervisor, Robbie Hancock, is an online community focusing on virtual networking events. Their next conference is June 22-25, and I welcome Robbie on the show to talk about it, and also talk about how generosity, integrity, and kindness can be the most valuable currency in the sync music industry.
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:48 - Sync or Swim Music with Robbie Hancock 45:35 - Join the 52 Cues Community! 46:51 - "Gold & Green" by Christoffer Bjerklund 57:53 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.
Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!
Overcoming and Avoiding Burnout
01 Jun 2023
01:26:36
From pitches to deadlines to metadata, building a career as a production music composer can be a real grind that can seriously rob you of the joy of making a living making music. So today, I want to talk about burnout, what could be causing it, and how we can work through it!
Plus we feature a unique, vocal tension cue 52 Cues community member, Martin EDER.
00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:04 - Identifying and Overcoming Burnout 01:11:52 - Join the 52 Cues Community! 01:13:05 - "Secret Rite" by Martin EDER 01:23:13 - Outro & How You Can Support 52 Cues!
Support for the 52 Cues Podcast comes from ReelCrafter, the professional way to pitch your production music and know exactly when your cues are heard.
Join the 52 Cues Community! – https://my.52cues.com It's free to post your cues for feedback from the community, network with other composers, and ask questions about the industry!
Plus, member subscribers get extra perks like workshops, livestreams, cue breakdowns, live feedback sessions, hundreds of hours of video archives, and opportunities to submit to real music libraries.