Larry Jackson reveals secrets of the messy modern music business
- Larry Jackson has worked with prominent artists like Whitney Houston, Drake, and Lana Del Rey during his career.
- He has held significant roles at Interscope Records and Apple Music, contributing to the industry's adaptation to digital changes.
- Jackson's reflections reveal the need for artists and executives to adapt to a rapidly evolving and complex music landscape.
In a recent episode of Popcast, recorded in December 2024, music executive Larry Jackson shared insights about the evolving music industry. Jackson, a veteran in the field, has worked closely with high-profile artists such as Whitney Houston, Drake, Chief Keef, and Lana Del Rey throughout his career. He served as a key figure at Interscope Records, particularly noted for signing influential artists as digital platforms began transforming the music landscape. Additionally, he held the position of global creative director at Apple Music, where he played a significant role in promoting streaming services amidst increasing competition from other platforms like Spotify. During the discussion with hosts Jon Caramanica and Joe Coscarelli, Jackson reflected on a tumultuous year for the music business, highlighting notable rivalries, notably between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, and how these dynamics impact overall market trends. Jackson emphasized the ongoing struggle for artists to navigate the challenges of a fragmented industry landscape, along with the lessons he learned in his earlier roles that inform his approach in the current climate. The conversation underscored not only the competitive nature of the industry but also the necessity for adaptation as consumer behaviors shift towards streaming services for music consumption. Jackson's extensive background allows him to provide a unique viewpoint on how traditional methods of promoting music are being replaced by new strategies that embrace digital platforms. He advocates for artists to leverage new media opportunities to create deeper connections with their audiences. Ultimately, Jackson’s insights illustrate a significant phase of change for the music industry, where legacy practices must evolve to keep pace with technological advancements, reflecting broader trends in global culture. His experiences and observations are crucial for understanding current movements within the music business as it deals with the aftermath of a pandemic and shifting creative landscapes.