Swardy explores how the music industry can better serve artists in the middle—the ones between early discovery and global superstardom. He discusses the potential for artist residencies, long-term installations, and treating musicians like mural or museum artists. Could this be the future of sustainable music careers? Watch to hear his ideas on innovating the music business.
Key Topics:
- The evolving landscape of the music industry for mid-level artists
- The advantages of being in the "discovery zone" as a new musician
- Why the biggest stars still thrive while others struggle
- The idea of treating musicians like mural or museum artists
- Exploring artist residencies and long-term music installations
- The need for innovation in how artists sustain their careers
Quotes:
- "It's a pretty awesome time to be in the discovery phase—no expectations, all the tools."
- "Triple A artists still thrive, but the in-betweeners? That’s where the industry needs to innovate."
- "Can we treat musicians like mural or museum artists, with rotating installations and residencies?"
- "The idea of local musicians having a lasting presence—that's where I want to play."
- "Maybe financially it doesn't work, but that’s the kind of experimentation I'm interested in."
