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Cameron & George sit down in London, January 2025 to talk about their journey building Trackstack. Covering new product announcements, how they handle growth and their view on the future of the electronic music industry. @trackstack.app [instagram.com/trackstack.app] Get started with Flow Inbox: https//www.trackstack.app [https//www.trackstack.app]

Karl Lingard shares his journey from a musical upbringing to becoming a DJ and producer. He discusses the importance of networking in the music scene, the challenges he faced in his career, and the realizations he had about success and self-worth. Karl emphasizes the significance of a creative process that is free from pressure and the balance between his music career and personal life. He also outlines his future plans for career development and the importance of building a sustainable music business. In this conversation, Cameron and Karl Lingard explore the multifaceted journey of a DJ, discussing the importance of building a solid foundation, the unseen work behind music production, and the evolving landscape of social media, particularly TikTok. They delve into the challenges of the electronic music scene, the significance of authenticity, and the necessity of patience and enjoyment in the pursuit of success. Karl shares insights on learning and teaching within the industry, emphasizing the value of free education and personal growth. Takeaways Networking is essential for building relationships in the music scene. Support videos can significantly impact a track's success. Lockdown provided an unexpected opportunity for music production. Success should not be solely measured by external validation. It's important to maintain self-worth independent of industry fluctuations. A creative process should be intuitive and free from pressure. Balancing a music career with personal life is crucial for sustainability. Building a client base can provide financial security. Exploring various genres can enhance artistic expression. Planning and gradual steps are key to transitioning into a full-time music career. It's important to build a solid foundation in your career. Many people don't see the extensive work that goes into being a DJ. Social media, especially TikTok, is crucial for engagement. Authenticity is key in today's music industry. The electronic music scene is rapidly evolving. Getting gigs is becoming increasingly competitive. Free education has transformed music production learning. Patience is essential in the music industry. Enjoy the process of making music and don't rush. Letting go of frustrations is vital for growth.

Ryan and Rory, two friends who met at Bournemouth University, joined forces to create the duo "RSquared." Taking inspiration from Music On and Paradise, as well as their love of disco, funk, and tech, they nurtured their sound to create a unique, catchy, and energetic vibe. Since releasing their first EP in early 2020, they have gone on to sign with record labels such as Knee Deep in Sound, 303 Lovers, Too Many Rules, and Libero Records, among others. RSquared's sharp percussion and rolling drums have garnered support from DJs such as Hot Since 82, Marco Carola, Jamie Jones, Dennis Cruz, and Paco Osuna. They have also received a significant amount of support on radio stations such as BBC and Kiss FM. With 2023 on the horizon, the young duo is poised to cement their place as rising talents in the tech house scene. Connect with RSquared Website [http://open.spotify.com/artist/3uuadaghyzgytudldquhz2?si=8f8g04psslcxctujiekaeg] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/rsquareddj] Soundcloud [https://www.soundcloud.com/rsquareddj] Twitter [https://www.twitter.com/rsquareddj] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/rsquareddj] Key Background & Formation: * R-squared formed while at Bournemouth University, initially starting as solo artists before coming together * The name "R-squared" came after trying various options, chosen for its simplicity * They started by DJing before moving into music production * Got early studio lessons from established artists like Iglesias which helped accelerate their learning Musical Development & Style: * Initially sounded similar to Iglesias but developed their own distinct sound incorporating: * 80s influences and disco elements * Distinctive use of big snares and percussion * Multiple layered baselines created by combining different samples * Known for their unique sampling techniques and loop manipulation Career Journey: * Took 2-3 years of consistent releases before getting regular gigs * Notable breakthrough track "Brown Eyes" released on Knee Deep Records * Have upcoming releases planned with Nicole Moudaber's "In The Mood" label * Looking to expand into US market and have plans for Miami Music Week Production Insights: * Use creative sampling techniques, including: * Combining multiple baseline samples * Extensive use of percussion due to Rory's drumming background * Starting tracks at slower BPM (122-123) before speeding up * Focus on finding unique samples from obscure sources Personal Growth: * Rory opened up about his sobriety journey (55 days at time of recording) * Discussed how sobriety has improved his music production and performance * Now taking piano lessons and exploring new creative outlets * Emphasized the importance of discussing addiction/recovery in the music industry Industry Insights: * Discussed changes in the industry including: * Need for social media presence and marketing * Importance of consistent releases * Evolution of tech house sound * Growing US market for their genre * Balance between label releases and self-releasing Advice for New Artists: * Start producing music alongside DJing rather than waiting * Be consistent with releases (aim for monthly if possible) * Don't be afraid to start by emulating others before developing your own sound * Focus on being creative and finding unique samples * Don't be too hard on yourself during the development process

Oskar Eichler is a Entrepreneur and DJ / Producer who has built Songstats and 1001Tracklists as well as being one half DONT BLINK @dontblinkmusic Summary 1. **Life as a Digital Nomad in Bali**: Oskar has been living in Bali for almost a decade, enjoying the relaxed, unique lifestyle that combines remote work with island vibes. He describes how Bali offers a distinct experience for digital nomads, comparing it to other hotspots like Thailand. For Oskar, Bali is a haven for those seeking balance between professional and personal life, complete with studios set in scenic villas. 2. **Evolution of the DJ Scene**: Oskar reflects on the transformation of the DJ scene, reminiscing about the days of physical records and vinyl culture. He shares how digital platforms, like YouTube, have reshaped the industry. Back in the day, DJs would dig for music in record stores, building connections through a shared love for music—a very different experience from today’s instant access to digital tracks. 3. **Challenges with Digital Rights and YouTube**: Oskar talks about his journey with a YouTube channel that quickly gained over 100,000 subscribers by sharing DJ mixes, only for it to be abruptly shut down due to licensing issues. Undeterred, he launched another channel, this time negotiating with electronic music labels for proper licensing, which grew to over a million subscribers. He shares the ongoing struggles DJs face with content ID systems, which often block or claim earnings from uploaded mixes. 4. **Nostalgia for Traditional DJ Practices**: Oskar expresses nostalgia for the original, hands-on elements of DJing, like beat matching on vinyl. He discusses how modern DJ software has removed much of the tactile experience, shifting the DJ’s role from crate-digging in record shops to managing playlists on digital platforms. Both he and the host agree that some of the social and creative magic of early DJ culture has been lost in the digital age. 5. **Connecting through Global Festivals**: Oskar highlights the importance of music industry events like ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event) as opportunities for connection, collaboration, and celebration within the electronic music scene. Reflecting on his early years of “hustling” for connections, Oskar notes how the tables have turned—now, people seek him out, a testament to his growth and influence within the industry. **Episode Summary**: This episode presents Oskar’s insights and experiences in the evolving world of electronic music and DJing. He shares a mix of personal stories and professional reflections, from adjusting to Bali’s unique lifestyle to navigating the digital challenges in music. Oskar’s perspective underscores the resilience needed to adapt to the fast-paced changes in the industry, all while celebrating the roots of electronic music culture.

Manu Naykene, joins us for the Trackstack Podcast - EP 31. We touched on Manu’s origin story, how he got into DJing and content creation, advice for up-and-coming producers and much more. Send tracks to Manu: https://tstack.app/manu [https://tstack.app/manu] Send demos to KLUB RECORD: https://tstack.app/klub-record [https://tstack.app/klub-record] Connect with Manu: clozer.io/manunaykene [https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fclozer.io%2Fmanunaykene&token=f98897-1-1726142803154] Key takeaways: • Manu ecently completed a mini-tour, including performances in Dubai, Doha, and Mykonos. • Professionalism is crucial in DJing, including staying focused during performances and limiting alcohol consumption while playing. • Manu highlights the importance of "locking in" during performances to ensure the audience has a good time. • DJ etiquette and the balance between appearing as a "party person" while maintaining professionalism behind the scenes. • Manu's background to music starting DJing around 2016, inspired by South African DJs and the Afro house genre. • Getting gigs as a new DJ often requires persistence and "hustling" - reaching out to venues directly and being proactive. • The importance of enjoying the process of learning to DJ, such as the satisfaction of successfully transitioning between tracks. • Electronic music is becoming more global, with pop music increasingly incorporating electronic elements. • Modern DJ sets often include a variety of genres, focusing more on creating a "party vibe" rather than sticking to a single genre. • The value of building a career from the "grassroots" level and how it can help in the long run.