The Music Business Unplugged

I Be Music
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"The Music Business Unplugged" brings music industry role-players from around the world onto the series to share insights, news, trends, and lessons about the music business with audiences. The conversations and interviews are hosted by music executive Ian Bredenkamp, and see music label heads, artist managers, streaming experts, social media insiders and more pull back the veil about making hit songs. Produced by I Be Music. 

Episodes

  1. 08/12/2025

    The Nigerian Music Business

    In this episode of The Music Business Unplugged, we explore the vibrant Nigerian music industry with Kolapo Oladapo. Formerly at Cool FM in Lagos, Kolapo is a Cultural Strategist and now heads up a dynamic artist and label marketing company. From Afrobeats to audience-building, he shares insights into what makes Nigeria one of the most exciting music markets in the world.

    22 min

  2. 05/27/2025

    Shaping a hit with Grammy-nominated Music Producer, Bubele Booi.

    Bubele Booi is a South African-born producer making waves on the global stage. A Grammy-nominated hitmaker and one half of the acclaimed production duo The Imports, Bubele has worked with some of the biggest names in music — including none other than Beyoncé. In this episode, he unpacks his journey into the international music industry, the creative process behind chart-topping records, and what it means to stay rooted while working globally. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on The Music Business Unplugged.

    31 min

  3. 05/13/2025

    The Ins & Outs of Radio Playlisting

    In this episode of The Music Business Unplugged we take a deep dive into the world of radio playlists — from song categories and rotation schedules to the strategy behind the hits you hear. Join us for an insider conversation with Playlist Consultant Zane Derbyshire as we unpack the mechanics of music programming and what it means for artists and the industry. Presented by Ian Bredenkamp.

    33 min

  4. 04/28/2025

    How to find the right booking agent

    How to find the right talent agent. Meet artist booker and tour producer Natasha Savage. On this episode of The Music Business Unplugged we meet Natasha Savage, renowned Talent Agent, Artist Booker and Tour Producer. Natasha gives the ins-and-outs of what she looks for when signing new talent, and shares the highs and lows of her 20 year career. She currently works with Booshle G and Neon Dreams, and her previous clients include The Parlotones, Matthew Mole and many more. She is co-founder of Flo Music Group

    28 min

  5. 04/07/2025

    Understanding the Role of an Artist Manager

    “You’re always just one song away from your life changing”. On this episode of The Music Business Unplugged, host Ian Bredenkamp sits down with renowned artist manager Seth Kallen for an in-depth conversation about the pivotal role of an artist manager in today’s music industry. Based in Los Angeles, Seth manages one of South Africa’s biggest pop exports, Will Linley, and has previously worked with hitmakers like X Ambassadors. In this episode, Seth shares insights into building a successful music career, starting his own management company, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He discusses the journey behind Will Linley’s breakout hit Miss Me (When You’re Gone), the thrill of watching his artists sell out venues, and the strategies that help artists turn breakthrough moments into lasting careers. The Music Business Unplugged brings together top industry professionals from around the world, offering valuable insights, trends, and expert advice. Whether you’re an emerging artist or an industry veteran, this podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the fast-paced world of music. The Music Business Unplugged is proudly produced by I Be Music, Africa’s #1 music marketing and plugging company. For more information, visit www.ibemusic.org.

    32 min

  6. 03/17/2025

    How Do I Have My Music Heard on Streaming?

    The rise of music streaming has opened doors to millions of songs being shared online each month. But how exactly does streaming work, and what are its pros and cons? From a local perspective, what emerging trends are shaping the African music landscape, and which countries are seeing their music industries flourish? Joining us on The Music Business Unplugged is Wendy Verwey Bekker, Ditto’s Regional Manager for Africa, who will dive into these questions. Wendy also shares practical tips on navigating DIY streaming platforms and gives a behind-the-scenes look at her experience in a major record label. The Music Business Unplugged brings together industry players from around the globe to offer insights, news, trends, and lessons on the music business. This podcast aims to provide aspiring artists and seasoned professionals with valuable stories and strategies to help them thrive in the industry. Available on Spotify and Apple. Hosted by Ian Bredenkamp and produced by I Be Music – Africa’s leading music plugging company.

    22 min

  7. 03/03/2025

    Understanding the Role of a Publisher and Why You Need One

    Music publishing often remains a mystery, even for industry professionals. In this episode of The Music Business Unplugged, seasoned expert Thando Makhunga joins Ian Bredenkamp to demystify the world of composer rights, mechanical rights, and offer invaluable tips for songwriters and independent labels. Makhunga also shares exclusive behind-the-scenes insights from her experience as a senior FM radio music compiler. The Music Business Unplugged brings music industry role-players from around the world onto the series to share insights, news, trends, and lessons about the music business with audiences. The purpose of this podcast is to share behind-the-scenes life lessons, industry anecdotes, news and trends that can help aspirant artists as well as seasoned heavyweights navigate their way through the industry.

    25 min
  • 7 Episodes

About

"The Music Business Unplugged" brings music industry role-players from around the world onto the series to share insights, news, trends, and lessons about the music business with audiences. The conversations and interviews are hosted by music executive Ian Bredenkamp, and see music label heads, artist managers, streaming experts, social media insiders and more pull back the veil about making hit songs. Produced by I Be Music. 

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