The Beetles, Beastie Boys, Depeche Mode, Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, MC Hammer, Bobby Valentino, Snoop Dogg; they all have history at Capitol Records. I linked up with good friend, Ankur Malhotra, to see how the music biz has treated him. With music platforms constantly changing due to youtube, free downloads, itunes, zune and other internet savvy beasts; staying competitive can come with a price.

Ankur Malhotra is the AR that is responsible for new artists on the roaster; Trish and Josiah Bell. Now you may think that Artist that are signed these days get the million dollar pay check, think again. That’s just a “foot in.” Artist, especially during these competitive times have to prove themselves to the label that they can make club bangers or radio hits.

We discussed different ideas of music platforms that could be created to stay relevant. I showed him the sounds of local Seattle Artists (Eighty4fly, Blue Scholars, Macklemore, Wizdom, etc.) and he said one thing about the seattle sound; Substantial. The substantial sound coming from Seattle is definitely growing. Further more we both agreed that, independently, artists are making a name for themselves and preserving the artistry. Considering the facts, the music industry is changing rapidly. Music today is being sub-categorized and re-named and re-introduced as new product. The artistry, in my opinion, is dying; the artform is being formulaic and its sad to see that being a dominate reason to being successful.

The number’s game for this industry is crucial. I’ve had many conversations with struggling artists, artists who gained recognition for there orginality and as well as their superstar status that they have achieved;there’s always a price to pay; a give or take. Like with anything, if you want to get to the top, where the air is crisp; you have to satisfy yourself creatively and your appreciators otherwise, fall to your circumstances. But with circumstances, you can create your own and thats the beauty of being creative.

Our friends at Battalion Ent. wil be celebrating their 9 years in business. Battialion Ent. is a record label / events company that showcase artists here in Seattle. They have been growing constantly in Seattle’s emerging music scene. Follow them on twitter HERE.