Trio of music executives launch Music Foundry consultancy

30 May 2024 - Press release

 

Music Foundry, a new integrated consultancy firm, has been launched by three senior music executives to meet the growing need for business advisory support from the expanding music technology sector. Music technology specialists Rick Gleave (formerly of Tuned Global, Playnetwork and Pandora) and Jon Hilbrants (ex-7 Digital and former leader of Juke Music), together with music rights lawyer Tom Grayson (ex-Universal Music Group and Accenture) have co-founded Music Foundry with the aim of elevating consultancy standards for music technology companies.

The music industry has long been at the forefront of technological transformation. From the first recording of sound in 1860 to the development of digital audio compression in the 1990s through to NFTs, generative AI, and the metaverse, the rate of technological change is accelerating. Music Foundry will provide a multidisciplinary source of expertise to support both established players and new market entrants in leveraging the opportunities emerging from this ongoing evolution.

Drawing on the combined firsthand experience and deep industry insight of its founders, Music Foundry offers a range of comprehensive services, including advising on the complexities of music rights licensing; devising go-to-market and growth strategies; and providing tailored solutions to meet each client's unique business demands. The partners, who have collaborated with management teams throughout the music industry, each have hands-on experience across a multitude of music tech businesses, from telecom media offerings and DSPs to social media platforms, live streamers and music B2B services.

Rick Gleave, Co-founder of Music Foundry, said: "At Music Foundry, our mission is clear: to blend experience with innovation to provide unparalleled strategic guidance and support in the dynamic landscape of music technology. We are not just another consultancy, I’ve run B2C and B2B music services, as has Jon. We know what it takes and, as industry specialists, we are committed to using our experience to help our clients maximise their potential.”

Co-founder Tom Grayson commented: "Music is technology, which is what makes it such a fascinating business. You cannot advise on music licensing and rights law without a strong skill set in what drives commerce and evolving tech. This is why Jon, Rick, and I believe we offer a powerful combination. With our blend of experience and skills, we can offer our clients high value in a practical context. We are here to roll up our sleeves to get our clients where they need to be."

Jon Hilbrants, Music Foundry co-founder, added: "There is a clear need in the market for an integrated commercial advisory service of this kind. Our combined expertise ensures that we can provide comprehensive and effective solutions to meet our clients’ challenges. The global music market is estimated to exceed US$100bn in 2024 and much of that growth is driven by technological change. We have all been deeply immersed in this business for decades and are committed to supporting our clients with high-quality, informed advice as they navigate this complex environment.”