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Production Music Q&A – LIVE! | 52 Cues Podcast, 2025 Week 5
In this week's 52 Cues Podcast, we held a Live Q&A covering everything from the US Copyright Office’s AI ruling (and why human elements in music matter) to what genres are in demand, a simple stereo widening trick using sample delay, and how much you can realistically earn with 500 cues. I also shared my approach to mastering stems, discussed drum mic techniques and my electronic kit setup, and, of course, talked about the essential role of cats in a composer’s life. Whether you're looking for industry insights, production tips, or just a good laugh, this episode has something for you!
The State of AI in 2025 (with Timothy Andrew Edwards) | 52 Cues Podcast, 2025 Week 4
AI isn’t just coming—it’s already here, and it’s shaking up the production music industry in ways we’re still trying to understand. In this episode of the 52 Cues Podcast, I sit down with composer and publisher Timothy Andrew Edwards to break down AI’s current and future impact on our careers. Will AI-generated music replace human composers? How can we stay relevant in an industry where algorithms are writing cues? We tackle these big questions and discuss practical strategies to adapt, protect our work, and find new opportunities in an AI-influenced landscape. Plus, I review a cinematic tension cue from Russ Westfield and share a modern comedy cue I recently wrote for the Discovery Channel. Watch now and join the conversation!
How to Stay Grounded When Sync Feels Overwhelming | 52 Cues Podcast, Week 3
In the latest episode of the 52 Cues Podcast, we dive into how the ancient philosophy of stoicism can help you stay grounded in this unpredictable field. Stoicism teaches us to focus on what we can control—like our creative output and attitude—while letting go of what we can’t, such as the whims of music supervisors or client preferences.
Sync Trends for 2025 (with Timothy Andrew Edwards) | 52 Cues Podcast, 2025 Week 2
The sync licensing world is evolving, and 2025 is bringing fresh opportunities for composers! In this week’s 52 Cues Podcast, I’m joined by Timothy Andrew Edwards to explore the latest trends, including the rising demand for vocal cues with relatable lyrics, the continued dominance of tension music (with a twist), and the growing appetite for genre-blending tracks. Timothy shares practical advice for staying relevant, like focusing on what you do best while staying adaptable to industry needs.
How To Work Smarter, Not Harder | 52 Cues Podcast 2025, Week 1
In the latest episode of the 52 Cues podcast, Dave delves into the art of crafting compelling music cues that captivate listeners and meet industry standards. He shares personal anecdotes from his journey in production music, offering valuable insights into the creative process. Listeners will gain practical advice on structuring cues, selecting appropriate instrumentation, and understanding the nuances that make a composition stand out in the competitive world of production music. This episode is a must-listen for composers aiming to enhance their skills and succeed in the industry.
Parkinson's Law and Composers
Parkinson's Law states that work expands to fill the time available for its completion. In this episode, Dave discusses how this concept applies to the world of production music, and how it impacts efficiency, decision-making, and creativity in music production.
Let's Talk Sync Agents (with Chuck Milan)
Explore the vibrant world of music sync with insights from industry expert Chuck Milan in our latest 52 Cues Podcast episode. Discover the roles of sync agents, music publishers, and libraries, and learn valuable tips for making your music stand out for film, TV, and commercials. Gain firsthand knowledge on optimizing song quality, navigating copyright laws, and leveraging social media for sync success. Join us for an enlightening conversation that unveils the secrets to mastering the music sync process and securing lucrative opportunities in the entertainment industry.