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Episode 3 · 1h 32min

What A&R Really Looks For (It's Not What You Think)

with James Whitfield Former A&R Executive, Universal Music

Coming soon

Episode Notes

After 15 years signing artists, James reveals the real criteria behind label decisions — and why most artists pitch wrong.

Key Takeaways

  • Labels look for proof of audience, not proof of talent
  • Most artists pitch too early — build leverage first
  • The best deals go to artists who do not need them

Shareable Moments

The best deals go to artists who do not need them.

JW
James Whitfield

Labels look for proof of audience, not proof of talent.

JW
James Whitfield
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