Inside the Mixtape Museum: Saving Cassettes and Stories to Preserve Our Musical DNA
Mixtapes aren’t just nostalgic relics—they’re cultural artifacts that reveal how people used cassettes to create, share, and document music outside traditional channels. The Mixtape Museum highlights how these homemade compilations empowered artists, built underground communities, and preserved hidden histories now at risk of being lost. By uncovering the stories and data within each tape, this work shows how analog creativity still shapes how we collect, share, and connect through music today.
I hope you enjoy this conversation. Your thoughts and stories mean a lot, so please share them and thank you for listening and subscribing to Music Evolves.
Mixtapes aren’t just nostalgic relics—they’re cultural artifacts that reveal how people used cassettes to create, share, and document music outside traditional channels. The Mixtape Museum highlights how these homemade compilations empowered artists, built underground communities, and preserved hidden histories now at risk of being lost. By uncovering the stories and data within each tape, this work shows how analog creativity still shapes how we collect, share, and connect through music today.
I hope you enjoy this conversation. Your thoughts and stories mean a lot, so please share them and thank you for listening and subscribing to Music Evolves.
Keep creating, keep listening, and let the music move you.™️
—Sean Martin, Host, Music Evolves Podcast
🎧 Listen to the full Music Evolves audio episode
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🔆 Key Episode Highlights
❶ Mixtapes are more than music—they are cultural time capsules.
Each tape holds memories, hidden data, and social connections that reveal how people made and shared music before digital playlists existed.
❷ Preservation is a collective effort, not just a physical archive.
Sommer emphasizes that the goal isn’t to hoard tapes in a single building but to support collectors everywhere, document their stories, and build a community that values these analog artifacts.
❸ The spirit of mixtapes lives on in today’s music culture—but something vital gets lost without the physical craft.
Digital playlists mimic mixtapes but can’t fully recreate the intentional sequencing, handwritten notes, and physical exchange that once made sharing music so personal and meaningful.
🎤 Meet the Guest
Regan Sommer McCoy, Chief Curator of the The Mixtape Museum (MXM) | Website: https://sommer.nyc/
🎙️ Meet the Host
Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine Podcasts and Host of Music Evolves Podcast | View Profile
✨ Meet the Sponsors
Are you interested in sponsoring or placing a host-read commercial on this podcast?
Show Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship
Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc
📒 Resources
Mixtape Museum: https://mixtapemuseum.org/
💬 Join the Conversation
What’s the first mixtape you ever made—or the one you still can’t let go of? How do you think mixtapes shaped the way we share music today?
Share your thoughts in the comments! What's your perspective on this story? Want to share it with Sean on a podcast? Let him know!
If you have a topic or event you want me to explore, drop me a direct message and we can discuss the opportunity.
🔎 Explore More Episodes
Visit the Music Evolves Podcast page to find and search for more episodes
📰 Share and Subscribe to this Newsletter
I hope you enjoy and share this story with others. Be sure to subscribe to the Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter for even more stories. 🛸 🤖 🎛️ 🎚️ ♬
Thank you for watching, listening, reading, and joining me!
⭐️ About Sean Martin
Sean Martin is a life-long musician and the host of the Music Evolves Podcast ; a career technologist, cybersecurity professional, and the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast; and is the co-host of the Random and Unscripted Podcast and the On Location Event Coverage Podcast. These shows are all part of ITSPmagazine—which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli, to explore and discuss topics at The Intersection of Technology, Cybersecurity, and Society.™️
Want to connect with Sean and Marco On Location at an event or conference near you? See where they will be next: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location
To learn more about Sean, visit his personal website.
Creating Moments, Not Just Mixes: Why a Great DJ Isn’t Just a Playlist
This episode of Music Evolves was a special one for me. I had the chance to sit down with George Platsis —better known behind the decks as DJ Zeus—for a conversation that took me back to the heart of why I love music.
We talked about the craft of DJing, the power of a well-placed track, and how technology has changed the game without replacing the human connection that makes it all work.
From mixtapes to massive club nights, this is a story about creativity, timing, and the kind of storytelling that only happens through sound.
This episode of Music Evolves was a special one for me. I had the chance to sit down with George Platsis —better known behind the decks as DJ Zeus—for a conversation that took me back to the heart of why I love music.
We talked about the craft of DJing, the power of a well-placed track, and how technology has changed the game without replacing the human connection that makes it all work.
From mixtapes to massive club nights, this is a story about creativity, timing, and the kind of storytelling that only happens through sound.
Keep creating, keep listening, and let the music move you.™️
—Sean Martin, Host, Music Evolves Podcast
🎧 Listen to the full Music Evolves audio episode
🔔 Subscribe to The Music Evolves Podcast on your Favorite Platform
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Pandora | Amazon Music | RSS Feed
🖥️ Watch the full Music Evolves video episode
🔆 Key Episode Highlights
❶ Great DJing is emotional storytelling, not just technical skill.
DJ Zeus highlights that the real power of a DJ lies in curating an experience, not just syncing beats. Whether through a slow build, a dramatic drop, or a genre-crossing surprise, he approaches every set as a narrative that responds to the energy of the room.
The goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection.
❷ Technology has unlocked new creative potential—but only if you push it.
From stem isolation to pitch-preserving tempo shifts, modern tools give DJs more control than ever. But Zeus argues these tools can’t replace feel.
It’s what you do with the tech—like remixing live, adding original layers, or mixing harmonically—that makes a performance uniquely human and memorable.
❸ Crowd reading is a critical, often underrated, DJ skill.
One of the most valuable takeaways is Zeus’s focus on reading the room. He shares a pivotal moment early in his career when a party fell flat because he played what he liked, not what the crowd needed.
That experience taught him that a great DJ balances personal taste with responsiveness—knowing when to surprise, when to push, and when to pull back.
🎤 Meet the Guest
George Platsis (AKA DJ Zeus)
🎙️ Meet the Host
Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine Podcasts and Host of Music Evolves Podcast | View Profile
✨ Meet the Sponsors
Are you interested in sponsoring or placing a host-read commercial on this podcast?
Show Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship
Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc
📸 Photos From The Visit
💬 Join the Conversation
What’s the difference between a playlist and a performance? Can technology ever truly replace the feeling of a live DJ reading the room?
Share your thoughts in the comments! What's your perspective on this story? Want to share it with Sean on a podcast? Let him know!
If you have a topic or event you want me to explore, drop me a direct message and we can discuss the opportunity.
🔎 Explore More Episodes
Visit the Music Evolves Podcast page to find and search for more episodes
📰 Share and Subscribe to this Newsletter
I hope you enjoy and share this story with others. Be sure to subscribe to the Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter for even more stories. 🛸 🤖 🎛️ 🎚️ ♬
Thank you for watching, listening, reading, and joining me!
⭐️ About Sean Martin
Sean Martin is a life-long musician and the host of the Music Evolves Podcast ; a career technologist, cybersecurity professional, and the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast; and is the co-host of the Random and Unscripted Podcast and the On Location Event Coverage Podcast. These shows are all part of ITSPmagazine—which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli, to explore and discuss topics at The Intersection of Technology, Cybersecurity, and Society.™️
Want to connect with Sean and Marco On Location at an event or conference near you? See where they will be next: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location
To learn more about Sean, visit his personal website.
From Sidewalks to Sousapaloozas: This Is Your Invitation to Play — Make Music Day Is for You
Imagine a day where music fills every corner of your city—not from giant stages or headliners, but from porches, sidewalks, and rooftops, played by people just like you. That’s what June 21 is all about.
It’s a day where everyone is invited to show up, make some noise, and be part of something bigger than themselves—no matter your skill level or background. In this piece, I’m excited to share a conversation that gets to the heart of what happens when we remove the barriers and just let music happen.
I hope it inspires you to pick up your instrument, step outside, and join the movement.
Imagine a day where music fills every corner of your city—not from giant stages or headliners, but from porches, sidewalks, and rooftops, played by people just like you. That’s what June 21 is all about.
It’s a day where everyone is invited to show up, make some noise, and be part of something bigger than themselves—no matter your skill level or background. In this piece, I’m excited to share a conversation that gets to the heart of what happens when we remove the barriers and just let music happen.
I hope it inspires you to pick up your instrument, step outside, and join the movement.
Keep creating, keep listening, and let the music move you.™️
—Sean Martin, Host, Music Evolves Podcast
🎧 Listen to the full Music Evolves audio episode
🔔 Subscribe to The Music Evolves Podcast on your Favorite Platform
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Pandora | Amazon Music | RSS Feed
🖥️ Watch the full Music Evolves video episode
🔆 Key Episode Highlights
❶ Music isn’t just for the pros—it’s for everyone, everywhere.
Whether you’ve got a degree in composition or a dusty trombone in your closet, Make Music Day proves there’s no “right way” to participate.
You don’t need a stage or a setlist—just a song and a sidewalk. That freedom fuels creativity and invites people back into music, no matter where they left off.
❷ A global jam works best when it’s local.
The Make Music Alliance doesn’t run the show—it empowers cities, schools, neighborhoods, and random porch owners to make their own music scene for a day.
That DIY spirit is what makes each location’s vibe unique—and it’s what turns a global idea into something that feels like your block party.
❸ Real discovery happens offline.
Algorithms serve up what they think you want. But wandering through a park and stumbling on a Peruvian flute band or a punk trio with something to say? That’s the kind of music moment that sticks with you.
Make Music Day creates space for that kind of surprise—and we need more of it.
🎤 Meet the Guest
Aaron Friedman, Executive Director, Make Music Alliance
🎙️ Meet the Host
Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine Podcasts and Host of Music Evolves Podcast | View Profile
✨ Meet the Sponsors
Are you interested in sponsoring or placing a host-read commercial on this podcast?
Show Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship
Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc
📒 Resources
Make Music Day: https://makemusicday.org/
Make Music Alliance: https://makemusicday.org/about/alliance/
Sousapalooza: https://makemusicday.org/national-projects/sousapalooza/
TuneFest Ireland: https://www.instagram.com/tunefest_dungarvan/p/DGsVzCUPW3F/
💬 Join the Conversation
What does music look like when everyone gets to play? Have you ever performed outside, just for the joy of it?
Share your story, your favorite sidewalk set, or how you plan to make music this June 21—let’s keep the conversation going.
Share your thoughts in the comments! What's your perspective on this story? Want to share it with Sean on a podcast? Let him know!
If you have a topic or event you want me to explore, drop me a direct message and we can discuss the opportunity.
🔎 Explore More Episodes
Visit the Music Evolves Podcast page to find and search for more episodes
📰 Share and Subscribe to this Newsletter
I hope you enjoy and share this story with others. Be sure to subscribe to the Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter for even more stories. 🛸 🤖 🎛️ 🎚️ ♬
Thank you for watching, listening, reading, and joining me!
⭐️ About Sean Martin
Sean Martin is a life-long musician and the host of the Music Evolves Podcast ; a career technologist, cybersecurity professional, and the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast; and is the co-host of the Random and Unscripted Podcast and the On Location Event Coverage Podcast. These shows are all part of ITSPmagazine—which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli, to explore and discuss topics at The Intersection of Technology, Cybersecurity, and Society.™️
Want to connect with Sean and Marco On Location at an event or conference near you? See where they will be next: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location
To learn more about Sean, visit his personal website.
How Technology is Changing the Way We Make Music: A Look Inside Columbia University's Groundbreaking Computer Music Center
Columbia University’s Computer Music Center has been at the forefront of music technology for decades, shaping the way sound is created, studied, and experienced. In this episode of Music Evolves, I get to sit down (and walk around) with Seth Cluett to explore the center’s rich history, its role in pioneering electronic music, and how today’s artists blend creativity with cutting-edge tools like AI, spatial audio, and modular synthesis.
From breaking down barriers to access in music technology to redefining the relationship between human expression and digital innovation, this conversation highlights the future of sound and its limitless possibilities.
I hope you enjoy this episode as much I did and do.
Columbia University’s Computer Music Center has been at the forefront of music technology for decades, shaping the way sound is created, studied, and experienced. In this episode of Music Evolves, I get to sit down (and walk around) with Seth Cluett to explore the center’s rich history, its role in pioneering electronic music, and how today’s artists blend creativity with cutting-edge tools like AI, spatial audio, and modular synthesis.
From breaking down barriers to access in music technology to redefining the relationship between human expression and digital innovation, this conversation highlights the future of sound and its limitless possibilities.
I hope you enjoy this episode as much I did and do.
Until next time ...
Keep creating, keep listening, and let the music move you.™️
—Sean Martin, Host, Music Evolves Podcast
🎧 Listen to the full Music Evolves audio episode
🔔 Subscribe to The Music Evolves Podcast on your Favorite Platform
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🖥️ Watch the full Music Evolves video episode
🔆 Key Episode Highlights
❶ Electronic music technology has deep historical roots and continues to shape modern sound production.
The Columbia-Princeton Electronic Music Center, now the Computer Music Center (CMC) at Columbia University, was instrumental in pioneering electronic music.
It trained generations of composers, introduced groundbreaking tools like the RCA Mark II Synthesizer, and played a role in major music innovations.
The center’s historical influence extends globally, as early students returned to their home countries to establish electronic music studios.
❷ Removing barriers to technology enhances creativity and inclusion in music.
Accessibility is key to fostering creativity in music technology. Cluett emphasizes that many students, especially those from schools without access to music tech, might feel intimidated by complex studio setups.
The CMC’s approach ensures that anyone can start making music with 80% functionality within 20 minutes of entering a studio, lowering friction and encouraging creative experimentation.
❸ Technology is a tool for expanding human creativity, not replacing it.
While AI and machine learning are being integrated into music production, they have not yet captured the expressive and emotional depth that human musicians bring.
Cluett argues that technology enhances artistic possibilities—whether through spatial audio, interactive performance tools, or real-time sound manipulation—but it does not eliminate the need for human artistry.
The future of music lies in blending human expression with technological advancements, rather than choosing one over the other.
🎤 Meet the Guest
Seth Cluett, Director of Columbia University's Computer Music Center | Columbia University Computer Music Center Bio
🎙️ Meet the Host
Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine Podcasts and Host of Music Evolves Podcast | View Profile
✨ Meet the Sponsors
Are you interested in sponsoring or placing a host-read commercial on this podcast?
Show Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship
Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc
📒 Resources
Columbia University Computer Music Center: https://cmc.music.columbia.edu/
The last piece of functional music created on the RCA Mark II Synthesizer (1998) | DJ Spooky vs. The Freight Elevator Quartet – File Under Futurism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KViFoylo2hQ
Podcast | The Future Of Music And Its Impact On Society And Humanity | With Seth Cluett and Scott Scheferman: https://itspmagazine.simplecast.com/episodes/the-future-of-music-and-its-impact-on-society-and-humanity-with-seth-cluett-and-shagghie
📸 Photos From The Visit
RCA Mark II Synthesizer
Computer Music Center (CMC) at Columbia University, Manhattan, New York
Seth Cluett (L) and Sean Martin (R) at the Columbia University CMC
💬 Join the Conversation
How do you see technology shaping the future of music—enhancing creativity or replacing human expression? What innovations excite you most in sound production and performance?
Share your thoughts in the comments! What's your perspective on this story? Want to share it with Sean on a podcast? Let him know!
If you have a topic or event you want me to explore, drop me a direct message and we can discuss the opportunity.
🔎 Explore More Episodes
Visit the Music Evolves Podcast page to find and search for more episodes
📰 Share and Subscribe to this Newsletter
I hope you enjoy and share this story with others. Be sure to subscribe to the Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter for even more stories. 🛸 ♬
Thank you for watching, listening, reading, and joining me!
⭐️ About Sean Martin
Sean Martin is a life-long musician and the host of the Music Evolves Podcast ; a career technologist, cybersecurity professional, and the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast; and is the co-host of the Random and Unscripted Podcast and the On Location Event Coverage Podcast. These shows are all part of ITSPmagazine—which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli, to explore and discuss topics at The Intersection of Technology, Cybersecurity, and Society.™️
Want to connect with Sean and Marco On Location at an event or conference near you? See where they will be next: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location
To learn more about Sean, visit his personal website.
Hacking the Rules of Music: Experimentation, Technology, and Artistic Freedom
The latest episode of Music Evolves explores the intersection of creativity, technology, and music with guest Scott “Shagghie” Scheferman. I get to spend some time with an amazing friend and fellow musician to dive into how the hacker mindset applies to music, from modular synthesizers and effects pedals to AI-driven composition.
If you've ever seen us on a podcast together, you won't be surprised to know that our discussion challenges traditional ideas of artistry, questioning whether technology enhances or diminishes human expression.
As digital tools become more advanced, will audiences continue to crave raw, organic sound, or will machine-generated perfection redefine the way we experience music?
The answer depends. Will you answer yourself? Or will AI assist or completely do it for you? 😬
The latest episode of Music Evolves explores the intersection of creativity, technology, and music with guest Scott “Shagghie” Scheferman. I get to spend some time with an amazing friend and fellow musician to dive into how the hacker mindset applies to music, from modular synthesizers and effects pedals to AI-driven composition.
If you've ever seen us on a podcast together, you won't be surprised to know that our discussion challenges traditional ideas of artistry, questioning whether technology enhances or diminishes human expression.
As digital tools become more advanced, will audiences continue to crave raw, organic sound, or will machine-generated perfection redefine the way we experience music?
The answer depends. Will you answer yourself? Or will AI assist or completely do it for you?😬
Until next time ...
Keep creating, keep listening, and let the music move you.™️
—Sean Martin, Host, Music Evolves Podcast
🎧 Listen to the full Music Evolves audio episode
🔔 Subscribe to The Music Evolves Podcast on your Favorite Platform
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Pandora | Amazon Music | RSS Feed
🖥️ Watch the full Music Evolves video episode
🔆 Key Episode Highlights
❶ Creativity and Hacking Share the Same DNA
Whether in cybersecurity, music, or other creative fields, hacking is about pushing boundaries, experimenting with tools in unintended ways, and embracing the unexpected.
Scott “Shagghie” Scheferman describes how his background in cybersecurity influences his music-making process, where breaking conventional rules leads to unique soundscapes.
❷ AI and Technology Are Changing Music, but Human Intent Still Matters
AI can generate beats, suggest melodies, and assist with production, but it doesn’t replace human intuition.
While technology can accelerate creative workflows, Scheferman argues that true artistry comes from intentionality—deciding when to embrace digital tools and when to rely on human spontaneity.
The best music often comes from imperfections, nuance, and emotion, things AI struggles to fully replicate.
❸ Audiences May Crave Analog, Human Sound Even More as Digital Perfection Increases
As AI-generated music and digital production tools advance, there’s a growing conversation about whether audiences will gravitate toward the polished perfection of machine-made music or seek out the raw, unfiltered experience of live instruments and analog sounds.
The discussion touches on the resurgence of vinyl and how certain music genres, like jazz and blues, thrive on real-time human interplay that technology struggles to recreate authentically.
🎤 Meet the Guest
🎙️ Meet the Host
Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine Podcasts and Host of Music Evolves Podcast | View Profile
✨ Meet the Sponsors
Are you interested in sponsoring or placing a host-read commercial on this podcast?
Show Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship
Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc
📒 Resources
Katy Rokit - Forgotten Dance Mix (Techno meets Pop Electronica): https://katyrokit.bandcamp.com/track/the-forgotten-forgetaboutit-dance-mix
Highsage - Sloane vs. Aliens (my kid's voice vs. algo filtering, tape delays, drum machine and euro rack - live performance): https://highsage.bandcamp.com/track/sloane-vs-martians
Highsage - "Open" - Just a man with his 303, 808 and some strings... - "like a breeze that opens the door with a funk that shuts the window" (live cut): https://highsage.bandcamp.com/track/open
💬 Join the Conversation
How does technology shape your connection to music—does it enhance creativity or take away from human expression? Do you prefer the raw imperfection of live instruments or the precision of digital production?
Share your thoughts in the comments! What's your perspective on this story? Want to share it with Sean on a podcast? Let him know!
If you have a topic or event you want me to explore, drop me a direct message and we can discuss the opportunity.
🔎 Explore More Episodes
Visit the Music Evolves Podcast page to find and search for more episodes
📰 Share and Subscribe to this Newsletter
I hope you enjoy and share this story with others. Be sure to subscribe to the Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter for even more stories. 🛸 ♬
Thank you for watching, listening, reading, and joining me!
⭐️ About Sean Martin
Sean Martin is a life-long musician and the host of the Music Evolves Podcast ; a career technologist, cybersecurity professional, and the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast; and is the co-host of the Random and Unscripted Podcast and the On Location Event Coverage Podcast. These shows are all part of ITSPmagazine—which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli, to explore and discuss topics at The Intersection of Technology, Cybersecurity, and Society.™️
Want to connect with Sean and Marco On Location at an event or conference near you? See where they will be next: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location
To learn more about Sean, visit his personal website.
Breaking Sound Barriers: Music, Accessibility, and Innovation
How does a blind musician navigate the world of music creation, performance, and advocacy? In this episode of Music Evolves, Precious Perez, a singer, songwriter, and educator, shares how she uses technology, adaptive techniques, and community collaboration to compose, record, and perform.
As president of RAMPD, Precious also discusses the importance of accessibility in the music industry and the ongoing fight for disability representation. From Braille music to Pro Tools, live performance cues to industry advocacy, this conversation explores how inclusion and innovation are shaping the future of music.
How does a blind musician navigate the world of music creation, performance, and advocacy? In this episode of Music Evolves, Precious Perez, a singer, songwriter, and educator, shares how she uses technology, adaptive techniques, and community collaboration to compose, record, and perform.
As president of RAMPD, Precious also discusses the importance of accessibility in the music industry and the ongoing fight for disability representation. From Braille music to Pro Tools, live performance cues to industry advocacy, this conversation explores how inclusion and innovation are shaping the future of music.
Stick around until the end of the conversation—Precious has a special surprise that perfectly captures the heart of this conversation. You won’t want to miss it! 🎶
Keep creating, keep listening, and let the music move you.™️
—Sean Martin, Host, Music Evolves Podcast
🎧 Listen to the full Music Evolves audio episode
🔔 Subscribe to The Music Evolves Podcast on your Favorite Platform
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Pandora | Amazon Music | RSS Feed
🖥️ Watch the full Music Evolves video episode
🔆 Key Episode Highlights
❶ Music Accessibility Is More Than Just Braille – It’s About Adaptive Techniques and Technology
While Braille music is a useful tool, it isn’t always the most practical method for blind musicians.
Instead, a combination of tactile memory, screen reading software, and adaptive learning techniques allows blind artists to compose, practice, and perform effectively.
Perez demonstrates how she uses BrailleSense, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, and alternative notation systems to bridge the gap between traditional and adaptive music education.
❷ Disability Representation in the Music Industry Is Growing, but There’s Still Work to Do
Through RAMPD, Perez and her colleagues are actively working to increase visibility and opportunity for musicians with disabilities.
Many industry professionals still don’t consider disability as part of diversity initiatives, and accessibility is often an afterthought.
By working with organizations like the Grammys and NAMM, RAMPD is proving that disabled musicians are competitive, professional, and ready for major industry opportunities.
❸ Collaboration and Community Are Essential for Musical Growth and Performance
Whether it’s through RAMPD’s network, working with supportive bandmates, or engaging with organizations like NAMM, Perez emphasizes that music thrives when artists support each other.
Her experience in bands and live performances highlights the importance of clear communication, creative problem-solving, and mutual respect to ensure seamless and enjoyable performances for both artists and audiences.
🎤 Meet the Guest
Precious Perez, President at RAMPD | View Website
🎙️ Meet the Host
Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine Podcasts and Host of Music Evolves Podcast | View Profile
✨ Meet the Sponsors
Are you interested in sponsoring or placing a host-read commercial on this podcast?
Show Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship
Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc
📒 Resources
Precious' LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/preciousperezmusica
Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities (RAMPD): https://rampd.org/
💬 Join the Conversation
How does technology shape the way we create and experience music? What barriers still exist for musicians with disabilities, and how can the industry do better?
Share your thoughts in the comments! What's your perspective on this story? Want to share it with Sean on a podcast? Let him know!
If you have a topic or event you want me to explore, drop me a direct message and we can discuss the opportunity.
🔎 Explore More Episodes
Visit the Music Evolves Podcast page to find and search for more episodes
📰 Share and Subscribe to this Newsletter
I hope you enjoy and share this story with others. Be sure to subscribe to the Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter for even more stories. 🛸 ♬
Thank you for watching, listening, reading, and joining me!
⭐️ About Sean Martin
Sean Martin is a life-long musician and the host of the Music Evolves Podcast, the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, the Random and Unscripted Podcast, and the On Location Event Coverage Podcast, all part of ITSPmagazine—which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli, to explore and discuss topics at The Intersection of Technology, Cybersecurity, and Society.™️
Want to connect with Sean and Marco On Location at an event or conference near you? See where they will be next: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location
To learn more about Sean, visit his personal website.
Reimagining Nostalgia: Music’s Creative and Technological Evolution
Following my attendance at NAMM 2025, I had the pleasure of sitting down with NAMM President and CEO John Mlynczak alongside my co-founder and fellow music lover, Marco Ciappelli. Our conversation explored the powerful intersection of music, technology, and community, highlighting how advancements in real-time processing and AI are transforming music creation while other technology innovations focus on honoring the timeless sounds we all love.
Following my attendance at NAMM 2025, I had the pleasure of sitting down with NAMM President and CEO John Mlynczak alongside my co-founder and fellow music lover, Marco Ciappelli. Our conversation explored the powerful intersection of music, technology, and community, highlighting how advancements in real-time processing and AI are transforming music creation while other technology innovations focus on honoring the timeless sounds we all love.
John shared how NAMM’s mission extends beyond the trade show floor, focusing on inspiring new music makers, supporting education, and advocating for access to music across all ages and backgrounds. Through thoughtful discussion and personal stories, this episode shines a light on how technology can democratize creativity and why fostering a love of music remains central to NAMM’s work. Whether you’re a musician, educator, or simply a fan of music, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration.
Keep creating, keep listening, and let the music move you.™️
—Sean Martin, Host, Music Evolves Podcast
🎧 Listen to the full Music Evolves audio episode
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🔆 Key Episode Highlights
❶ Technology is Revolutionizing Music Creation
One of the most compelling insights is how advancements in technology, particularly real-time processing and AI integration, are transforming the way music is created and performed.
Mlynczak highlights how companies like Qualcomm, Apple, and NVIDIA are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, allowing musicians to manipulate sounds instantaneously.
This shift reduces creative friction, enabling artists to experiment and innovate more freely.
❷ Balancing Innovation with Nostalgia
The NAMM Show 2025 revealed a strong trend of blending new technology with vintage sounds and experiences.
Products that replicate classic amplifiers or recreate iconic sounds from past decades demonstrate the industry’s understanding that while technology drives innovation, there remains a deep appreciation and demand for the timeless elements of music.
This balance between honoring tradition and embracing the future is key to NAMM’s approach.
❸ The Unifying Power of Music Education and Advocacy
Mlynczak underscores NAMM’s commitment to creating more music makers through education and community initiatives.
The NAMM Foundation strategically invests in programs that promote music learning across all life stages—from childhood through adulthood—ensuring a pipeline of new musicians and reinforcing the cultural and social value of music.
This holistic approach not only supports the music products industry but also fosters a broader societal impact by inspiring creativity and connection through music.
🎤 Meet the Guest
John Mlynczak, President and CEO of NAMM | View Website | Visit NAMM
🎙️ Meet the Hosts
Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine Podcasts and Host of Music Evolves Podcast | View Profile
Host: Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine Podcasts and Host of Redefining Society and Technology Podcast | View Profile
✨ Meet the Sponsors
Are you interested in sponsoring or placing a host-read commercial on this podcast?
Show Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship
Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc
📒 Resources
NAMM Organization: https://www.namm.org/
The NAMM Show 2025: https://www.namm.org/thenammshow/attend
Catch more stories from NAMM Show 2025 coverage: https://itspmagazine.com/the-2025-namm-show-namm-music-conference-music-technology-event-coverage-anaheim-california
Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter | The 2025 NAMM Show: Honoring Tradition, Pioneering the Future: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/2025-namm-show-honoring-tradition-pioneering-future-sean-martin-6jcge/
Music Evolves Episode | The debut episode of Music Evolves explores how technology is transforming music creation, performance, and production, with insights from the NAMM Show 2025
💬 Join the Conversation
What do you think about the balance between innovation and nostalgia in music? What about how technology is shaping the future of music creation and performance?
Share your thoughts in the comments! What's your perspective on this story? Want to share it with Sean on a podcast? Let him know!
If you have a topic or event you want me to explore, drop me a direct message and I can discuss the opportunity.
🔎 Explore More Episodes
Visit the Music Evolves Podcast page to find and search for more episodes
📰 Share and Subscribe to this Newsletter
I hope you enjoy and share this story with others. Be sure to subscribe to the Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter for even more stories. 🛸 ♬
Thank you for watching, listening, reading, and joining me!
⭐️ About the Author
Sean Martin is a life-long musician, technologist, and the host of the Music Evolves Podcast, the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, and the Random and Unscripted Podcast, all part of ITSPmagazine Podcasts which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli.
To learn more about Sean, visit his personal website.
Pressing Forward: The Vinyl Revival — The Sound. The Experience. The Future.
Vinyl records have reclaimed their place in music culture, but what’s driving the resurgence, and what does it mean for artists, collectors, and the industry? Journalist and Making Vinyl co-founder Larry Jaffee joins Music Evolves to explore the past, present, and future of vinyl, from its sound and experience to the challenges and innovations shaping what comes next. Larry’s deep knowledge of music history, industry shifts, and the cultural significance of vinyl makes this an essential episode for music fans. Tune in to hear more about the making of records, the role of packaging and design, and what’s next for the format that refuses to fade.
Vinyl records have reclaimed their place in music culture, but what’s driving the resurgence, and what does it mean for artists, collectors, and the industry? Journalist and Making Vinyl co-founder Larry Jaffee joins Music Evolves to explore the past, present, and future of vinyl, from its sound and experience to the challenges and innovations shaping what comes next. Larry’s deep knowledge of music history, industry shifts, and the cultural significance of vinyl makes this an essential episode for music fans. Tune in to hear more about the making of records, the role of packaging and design, and what’s next for the format that refuses to fade.
Keep creating, keep listening, and let the music move you.™️
—Sean Martin, Host, Music Evolves Podcast
🎧 Listen to the full Music Evolves audio episode
🔔 Subscribe to The Music Evolves Podcast on your Favorite Platform
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Pandora | Amazon Music | RSS Feed
🖥️ Watch the full Music Evolves video episode
🔆 Key Episode Highlights
❶ Vinyl’s resurgence isn’t just nostalgia—it’s a response to digital fatigue and a demand for tangible music experiences
While nostalgia plays a role, the comeback is driven by younger generations seeking a deeper connection to music.
The physicality of vinyl—album art, liner notes, and the ritual of playing a record—offers an experience that digital formats lack.
❷ The economics of vinyl benefit artists more than streaming
Streaming dominates music consumption but offers minimal payouts to artists.
Selling vinyl, especially independently or at concerts, allows musicians to make a higher profit per album, giving them more control over their revenue.
❸ Sustainability is a key challenge for vinyl’s future, but innovation is underway
Traditional vinyl production relies on PVC, a material with significant environmental concerns.
Efforts are being made to develop plant-based alternatives and improve production efficiency, signaling a shift toward more sustainable solutions in the industry.
🎤 Meet the Guest
Larry Jaffee, Author, Journalist, Professor, and Co-Founder of Making Vinyl
🎙️ Meet the Host
Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine Podcasts and Host of Music Evolves Podcast | View Profile
✨ Meet the Sponsors
Are you interested in sponsoring or placing a host-read commercial on this podcast?
Show Sponsorship 👉 https://itspm.ag/annual-sponsorship
Ad Placement 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc
📒 Resources
Record Store Day Book: https://amzn.to/3CR932O
Record Store Day: https://recordstoreday.com
Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter | Grooves That Connect: A Reunion in Music: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/grooves-connect-reunion-music-sean-martin-ksfke/
Mixtape Museum: https://mixtapemuseum.org/
Article | As Trevor Noah exits Daily Show: his music tastes and life as a teenaged CD bootlegger in South Africa: https://www.goldminemag.com/articles/as-trevor-noah-exits-daily-show-his-music-tastes-and-life-as-a-teenaged-cd-bootlegger-in-south-africa
Article | How well is MoFi managing its digital mastering LP controversy? https://www.goldminemag.com/collector-resources/how-well-is-mofi-managing-its-digital-mastering-lp-controversy
💬 Join the Conversation
What are your thoughts on the vinyl resurgence? What are your favorite records?
Share your thoughts in the comments! What's your perspective on this story? Want to share it with Sean on a podcast? Let him know!
If you have a topic or event you want me to explore, drop me a direct message and I can discuss the opportunity.
🔎 Explore More Episodes
Visit the Music Evolves Podcast page to find and search for more episodes
📰 Share and Subscribe to this Newsletter
I hope you enjoy and share this story with others. Be sure to subscribe to the Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter for even more stories. 🛸 ♬
Thank you for watching, listening, reading, and joining me!
⭐️ About the Author
Sean Martin is a life-long musician, technologist, and the host of the Music Evolves Podcast, the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, and the Random and Unscripted Podcast, all part of ITSPmagazine Podcasts which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli.
To learn more about Sean, visit his personal website.
Grooves That Connect: A Reunion in Music
Years ago, Larry Jaffee and I worked together in the cybersecurity space—both of us journalists covering the latest risks and threats to business and society. It was a different time, a different industry—one built on firewalls and encryption rather than melodies and grooves. Decades passed. Life moved forward. When I relocated to New York City, we reconnected online, and when I launched the Music Evolves Podcast, our conversations picked up again. But this time, the topic wasn’t security. It was music. And it was in person.
Years ago, Larry Jaffee and I worked together in the cybersecurity space—both of us journalists covering the latest risks and threats to business and society. It was a different time, a different industry—one built on firewalls and encryption rather than melodies and grooves. Decades passed. Life moved forward. When I relocated to New York City, we reconnected online, and when I launched the Music Evolves Podcast, our conversations picked up again. But this time, the topic wasn’t security. It was music. And it was in person.
I arrived first at a local café in uptown Manhattan, grabbing a seat at the table after navigating the usual NYC subway delays. Before long, Larry walked in, portable record player in tow along with some event brochures, a book, and a couple LPs, ready to talk shop about something we both love. Our conversation spanned the comeback of vinyl, the future of sustainable, non-plastic pressings, and the business of recording artists today. We talked about several artists, including Jack White—whom I had just seen at NAMM and whom Larry was off to see perform that night in New York. And as often happens in conversations like these, we drifted into bigger topics—what drives us, what keeps us going, and the passion that fuels the work we do.
Then came the best part. Larry positioned the battery-powered turntable on the table and spun a few tracks. One LP was tied to his book, Record Store Day, and the other to his latest non-plastic pressing venture, Thermal Beets Records. The music wasn’t loud, but it didn’t need to be—because what made the moment special wasn’t just the sound, but the technology itself. In a world where we take instant access to music for granted, this now-perhaps “antiquated” tech allowed us to connect in a way that wouldn’t have happened otherwise.
Sitting in a public café, with no Wi-Fi, no streaming, and no algorithms curating the experience for us, we shared music in its purest form—physically present, intentional, and personal. It also connected us through a nostalgic location, Amoeba Records in Los Angeles—where the track being played was recorded, where Larry and I both spent some time, and where a good LA-based friend of mine (also originally from the cybersecurity space) used to work. It's a small, wonderful world, for sure.
The perfect crackle of the vinyl wasn’t just nostalgia; it was a bridge across time, industries, and experience, made possible by the very innovation that first brought recorded music into people’s lives.
Some connections are meant to last. No matter how much time passes or how industries evolve—whether it’s cybersecurity, media, or music—shared passions have a way of bringing people back together.
Stay tuned—Larry will be joining me on the Music Evolves podcast to dive into the history and future of vinyl. I’ll also be covering Making Vinyl, his upcoming event, to get an even deeper view into this space with record industry veterans, luminaries, artists, and innovators.
There’s so much more music innovation, creativity, and nostalgia to explore, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
Until next time ...
Keep creating, keep listening, and let the music move you.™️
I hope you enjoy and share this story with others. Feel free to provide your thoughts on this article as well. If you have a topic or event you want me to explore, drop me a direct message and we can discuss the opportunity.
Oh, and be sure to subscribe to the Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter and to the Music Evolves Podcast for even more stories. 🛸 ♬
Thank you for watching, listening, reading, and joining me!
Sean Martin is a life-long musician and the host of the Music Evolves Podcast, the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, and the Random and Unscripted Podcast, all part of ITSPmagazine Podcasts—which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli, to explore and discuss topics The Intersection of Technology, Cybersecurity, and Society.™️
Want to connect with Sean and Marco On Location at an event or conference near you? See where they will be next: https://www.itspmagazine.com/on-location
To learn more about Sean, visit his personal website.
Introducing The Music Evolves Podcast with Sean Martin: The Sound of Innovation and Discovery
I can’t tell you how excited I am to launch Music Evolves Podcast, a space where we explore the intersection of music, technology, creativity, and culture—where the past meets the future and where innovation reshapes how we create, share, and experience music. The first intro episode was published the other day—this is my official announcement for the show. I hope you enjoy it, subscribe, and follow along!
Hey everyone,
I can’t tell you how excited I am to launch Music Evolves Podcast, a space where we explore the intersection of music, technology, creativity, and culture—where the past meets the future and where innovation reshapes how we create, share, and experience music. The first intro episode was published the other day—this is my official announcement for the show. I hope you enjoy it, subscribe, and follow along!
What Music Evolves Podcast is All About
Music has always been a part of my life. From playing instruments as a kid to discovering the latest music tech, I’ve always been fascinated by how sound evolves. This podcast is about that evolution—the artists, inventors, and innovators pushing boundaries, the gear and technology shaping our creativity and listening experience, and the moments of pure musical inspiration that keep us coming back for more.
Episode 1: NAMM and the Spark That Started It All
If there’s a moment that truly pushed me to kick off this show, it was attending NAMM—the world’s biggest stage for music technology and gear. Walking through the show floor, I saw legendary instruments reimagined, groundbreaking AI-powered tools, and new ways to create and experience sound. It was a perfect example of how music keeps evolving.
In our first episode, I break down some of the most exciting innovations from NAMM, like:
🎸 Guitars that store effects and loopers inside the instrument itself
🥁 Silent drum heads and cymbals that let you practice anywhere
🎚 Amps that recreate vintage tones and produce intense sound at low volumes
🎼 AI-powered songwriting, production tools, and the connected legal/ethical issues
But beyond the tech, there was also a strong sense of nostalgia—a love for the past that continues to shape the future. Jimi Hendrix, Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder—legends who defined eras of sound—still inspire the tech-driven tools of today. The way we create may change, but the essence of music remains timeless.
Tune in to my introduction podcast discussion with my ITSPmagazine Podcasts co-founder and fellow music enthusiast, Marco Ciappelli, where we dive into my 2025 NAMM Show experience, exploring the latest gear, industry trends, and the balance of innovation and tradition in music! 🎙️ 🎶 🚀
What’s Coming Next?
Each episode will dive into how music and technology are shaping the future, featuring insightful conversations with artists, producers, engineers, and innovators. We’ll talk about:
♪ Cutting-edge music tech & gear
♪ How AI & digital tools are redefining creativity
♪ The past innovations that built today’s music world
♪ Live on-screen and on-location performances, sound production, and experimentation
♪ The role of music in society & culture
I’ll be bringing musicians, producers, engineers, historians, educators, and even legal experts (and others) to discuss everything from music rights in the AI era to how artists are using technology to push creative limits.
And of course, we’ll have some fun along the way—because at its core, music is about feeling something powerful and sharing it with the world. I suspect we'll even get to see and hear some cool stuff too. 🎶
Let’s Evolve Together
If you love music, whether as a creator or a listener, I invite you to become part of how Music Evolves. Let’s explore where music has been, where it’s going, and how we can keep pushing the boundaries of sound.
Thanks for joining me!
Until next time ...
Keep creating, keep listening, and let the music move you.™️
Sean Martin
Host, Music Evolves Podcast
💬 Join the Conversation
What excites you about music’s future? Share your thoughts in the comments! What's your perspective on this story? Want to share it with Sean on a podcast? Let him know!
If you have a topic or event you want me to explore, drop me a direct message and I can discuss the opportunity.
🔔 Subscribe to The Music Evolves Podcast on your Favorite Platform
Apple Podcasts: Subscribe Here
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Pandora: Subscribe Here
RSS Feed: Connect Here
📲 Explore More Episodes
Visit the Music Evolves Podcast page to find and search for more episodes
📰 Share and Subscribe to the Companion Newsletter
I hope you enjoy and share this story with others. Be sure to subscribe to the Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter for even more stories. 🛸 ♬
Thank you for watching, listening, reading, and joining me!
Sean Martin is a life-long musician and the host of the Music Evolves Podcast, the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, and the Random and Unscripted Podcast, all part of the ITSPmagazine Podcast Network—which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli.
To learn more about Sean, visit his personal website.
The 2025 NAMM Show: Honoring Tradition, Pioneering the Future
🎶🎻 The 2025 NAMM Show: Honoring Tradition, Pioneering the Future 🎸🎶
Another incredible NAMM Show is in the books! From groundbreaking innovations in music tech to legendary artists reflecting on their journeys, NAMM 2025 was a perfect blend of innovation and nostalgia. In this new newsletter, Music Evolves, Sonic Frontiers, I share my biggest takeaways from the event, including:
♬ Exclusive conversations with Jon Batiste & Peter Frampton
♬ The latest gear from brands like Yamaha, Roland, Marshall, and Gibson
♬ The future of pedals—are they disappearing into guitars and amps?
♬ AI’s growing role in music and the ethics behind it
♬ A powerful show of support for LA wildfire victims
🎥 Plus, check out some on-location performances, celebrity moments, and behind-the-scenes footage captured from the show floor!
The 2025 NAMM Show at the Anaheim Convention Center (January 20–24, 2026) was a massive celebration of music, gear, and technology, bringing together over 63,000 attendees, including 10,700 international visitors. With 1,850 exhibitors representing 4,400+ brands, nearly 8,700 artists, 250+ education sessions featuring 650+ speakers, and 1,600 media, influencers, and content creators (👉 😬 👈) reaching over 200 million followers, the event reaffirmed its status as the premier gathering for musicians, producers, engineers, and industry professionals.
John Mlynczak, NAMM President and CEO, described the event as more than just a trade show—it’s where the global music products industry comes together as a family. “This is the world’s largest gathering of the music products industry,” Mlynczak explained. “Everyone who makes, manufactures, sells, distributes, teaches, and uses any music product is here. We have 123 countries represented, ~65,000 people, students, artists, and everyone in between. They gather to do business, but more importantly, they gather to be family.” This spirit of community and innovation was evident throughout the event, from the show floor and product unveilings to the educational sessions and performances.
As I walked the show floor and attended sessions throughout the event, a theme emerged—Innovation & Nostalgia.
This balance between new and old was evident in everything from AI-assisted music tools like ROLI’s AI-powered, hand-tracking Piano (Stevie Wonder even sat down to play) to remastered amplifier designs such as Marshall’s Modified Series. It was also reflected in synthesizers like the fourth-generation Korg Kronos, which is reintroduced bringing with it the legacy of its predecessors with a powerful new synth engine and expanded workstation capabilities, and guitars such as Gibson’s ES-335 Custom Color Series, which revives a timeless classic with fresh finishes and premium craftsmanship.
Tune in to my podcast discussion with my ITSPmagazine Podcasts co-founder and fellow music enthusiast, Marco Ciappelli, where we dive into my 2025 NAMM Show experience, exploring the latest gear, industry trends, and the balance of innovation and tradition in music! 🎙️ 🎶 🚀
Highlights from The 2025 NAMM Show
The event kicked off with Media Day, featuring an exciting lineup of top brands showcasing their latest innovations. Some of the standout brands present included: Akai Professional / AKAI Digital, AmpRx, Avid, C.F. Martin & Co , DPA Microphones , Drum Workshop, Inc. (DW Drums), Ear Trumpet Labs , Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, Gibson, Kala Brand Music , KHS America, Korg USA, Marshall Group, Native Instruments, Peavey Electronics, Positive Grid, Paul Reed Smith (PRS Guitars), QSC, Qualcomm, Roland Corporation U.S./Roland Corporation , Rozanna's Violins, Shure Incorporated, SnapDragon, SONOR GmbH, Strandberg Guitars, Venus Guitars, and Yamaha Corporation.
[Note: many of these brands and products are captured in my videos from the show]
These participating Media Day brands, along with the NAMM presenters, organizers, and staff, stood in solidarity with the Los Angeles fire victims, supporting the NAMM Foundation LA Wildfires Relief Fund (Note: link opens to donation site). The NAMM Foundation established this fund with an initial commitment of $50,000 to assist NAMM members, employees of member companies, music education programs, and music makers impacted by the fires.
NAMM Media Day also featured notable figures like Peter Frampton. Frampton, a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and Grammy Award winner, shared his deep connection with Martin Guitars during an interview with Martin Guitar CEO, Thomas Ripsam, recalling how he was inspired by Stephen Stills and Neil Young playing Martins with Buffalo Springfield. “I wanted that sound,” Frampton said. “So when I left Humble Pie in 1970, I went to Manny’s in New York and put down a deposit on a D-45. I played it on an album of mine called Frampton’s Camel, and if you hear an acoustic on that record, it’s the D-45.” He also reflected on losing that guitar while on tour, which led to Martin later collaborating with him on a signature Frampton’s Camel model.
Frampton also spoke about his long history of performing with Eric Clapton, including the Crossroads Guitar Festival, where the two legends shared the stage. “Eric and I go way back,” Frampton recalled. “Every time we play together, it’s just magic. He’s one of those players where you don’t have to think—you just feel it, and the music happens.” Their performances over the years have cemented Frampton’s place among the greats in rock guitar history.
NAMM 2025 also marked another milestone for Frampton, as he celebrated his Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction and announced a new studio album—the first with original material in 14 years—co-produced with his son, Julian Frampton.
Watch Peter Frampton’s conversation with Martin Guitar CEO, Thomas Ripsam, at The 2025 NAMM Show, where they discuss Frampton’s deep connection with Martin guitars, his signature model, his new gifted guitar, and his legendary career. 📺 🎸 🏆
Another exciting moment later in the week was a one-on-one conversation between Jon Batiste and NAMM President and CEO John Mlynczak. Batiste, who was honored with The Music for Life Award during this standing-room-only session, spoke about the power of music in shaping culture and inspiring future generations. “Music is everywhere in life. It’s in the celebrations, the rituals, even in the everyday moments we don’t think about. It’s not just something we listen to—it’s something we live. And when we recognize that, we see its power to bring people together, to heal, to create change.”
Batiste also reflected on his early days as a musician, sharing how he found his place in the New Orleans music scene and later in New York. “Growing up in New Orleans, music was everywhere. It wasn’t something separate—it was part of life. There was music for when someone was born, music for when people passed away, music for rituals, for celebrations. That shaped me. And then moving to New York, it was like being thrown into a world of musicians from all over, with different influences. That’s where I really started forming a community, finding my own sound.”
Watch Jon Batiste’s insightful 1:1 conversation with NAMM President and CEO John Mlynczak at The 2025 NAMM Show, where he discusses the power of music, creativity, and its cultural impact! 📺 ⚜️ 🎤
At the 40th TEC Awards, the legendary Jack White received the Innovation Award and delivered a live performance that was nothing short of electrifying. White’s approach to gear, particularly his custom pedal designs, reinforced a larger conversation happening at NAMM—the role of pedals in modern music and whether their standalone presence may shift in design and location as effects become integrated into instruments and amplifiers.
The show floor was an overwhelming display of musical gear, from trumpets to violins, harmonicas to keyboards, pedals to amplifiers, drums to guitars, and straps to strings. There was also a paradise of turntable, lighting, and sound gear for DJs and the crew that support the stage for all types of performers.
Alongside the gear, there were plenty of celebrity sightings, including Stevie Wonder, Robert Sarzo (Ozzy Osbourne), Simon Phillips, and Kiki Wong (Smashing Pumpkins). The energy of the event was heightened by both staged and impromptu performances, as attendees eagerly tested the latest gear.
Experience the energy of The 2025 NAMM Show firsthand with this exclusive video featuring some incredible on-location musical performances captured live! 📺 🎶 🔥
The Expanding Ecosystem of Music Gear
One of the key trends this year was expanded integration between instruments, software, and sound libraries. Many manufacturers are moving beyond standalone products and creating ecosystems that work seamlessly together.
At the Fender product release presentation, one speaker quoted scholar William Pollard, “Learning and innovation go hand in hand,” a sentiment that echoed across the event. Companies like Roland, Yamaha, and Martin Guitars showcased new products that combined cutting-edge technology with classic craftsmanship.
For example, Martin Guitars celebrated its 190th anniversary by unveiling its 3 millionth serial-numbered guitar, a testament to its longevity in the industry. Meanwhile, Shure marked 100 years of innovation, and Paul Reed Smith (PRS) introduced the latest model in their highly sought-after Dragon series.
Take a look inside The 2025 NAMM Show with this exclusive photo recap featuring celebrity sightings and the latest cutting-edge gear from the event! 📸 🎸 🥁
Technology Bridging Past & Future
The intersection of innovation and nostalgia was especially clear in new amplifier designs. Marshall introduced a reimagined version of its iconic 1959 amplifier, allowing players to achieve classic loud tones at lower volumes. While modern modeling amps offer countless tonal options, Marshall’s approach preserves its legendary analog sound while using new technology to make it more practical for today’s musicians.
Another standout innovation was Yamaha’s Tag3C guitar, which integrates built-in pedal effects and looping capabilities, eliminating the need for external stompboxes. This was a perfect example of the shifting landscape of gear, where manufacturers are considering how to make musicians’ lives easier by incorporating effects into their instruments.
Roland also made waves with its silent drum technology, showcasing mesh heads and electronic cymbals that feel like acoustic drums while remaining nearly silent. This is a game-changer for drummers who need to practice without disturbing their neighbors or who want a more controlled studio environment.
The Future of Pedals: Will They Get Gobbled Up?
One of the most intriguing observations from the show centered on the sheer number of pedals on display. There were hundreds (and hundreds) of pedals from various manufacturers, each offering a unique take on tone-shaping, all lined up on tables, hanging on walls, and of course, stuck to pedal boards. While the numbers (and the sprawling displays) are impressive, this raised a larger question (beyond the obvious one "do we need this many pedals?") — "what does their future hold; will standalone pedals eventually disappear as effects become integrated into guitars and amplifiers?"
The rise of multi-effects processors, software-controlled pedals, and built-in guitar effects suggests that pedals may not remain as essential as they once were. Yamaha’s Tag3C guitar is a direct example of this shift, featuring built-in effects and looping capabilities, eliminating the need for external stompboxes for many players. This integration allows musicians to access key effects and record loops directly from their instrument, streamlining their setup and workflow. [Note: you can see this guitar in action in my music video above]
At the same time, not all instruments are ready for built-in effects technology. Trumpets, harmonicas, and other acoustic instruments still rely heavily on external pedals for sound modification. While some innovations may emerge to integrate effects directly into these instruments, the demand and technology aren’t quite there yet. In the future, as digital processing becomes more compact and sophisticated, we could see more embedded effects solutions tailored for a broader range of instruments. This said, I did see a remote controlled "Trumpeter" that played sound through the instrument, even if it didn't trigger the valves.
Moving away from the instrument end of the spectrum, not all effects will necessarily be embedded into instruments—in many cases, the effects may live in the amplifier instead. Amplifiers are becoming more advanced and intelligent, with some featuring onboard effects, digital modeling, and software-controlled sound shaping. This shift means that instead of stacking multiple pedals on a board on the floor, musicians might be able to achieve the same range of tones directly through their amp. I can envision a guitarist controlling the amp's effects with the flick of their toe or the headstock of their guitar.
AI & Ethics in Music
A major focus of NAMM 2025 was the role of AI in music creation. I can only imagine—as I didn't have time to ask as many people as I would like—that many/most products have some form of AI helping them help the artists and producers. As noted during the opening Media Day, Roland and Universal Music Group introduced the “Principles for Music Creation with AI”, a set of ethical guidelines designed to ensure that AI enhances—rather than replaces—human creativity. I had a chance to briefly meet Roland's CEO, Masahiro Minowa, and hope to connect with him soon to discuss this topic further.
Key takeaways from their initiative include:
♪ Music is a fundamental part of human expression and should not be devalued by AI-generated content.
♪ Human-created works must be protected, ensuring artists receive credit and compensation for their work.
♪ Transparency is critical, so AI-generated music must be clearly labeled and used responsibly.
On this topic, I am always open to a good debate on the role of AI in music. If you have some thoughts or opinions you'd like to share or discuss, let me know. Some key debate points surrounding the use of AI in music creation are:
Creativity & Authenticity
♪ Does AI-generated music lack emotional depth and human creativity?
♪ Can AI truly “create” music, or is it just mimicking existing patterns?
♪ Should AI be considered a tool for artists, or a potential replacement?
Ownership & Copyright
♪ Who owns AI-generated music—the developer, the AI itself, or the user?
♪ Should AI-generated music be protected under copyright laws?
♪ Can AI ethically be trained on existing artists’ work without their consent?
Ethics & Fair Use
♪ Is it fair for AI to use decades of human-made music as training data?
♪ Should artists be compensated if AI uses their style or likeness?
♪ How do we prevent AI from flooding the market with low-effort, mass-produced music?
Industry Impact
♪ Will AI put musicians, producers, and songwriters out of work?
♪ Does AI democratize music creation, or does it devalue professional musicianship?
♪ How will AI affect the music industry’s business models (streaming, licensing, publishing)?
The Evolution Continues: What’s Next for Music Makers?
The 2025 NAMM Show showcased the industry’s commitment to pushing the limits of what’s possible while honoring tradition, shaping cutting edge music technology to remain both innovative and nostalgic.
As new innovations emerge, technology advances, and creative expression reaches new heights, the way we create, experience, and connect through music will continue to evolve—reshaping not just the industry, but culture and society itself.
I’m excited to continue these conversations on the Music Evolves Podcast, exploring how these developments will influence the future of music.
If there’s an innovation, creative approach, or groundbreaking shift in how music is made, produced, shared, or performed that you think I should explore, let me know!
Until next time ...
Keep creating, keep listening, and let the music move you.™️
I hope you enjoy and share this story with others. Feel free to provide your thoughts on this article as well. If you have a topic or event you want me to explore, drop me a direct message and we can discuss the opportunity.
Oh, and be sure to subscribe to the Music Evolves: Sonic Frontiers Newsletter and to the Music Evolves Podcast for even more stories. 🛸♬
Thank you for watching, listening, reading, and joining me!
Sean Martin is a life-long musician and the host of the Music Evolves Podcast and the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, both part of the ITSPmagazine Podcast Network—which he co-founded with his good friend Marco Ciappelli.
To learn more about Sean, visit his personal website.