Rock City Networks 2010 Interview
In this interview from Face the Music 2010, Lindsay McDougall of Frenzal Rhomb discusses various aspects of the music industry, his experiences as a musician, and the challenges and opportunities that come with it.
The Traps and the Trappings
Lindsay talks about his panel discussion titled "The Traps and the Trappings," where he explores different aspects of the music industry, including record deals, product endorsements, and licensing music for advertisements. He shares insights on how musicians can navigate these challenges without losing their credibility or falling into exploitative deals.
Challenges in the Music Industry
He discusses the common issues that musicians face, such as disagreements over songwriting credits, band finances, and the importance of making informed decisions about endorsements and licensing opportunities. He highlights cases where poorly structured songwriting agreements have caused resentment within bands.
Licensing Music for Advertisements
One of the key topics covered in the discussion is the ethics of licensing music for advertisements. Lindsay shares the story of Frenzal Rhomb’s involvement in a campaign for Dreamworld, explaining the considerations that led to their decision and the complications that arose when the company continued using their song beyond the agreed contract period.
Ethical Considerations
He also touches on other advertising offers the band has turned down, including fast food and soft drink companies, due to ethical reasons. Lindsay emphasizes the importance of musicians evaluating their principles when deciding whether to accept commercial opportunities.
Lessons from the Industry
When asked about what he takes away from such discussions, Lindsay mentions that meeting other musicians and sharing experiences is invaluable. He appreciates learning about the behind-the-scenes aspects of the industry that are not typically covered in mainstream interviews.
Upcoming Projects
Looking ahead, Lindsay reveals that Frenzal Rhomb will be playing at the No Sleep Till Festival alongside bands like Descendents and NOFX. He also shares that the band is planning to record a new album midway through the following year.
Conclusion
The interview wraps up with reflections on the evolving nature of the music industry and the importance of making informed decisions as a musician. Lindsay shares his excitement about upcoming projects and his continued passion for music.