Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniel Gilad.

Hi Daniel, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?

My name is Daniel Gilad, and music has always been a central part of my life. From a young age, I was captivated by the sonic landscapes created by different bands and artists, which led me to pick up a guitar in my teen years. Playing in various bands was an exhilarating experience, and it solidified my decision to dedicate my life to music.

In 2006, I moved to Hawaii without a clear plan but with the certainty that music would play a central role in my journey. Initially, I wanted to study guitar, but after hearing mixed reviews about the available program, I discovered a newly launched course focused on audio engineering and music production. The first time I stepped into a studio, I fell in love—it felt like home. From that moment, I was determined to hone my skills in audio engineering and production.

After graduating, I immediately immersed myself in Hawaii’s local music scene, gaining hands-on experience by working with some of the state’s most talented artists. I’ve been fortunate to continue collaborating with these incredible musicians in both studio and live performance settings.

The pandemic in 2020 marked a turning point. With live gigs on pause, I delved deeply into the music business, discovering a newfound passion for the industry’s intricacies. I was fortunate to find a mentor who taught me to think like a major label, which inspired me to start my own publishing company. Over time, I’ve found a way to bridge the gap between the creative and business sides of the music industry.

One of the most rewarding parts of my journey has been working with Hawaiian music legend Henry Kapono. He welcomed me into his team as an engineer and has taught me so much along the way. I’ve also had the privilege of supporting his foundation, which empowers Hawaii’s music industry through work, mentorship, and education for up-and-coming musicians.

Today, I juggle a variety of roles—music production, mixing, mastering, live sound, publishing, and artist management. Because these areas are so interconnected, I can seamlessly wear different hats throughout the day, ensuring that I’m able to support the artists I work with in every possible way.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has shaped me into the person and professional I am today. One of the first hurdles was moving to Hawaii in 2006 without a clear plan. I knew I wanted to pursue music but had to navigate an unfamiliar place and figure out how to turn that dream into a reality.

Initially, I wanted to study guitar, but the program available at the time didn’t seem like the right fit. That uncertainty could have derailed my journey, but instead, I discovered a brand-new program in audio engineering and music production. Walking into a studio for the first time felt like a revelation, but it was also intimidating—I had so much to learn.

Another significant challenge came after I graduated and began working in the local music industry. While the experience was invaluable, breaking into the scene and proving myself was far from easy. I had to work hard to gain trust, build relationships, and consistently deliver quality work, all while balancing the unpredictability of freelance life.

The most significant struggle came in 2020 when the pandemic brought live performances to a halt. With gigs canceled, I faced uncertainty like so many others in the industry. It was a difficult time, but it pushed me to dive deep into the business side of music. I sought out a mentor, studied everything I could, and found a way to adapt by starting my own publishing company and expanding my skill set.

Along the way, there have been countless smaller challenges—tight deadlines, learning new technologies, and the balancing act of wearing so many hats. But each obstacle has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of staying open to opportunities, even when they come in unexpected forms.

These experiences have made the journey worthwhile, and I’m grateful for every twist and turn that’s brought me to where I am today.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?

Benevolent Music Publishing is a company I founded with a clear mission: to support artists in collecting and administering their publishing royalties. My goal is to ensure musicians get paid for the time and effort they pour into creating their art. There’s a misconception that musicians must struggle financially until they catch a “big break,” but I’ve learned that’s not the case. If you’re a musician creating content, writing songs, and performing at venues, you should be able to earn a sustainable income.

At Benevolent Music Publishing, I focus on helping artists maximize their earnings by managing their royalties and seeking opportunities for their music to reach wider audiences. This includes radio placements, sync licensing, Spotify playlist pitching, and other avenues to help their music grow while generating additional income.

While my primary focus is on publishing, I also assist with music distribution, taking the administrative burden off artists so they can focus solely on creating. For some of the musicians I work with, I also contribute to production, mixing, and mastering—a passion of mine that allows me to further support their creative vision.

What sets us apart is our commitment to the artists we work with. We’re not just a service; we’re partners in their success. I take pride in empowering musicians to thrive in their careers and in the role I play in helping them achieve their goals.

What matters most to you?

What matters most to me is ensuring that musicians are fairly compensated for their work and creativity. Music is more than just entertainment—it’s a form of expression, storytelling, and connection. Artists pour their hearts into their craft, and they deserve to see tangible rewards for their efforts.

This mission is personal to me because I’ve seen how much time, energy, and passion musicians invest in their work. Unfortunately, many talented artists struggle financially, not because they lack skill or drive, but because navigating royalties, rights, and opportunities can be overwhelming. By handling those aspects, I give artists the freedom to focus on what they do best—creating music.

I believe in breaking the “starving artist” stereotype and proving that musicians can build sustainable, thriving careers without waiting for a big break. Supporting their growth and success fuels my passion and gives me a deep sense of purpose in the work I do.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.dgsoundcreations.com
• Instagram: @benevolentmusicpub