We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful David Valerio. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with David below.
David, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?
My journey has been a testament to the intricate interplay between sales, IT support, and customer experience, which I grasped early in my career.
It all commenced at InMusic, a prominent music tech company, renowned for owning Akai Professional, the iconic creator of the MPC. My tenure at InMusic laid the foundation for my career in technical support and customer care. This experience afforded me invaluable insights into the inner workings of music technology, providing a solid foundation within the industry.
Subsequently, I embarked on roles at iZotope and eMastered, further refining my expertise in the technical aspects of music production and software. These opportunities allowed me to hone my skills and deepen my comprehension of the tools and technologies crucial to the field.
A pivotal turning point came when I ventured into an internship at Beatclub, the visionary music tech platform founded by Timbaland. My journey at Beatclub commenced as an intern, gradually propelling me into the role of a Product Specialist and ultimately, the Director of Partnerships. This transformation marked a significant milestone, placing me at the helm of shaping and advancing a dynamic music tech platform.
In tandem with my professional roles, I pursued freelance work as a music producer while also serving as a manager and consultant for creator brands. I orchestrated and managed events, including high-energy beat battles, and even created events from scratch. These experiences expanded my network and fostered invaluable connections within the music industry.
My journey is characterized by a continuous transition from one level of involvement in the music tech industry to another. I evolved from a creator to a tech enthusiast, culminating in the integration of all my experiences. This convergence ensured I was continually surrounded by valuable resources that facilitated networking and the acquisition of advanced expertise in music production.
My involvement extended beyond professional roles; as a member of The Recording Academy, I assumed the role of Regional Liaison for my home state of Rhode Island. This role facilitated connections with representatives across the East Coast and allowed me to provide support to artists in diverse regions.
In retrospect, my success can be attributed to effective networking and an unwavering commitment to learning and adaptability. While there were no shortcuts, knowing what I know now, I might have expedited the process by actively seeking mentorship and guidance early on. Additionally, embracing change and remaining receptive to new opportunities have been pivotal to my journey.
In addition to my professional endeavors, I’ve also maintained an active presence as an independent music artist. I’ve dedicated myself to releasing my own music and continuously sought more effective ways to market it independently. This journey has been immensely rewarding, having achieved over 100,000 plays on my tracks, often in collaboration with my talented friends and collaborators, all while operating on a limited budget.
Furthermore, I’ve undertaken the challenge of organizing my own album, collaborating with a diverse array of artists to showcase my unique sound in the music industry. These collaborations have included notable artists from well-established labels such as Bishop Nehru, Jurdan Bryant, and Ian Kelly, as well as independent talents like Pyrex Lex, Ceez, Joe Bruce, Jesse The Tree, Tye Cooper, Sarah Winkler, Daniel Taylor, Taki Brano, and RIVA. These creative partnerships have not only enriched my music but also expanded my network within the industry.
For me, being actively engaged in the music space as both a creator and a professional has been of paramount importance. It’s not merely about working within the industry; it’s about actively contributing to it, both as an artist and as a connector, bridging artists and opportunities. This multifaceted approach has been the cornerstone of my journey within the music tech industry, seamlessly weaving together the various facets of my career.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’ve had the privilege of working closely with companies that are dedicated to supporting creators by helping them understand the intricate world of software and hardware in the music tech industry. My career has been a blend of cultivating innovative concepts for audio software and bringing them to life. Additionally, I’ve played a pivotal role in setting up strategic partnerships that amplify outreach, shining a spotlight on up-and-coming creators, and devising ways to empower these talented individuals through cutting-edge music platforms.
What sets me apart is my deep-seated belief in the transformative power of technology and its potential to democratize the music industry. I’ve always been an advocate for providing equal opportunities to all, regardless of their background or resources. My journey began in the smallest state of America, and I can attest to the challenges and hurdles faced in rough upbringings.
My experiences from an early age, navigating the vast landscape of the internet, have been invaluable in shaping my perspective. I understand the journey of a creator, from their humble beginnings to where they can ultimately reach with the right resources and support. This understanding is at the core of what I do.
What people should understand about me is my unwavering commitment to leveling the playing field in the music industry. While social media is undeniably crucial, I believe it’s equally important to rediscover the essence of talent curation. We need to put the spotlight back on genuine talent and focus on creating a balanced industry that can benefit artists of all types and backgrounds.
What I’m most proud of is my journey of growth, learning, and adaptability, which has allowed me to bridge the gap between creators, technology, and opportunities. My mission is to continue breaking barriers, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that every artist, regardless of their starting point, has the chance to thrive in an industry that celebrates their unique talents and contributions.
Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?
NFTs are another avenue for creators in any art form to explore. They provide an opportunity to monetize their work, protect their intellectual property rights, and build a dedicated community.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Looking back, I wish I had discovered the value of attending music conferences/panel discussions, understanding the intricacies of sync licensing, and registering my work. Additionally, I believe that exposing myself to a wider circle of artists/network early on would have been incredibly beneficial. It’s through these experiences that I realized the importance of pushing my boundaries and challenging myself when stepping into larger markets.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @cantstopdvalor
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dvalor/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidvalerio/
- Twitter: cantstopdvalor
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/00FDsQw4iDxI1fraWG7SEd