We were lucky to catch up with Ryan Anderson recently and have shared our conversation below.
Ryan, appreciate you joining us today. What do you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry?
The corporate music industry has long been plagued by flaws that hinder the true potential of artists. Too often, it prioritizes profit over passion, leaving creatives feeling undervalued and underrepresented. This disconnection is precisely why I founded Anderson Collective—an initiative dedicated to advocating for artists in a manner that truly respects their craft and individuality.
In the landscape of corporate America, the music industry can feel like a machine, where decisions are made based on spreadsheets rather than the artistry behind the music. Breaking an artist in today’s market is more challenging than ever, as the industry often favors those who fit a predetermined mold rather than nurturing unique talents. Many individuals operate with a transactional mindset, treating artists as mere commodities instead of creative souls deserving of investment and support. This approach is foreign to me; I believe in fostering genuine relationships and cultivating talent through understanding and collaboration.
I am thrilled to announce my new role as Executive A&R at Mantra Publishing, a company that embodies the values I hold dear. At Mantra, we prioritize the needs of creatives first, rather than bending to the rigid structures set by corporate expectations. Working alongside brilliant talents like MXV, a Grammy-winning producer known for his collaborations with artists such as Bad Bunny, we are committed to redefining what it means to support and develop music.
Anderson Collective, my own firm, mirrors this philosophy. Founded by Ryan Anderson (aka Anderson), it is designed to create a safe haven for artists, where they can express themselves freely and thrive without the pressures of corporate constraints. We understand that the music industry has, in many ways, failed to nurture its talent, leaving many creatives to navigate a complex and often unforgiving landscape.
However, change is on the horizon. Just as Julius Darrington, CEO of Mantra, is opening doors for creatives, Anderson Collective is doing the same. We are both committed to reshaping the industry by providing support, resources, and a community that empowers artists to take control of their narratives.
In conclusion, while corporate America has often fallen short in supporting artists, the rise of smaller, artist-centered firms like Anderson Collective and Mantra Publishing is a beacon of hope. Together, we are paving a new way forward, ensuring that the voices of creatives are heard, valued, and celebrated. In this evolving landscape, it’s clear that a brighter future for music lies in prioritizing passion over profit, and I am excited to be part of this transformative journey.
Ryan, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My journey into the music industry began in an unexpected place: film finance and risk management. While navigating the complexities of investments and financial strategies, I observed a few friends in the music world facing significant challenges. Their struggles ignited a spark within me—a desire to lend a helping hand and create a positive impact.
Fast forward to today, I have the privilege of managing talented artists under my company, “The Anderson Collective LLC.” Among them are Casey Veggies, known for his albums “Sleeping in Class,” “Customized Greatly,” and “Life Changes,” as well as Trev Rich, who made a remarkable contribution to the “Across The Spider-Verse” soundtrack with his song “Elevate.” I also work with recording artist and songwriter Jesse Leprotti, recognized for his contributions to Chris Brown’s album “11:11 (Moonlight),” which earned him a recent Grammy. Finally, I proudly manage the dynamic Salt Lake City native, Vendetta Lust. These artists inspire me every day, and my commitment to their success fuels my passion for advocacy in the music industry.
One of my primary goals has been to champion artists on the publishing side, ensuring they receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve. This ambition led me to join Mantra Publishing as Executive A&R, where I work under the guidance of Julius Darrington and Cosmo Barron. Collaborating with a diverse group of creatives, we strive to provide unwavering support for artists while advocating for their music to be featured alongside esteemed musicians.
Music has been more than just a career for me; it has been a lifeline. It has saved my life and provided healing in ways that words often fail to capture. The melodies and rhythms have resonated with my soul, helping me navigate through difficult times and ultimately emerge stronger.
In conclusion, my journey from film finance to the heart of the music industry has been both transformative and fulfilling. I am grateful for the opportunity to support artists and to be part of a community that values creativity and collaboration. As I continue to advocate for those in the industry, I remain committed to fostering an environment where music can thrive, heal, and inspire. Together, we can create a future where every artist has the chance to shine and make a lasting impact.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
Throughout my journey in the music industry, I’ve faced countless lessons that have shaped me, often through trial and error. One of the most significant revelations I’ve had is that navigating this complex landscape without a foundation in faith was my biggest mistake. I remember the times when I relied solely on my own understanding and instincts, often leading me down paths filled with doubt and confusion.
Now, as I work on strengthening my relationship with God, I’ve come to appreciate how this connection allows me to discern people’s true intentions and energies within the industry. It’s remarkable how prayer and reflection have opened my eyes to the authenticity of those I meet. I find myself gravitating toward individuals who share similar values and passions, while naturally distancing myself from those whose intentions don’t align with my own.
Focusing on my relationship with Christ has truly paved the way for my peace. In a world where the music industry can often feel cutthroat and disheartening, it has become my sanctuary. I’ve learned to filter out distractions and toxic relationships that once consumed my time and energy. I wish I had grasped this concept earlier in my career; however, I now understand that I was not ready to fully appreciate it until this moment in my life.
Reflecting on my past, I realize the importance of having God close. His guidance has illuminated my path, helping me navigate the challenges and uncertainties that come with pursuing a career in music. With faith as my compass, I feel more confident in my decisions, knowing that I am walking the path meant for me. The music industry may be difficult, but with God by my side, I trust that I can overcome any obstacle and create a lasting impact.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Living with a chronic illness while trying to pursue a career in the music industry has presented its fair share of challenges. The daily grind can be overwhelming, especially when battling health issues that often try to dictate my pace and energy levels. There have been days when simply getting out of bed felt like a monumental task, let alone the demands of meetings, studio sessions, and the relentless hustle of the music scene.
However, choosing to navigate this journey with God has transformed my perspective. I’ve discovered that my faith provides me with a strength that transcends my physical limitations. It’s a source of resilience that has helped me push through the toughest moments. I’ve learned to lean on my faith during the times when my body feels weak, finding solace in the belief that God has a purpose for me, even in the midst of adversity.
I am incredibly grateful for the mentors in my life, particularly Julius Darrington, the CEO of Mantra, where I serve as Executive A&R. Julius has been a guiding light, consistently encouraging me to look to God rather than to man for validation and strength. His wisdom and unwavering faith have inspired me to seek divine guidance in every decision I make, reminding me that my worth is not defined by my productivity or health, but by my identity in Christ.
I also want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my artist, Trev Rich, who has profoundly impacted my life for Christ. In an industry that can often feel chaotic and morally ambiguous, Trev serves as a reminder of the importance of staying grounded in faith. His encouragement and support have been invaluable, showing me that it’s possible to navigate this challenging landscape while remaining true to one’s values.
Looking to Christ while battling illness has been imperative in maintaining my peace. It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned to trust that God has a plan for me, even when the road gets tough. My faith allows me to find joy and purpose in the work I do, reminding me that my struggles don’t define me; instead, they are part of a greater story that God is weaving in my life. With His guidance, I feel empowered to continue pursuing my passion for music, knowing that I am not alone in this journey.
