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Interview with a Music Business Professional

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By Sarah Stevenson

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"My biggest honor has been the opportunity to partner and develop a successful independent music distribution company in a tough industry."

Jak (J.C.) DeTemple,
101 Distribution

music business interview
Jak (J.C.) DeTemple
Director of Partner Development and Marketing
Artist & Label Relations
101 Distribution

Jak (J.C.) DeTemple has spent the last 10 years on the business side of the music industry as part of 101 Distribution, an independent music distributor and online distribution platform based in Phoenix, Arizona.

A music distribution company helps artists make their music available in stores and online, and can assist with marketing and promotion. In addition to taking an entrepreneurial role as an investor and helping to develop 101 Distribution as a company, DeTemple has worked in various other capacities including operations, sales, marketing and partner development.

Currently, DeTemple holds the position of Director of Partner Relations and Marketing, dealing directly with clients as well as handling the company's four-pronged marketing approach.

Strong networking skills, adaptability and an entrepreneurial spirit, he says, are essential for anyone interested in a career in music business. Oh, and a business degree in music or a related business field such as marketing will also help. He also points out how rewarding the hard-won successes while working in the music business can be, despite the oft-cited competitive nature of the industry.

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What do you do in a typical day?

I have a dual role. As Director of Partner Relations I manage all aspects of our Partner Channel, from Partner Acquisition to Partner Customer Service. My day is very challenging, including returning email inquiries, troubleshooting client questions and networking to develop relationships with prospective new clients. I also handle marketing for the company. There are four key ways we market: Affiliate Marketing, Social Media Marketing, Email Marketing and Search Engine Marketing. Each style of marketing requires unique detailed attention each day. It takes a team of people to help me in both job roles.

How did you first break into the music business?

I was actually introduced to the music business by a good friend. He is the Founder of 101 Distribution and my business partner. My first job with the company was as an investor and a sales and marketing consultant.

When did you first become interested in the business end of the music industry?

In my career I have always been involved in sales and marketing, working for technology companies like IBM and Unisys Corporation. When I was first introduced to the music business, these experiences provided me with a foundation I could apply to the music industry. This drive and interest coupled with my passion for music gave me an undeniable opportunity to go into business with a good friend—a win-win situation all around.

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Did you get a business degree in music? If not, what did you study and how did it prepare you for your current career?

My degree is a Bachelor of Science in Communications in Business from the State University of New York at Brockport. Looking back, I did not plan to get involved in the music business—it just kind of happened by fate. My training was directed toward Sales and Marketing in the Technology Industry. I have been able to easily apply this to the online music business.

What advice would you offer students interested in the music business as a career? Do you think a business degree in music is essential for success in the field?

I think a college degree is very helpful in giving you a basic foundation of experiences on which to build your future career. It is certainly something you would need for advancement within any industry. I would tell people to focus their studies on business and learn as much as possible about music companies and how they succeed in their marketplace. Network with as many people within the music business as possible, because it never hurts to develop those early relationships and friendships that can help lead to a music industry career—just like me and my partner.

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In your experience, what is the biggest misconception people have about starting a career in the field?

I think the biggest misconception is the belief that you can make a lot of money easily in the music business. There is limited money to be made on the business side unless you own the company. It is, however, very rewarding and exciting to be part of the entertainment industry and helping an artist become successful.

Are there any specific career or educational strategies you'd suggest for students interested in a job in the industry?

It is essential to be a people person no matter what your specific role is going to be in the music industry. I would focus on business strategy and marketing to make an impact in any business. The music business is one of the fastest and constantly evolving industries, so you have to be able to embrace change and adapt quickly. Always keep an entrepreneurial spirit no matter what your career is, and always help teammates succeed to make a winning organization.

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find business degrees in music