Lessons from the Godfather of Digital Music

Lessons from the Godfather of Digital Music

From Audio Talks by HARMAN

December 19, 2025 · 1h 25m · Episode 98

About this episode

Ted Cohen shares insights on the evolution of the music industry from analog to digital.

In this episode of Audio Talks, host Oisin Lunny welcomes Ted Cohen—the “Godfather of Digital Music”—for a masterclass in how technology, culture, and creativity have shaped the modern music industry. From backstage with the Rolling Stones before their Ed Sullivan debut to pioneering digital deals at EMI, Ted’s career is a living history of music’s transformation. Together, Oisin and Ted trace the arc from analog to digital, exploring how serendipity, artist development, and a relentless curiosity led Ted to work with legends like Fleetwood Mac, Van Halen, Prince, and The Who. Ted shares candid stories from the road, the boardroom, and the cutting edge of innovation—whether sneaking Mark Zuckerberg and Sean Parker into the Grammys, navigating the Napster wars, or launching Amazon Music before streaming was mainstream. The conversation dives into the evolution from distribution to the attention economy, the rise of AI and creative tools, and the shifting boundaries between consumption and experience. Ted reflects on the lessons learned (and missed) by the industry, the importance of building your “village,” and why kindness is the ultimate long game.

People in this episode

Host: Oisin Lunny

Guest: Ted Cohen

Topics covered

  • digital music
  • technology
  • music industry
  • artist development
  • AI
  • attention economy

Keywords

  • Rolling Stones
  • Fleetwood Mac
  • Van Halen
  • Prince
  • The Who
  • Napster
  • Amazon Music

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Amazon Music

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