Indie vs. Signed Artists in 2026: Artist Development, AI, & Producers | Roger Ryan

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Roger Ryan 

Producer/arranger Roger Ryan joins Carson Bruce to discuss how the music business has shifted from label-driven support to indie entrepreneurship, with artist development now often missing as more people self-produce with laptops. 

They compare the pros and cons of being signed versus independent, including owning masters but carrying the burden and cost of marketing, content, and hiring top players, mixers, and mastering. 

Roger emphasizes that songs and genuine gifting still matter, that music for film/TV/games offers new opportunities, and that success often requires long-term investment and relationships rather than shortcuts. They also address AI tools like Suno as both helpful and risky, noting current hesitation from music supervisors and the need for future checks, balances, and royalty clarity. Roger outlines how to choose a producer through listening, fit, trust, and a servant mindset, and highlights his Berklee PEARL artist development work in Abu Dhabi.

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