As the room darkens and the murmur of conversation fills the air, a sense of excitement and anticipation is palpable. The audience in Manhattan, New York eagerly awaits the commencement of tonight’s interview with David McKee, the esteemed CEO of Another Angle Consulting. Recognized for his exceptional approach to cultivating the authenticity of artists, McKee has gone from a relatively unknown figure to a household name in the music industry the past several years.
As he strides onto the stage, the crowd erupts into a thunderous applause, eager to learn more about his methods and philosophy. Tonight, we will delve into McKee’s insights on the significance of authenticity in music, his talent identification and nurturing techniques, and the role of positive psychology in his work. Prepare for a stimulating and motivational discussion with one of the industry’s most innovative visionaries.
NY Weekly: Good evening, David McKee. I’m delighted to have you here tonight. As the CEO of Another Angle Consulting, you’re known for pushing artists to maintain pure authenticity within their music and songwriting. What inspired you to pursue this approach?
David McKee (DM): Thank you, it’s a pleasure to be here. I’ve always believed that the most powerful music is the kind that resonates on a deeply personal level. By focusing on authenticity, we’re able to create a connection between the artist and the listener that transcends trends and stands the test of time.
NY Weekly: That’s quite profound. In a world where trends dominate the music industry, how do you go about identifying artists who can stay true to their authentic selves and still succeed commercially?
DM: We look for artists who have a strong sense of who they are and are willing to take risks. It’s not just about having an incredible voice or a catchy melody; it’s about the passion and the message behind the music. Our goal is to help these artists develop a unique sound that sets them apart, while still resonating with their target audience.
NY Weekly: Once you’ve found these artists, what methods do you employ to ensure they maintain that authenticity throughout their careers?
DM: We work closely with our artists to ensure they stay grounded and focused on their core values. This often involves workshops, mentorship, and open communication. It’s important for them to understand that remaining true to themselves is the key to sustainable success.
NY Weekly: Mental health is a significant concern within the music industry. How is Another Angle Consulting working to change the stigma of mental health in your work with musicians?
DM: Mental health is indeed a crucial aspect of our work. Let’s be honest, several of the world’s biggest musician’s have shut down tours due to mental health. It’s become part of the conversation but we must do more. We recognize that the creative process can be both emotionally and mentally taxing, so we’ve integrated mental health support into our approach. By fostering a safe and nurturing environment, we encourage open dialogue about mental health challenges and provide resources and guidance to help artists navigate these issues. We believe that by addressing the stigma around mental health, we can empower musicians to not only create better art but also lead healthier, more balanced lives.
NY Weekly: Can you elaborate on the psychology tools you utilize to help your artists achieve their best results musically and personally?
DM: Certainly. We employ a variety of psychological tools and techniques tailored to each artist’s needs. Some of these include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help them overcome self-limiting beliefs and negative thought patterns, mindfulness practices to enhance focus and creativity, and emotional intelligence training to improve their self-awareness and ability to connect with others.
NY Weekly: How do you assess each artist’s individual psychological needs, and how does this inform your approach to working with them?
DM: We begin by conducting a thorough assessment of each artist’s background, personality traits, and emotional landscape. This allows us to identify any potential areas of growth and the most effective psychological tools to address them. By understanding their unique needs, we can create a personalized plan that enhances their overall well-being and supports their creative journey.
NY Weekly: How do you strike a balance between pushing artists to grow and evolve while still respecting their individuality and creative vision?
DM: Striking this balance is a delicate process. We emphasize collaboration and open communication, ensuring that our artists feel heard and respected. We challenge them to push their boundaries, but we also recognize that maintaining their creative autonomy is essential. Our goal is to act as guides, providing support and direction while allowing the artists to ultimately make their own decisions and take ownership of their work.
NY Weekly: Can you discuss the role of positive psychology in your work with musicians, and how it contributes to their artistic development?
DM: Positive psychology plays a significant role in our approach. We believe that focusing on strengths, resilience, and optimism really allows us to let the artist be their authentic self while we can strategize ways to help them grow musically, lyrically, emotionally, and personally.
