New York State of Mind with A&R Executive Patrick Clifford

Summary

In this episode of Sold 4 A Song, host Terrance Sawchuk engages with Patrick Clifford, a veteran A&R executive, to explore the evolution of the music industry, the importance of empowering artists, and the challenges faced by creators today. Patrick shares his journey from the romanticism of the old school music business to the modern landscape shaped by technology and streaming. The conversation highlights memorable experiences with iconic artists, the significance of ownership, and the necessity for artists to be business-savvy in a rapidly changing environment.

Takeaways

The music industry has historically undervalued songwriters and artists. Empowering artists is essential for their success and recognition. Old school music business had a romanticism that is often missed today. Music played a crucial role in societal changes during the 60s and 70s. Becoming an A&R man was a dream fueled by passion for music. Early experiences in the industry shaped Patrick's career path. The 70s music scene was chaotic yet vibrant, akin to the Wild West. Discovering and nurturing new talent is a rewarding aspect of A&R. The Neville Brothers' comeback album was a significant project for Patrick. Artists today must navigate a complex landscape of technology and business.

Sound bites

"I met John Lennon with Harry Nilsson." "I wanted to be an A&R man." "Artists today must be business savvy."

Chapters

00:00 The Encounter with John Lennon 00:18 Patrick Clifford's Journey in A&R 01:45 The Romanticism of Old School Music Business 03:42 The Impact of Music on Society 06:27 The Path to Becoming an A&R Man 09:45 Early Experiences in the Music Industry 12:12 The Wild West of the 70s Music Scene 16:12 Discovering New Talent: The Romantics 18:26 Working with Iconic Artists 21:55 The Neville Brothers and Daniel Lanois 25:08 The Evolution of the Artist's Role 27:15 Navigating the Modern Music Landscape 31:05 The Business Savvy Artist 33:31 Ownership and Control in the Music Industry 36:00 The Role of AI in Music Production 36:19 Memorable Moments at the Dakota 40:45 The Currency of Heart and Soul in Music 46:16 The Importance of Serving Others in Music

music industry, songwriters, artists, A&R, empowerment, music history, modern music, artist management, ownership, AI in music

You can reach Patrick Clifford on Instagram @pchollywood.

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Patrick Clifford – Bio

Name: Patrick Clifford Nickname: “The Pope of Five Points” – a playful title reflecting his gregarious presence and beloved status in East Nashville’s Five Points neighborhood, where locals often greet him with friendly honks and cheers 

Early Career

• Began with Nemperor Artists, working closely with James Taylor and Cat Stevens, and notably discovered and recorded The Romantics Served in A&R departments at major labels: Epic, A&M, Chrysalis, and Capitol, working with Miami Sound Machine, Blues Traveler, and The Neville Brothers

• As a senior executive at BMG, he collaborated with iconic figures like Etta James and Ziggy Marley

Ten Ten Music Group

• Joined Ten Ten Music Group in Nashville in 2005, serving as VP of A&R until 2013 

Disney Music Publishing

• In June 2013, Patrick was named Vice President of Music Publishing and A&R for Disney Music Publishing in Nashville.

• In this role, he handled creative leadership, expanded the writer roster, and managed the exploitation of Disney’s extensive song catalog.

Recent Work & Local Legacy

• After his stint at Disney, Patrick launched his own consulting company, began managing artists, and became an independent A&R representative for Concord Music Group.

• A beloved figure in East Nashville, he has affection for the neighborhood, frequently seen at spots like The Basement East, The 5 Spot, and others—earning him his “Pope of Five Points” reputation.