Part 11/16:
He underscores that financial backing now often comes from wealthy parents or independent financiers—those with sufficient resources to fund serious recordings—because labels rarely invest large sums anymore. This move toward wealth-driven access has created a situation where talent alone is insufficient; financial resources often determine who gets heard and who doesn't.
He shares personal anecdotes about navigating the frustrating payment processes within major labels, highlighting bureaucratic hurdles like the "Uniport" portal used by Universal Music, which often delays or complicates compensation for session work. Despite these frustrations, he notes that producers and musicians sometimes received better treatment and pay from private clients or wealthy patrons.