Streaming changed music, but it did not solve the business problem for most independent artists.

In this episode of Sound Connections, we welcome Thierry Ascarez, Chief Business Officer at Winamp, to discuss how the company is reimagining its role in the music industry after nearly three decades of history.

From its origins as the iconic MP3 player that helped define the early internet music era, Winamp is now building a platform designed to help artists monetize, manage, and control their careers beyond streaming. Thierry walks through the company’s journey across audio streaming, radio technology, advertising, acquisitions, public markets, and the decision to return Winamp to the center of the group’s strategy.

Together, Jakob and Thierry explore why independent artists increasingly need to think like entrepreneurs, how direct fan relationships can create new revenue, and why owning data, websites, and monetization tools matters in today’s music economy.

The episode also takes a candid look at music tech as a difficult but necessary space to build in. Thierry reflects on patience, resilience, investor expectations, and the belief that meaningful innovation in music still needs people willing to stay the course.

Tune in for insight into the future of artist tools, music business infrastructure, and the next chapter of Winamp.

If you want to learn more about Winamp, visit here:

• www.winamp.com
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/winamp/
• https://www.facebook.com/Winamp
• https://www.instagram.com/winampforcreators/

Produced by Amplitude Ventures AS.