We had the opportunity to obtain insight from the Founder & CEO of an innovative music creative platform, BandLab, Meng Ru Kuok. We are excited to partner with BandLab this year! BandLab brings an entirely new element to Tracklanta. To learn more about their path, check out our interview with their Founder & CEO:
- Meng Ru Kuok, CEO & Founder of BandLab Technologies
A3C: Why did you choose to get into the tech industry? What about the tech industry do you find most exciting?My decision to venture into this industry - music and technology – was very much a business decision. But I was also very lucky to have been given the advice that you should be guided by your passions when it comes to business. Thanks to the internet, the world is a far more competitive place, and without passion for something day-in day-out you’re at an immediate disadvantage against other founders and teams who live and breathe what they do 24/7.
I feel extremely fortunate to have been able to merge both my passion for business with my passion for music and BandLab was founded to help tear down the technical, creative, geographic, and financial barriers to music creation.
Today, together with the support of an incredible team, we’ve built the world’s first cross-platform DAW (i.e. you can use it across your computer, tablet, phone; across iOS and Android etc.). AND we combine social features like video sharing, messaging and discovery. It's proving to be hugely popular because as of this month (July 2019), BandLab has over 8 million users from 120 countries worldwide with more than 2 million tracks made and shared every month on the platform.
What I find most inspiring about working in tech is the speed at which things change, and the daily challenge to keep up with an incredibly competitive global landscape. Consequently the most exciting thing is seeing how the work done by a small team half-way across the world can make a difference and meaningful impact on people’s lives - it’s extremely motivating for everyone involved.
A3C: Where do you see the tech and app industry in the next 2-3 years?
I do believe there are substantial strides being made in the way machine learning and AI is having an impact on human productivity. I’m less concerned about machines entirely replacing the need for human creativity (especially in the context of music) but excited about the possibilities of how AI will assist the creative process and help to bring more possibilities for everyday creators to realize their musical vision.
A3C: Is there anything you’re working on (that you can share) that you’re excited about releasing in 2019?
Unfortunately nothing that I can share without giving the game away! Stay tuned to our blog for the latest updates...
A3C: What impact has BandLab made on the industry? What type of legacy do you want to leave for BandLab?
Though as a founder I will always feel it’s too early to truly say what impact we’ve made or will make, I do feel that we’re part of a movement that has opened up a new world of opportunity for creators. We’re still a small community, but there are now 8+ million more people with access to music making tools and a community of like minded creators and fans. I think that’s a great start. I believe we are moving towards a world where anyone can be a creator.
Ultimately, we want to create a world in which there are no barriers to being creative and realizing one’s musical vision.
A3C: Aside from colleagues at BandLab, who do you admire in the industry?
There are too many great companies and people doing wonderful things in the music space today to pinpoint one in particular – but if I have to single a company out, I’d have to mention the team at Taylor Guitars. I think Kurt and Bob have created a company with tremendous culture and human impact internally and externally. They’ve been unwavering in their commitment to innovation and quality, and have been at the forefront at setting the agenda for the music instrument industry since they began their company.
Make sure you stay tuned for updates and announcements from Meng Ru Kuok and BandLab! Connect with BandLab at A3C this year, Tracklanta powered by BandLab is live now! Go submit, enter to win a chance to record with one of the game's top producers in one of Atlanta's legendary studios.
BandLab is a social music platform that enables creators to make music and share the creative process with musicians and fans. With a global community of creators and fans, BandLab combines music making and collaboration tools like the world’s first cross-platform DAW, with social features like video sharing, messaging and discovery. BandLab’s mission is to break down the technical, geographic and creative barriers between creators, collaborators and community by providing a completely FREE and unlimited service.
BandLab is the easy-to-use, all-in-one, social music creation platform.
BandLab is used by millions of creators and fans around the world to make music and express themselves.
Innovation Meets Convenience
Develop your songs from inspiration to finished projects with our best-in-class Mix Editor. Pull from thousands of available beats and loops in our extensive library or connect an interface and record live audio.
Create & Record On-The-Go
Inspiration strikes when you least expect it. Whether you’re rapping over beats, capturing a guitar riff or mixing your next masterpiece, our mobile multi-track Mix Editor gives you the tools to work on all your projects on the go.
Collaborate & Connect
Music is rarely made alone. Whether you’re working in a group or looking for a new bandmate from across the world, BandLab’s game-changing collaboration tools and technology will transform the way you make your music.
