
Episode 64: Inside the World of Music Publishing with DWB Music's Greig Watts
Failed to add items
Add to basket failed.
Add to Wish List failed.
Remove from Wish List failed.
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed
-
Narrated by:
-
By:
About this listen
What does it take to build a successful independent music publishing company in today's global market? In this captivating conversation, Greig Watts—the "W" in DWB Music—reveals the unexpected journey that transformed a three-person songwriting team into an international publishing powerhouse.
Greig shares the fascinating story of how DWB discovered untapped opportunities in the East Asian markets, particularly Japan, where understanding cultural business protocols proved crucial to their success. "In Japan, it's honourable and loyal," Greg explains. "If someone sends you an invoice, you pay it." This approach to business helped DWB become the leading UK independent publisher in Japan between 2010-2014, working with artists selling millions of physical copies in a single week.
The conversation takes us through DWB's remarkable Eurovision strategy, which has yielded 16 entries across 10 countries over the past decade. Greig reveals how Eurovision serves as a powerful catalyst for breaking into new territories: "My first entry in Poland in 2017—within a year, we had several number ones there." He dispels common misconceptions about the competition, noting that songs don't need to win to achieve commercial success, with some 17th-place finishes generating over 100 million streams.
Perhaps most compelling is Greig's passionate commitment to mentorship. Having guided 93 songwriters through his program, he applies a team sports philosophy to developing talent: "We see our publishing roster as a football team—we don't want 12 strikers." His approach focuses on accountability, connection, and practical business knowledge, helping writers increase their output from two songs annually to sixty. "Winning as a team is much better than winning on your own," he reflects.
Whether you're a songwriter seeking international opportunities, a publisher looking to expand your market reach, or simply fascinated by the business of creativity, this episode offers invaluable insights into building lasting success through genuine connection and strategic thinking. Subscribe now and join our community of music creators pursuing their goals through a deeper understanding of the business of music.
Reach out to me !
Websites
www.jonnyamos.com
https://themusicbusinessbuddy.buzzsprout.com
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/themusicbusinessbuddypodcast/
https://www.instagram.com/jonny_amos/
Email
jonnyamos@me.com