SB: How long have you been in music publishing?
Jason Dauman: I've been in this business for 17 years.
SB: What is an average day like for you?
JD: I spend over half of my day on the phone, making sure that my artists' songs are getting out there. I also make sure that the chemistry is right when the artist is laying down stuff.
SB: As a publisher, what do you look for in an artist?
JD: I look for something unique. You know, like Roy Orbison – his voice sends the chills down your spine.
SB: Well what's in your CD player now?
JD: Right now, it's the Sundaes. I thought I would see what 1992 sounded like again.
SB: What did it sound like?
JD: Not as good as it did in 1992. No offence to the Sundaes, it was just dated; I mean, if they had a new album I would go out and buy it.
SB: What do you think of all the computer pitch correcting and over-layering that is going on when people make a record?
JD: I talk to producers, and a lot of times, they don’t have a choice. They have to layer and produce. I've also seen it work the other way – where a singer goes and works with a vocal coach and in less that a year has made tremendous progress.
SB: What advice do you have for people starting out?
JD: Be persistent and realistic. This business is built on relationships. You have to have contacts. Contacts that are actually willing to hear your stuff. And this where my publishing comes in.

Music Publishers