Event Recap: Penup Songwriter Networking Event

On Thursday May 29, The Los Angeles Film School hosted The PenUP Songwriter Networking Event in our Main Theater!

Each month, PenUP gathers seasoned music-industry professionals who share their challenges and success stories, and answer audience questions about how aspiring songwriters and producers can get started in the ever-changing business.

Last night’s panel featured five men whose careers span decades: Mario Prins (Sesac), David Weitzman (Ole), Earl B. Johnson (Music IV Masses), Cevell Lewis (Artistry Entertainment) and LARS alum and former-enlisted Marine Rob Hayes (RBHYS Music).

Each of the panelists shared their experiences starting out in music, and nearly all of their journeys began modestly, with multiple internships and part-time jobs to stay afloat.

Staying enthusiastic about your passion, they seemed to collectively agree, is key to success, or even to just getting your foot in the door.

“Be confident about your material. You have to know what you have, otherwise no one else will recognize it.”

Similarly, the panelists encouraged students to value the relationships they form within the industry, and utilize them in a positive and productive way.

“You can’t just be a songwriter; you have to be a brand yourself. The music will speak for itself only if you let it be heard. One relationship could lead to your next job.”

The best place to start, they said, is at events like this, where ‘networking is encouraged,’ and where likeminded people gather for collaborative opportunities.

At the end of the day, Hayes said, you never know when your life-changing moment is going to arrive.

“One day I was a janitor at the post office, and then I got a call from the SVP of Live Nation…that’s just how life goes sometimes.”

LAFS sends a special thanks to all the panelists for participating in last night’s event, and to PenUP for continuing to be such an inspiring and informative organization within the music community!