FerroTV Shows
From performer to songwriter to music executive. From New York to Nashville, Mark Conklin’s story is one you can’t miss.
As an artist, songwriter, and producer, his list of accomplishments is staggering. He is a Grammy-nominated artist. As a songwriter/producer, he has been listed on Billboard’s Blues top ten and Billboard’s Breakout top forty. His music could be heard on ABC, MTV, HBO, SHOTIME, and The CW. He has hosted over 200 live digital shows featuring Grammy winners and Rock and Roll Hall of Famers. As a music executive, he has guided his artists to billions of streams and millions of followers.
Now he has laser-focused all those experiences to develop and mentor the next generation of artists in the ever-evolving music industry.
Key Takeaways:
- Mark Conklin’s career shows a mix of creative and business success: he earned a Grammy nomination, got work featured on major TV networks, and helped artists reach over a billion streams and millions of followers.
- His path into the “business side” of music came later (early 30s), highlighting that it’s not unusual to start understanding the industry later—and still build momentum.
- Networking and education are portrayed as essential accelerators; Conklin specifically points to organizations like NSAI and to workshops/communities as ways to gain connections and real industry insight.
- He argues many younger artists chase fame without understanding the work required, and he stresses focusing on craft and skills rather than fame itself.
- Persistence and resilience are framed as non-negotiable: rejection is normal, and setbacks should be treated as part of the process, not a signal to quit.
- There’s a constant tension between artistic integrity and commercial success, and Conklin emphasizes adapting, collaborating, and taking feedback while still protecting your core vision.
- “Newbie” status is about experience, not age—whether you’re 14 or 34, you’re new if you haven’t built the reps and knowledge yet.
