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Austin Breckenridge is the co-founder and Executive Director of The A&R Foundation. Born in San Jose, CA, he began his music career at 17, booking live events in the San Francisco Bay Area. In 2010, he founded Nemesis Media Inc., an independent label focused on emerging Bay Area artists. Under his leadership, the label released 10 albums, produced two local festivals, and expanded to Austin, TX in 2012, where he served as CEO until its successful exit in 2015. Over his 17-year career, Austin has worked as an artist manager, tour manager, business manager, and event producer.
In 2015, Austin began his career in finance, holding roles in small business banking, commercial banking, community development, and business advising across Texas. His diverse background in music, finance, and entrepreneurship allows him to bridge creative and analytical business approaches.
What makes you uniquely qualified to discuss financial independence for musicians?
With over 17 years of experience in both the music business and finance, I’ve had the privilege of co-owning an independent record label, managing tours, working as a personal and commercial banker, and serving as a small business coach. This unique blend of experience allows me to connect with musicians more effectively, breaking down complex topics into bite-sized, relatable discussions. In short, I speak both “creative” and “banker” while staying true to the creative mindset.
What is a crazy-but-true fact about you?
I’m a really big nerd. Magic the Gathering, Pokémon, video games, pro wrestling, all of it. It’s not immediately noticeable but it tends to come out as I get more comfortable with people.
Why is financial literacy in the music industry important to you?
I believe financial literacy is the key to unlocking freedom for musicians—both financial and creative. In my experience, many musicians sign record deals for the money, unaware of what they’re giving up creatively or that they could secure funding through other avenues, like a bank, crowdfunding, or a more detailed budget of their own resources. Many musicians I’ve worked with feel finance is too complicated and fear that focusing on it will diminish their creative passion. While it’s true that over-focusing on the numbers can be limiting, I’ve found that the fear of finances often comes from simply “you don’t know what you don’t know”. With access to education and ongoing support, most musicians not only thrive creatively but also financially.
What is one piece of advice you would impart on the audience?
Date your numbers! Especially in the beginning. The sooner you understand how they impact your ability to do what you love—and more importantly, how they can empower you to do it consistently—the better. This mindset takes time and practice, and like any relationship, the best way for it to grow and evolve is to get to know the other person better.
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Thanks for listening and keep thriving!
